Disclaimer: Don't own Middle-Earth, Lord of the Rings, etc. I just my own my original cast of characters, like Faervel/Ashlynn, Lucy, Ava, et al.
"When you are joyous, look deep into your heart and you shall find it is only that which has given you sorrow that is giving you joy. When you are sorrowful look again in your hear, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight."
"In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, and sharing of pleasures. For in the dew of little things the heart finds it morning and is refreshed."
- Kahlil Gibran
Kahlil Gibran is a smart cookie. Anyways thank for the continued reviews and messages 3 I really appreciate the support!
Chapter Ten – Bringing Christmas to the Elves Part B
"Excuse me, you are Faervel, yes?" An elleth greeted Faervel as she left the practice arena. The elleth practically dance from foot to foot glancing up and down at Faervel.
"Let me see...purple eyed, flame haired elleth, that would be, um, yes me!" Faervel said her voice dripping with sarcasm. Faervel was in a rare mood, after her intense practice with Haedrin, she felt miserable. At least if was Glorfindel she would have cuddled with him, despite her sweat. Glorfindel did not seem to mind, but it did amaze Faervel in the past that he barely broke a sweat.
"Yes, well, Lord Elrond has called for you to attend a meeting," the dark haired elleth said.
"Now?"
"Now." Faervel sighed at the word.
"Where are they meeting?"
"Lord Elrond's meeting room," the elleth said, with a bow she left Faervel. Faervel felt rather weird about the bow, not used to anyone doing such an action towards her. She was used to the inclining of a head in acknowledgment or a smile that told her that the elves in question where indulging her. Faervel quickly walked through the hallways to arrive just outside the door of the meeting room. She inwardly sighed as she paused in front of the doorway. She smoothed out her over tunic and her leggings, took a deep breath, and pushed opened the door, to be greeted by the sight of various lords and some ladies of Imladris. They were all dark-haired or a silver-haired variety and only one was a very white blonde. They all had either dark eyes or gray eyes. Their expressions were either impassive, curious, and one, Lord Torthon with disgust. Only Elrond and Erestor smiled warmly at Faervel.
In that moment as the lords and ladies stared at her, Faervel felt ill prepared. She was sweaty, strands of her hair was loose, sticking up in odd places and out of her braids, a dirt smudge on her cheek. What would these lords want with her? Nervously Faervel gave an elvish bow and played with her sleeve of her shirt.
"You called for me?" Faervel asked quietly, her voice some how not stuttering to her amazement.
"Lord Elrond has proposed to us a holiday to celebrate, one from what which is from where you were raised. We would like to know what this holiday entails before we let a young elleth direct all of Imladris to her whims," one dark-haired ellon said.
"The holiday is called Christmas or Yule. Most people celebrate it for only one day, upon December 25th. However among some people it can be celebrated on December 20th or December 21st. There are many reasons why it is celebrated. If you must know, some of the connection can be made for the celebration of the fact that the days will turn longer again. The sun waxes from the winter solstice the summer solstice which is the 21st of June. The sun then wanes and we loose more sunlight until the darkest night of the year. I'm not the best as to explaining why."
"We do however celebrate it by holding a feast and often gathering together with family and friends. It is celebrated with the exchanging of gifts, between families and friends. We often decorate our homes, we bring an evergreen in the house which we decorate with glass ball ornaments, sometime light with small candles, and one could have toy soldiers, or at least wood carvings upon it. My family used to place candles in the window, lighting up the house. We made wreaths out of noble fir and also evergreen cuttings around a small frame, whether it be out of wood or wire."
"There is also singing done, we baked cookies. There was also a special dinner made, a dinner we had only once a year," Faervel explained. She began to list the various recipes of foods she knew for the Christmas dinner.
"I recognize it is probably impossible to do everything and cutting trees seems a bit much, but maybe we could do one big tree in the Hall of Fire." Faervel explained about the gift giving and the 'labeling' of presents. It was rather an intensive process. Faervel felt half starved when she was done. The ellyn's dark eyes watched her as she carefully spoke and began to detail to them what they could do for celebrations and who she would need to involve. Namely, she would need the cooks and the musicians for music and the food. They did not have to go to the extreme lengths for all the decorations either. The important was the feast and the giving of gifts.
"That is all I have to say," Faervel finally finished her explanation. She kept quiet, her eyes upon her hands.
"Lord Elrond, why should we practice this human holiday?" A familiar voice sneered. Faervel paled realizing whose voice it belonged to, Lord Torthon. Lord Torthon had expressed his displease every which way Faervel had turned, being nasty when he could. Elladan and Elrohir had taken to pranks upon Lord Torthon with pleasure because of his behavior. Lord Torthon was an older ellon, born at the very beginning of the First Age, and while older than Lord Elrond, had none of the power and indeed lacked some of the wisdom that Lord Elrond, Glorfindel and other elves had gained.
"One does not have to think of it as a human holiday Lord Torthon," said one ellon.
"Indeed, we could as Faervel has state not go into what humans did, instead put our own spin upon the holiday itself," another ellon said.
"As a historian and one who has extensively studied the human and elvish histories, this custom sounds rather strange and one I have never met. However who am I to turn away from merry-making?" An elleth said, she had a kind smile despite her hardened silver eyes. A heated discussion began between the lords and ladies. Faervel studied each of the elves in turn listening with half an ear. Faervel had all briefly met them at one time or another, but she had not interacted with them at large. There had been no need to, she was busy with lessons, and anything she desperately needed either went through Saelithil, Erestor, or Glorfindel.
