Lórien: the Golden Wood
My head throbs at the slightest movement. I put my hands on my temples to keep myself from getting dizzy. I feel like my head is on the ground with horses running next to me like a speeding train. Legolas is right about the effects of the wine but I'm not going to admit it to him. He always gets so smug whenever he knows he's right about something, and I hate giving him that satisfaction without a fight.
"Good morning," I hear someone say. I roll over to my other side and look up. Legolas is trotting on his horse, trying to peer inside.
"Good morning," I groan and close my eyes again. "Why didn't you wake me at dawn?" I ask.
"I didn't know you wanted to be awake so early?" he looks at me with a smile.
I glower back since I'm not in the mood for his jokes. "You told me we were leaving at dawn. So, why didn't you wake me?"
"Yes, I did say that, but—I didn't say you had to be awake at dawn," he explains. "When I said 'we' I meant those of us who are on patrol and need to protect you."
"You can be so vague sometimes, you know that?" I reply, annoyed.
"Perhaps you should ask more questions in the future," he smiles again. "You're very good at that."
"Are you trying to be a smartass?" I sit up, even more aggravated than I was before. The quick movement, however, makes me wither back into my seat with my hands pressed against my temples.
"You don't look very well," he comments.
"Please, Legolas, it is too early for you to be this irritating," I sigh. My face is now buried in my hands on my lap.
"I'm not trying to get on your nerves, milady. I don't know why you always think that. I'm just concerned about your condition. You're feeling the miruvor, aren't you?"
"What do you think?" I reply sarcastically.
"Nikerym, tampa!" Legolas says to someone and the carriage abruptly halts.
I see him get off his horse and disappear. I immediately move closer to the window to find out what he's up to. One of the soldiers hands him something wrapped in cloth and walks back to the carriage. I sink back inside hoping he didn't notice me discreetly spying on him. He suddenly opens the door. "What's going on? Why did we stop?" I ask him. He sits on the opposite side of me and unfolds the cloth in his hand. "Lemba bread?" I'm even more confused.
"You need to eat something if you want to feel better," he replies, handing it to me. I look at it as if it's a strange object in my hand. He stands up but doesn't get out. Instead, he closes the door.
"Herill, please take care of my horse."
"Yes, sire," he nods.
"I will keep Lady Culver company for the meantime." He looks at me and smirks. "Move on!"
Legolas instructs the caravan. I'm still confused when he sits back down as we move again. What is he doing? "Eat," he says when he finally looks at me, realizing I'm just staring at him. He takes a piece of the bread and feeds it to me. I chew slowly still trying to figure out his strange behavior.
"Why are you in here?" I finally ask.
"To make sure you eat," he simply states. "Why, can I not sit in here with you?"
"Well, yeah…of course you can, but you never have before."
"Well, I'm here now. Besides, someone needs to make sure you eat," he adds.
"I'm not a child, Legolas," I answer, somewhat insulted. Does he really think he needs to keep an eye on me?
He sighs and moves over beside me. "I can never say the right thing with you, can I?" he asks exasperatedly, taking my free hand in his. "I'm only trying to look out for your well-being. I know what miruvor can do to you. If you don't eat something, you'll feel it for days."
"Days?" my eyes widen.
"Yes," he says. "The effects are different for your kind." I groan and take a piece of bread like a pouting child who doesn't want to eat their vegetables. Legolas watches me carefully with a hidden smile on his face.
"What are you looking so smug about?" I ask, rolling my eyes for the millionth time at him today. And I swear it's barely mid-morning.
His smile grows wider. "I'm not being smug about anything. I'm just happy you're finally taking my advice."
"Bread just doesn't taste that good this early in the day," I crinkle my nose.
Legolas shakes his head with a laugh. "It's practically noon, love."
"Noon?" I swallow hard.
"We'll be stopping again soon so you'll be able to eat something other than just bread," he chuckles. Thranduil's son gives me a chaste kiss on the cheek and opens the door.
