Chapter Four: The Many Secrets of Nellyra

''Got a secret, can you keep it? Swear this one you'll save. Better lock it in your pocet, taking this one to the grave.'' - The Pierces

Part One: Kassi's Point of View

Legolas and I were the first ones permitted to see Nellyra after they had attempted to cure her. She seemed to be doing better- her skin was slowly returning to its normal peach color and her hands weren't as ice cold as they were earlier when we all stood around her bedside waiting for her to open her eyes or do something... anything, really.

Merry looked the worst. Out of all of us, he looked the saddest. Perhaps he even looked a bit guilty. Then, I thought about it and wondered why he would look that way when he hadn't caused her any harm at all? I sighed with relief as Merry and Jaessa left the room. A weight was lifted on us all- we were all worried about Merry. Maybe Pippin was right, and they had fallen for each other, they just didn't know it. I sat in one of the wooden chairs beside her bed and looked out at the window. How was it such a beautiful day when she was so ill?

''How is she?'' Jaessa asked us after Nellyra had been healed to the best of the elves ability.

''She appears to be better. What did you tell Elrond? Whatever it was seemed to have put him in a state. He seemed very distracted when he told us we could come see her.''

''Oh, I just suggested he look into the cut on her arm. It wasn't made by the dagger she had with her.'' Jaessa shrugged.

''Elrond must be easily distracted.'' I frowned, knowing she was lying.

''I suppose. The gash looks better, though. I sure hope this is nothing serious.''

''Me too.'' I heard a voice and looked over to see Merry heading over to us.

''Why are you so sad over her illness? You two fight more then us elves and the dwarves. Well, most of them anyway.'' Legolas grinned, referring to his friendship with the very funny dwarf, Gimli.

''I sort of promised her I would protect her. She was staying with me for a while... I wasn't going to let her go back home after what her-'' He trailed off.

''After what?''

''I really can't say. It isn't my story to tell.'' He scowled, looking at us like we should be ashamed for wanting to know the truth.

''Well, you have us curious now, so you might as well tell us.'' I urged him.

''I am tired of being questioned by everyone today! My friend has fallen ill and I was worried. I know her past and possibly know what is ailing her. You all will someday too. Right now, she is not awake, therefore, I cannot tell you details about her life she would not wish you to know.'' Merry refused, turning to walk away once more in anger.

''Me...Merr...Merry... don't go...'' Came a small voice and our eyes all shifted towards the bed. Nellyra was weakly sitting up, her skin still a little pale, but looking alright.

''Lay back down.'' I ordered Nellyra, but she just kept staring at Merry.

''Why are you all looking at me? How did I get here?'' She frowned, her chest heaving from fear now.

''You took ill a few nights ago. Lord Elrond and the other elves were able to heal you before you were beyond the point of return.'' Jaessa informed her gently.

''I was ill?'' She didn't recall any of it.

''You have a bloody gash on your arm from your episode. None of us know how it got there, but we know so far it wasn't made from Merry's dagger.'' I nodded.

She looked at her arm quickly and touched the white cloth wrapped around it tenderly. She gave out a small sound of pain and looked at us all tearfully.

''Merry, I need to talk to you.'' She gazed straight at him and he just stood there like a moron.

''We will leave you two.'' Jaessa breathed, tugging on my arm. The three of us left quickly and waited outside the healing rooms.

''Ah, there you are. We have another guest.'' Elrond smirked, stepping aside to reveal the beautiful Arwen. She had the circlet around her head still from when she was crowned Queen and she was wearing a very elaborate mint green gown with flowy sleeves. Her long wavy brown hair was as pretty as ever and I smiled. I had missed her terribly.

''Arwen!'' I was the first to come forward and hug her warmly.

''Kassi. I have missed you.'' She admitted, pulling away from the embrace after a while.

''I have missed you too. Merry is talking with Nellyra in the other room- you haven't met her yet.'' I shook my head after explaining.

''I see. Pippin, Jaessa... and of course, Legolas.'' The two exchanged a few words of greeting before Elrond spoke.

''I assume you will be staying a few nights?''

''Yes, I will. Aragorn has decided to go back to Rohan to speak with Theoden on a grave matter concerning a Black Wizard.'' She nodded curtly, pursing her lips tightly.

''Ah, I see. It is wonderful to see you again, daughter.'' He smiled. We all knew this would be one of the last times Elrond saw Arwen... he would be leaving for the Grey Havens within the next few years, along with Frodo.

Together we sat down in the dining hall to talk of news and of Aragorn. She seemed very happy in her new life, but it was taking a while for her to adjust. Suddenly, Merry appeared halfway through our discussion.