"We have come to a conclusion," announced one elleth. Faervel straightened ready to be told there would be no large party for Imladris.
"With Lord Elrond's approval of course, we would like to ask that Lord Elhael and Lord Lamaen help Faervel with this task. They will be advisers and watch over upon all who are involved in creating this event. Faervel we task you with preparing Imladris for this Christmas event," the elleth continued.
"I approve of this course," Elrond said with a smile. Torthon sputtered at this.
"You are trusting this young child with preparing for an entire day?" Torthon declared angrily.
"Lord Torthon, I am know that I am a child to you, but please understand, I will always be many yén younger than you. That does not mean I am not fit to take on responsibilities," Faervel said, trying to appease Lord Torthon. Torthon just glared at her, his dark eyes narrowing at the red-haired elleth.
"Think of this chance for Faervel to prove herself as a Lady of Imladris," Elrond said with a small smile. Torthon held his tongue then, but his narrowed gaze at Faervel let him know what he thought of her. Faervel figured that if anything, he was holding his tongue because of who she was being courted by, and Erestor, her foster father who was in the room currently.
"I will endeavor to prove myself. Am I dismissed?" Faervel asked.
"You may, but after lunch meet up with Lord Elhael and Lamaen by the library," Lord Elrond instructed.
"I understand. Thank you," Faervel said, giving a bow, she left the room mustering her dignity and held her head up high. Faervel allowed herself to crumble to the floor only when she was safely inside her foster family's home. She took deep breaths trying to calm her nerves. Eventually she finally came down and her stiffness flowed away and Faervel slouched.
"Well that went better than expected," Faervel said out loud to the room. Now she just had to plan furiously over what needed to be done by when. Faervel stood up and went to her own little desk and began to write with her quill, writing what tasks had to be completed. The elvish minstrels had incredible skill, so she did not have to worry, so long as Lucy, Cellineth, and the harp player with black hair and blue eyes, what was his name...Talagan.
"Already hard at work?" Saelithil's teasing voice came to Faervel. Faervel glanced up at Saelithil and smiled. Faervel noticed Celebrían standing to the side and her eyes widened. Faervel had rarely interacted with Celebrían, just like the others and ladies. Other than when Elrond had worried over her health, Faervel had not interacted with the nobility of Imladris at all. She tried to keep her head down low, wanting none of the attention it would cause for her. Oh she may sit with the nobility due to he foster parents and her relationship with Glorfindel, but Faervel thought of herself as just 'Faervel' and with no title at all.
"Hello Nana, and yes, Lord Elrond has tasked me with preparing Imladris for a Christmas celebration." Faervel explained.
"My husband told me much about it, I am excited for it."
"Oh! That reminds me! I should meet up with Lucy and Ava and tell them the news! I am sorry Nana! I must get going! It was nice seeing you Lady Celebrían!" Faervel said with suddenly realization. Faervel left the room, but in no hurry, her steps calm and assured.
"Your foster daughter has changed," Celebrían observed.
"She has grown into a fine elleth, I just hope she continues to find her way."
"You do not think she shall?"
"Faervel may not mention it, but I can tell she has worries and fears she refuses to confess to. She needs to speak up for herself," Saelithil said quietly. "This task for her may help her find way after all."
"Elrond explained to me her background, she is very resilient. I would not be so worried for her," Celebrían said.
"She is strong yes, but after a few inquires, I do worry for her."
"Why is that my friend?"
"She does not understand basic concepts, the state of her fëa, but also, the physical changes she has gone under."
"Talk to Elrond about it, he may-"
"He tells me to give it time and he is mysterious about it."
Faervel meanwhile met up with Lucy and Ava. They in turn moved to the music hall to meet up with Cellineth. They spent the rest of the morning until lunch working on translating the music that Faervel and Lucy knew onto paper. Faervel got a promise from Lucy to work closely with Cellineth and Talagan, a musician to not only get the other musicians and singers up to speed, but also to work on making the music capable of being related to. After lunch Faervel went to the designated spot in front of the library to await the two lords.
"Well met, Faervel," greeted an ellon Faervel had met earlier. He had black hair and stunning blue eyes.
"Well met my lord," Faervel said simply. She was not to sure of the ellon's name.
"I am Elhael," the ellon informed her. Faervel heard footsteps before her and came face to face with the ellon that had a white-blonde hair color, his eyes were a startling deep blue, that reminded Faervel of the oceans.
"Well met Lord Lamaen," Faervel greeted.
"Well met Faervel." Lamaen gave her an easy warm smile.
"Well met Lamaen. I find it interesting that Lord Elrond would have us work with young Faervel said," Elhael said with a serious thoughtful expression.
"I believe his point is that the three of us will be traveling with Lord Glorfindel and young Faervel here next year," Lamaen said.
"This is Lord Elrond's game plan, I guess, to introduce me to all you fine people, hm?" Faervel said. Elhael looked upon Faervel in confusion at her wording.
"I believe what Faervel is saying my friend is that Lord Elrond is introducing those of us who will be traveling outside of Imladris next year," Lamaen translated realizing the strange meaning behind Faervel's wording.
"Be that as it may, we digress from the task at hand," Elhael said simply.
"Well m'lords I shall tell you that I have already started working with Cellineth, Lucy, and Talagan about producing the music for the feasting. Lucy knows as much as I do, if not more about the music from where we are from and has promised to work with Cellineth in translation," Faervel informed the two lords. "I would suggest if you are just seeking to keep track of my movements and progress that we set up a daily time to meet up or weekly."
