My Human Side
The clear notes of a lone flute reverberated around the now still and silent hall. The haunting yet pure sound telling a story of its own, of sadness, loneliness and at times despair. In the centre of the hall danced an elf, her graceful and effortless movements echoing that of the story.
Quietly, another flute joined in, so low that those gathered had to strain their ears to hear. At the same time, another elf approached and joined the female dancer, his own movements graceful yet strong. And so the story continued, telling of how the elf took away her despair, how he made her smile and laugh again, how she came to realise that as long as she remained with him, she would be safe. She would be loved.
Saleena watched entranced along with all the other guests gathered within the magnificent fire lit hall. Her dark eyes following every step and twirl, her delicately pointed ears depicting out every instrument that joined in the delightful melody, and in the combined effort they radiated out such joy, happiness and love of life that one could not help but smile with pure pleasure at such a performance.
'Such is the magic of the elves', thought Saleena smiling, and yet that smile never quite reached her eyes.
As the last notes faded and the dancers bowed and curtsied, the hall erupted into life with applause, cheering and even some wolf whistles from some of the younger elves.
'Eryn Lasgalen', she thought 'their celebrations will forever be remembered, for their grandeur, talent and beauty'.
Music started up again, and soon the hall was full of dancing and laughter. Saleena slowly weaved her way through the guests, so skillfully that many did not even realise her passing by, and those who did paid her little attention. Eventually she found herself outside, wandering slowly through the gardens which were flourishing under the careful supervision of the elves, the colours of the flowers paling under the gentle caress of moonlight.
Saleena was not considered tall for an elf, but of average height with a slender and somewhat more curvy build. Others, she knew, thoought that there was something about her that they couldn't quite put their finger on, and they were right to think so. For Saleena was partly human. Despite this her face was fair, with silky black hair cascading down her back in waves and slight curls, contrasting against her fair and flawless skin. Her eyes however, were what held people transfixed. They were so dark and mysterious and yet as sharp as an eagles, full of intelligence and spirit. Her mother used to tell her, when she came home in tears due to being teased, that she aught to be proud of her human side, however small it was, for it made her unique and even more special.
'Well, she was wrong there', she thought as she wandered beneath the trees, 'All it's ever brought me is trouble'.
Tonight she was here at this celebration of the seasons with her Uncle Randir, who had took her in when she was only 650 years old, when her parents were killed by orcs. People believed he would treat her like his own daughter, well, the welts and bruises on her back said differently. Her uncle used to be so kind and caring, someone who'd try to help no matter what. But now, he was only like that on the outside. Since the death of his beloved wife at the hand of human's he had become cold and bitter inside, but only Saleena and some servants knew this.
He blamed her for everything, partly for the death of his wife and completly for the death of his sister, her mother. He drilled it into her again and again, to the point where she was starting to believe it herself. They were only trying to protect her after all.
'All because of my human side'.
Hope you enjoyed it, sorry that not much happened but it took me a while to get going! i promise some better chapters later on!!!
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