''Are you alright?'' I asked him. Merry looked very surprised indeed- could his talk with Nellyra become a fight?

''Yes, I believe so. When did you get here, Arwen?''

''Not long ago, master Meriadoc. How have you been?'' She smiled at him.

''Fair, I suppose.'' He sighed, taking a seat.

It was quiet for a long while afterwards, but we started to talk once more at last before all of us became too tired from that days events.

''I am tired, so I will go to sleep.'' I yawned widely. There were several I agrees, and a few yawns from those of us gathered there. So, with those words, we parted for our warm and cozy beds. Merry however, seemed to be heading the wrong way. He was heading straight for the Healing Rooms! Feeling curious, I decided I would follow him. Luckily, I was brought into Middle-Earth as a steathly and quiet elf. My footsteps went unheard by him as he snuck into the room where Nellyra should have been resting. I stayed outside the doors and listened silently, pressed against the wall so I could manuever fast if I needed to move.

''You said before you became ill that she is not what she seems. It had something to do with your vision. Do you remember anything?''

''No. I tell you, Merry, I do not remember anything from the vision on. If I had, I would have told you by now.''

''I know, I know and I am very sorry to be bugging you while you are sick. Do you have any idea what caused the ailment?''

''Yes, Merry, and it's something I should have told you when you discovered the secret of my visions.''

''Will you tell me?'' He wondered quietly.

''Yes but you have to swear to me you will not tell a soul.''

''Why? I am tired of the secrecy, Nellyra. Do you realise how many of them have aksed me what happened to you? I had to lie and say I didn't know any more then them.''

''Merry, my visions almost got me killed daily. You know why my father hates me? Because I had a sister Arialle when I was younger. She was always prettier then me and better at things-and I was jealous. My first vision happened to be of her falling ill and dying. I told my father, but he did not believe me. He thought it was my imagination running wild because of my envy. Not long after I had the vision, I became ill myself and just as predicted, Arialle did too. I healed fast, but my sister died. He never forgave me. He made it my fault- that there was no vision involved, just jealousy for my sister. The night he attacked me, Merry... he called me a whore because I was spending time with you and Frodo.''

''That's horrible.'' I heard him gasp. He sounded heartbroken.

''Don't you understand now? I'm scared.''

''Nellyra, no one here will condem you in that way. Perhaps they might be afraid of you at first, but these visions are a gift, not a curse.''

''You're the only one who ever believed me. Why?''

''Because... it sounds stupid, but in a way, you remind me of Pippin. I mean, when we were younger, you and I have gotten into so much trouble together-just like we used to do. I understand what it's like to feel like no one believes you. I am quite experienced in these things, as you've heard from the many tales of our adventures. Of course I believe you- especially after you saved my life.''

''I have side effects of these visions... and they can be dangerous. Sometimes I don't get them at all, and sometimes I have side effects that last for weeks. Obviously, I'm not dead yet, so they haven't been that bad. It's always a possibility.''

''I don't even know how a hobbit lass could have visions. I mean, I have read somewhere in a book that elves are usually gifted with such talents... but I have never heard of a hobbit having them before.''

''I am as clueless as you are. Thank you for coming to see me, but you look so tired. Go to bed, Meriadoc. I will see you in the morning.''

''Thank you.'' Before I slipped out of the hallways and to my own bed that was calling for me, I heard Nellyra whisper a sweet ''Thank you, Merry... thank you so much.''

Before I closed my eyes, I couldn't help but wonder about Nellyra and Merry... and what they would do. I now knew of her visions... and was thinking about how the others would take it and more importantly, when they would figure it out or be told. I rolled over and looked at Legolas dreaming peacefully, his chest rising and falling softly. I smirked and snuggled up against his warm body. I love this elf... was my last thought that night.

Part Two: Nellyra's Point of View

I awoke to beautiful and bright sunlight streaming through the many windows placed in the Healing Rooms. I felt wonderful-so alive and happy and well! It seemed like a good day for a peacefull walk among Rivendell. Also, it seemed a good day to meet Arwen, the Queen of Gondor at last. Stretching as far as I could, I stepped out of bed for the first time in days and I felt great.

''What are you doing up and out of bed?'' Pippin asked me after I had gotten dressed in the Merry's clothes (the only clothes I brought with me sadly).

''Morning, Pip. I feel wonderful. Care to join me on a walk through Rivendell? I feel like exploring!'' I replied.

''I... I suppose? You seem to be doing much better today. That's very good.''

''My arm doesn't hurt so bad today.'' I shrugged.