"I believe it is best that we meet up daily. We can easy Lord Torthon's complaints in this manner," Elhael sagely said.
"I concur with you Elhael, we can dissuade Lord Torthon this way. Shall this be acceptable Faervel?"
"I do not have much a choice. What time would best for you, other than early mornings? I have my early morning practices," Faervel stated.
"Aye we are well aware of your lessons and they are important for the trip, we shall meet you after lunch. For the moment, let me show you to my study where we shall meet. I would also like to hear more of your plans," Lamaen said. Lamaen led the way to his own private, but rather small study. There was many books and papers stacked in every nook and cranny in the bookcase against one wall.
"Your study is tiny," Faervel murmured out loud. She clapped her hand over her mouth in mortification and blushed deeply at this. Lamaen just smiled at Faervel. He was not insulted by Faervel's comment.
"I am not as significant as Lord Elrond or Lord Glorfindel and I am fine with this. I do not need a spacious room and if need be, I can easily escape outside for fresh air," Lamaen said.
"There is less to clean as well," Elhael commented dryly about his friend's choice of a study.
"I do not have to search a rather large study to find the book or paper I have misplaced, either," Lamaen said with an easy laugh.
Faervel tilted her head to the side and asked curiously, "Are you disorganized Lord Lamaen?"
"You would think it would be a skill that I have developed over the four thousand years I have been alive, but alas that is not so!" Lamaen winked at Faervel and she felt herself falling into ease with these lords. They did not seem to hold her youth or her strangeness against her, but accept her with ease. It was not a friendship per se that Faervel felt with these lords, but the beginnings of a deep respect towards those around her.
"Do not worry about Lord Torthon, young one. He is old and stuck in his ways and does not like change," Elhael informed Faervel.
"I have been informed of this, but it matters not." Faervel said with a determined expression, her purple eyes shining bright with her will and determination. If Lord Torthon thought that his words and actions would affect Faervel he was going to find another thing coming. Faervel had stood up to her father before, even if that did not end up well. She had proved every naysayer wrong that she would not straighten out her life or make something out of her life. She had proved them wrong with getting her G.E.D. and even getting her master's in business. Faervel was somebody and nobody could take that sense of self from her. She may not have the strongest sense of self-confidence, but she was strong of spirit, of will, and determination.
"It may seem we should be worrying about Lord Torthon," mused Lamaen seeing the fire behind Faervel's eyes, the fire that burned in Faervel's spirit. Faervel shook her head at this observation in disagreement.
"I would never endeavor to lash out, violence is unfitting and it creates a terrifying cycle that is hard to break. An eye for an eye would make the entire world blind and violence in response should always be the last resort," Faervel said.
"Good wisdom for one so young, I am guessing you are not one to seek glory on the battlefield," Lamaen teased Faervel. Faervel grimaced at the thought of war.
"There is no glory upon the battlefield, even if one triumphs over evil. What have you gained? Lands destroyed, homes ruined by death, and loss of life and to often innocence is caught in the upheaval. Where I am from, violence is a daily problem, rival...clans fight each over territory and over goods. People kill each over goods. People kill each other as a way to get famous. Parents abuse their children with their fists, starving them, harming them with their words...children bully each other over their differences. The hate, the anger, it starts like a spark and spreads so fast like fire over dry wood. Every day we received news and images of the violence around in our lives, to the point that we have lost our sensitivity to it. I cannot say that I hate war, or violence, I cannot, I am saddened by it greatly," Faervel said her voice full of sadness, thinking upon the war on terror, gang violence, the violence upon women at large, the violence upon transsexuals and those of the gay community. People should not die for their differences, should not be dying and hurting because the patriarchy did not respect them. It reminded Faervel desperately of her activism back in Earth. Oh yes, she had wanted to shout her rage at the world, the rage that a man would not take her 'no' unless she had a boyfriend, a world where she feared walking alone at night and clutched her keys like a life line, for her friend Ava who had kicked out of her own home because she was a lesbian. What would it take for people to have equal rights, for each person to be acknowledged as an individual and that people would grow out of their behaviors of harming each other again and again? What would it take to break the cycle of violence?
Faervel drew back to herself, breaking away from her thoughts, "I apologize. I still think of where I had lived before."
"It is fine, but you do realize your home is here?" Elhael asked.
"Of course and there is no finer home," Faervel said with a small smile. She did wonder about Lothlórien herself but also wondered at the difference it would make when Galadriel use her magical ring upon Lothlórien itself.
"My lords, is there anything else you require of me?"
"No Faervel, you may report back us tomorrow," Elhael said dismissively. Faervel bowed to the two lords and disappeared down the hallway to talk to the cooks. The flurry of activity from Faervel kept her busy and running to and fro for the next several weeks. Every day seemed to fly by for Faervel who often met with others late at night to talk with Cellineth about the music that came along, or working with the cooks the food. Haedrin had helped her pick out a giant pine tree which was decorated a week later with glass ornaments and carved wooden figures of various Imladris elves (or often in the case of animals). It made Faervel laugh at odd times, thinking about Santa and the elves. It was still a delight for Faervel to see the Christmas tree come about. There was no frivolity of wasting candles in the windows, or clippings for wreaths. Faervel did not mind though, as the plans for the food and for the singing was more than enough.