''For Gandalf's sake, you're STILL wearing my clothes?'' A voice came at me from the nearby hallway. I turned to see Merry fixing up the sleeve of his shirt while staring at us.

''Yes, I am. They're the only clothes I brought with me, dimwit.'' I rolled my eyes and put my hands on my hips.

''No arguing today, you two. You were so nice to each other yesterday- I would like it very much if we just went back to that.'' Pippin got in between the two of us.

''Fine. Let's go, Pippin.''

''Where are you two going?''

''For a walk, Meriadoc.'' I said, using my irritated voice. Pippin followed as I headed out of the simple stone hallways and into the valley of Rivendell. There were the elegant stone pillars and benches sitting on the walkways leading down to the fountain. We could see the top of the pavillion in the garden from where we were standing. The trees were perfectly still as Pippin and I gazed down at their brilliant green leaves shimmering in the sunlight. The waterfall cutting through the gardens flowed out over the valley. It was all so tranquil and serene- I had never felt more connected to my surroundings in my life.

''How long have you and Jaessa been together?'' I suddenly asked, making my way down the steps carefully.

''Years and years. Now that I think about it, around six or so years.''

''Really? That is a long time. It was a miracle she came here then?''

''Of course.''

''Why aren't you two wed yet? Merry always told me it was because you two both got nervous about the subject... but, I want to hear it from you.''

''Well, don't tell anyone, but I have something planned. It is a little something between me and the Lady of the Wood. She is making a very fine ring for my lady-with a gemstone Gimli had found in a mine long ago. It will be an emerald ring... to match her eyes.'' He sighed, obviously in love.

''She will love it.'' I smirked.

''I hope so... I mean, if she doesn't agree to marry me, it will be very strange. We have a son.''

''Ah, yes. Faramir, isn't it? Merry's godson.'' I remembered, leaping off the last step and nearly falling on my butt.

''Be more careful! And yes, you're right. I feel just awful about not visiting him much, though. We almost lost his trust.'' Pippin did seem very bothered by this still, even though it felt like weeks since we had departed the Shire.

''Do not worry so much about me, I would've been alright. I feel entierly different today... I feel... renewed, if that is even possible. I'm sorry for that- I understand having me there to worry about probably didn't make it any better.''

''Oh-no, that isn't at all what I was thinking. I thought it was a little odd to see a woman in Merry's house-especially one I didn't particulary know-''

''You say that as if he has no interest in women.''

''To be honest, sometimes, I'm not so sure myself. I've known him since we were kids. Everyone thought he would be the first to wed, but once I returned home with Jaessa, they all knew it would be me to be the first.''

''Has Merry ever been in love?''

''I don't know. Why are you asking me?''

''Oh... I don't really know. It's just- he seems lonely.'' I whispered, feeling my face get hot.

''You could fix that, you know.''

''Me? That is probably the most revolting thing anyone has ever said to me.'' I made a gagging motion.

''Say what you will, but I will have you know that when it happens, I should be the first you invite-and you have to bring me a gift instead of the other way around.''

''Peregrin Took, are you suggesting we make a bet?''

''Well, if you wish to look at it that way...'' He grinned impishly.

''I believe I will take you up on that bet. What are the stakes and conditions?''

''If you and Merry fall in love and marry one another before Jaessa and I do, I will be the first on the invitation list, and I will recieve a gift- a rather expensive gift. I would like a new pipe- my old one is chipping. However, if you do not fall in love and marry or if you marry after Jae and I do, you win and I must give you a gift of anything your heart desires on our wedding day.''

''Alright. It's a bet, Took!'' I shook his hand vigorously, laughing furiously. Me? Fall in love with Merry and wed him before he asks Jaessa? Wow, he was going to be buying me anything I wanted in a few months time!

''Pippin? Merry told me I could find you out here.'' I heard a small voice and watched as Jaessa came over to us, her curly red hair glimmering brightly in the sun. Her eyes sparkled as they caught his. Pippin smiled lovingly and I informed both of them I would see them later.

I walked inside to run straight into a very tall elf woman wearing a long cream and sky blue dress.

''We have not met. May I ask which member of their company you are?'' She asked. Even her teeth glowed with radiance. She was perfect.

''M-my name is Nellyra. Who are you?'' I stuttered, slightly intimidated.

''Arwen, daughter of Elrond. I am married to King Elessar.'' Her voice was melodic and bright.

''You are Arwen? I apologize for not being able to meet you last night, but I had fallen ill.'' I pulled the sleeve of Merry's shirt further down over my cut. I didn't want the elf to get curious. I really would hate to lie to her...