There was only two days left and Faervel had felt ragged and at her wits ends. The elves could prepare in a rush, but they preferred to take the time with ease, the only time they did not was with the planting and the harvesting of food. It was because of this, Faervel found herself cuddled up against Glorfindel, a warm blanket secured around her.
"How does the cold not bother you?" Faervel whined to Glorfindel. She was not cold currently, the blanket and the warmth that Glorfindel radiated kept her pleasantly warm.
"I am an old mighty elf lord, compared to my tiny little flame," Glorfindel said to her quietly. Faervel laughed at this. Faervel was certainly smaller than Glorfindel, slimmer and shorter. It was pleasant for Faervel who was used to standing eye to eye with most men. It made for a comfortable cuddle, with Faervel's head resting upon Glorfindel's shoulder, his chin resting against her. His arms locked her against her chest, unwillingly to let go.
"Tithenuren," Glorfindel murmured in her ear, using the epessë he had given her.
"Yes?"
"You mentioned that Christmas had origins in religion?"
"Oh, well back home, there is Ilúvatar, the one, but we just call him God, not Ilúvatar. Of course there are other gods that are worshiped, but for many there is just God. There are three different sects to it, I guess you could say. There is Judaism a religion that is as much a heritage and a culture and only if you are a Jew or married into it, I believe. Then there is Islam, but I do not know much about it, other than I believe Muhammad found it. Then there is Christianity. Christianity in trying to convert others to its religion celebrated Christmas as the birth of their savior, Christ, the Son of God. This is different from the ainur who are the offspring of Ilúvatar's thought."
"Well God sent his only son into the world, he preformed a bunch of, um, actions? There was preaching towards others but he also healed others. He gained several followers who followed him around who listened to his teachings and observed what he did. The ultimate goal was for Christ to die for everybody's sins, so people could be right with God or make it so God can forgive them. Christ paid a large price and was resurrected. Still the holiday is celebrated because Christ was supposedly born that day. Originally it was probably more of celebration for the return of the sun...but in reality I do not know that much. I was not much for having faith or a follower of God or Gods."
"And now do you?"
"I am not sure and I am left wondering. I know Ilúvatar created the world and that Gandalf is a maia and you are blessed with the abilities of a maia...still, I am at a loss. I know I should believe but..."
"But what?" Glorfindel asked her so softly in a gentle voice.
"Years of not having faith and not being raised with such faith has left me at a loss," Faervel confessed.
"The answer I believe lies inside of you Tithenuren," Glorfindel said. Faervel sighed at this and nodded, her head rubbing against his shoulder. The feelings inside of her warm and incredibly treasured.
"That may be...now I have a question for you," Faervel asked, shifting slightly, her bare leg brushing against his.
"Then ask your little question..." Glorfindel slid his arm to caress her hair.
"It may seem strange to ask this, considering..well, I was listening to Cellineth talk about her relationship with Talagan recently, and-"
"How quick I was to kiss you?" Glorfindel suggested, his hand paused.
"Yes, Cellineth mentioned how long it took for Talagan and her to develop their relationship..." Glorfindel sighed at this.
"I would say that it is my yearning to hold the one I love close to me. Long have I searched for love and long has it not been with me, I feared I would never find a partner," Glorfindel answered, his nose buried into Faervel's hair. Faervel sighed at this confession, reflecting upon it.
"I too have searched for love, at times I thought I found it, they never evoked the emotions I truly sought, the emotions I feel with you," Faervel said softly, a confession towards the depth of her love. "It seems strange to me at times, but it is hard to imagine life without you now."
"I am glad," Glorfindel said at last. Glorfindel sighed into her hair, giving Faervel a quick squeeze. It was strange for Faervel, the depth of feelings she had slowly discovered. At least for Faervel, she was used to rushing about, trying to work through it all in a fast pace and had not assumed the patience that most elves seemed to generate. She was hasty compared to them, but she was less hasty than Lucy or Ava now. It was only slowly dawning upon Faervel that she did not have to rush about to experience life, she literally had forever. It took the feeling of being 'young and immortal' to a whole new level, except she could still die and her body could not endure what her elders could endure.
"Is it...like this for you to?" Faervel inquired thinking upon her feelings. Faervel wondered if the depth of love between elves was like this, she wondered to if she would love Glorfindel for the rest of her immortal life as well. She could understand to now, why elves took a long time to find love with each other and youth was relative, often considered being less than one thousand years old.
"Aye," Glorfindel answered her at last, interrupting her thoughts. Faervel smiled at this.
"I love you Glorfindel," Faervel said.
"And I you, and I you. Sleep Faervel, you need your strength, I will be here always," Glorfindel told her. Faervel only nodded and he eyes glazed over in sleep almost instantaneous, her mind and body wary. Glorfindel smiled at her as he adjusted Faervel to lay upon the pillows, her red hair splayed upon the pillows in little curls like tendrils of flame spreading forth from her hair. He kissed her brow before falling asleep by her side, one arm curled around her hip. Faervel had a dreamless, no memories of her mother or her past haunting her.
Faervel awoke the next morning to the sun shining in her face, Glorfindel had let her sleep in. She slipped out of the warm bed and saw by the sun she had missed her lesson with Haedrin. She was completely starving to and in desperate need for food. Faervel slipped out of his room and saw Glorfindel sitting in front of the fire reading a book. He looked up and smiled at her and stood up. Faervel went right to him his arms wrapping around her.
"I missed my lesson with Haedrin..." Faervel muttered.
"You missed more than that, have you slept so little these past weeks?" Glorfindel asked worriedly.
"Well no, I have been so desperate to prove myself, I want to prove Lord Torthon wrong."
"A full day has passed since you slept, tomorrow is your Christmas celebration," Glorfindel informed her. Faervel gasped and looked up at Glorfindel in shock. He gave her an easy smile and patted her comfortingly on the shoulder.
"Do not worry Tithenuren, I have already spoken with Lord Elhael and Lord Lamaen. I asked Saelithil for a change of clothes, there is a dress upon the bureau," Glorfindel informed Faervel, tucking a strand of untamed hair behind her. Faervel smiled at him before disappearing back into his room to change. She came out again, her dress hanging loosely around her, but her hair was tamed at least.
"Can you tie it for me?"
"Anything for my lady," Glorfindel said with a teasing smile. Faervel turned around and Glorfindel's nimble fingers tied Faervel's dress.
"Thank you very much," Faervel said gratefully. Glorfindel took Faervel's arm and led her to a chair and forced her to sit with a gentle push.
"Breakfast has yet to be served, but I ordered food," Glorfindel informed her. Glorfindel did not have to worry if Faervel would eat, for as soon as the food arrived, she was already stealing bread to much on. Glorfindel laughed at her expression but did not have long to laugh as Faervel began to inhale the food, feeling entirely too famished.
"You are a bottomless pit today," Glorfindel said at last.
"I am, well, was famished!" Faervel smiled feeling at peace. In that moment, she wished for days like this, unending days by Glorfindel's side.
"What is it that causes your eyes to shine like so?"
"I am happy...at peace...wanting to be forever by your side," Faervel explained. She disliked that forever apart in a way too. Oh yes, she was immortal, but forever by Glorfindel's side? She realized at this moment, how very young she was. It was always at the back of her mind, but somehow in this moment she also realized it. Glorfindel watched the play of emotions upon her face, of love and of deep thoughts.
"There are many years before we push forward into marriage Faervel. We do have forever, so long as Arda exists. I am content to hold you," Glorfindel said guessing at the deep thoughtful expression upon her face.
"I just – I do not know."
"Do not worry, leave your thoughts behind and be merry. There is today, tomorrow is Christmas, and we shall have many tomorrows to come. Come, walk with me today, be at peace," Glorfindel suggested.
"I believe I can do so," Faervel sighed, her worries apparent upon her face with her brow pressing downwards. Glorfindel laughed and drew her up from her chair.
"Do now frown like so, or you will have permanent lines upon your face," Glorfindel teased.
"I am worried that I shall fail, I fear what Lord Torthon would say, what Imladris would say. I know that many elves indulge me like I am a child, considering I am still nine years out from my majority, but this task is important to me Glorfindel. I want to prove myself," Faervel once again pointed out. Her need was great, to be accepted, to fit in with the people she belonged to.
"You are already accepted here Faervel, you are among your people," Glorfindel reminded her.
"I am an elf among elves, yes, but that does not guarantee acceptance. Why should any elf accept me for the fact that I am an elf? That seems oddly illogical to me. Yes I am loved, I recognize I am accepted by those close to me, but it is more than that. I do not ask to be some great lady, famous for my wisdom, or skill. Forgive me, it is hard to express these feelings in my heart. I know that people will always speak badly of someone, but I want people to see me for the mature person I am. I am recognized as a child, indulged as a child, and treated like one for the most part. Everyone knows of 'Faervel the strange fully grown elf-child.' What it may come down to is the fact that I want people to see more than just a strange elf, a child, but Faervel, whose life does have meaning," Faervel rambled on, trying to explain those precious feelings of her.
"I did not know you felt this way..." Glorfindel said quietly.
"I would rather not have anyone worried. I know what people would tell me anyways, that time shall unravel it all, to give it time. I have years to prove myself, that is true, and I know you all will consider me to be a youth for a long time, still...do not frown at my feelings and thoughts Glorfindel," Faervel said, swatting his arm playfully at the last bit.
"I do worry about you Tithenuren, your feelings are important to me. You are my little flame, you bring joy back into my life," Glorfindel said, a smile graced his lips, but his eyes were slightly worried. They walked in silence but as they rounded down the hallway, Faervel heard two elves singing in the hallway, one of the new tunes that Cellineth had come up with, a hailing towards the return of the glorious sun.
"Ah Faervel!" Greeted an ellon who was singing a Middle-Earth rendition of 'Dashing Through the Snow."
"Well met," Faervel said with a smile.
"Well met Lady Faervel and Lord Glorfindel! I love these new songs! I am excited for tomorrow!"
"I am as well!" Faervel said with a smile.
"Good day to you!" The ellon gave a bow and left Faervel standing beside Glorfindel her face confused.
"Lady...?" Faervel muttered, her expression darkening. Faervel was not related to any nobility, at least in so far as she was aware. Glorfindel smiled and patted her hand.
"Lady Faervel, your worries are unfounded!" Glorfindel laughed, his laugh like a bell.
"I guess so," Faervel said with a small smile and they continued to walk, sometimes chatting, sometimes in silent. They drifted through the hallways, some elves sang, some elves were humming, some greeted them and others barely acknowledged them. They wound up in Glorfindel's rooms after lunch where Glorfindel once again started the fire.
"Thank you Glorfindel," Faervel said.