''I was aware. Father had told me. You seem to be much better this morning. I was just going to sit in the gardens and read a while. I would ask you to join me, but I know you must be anxious to see the rest of your friends.'' She smiled softly. There was something familiar in those bright blue eyes of hers-but I couldn't make it out. Arwen left me standing there, dumfounded for the longest time.

She made a very good point, though. I did wish to see Kassi and Legolas to let them know I was alright. After all, I had run out of the Healing Rooms in such a hurry, I didn't want them to be worried about me.

I found the two elves kissing passionatly against the wall, and I almost walked away without saying a word, but Legolas' sharp ears picked up the sound of my footsteps and they pulled away breathlessly.

''Nellyra. You're much better I see.'' Legolas noticed quickly, his gaze shifting from Kassi to me.

''I am so sorry, I'll go now.'' I turned to leave, but then Kassi spoke.

''No, we should be sorry. We just got caught up in the moment and...'' She was a deep red-even her ears were turning the color of roses.

''I just wanted you to know I was okay. I didn't know if Elrond had noticed I was gone from the sick rooms or not.'' I shrugged.

''Oh. Well, he was so busy talking with Arwen, he didn't check on you this morning, but I know he was headed there soon. You might want to tell him before he finds out you're gone.'' Kassi replied.

''Thank you. I will see you guys later!'' With that, I rushed off to find Lord Elrond as fast as I could.

''There you are!'' I fell silent as I noticed he was talking with Arwen. I thought she was reading?

''You have changed much, Arwen. I do not like these changes. This is part of what I feared when you had fallen in love with Aragorn.''

''Changed? How have I changed, father?'' There was a difference in her voice. It was even brighter, and I could hear more melodies singing with her as she spoke. Her eyes connected with mine and I noticed that the familiar feeling I got from her earlier was gone. It was as if she was a completely new person. Elrond turned sharpley and scowled at me for a moment.

''Are you not supposed to be resting, Nellyra?''

''Who is this, father?'' She asked as if she did not remember just meeting me.

''Nellyra, one of Legolas' company. She seems to be healing quite fast.''

''I feel completely healed, in fact.'' I informed him.

''You may feel that way now, but perhaps you will not soon. Go and rest once more. I will check over you later and see if it is safe for you to be up and around already.'' He ordered. I sighed frustratedly. I was tired of sleeping! I wanted to do something other then lie around on a bed for once!

I stomped to the Healing Rooms angrily and threw myself on the bed. All I could think about now was the strange incident with Arwen. First she told me she would be in the gardens, then I find her talking away with Elrond? She didn't even seem to remember me. It was almost like she had never met me- and the look in her eyes was entirely different. Trying to riddle it out myself, I finally nodded off to sleep. It wasn't until around supper that I woke up-and that was only because Elrond had come to check up on me.

''You seem all healed. Even the scar on your arm is almost gone.'' He gasped in amazement and sheer awe. Clearly he had never seen someone heal as fast as me. I helped him bandage the gash for what he said would be the last time and he frowned deeply.

''Have I done something wrong?''

''One of the elves working with me to cure you had noticed your bruises. Were you a fighter back home?''

''Me? A fighter? No. I was a victim.'' I looked away.

''Ah, I see. Well, I recommed that you learn how to defend yourself. Legolas is a skilled swordsman, and he knows his way around a bow quite well.''

''A hobbit like me learning how to fight? I don't believe I need it. Besides, we are leaving here soon, aren't we?'' There was a moment of awkward silence, and then Elrond spoke.

''There is food out on the table, and everyone has been called to eat. I suggest you do the same since you have not eaten very much lately due to your ailment.''

''You didn't answer my question.'' I breathed, watching him leave. Elrond did not even turn to reply.

Feeling ignored and rather iritatated, I got off the bed and found my way to the dining hall. All of my friends were seated there, including Arwen. Maybe I had imagined ever meeting her in the first place and this was only my second time being around her? Jaessa and Pippin hardly took their eyes off each other-almost in the same way Kassi and Legolas. I felt lonely... unconnected to anyone there. Merry and I were friends, sure, but we weren't that good friends...

Suddenly, the door flew open and there stood a very old man with snow white hair and a matching beard. He carried an elegant white staff and wore long white robes.

''Gandalf!'' I heard them all shout.

A/N GASP! HEEEEE'S BAAAACK! Alright, no more coffee for me. Reviews would be much appreciated, thank you for taking time to read my story... this has literally taken my months to plan, let alone WRITE. Let me know what you think. I got a quick question for you, and please don't be lazy... I want an answer. Do you like Nellyra or Jaessa better and why? Just wondering. It might help me flesh out the characters more...