"It does my heart well to see you at ease once again," Glorfindel said coming to sit beside Faervel upon the couch. There was a knock on the door and Glorfindel glanced up.
"Come in." Elhael and Lamaen both entered, their expressions were somber but turned to delight seeing Faervel sitting besides Glorfindel.
"Well met, it is good to see you awake Faervel," Elhael said.
"Aye, we heard from Lord Glorfindel you were asleep for a long time, we were worried," Lamaen said.
"That as it may be, I am well rested now. It is not like I could do to much more to do," Faervel said.
"All that is left is for the minstrels to preform and for the cooks to produce the food. All that is left is to watch it unfold," Elhael said.
"We are look forward for tomorrow, be joyous for I am sure you plans will go well," Lamaen said with a smile before gliding out of the room. Elhael gave a glance back but left at well leaving Faervel and Glorfindel alone. Faervel sighed and turned to rest her had on his shoulder.
"All I can do is wait for tomorrow and pray," Faervel said at last.
"I do believe your party will be well received," Glorfindel informed her.
The next day Faervel arose before the sunshine and dashed into the kitchens to meet up with the cooks. She sighed with relief watching them bake for a second, before slipping on an apron and joining in with them. She chatted animatedly enjoying the familiar activity of baking, even in a stranger setting with different tools.
"Faervel, how about you go get ready for breakfast? I am sure Lord Glorfindel would miss you," the head cook teased her. Faervel gave a small smile at this.
"I shall, I have faith in you!" Faervel went back to her room to change into her a dress, a golden yellow and green dress. She ate breakfast with the rest of the elves, laugh merrily with them. They had all agreed to exchange presents after breakfast in their own homes at first, before wandering about. Some elves during breakfast took to singing music 'Deck the Halls' much to Faervel's amusement, which led to her thinking about the Firstborn working for Santa, before laughing out loud at the mental image.
"What are you thinking of?" Lucy asked her.
"Santa," Faervel said with a grin.
"Ha! I know right? I try to imagine these tall Elves with Santa," Ava whispered back. Faervel giggled and Lucy joined laughing in with her. Faervel grabbed another small cinnamon bun from the table, enjoying the flavor of home.
"Did you even taste that?" Lucy laughed at Faervel, her cheeks large like a squirrel. She chewed and swallowed and gave a grin.
"Of course! I am stuffing myself with food that reminds me of home! I will be fat!" Faervel declared.
"Fat like Santa?" Ava joked. Faervel gave a disgusted look.
"First let me take a selfie!" Lucy said to Faervel. Faervel just stared at Lucy, her mouth hanging open.
"Oh dear, I did not expect that one! There are no selfies here Lucy!"
"Yes I am well aware, what I would give to have photos of your most embarrassing moments," Lucy bemoaned.
"Then I am grateful that there is no camera nearby! Come! Breakfast is near done and I am to meet with Ada and Nana," Faervel announced. She drew her human friends with her leaving the hallway, singing with them 'We Wish You a Merry Christmas" loudly. They waved at the elves they passed along the way before arriving at Saelithil's and Erestor's home.
"Ah, daughter of my heart, my heart sings to see you so happy," Saelithil said with a giant smile that made her eyes shine.
"Ai! Nana! It seems Christmas is wonderful," Faervel said smiling back at her foster mother.
"No greeting for me? I have no seen you in several days and you have missed many lessons," Erestor teased her. Faervel laughed before hugging Erestor then Saelithil.
"I always thought he looked so stern," Ava muttered to Lucy.
"Lord Erestor is himself," Lucy said, as if that was an explanation.
"We are just waiting for Glorfindel," Saelithil informed them. The three friends arranged themselves in the chairs lounging about before Glorfindel arrived. Glorfindel smiled as he entered and Faervel stood up to give him a kiss upon his cheek. They began to exchange presents, little things mostly, Faervel had made small glass ornaments with the help of the glass blowers to remind everyone of the holiday.
"I have something for you," Glorfindel said at the end of it. Glorfindel had yet to present his present to Faervel and he looked nervous.
"I am sure to love it," Faervel said simply. Glorfindel offered to her an object wrapped in cloth, it was rather flat. Faervel took and sat it down in her lap, unwrapping it from the cloth. She stared at it in wonder. Her lips trembled and she glanced up at him and back at the objects in her lap. Her look was questioning.
"Well was it?" Lucy asked impatiently.
"It is a coat of mithril..." Faervel whispered in awe. She took the two rings on a chain that lay on top of the mail and tucked it into a fold of her dress before holding it up.
"Mithril?"
"It is a very precious metal Lucy, you must have been hoarding it for a long time my friend," Erestor explained.
"It will fit, I made sure of it," Glorfindel said sheepishly. Faervel continued to stare at it in awe.
"But...why?" Faervel questioned at last.
"It would give me much comfort knowing that while we journey you are safe," Glorfindel explained.
"I know this, but this gift is so precious..."
"If not for you, the mithril would just be hidden away. You may be no warrior, but your safety is important to me," Glorfindel said.
"I am well aware..." Faervel's voice trailed off.
"I do not understand," Ava murmured.
"Mithril is currently worth five times its weight in gold now as Moria is the only source for it now. Númenór and Valinor only had small veins of it. Númenór has since sunk and once elves travel to Valinor, there is no coming back," Faervel explained remembering her lessons. "It is valued because it is incredibly light and harder then tempered steel; it also never tarnishes or grows dim...It will keep me safe."
"It is flexible, easy to wear under clothes, and far lighter than plate armor. It will be added protection for the journey we are to take next year," Glorfindel added.
"Oh! I get it! This is Glorfindel's way of saying I love you!" Ava exclaimed. Faervel covered her face with her hand, trying not to laugh.
"In one aspect, yes," Glorfindel said with a grin.
"I am going to put this away for now," Faervel said. She discreetly took the two rings in her hand as she picked up the cloth and wrapped it around the mail. She disappeared into the room and placed the mail upon the vanity. It was a gift beyond price, part of Glorfindel's wealth. Her hands trembled as she drew out the rings. Why did he present her with silver rings? She knew they were to be exchanged between those at betrothal feasts...Faervel sighed and tucked the rings into a small pocket of her gown before leaving her room with a smile plastered upon her face.
"I am going for a walk with Glorfindel," Faervel announced before gently taking Glorfindel's arm and leading him out. Six years ago, she probably would have just grabbed his hand and dashed out of the room, but now, now she simply walked out with Glorfindel, a gentle smile and a thoughtful expression upon her face.
"Why?" Faervel asked at last pulling out the rings in front of the courtyard they had first kissed at.
"It is a promise," Glorfindel said to her, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
"A promise..."
"I will love you and treasure you, you are most precious to me. There is no rushing, but I will always be here," Glorfindel promised his expression loving as he kissed her brow. He took the necklace from her and secured it around her neck.
"I lay no oath upon you Faervel, I only give to you my promise. Even should you choose to join with someone else, I will watch over you," Glorfindel said gently. Faervel could not make sense of the storm of emotions in her heart, she only acted kissing Glorfindel deeply, her fingers locking behind his neck as he kissed her back, leaving her breathless. They panted as they separated, taking deep breaths into their lungs. Faervel buried her head into his chest, clutching as Glorfindel's over tunic.
The day seemed to pass by in a flurry, people gathered after lunch in the Hall of Fire for music and Lucy took turns telling stories about Christmas. The elves looked greatly amused by the image of them as tiny and making toys for children. Dinner was a feast for Faervel to behold, there was roasted ham, gourmet potatoes, various vegetables, biscuits, pies, tarts, roasted squash...it made Faervel's mouth water as she tried it all. The wine was plenty and over flowing. Faervel was pretty sure by the time she had her fill, she had drank more and eaten more than she ever had. The elves around her were merry, laughing, exchanging stories, singing some of the small tunes that Cellineth, Lucy, Talagan, and her had worked so hard to create. It was she walked out that Faervel discovered a surprise that Lucy and Ava had provided for all.
"FAERVEL!" Ava shouted excitedly pointed above Faervel. Faervel stared up and realized she stood below mistletoe.
"Somebody has to kiss Faervel now, she is standing under the mistletoe!" Ava said. Faervel shook her head and blushed. Glorfindel reached her and kissed her.
"Now take a berry from the mistletoe Glorfindel!" Lucy told Glorfindel.
"Why?"
"It is tradition! Every time someone is kissed under the mistletoe, they take a berry until they are all gone, then we throw the plant away," Faervel explained.
"It is a symbol for fertility since mistletoe grows all year round," Lucy added. Glorfindel took a berry and carefully discarded it. The news spread fast after that about the mistletoe and Faervel had realized that Lucy and Ava the day before had with the help of elves, gathered mistletoe. Elves were exchanging kisses left and right, laughing as they made their way to the Hall of Fire. Talagan sang a tune for Cellineth about kissing her underneath mistletoe for eternity, making Faervel laugh and Cellineth blush. The Hall of Fire was soon filled with drunken elves who continued to drink, to laugh, to sing, and to tell each other stories. It was a mob.
Faervel stood leaning against Glorfindel carefully watching, her face flushed from her drunken state. She giggled as elves danced and at one point tripped over each other. They were all slowly loosing their gracefulness as they danced and drank more wine.
"Lady Faervel," an ellon grasped Faervel's hands and kissed both of her cheeks, "this celebration was a wonderful idea! Thank you!"
Other came around after that, complimenting her holiday, a few asked questions, but they all disappeared again, to drink more wine, to dance, and be merry. Faervel grinned as she watched, her purple eyes bright with merriment, her cheeks flushed red, though she wobbled to and fro having consumed far to much wine for her constitution. She glowed with happiness as she clung to Glorfindel who continued to drink himself, chatting with those around him and engaging Faervel when she would talk.
"You know, even though I have spent six years around the elves, I thought they are more reserved," Ava said as the hour grew late. Faervel just grinned at Ava.
"You always go to bed early, tired from to much drinking," Faervel pointed out with a laugh.
"We delight in being happy," Glorfindel pointed out.
"Yes, I have at least noticed that. It is this abandonment that I have never seen before," Ava pointed out to two elves kissing against the wall. Another elleth was being carried off over an ellon's shoulder as they laughed and probably a friend pointed and laughing at them as well. Faervel smiled and shrugged at this.
"There is no shame in pleasure," Glorfindel pointed out.
"Well I see that too! You elves always act so reserved!" Ava said again not understanding, the strange ways of elves that seemed to mix in being somber and being playful and merry.
"Not so Ava, we are both serious and merry, it is not like we can be both. We delight in life, but we have worries, and duties," Faervel murmured. Ava looked startled and stared at Faervel with a hard look. Faervel did not notice as she was drawn into a drunken dance spinning around with Cellineth, then Talagan.
"She has changed," Ava said to Glorfindel watched Faervel disappear into the crowd, laughing.
"I believe it is sinking in that she will have to endure the ages," Glorfindel said somberly to Ava.
"That is more like a somber elf!" Ava said teasingly, but her smile was not there. Faervel was no longer the Ashlynn Flanagan she had known when she was younger. There was still her mannerisms, the way she would always observed the room and the exists, the way her eyes would light up and she would tilt her head with a question, or the way she would be flighty at times. Those mannerisms were still there, but there was a smoothing out in Faervel, if Ava could call it that. Faervel did not trip over her own two feet and instead a graceful gate was developing. The best way to put it, Ava realized was that Ash had realized she was an elf, not a human, she had time on her side. She no longer considered herself human and it made Ava mourn with a realization that she was losing the friend she once known.
"Do not be sad, be joyous for tonight," Glorfindel urged Ava. Ava flashed Glorfindel a small smile before disappearing into the crowds of elves, to probably seek out Lucy. Faervel was eventually deposited by Elladan back to Glorfindel.
"Your lady is rather inebriated," Elladan pointed out before laughing and disappeared. Faervel clung to Glorfindel, giggling with mirth.
"Glo...Glow...Glorf...ugh, Glorfy," Faervel slurred, "take me home."
Glorfindel smiled at her and carried Faervel out. Faervel clung to him like he was a life boat, her head resting on his shoulder. She smiled feeling warm and fuzzy inside, even if the world was tilting right and left like it was a boat.
"Iave toch to drink," Faervel slurred. Glorfindel laughed at Faervel's attempt to speak. He carried her to his rooms and laid her down on the bed gently. She shivered as Glorfindel removed her boots. He turned her over and untied the dress, removing it carefully.
"Sorry," Faervel said at last.
"It is a welcome distraction and I get to undress you," Glorfindel said winking at Faervel. Faervel laughed at this as Glorfindel placed the dress carefully in a chair. He drew a night gown for Faervel but she had cuddled into a blanket, leaving her body naked. She shivered underneath the blanket, her eyes blurry. Glorfindel sighed and Faervel heard his boots thunk on the floor as he removed them and the whisper of fabric. He settled into the bed then, forcing Faervel to let go of the blankets. She cuddled against his warmth.
"You warm," Faervel said tiredly.
"The better to warm you up," Glorfindel teased her.
"Not going to eat me up like the wolf..." Faervel murmured.
"The wolf?" Glorfindel questioned.
"Child story...wolf tries to eat little girl," Faervel muttered back in response.
"That sounds like a horrible story for a child," Glorfindel said.
"Didn't make sense say," Faervel said, once again switching her words.
"Sleep Tithenuren, you are very drunk," Glorfindel urged.
"No," Faervel said in a small childish voice. Faervel glanced up at Glorfindel.
"Pretty blue eyes," Faervel said and then she kissed him passionately. She shifted so she was on top of him between exchanging kisses. Faervel's eyes closed for a second and she passed out, her head coming to rest on his chest. Glorfindel groaned out loud, he ran his hand through his hair, staring at the small up turned face of Faervel. He moved her, so her head rested on the opposite pillow, before laying himself down. Glorfindel lay awake staring at the ceiling. He ached in a new way that he had never had to deal with.
"Am I moving to fast?" Glorfindel spoke to the ceiling. Glorfindel glanced at Faervel, his eyes following the curve of her shoulder to her bare breasts. He loved her yes, but he also desired her in the ways that Men wanted their women. He wanted to sink his body into hers, for her to moan his name in pleasure, to feel her fëa joined with his.
"I love you Glorfindel," Faervel said in her sleep. Glorfindel stilled and watched her, but her eyes were still glazed over in sleep. He sighed and drew her body close to his, enjoying the feel of her bare body against her. He could not seek the union of their bodies, not yet at least. He had to give her time, even more than his doubt of being to live happily if she chose another, he was not sure if he could give her even a century of non-marriage. For once in his life, Glorfindel felt incredibly impatient.
Did you really think I was going to write a sex scene so soon?
Tithenuren - "My little flame." Tithen is small, nuri or possibly naur stands for flame, and 'in' part comes from 'en' which means my. There was the possibility of using 'nin' but shortening it to 'in' so it would be Tithenurin. It is an epessë (a 'nickname' in an elvish tradition) that Glorfindel calls Faervel. If Faervel was to be called by it by others, she would be Tithenuril, little flame (il feminine article).
I'm still working on the chapters for the journey that Faervel is about to undertake, but it'll start soon =3 I just have a few more characters to introduce and some troubles to weather. I hate how I am so unkind to myself that feel dis-encourage to continue my story, but I strive onwards and I refuse to give up. Sometimes, especially with this chapter, I feel like my writing is lacking, but I am not sure what. Either way, once I am done with this fic, I will probably go back and edit each chapter. I also would like to apologize for how long it took for this chapter to come out, I have been a bit busy this week, but I kept my promise! See! One chapter per week! At least I already have next week's chapter already planned out! I just have to write it!
I finally watched The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (Extended Edition) I died in laughter at the scene with the dwarves in Imladris eating dinner...I think it was worth buying the Extended Edition just for that! I think I may have to use it later on when I finally do get to the Hobbit, it is just too good to not pass up. Though Faervel does not leave Imladris (for the Hobbit or LOTR or part of the White Council). "Made in Rivendell" lol seriously? "Second age...couldn't give it away." Definitely watch the Extended Edition if you haven't seen it!