"Legolas, what are you doing?" I exclaim. "The carriage is still moving!" But, of course, he doesn't listen. Instead, he winks and jumps out, closing the door behind him. I drop the bread on the floor and nearly throw myself out the window to see if he's okay. By the time I look outside, he's already running alongside his horse. He gracefully jumps on its back and rides to the front of the caravan. I slump back into my seat, waiting for my heart rate to slow down.
"Show off."
I I I
I can't finish the bread since it's in crumbs now by my feet. I try to sleep and hope my headache is gone when I wake later. I also can't wait to eat more of that meat from last night! I smile at the thought and suddenly remember our kiss. I also remember the kiss on the cheek Legolas gave me before he almost killed himself by jumping out of the moving carriage. He's acting as if last night wasn't a big deal. I guess I'm doing the same thing to avoid the awkwardness.
The carriage hits another bump in the road, waking me again. I rub my eyes and crawl my way to the window to see where we are. The sun is shining brightly in the sky. The caravan is still in the forest except there aren't as many trees and the scenery has changed. The landscape looks more peaceful like we're in a different territory altogether. I look behind us to see the darker part of the forest growing smaller in the distance as we travel away from it. I imagine we're close to the Golden Wood. I slouch back in my seat.
Up to now, there are still many things on my mind from last night. I've always been a thinker before I fall asleep and the more I try to doze off, the more irritated I become. I finally give up and stare out the window instead. The fresh air feels good and I forget about my hangover for a short time.
We stop again so the Elves can set up camp for lunch. Legolas comes to my window and motions for me to come outside, which I do. We're in a small clearing where we can rest. My stomach grumbles at the mere thought of meat. I'm probably eating some kind of squirrel since I see a lot of them roaming around the area, but at this point, I don't care anymore as long as my stomach can hold it down—and as long as I don't see the dead animal before it's cooked.
"So, what's for lunch?" I smile at Legolas. He knows exactly what I want from the knowing smirk on his features.
"The only thing I know you will eat," he says. "But, we have to cook it first." Legolas points to where a small fire is burning. There are sticks planted in the ground on either side of it. One of the Elves takes a plucked bird from the sack he's carrying and sticks another stick into it and places it over the fire to cook.
I looked back at Legolas in surprise. "You mean it was chicken after all?" I ask with my mouth wide open. He nods, chuckling. "Why didn't you tell me?" I hit him on the arm. "This whole time I thought I was eating a squirrel or something!" I receive looks from the soldiers around us.
Thranduil's son rubs his arm, still laughing at me. I know the feeble slap on the arm I gave him didn't really hurt and he only did it out of shock. "We do have squirrels we can cook if you prefer. I just figured you would rather enjoy eating something more familiar to you," he teases.
"Har-har," I roll my eyes.
"Come," he suddenly grabs my hand and a quiver full of arrows resting against a tree.
"Where are we going?" I ask, but he ignores my question.
"Thurnas, let me borrow your bow," he says to one of the soldiers.
"Yes, sire," he bows. Legolas takes his own bow and slings the two and his quiver over his shoulders. He takes my hand again and leads me into some other part of the woods.
"You're not going to try to kill me and bury my body out here, are you?"
"Maybe. If you don't stop asking so many questions," he replies flatly. He better be joking. But, just to make sure, I hit him in the arm again with a little shove, which makes him laugh out loud in playful manner. I know he really wouldn't do such a thing but, still, it brings me some relief to know he's not serious. What a jerk.
"What's this for?" I ask as he hands me one of the bows.
"Your first archery lesson," he smiles, raising his eyebrows up and down.
I stare at him with my mouth half-open. "Are you serious?" Sports are not my thing. I thought he'd remember that from the time I tried to play tennis with Ellie.
"As long as you point your arrow away from me and the camp, you should do just fine," he grins. And what makes him think I won't purposely point it at him for fun?
"Why are you teaching me this, anyway?" I ask, very unenthused by the idea. "I thought you said that maidens weren't trained to be warriors?"
"They aren't—but they are taught how to defend themselves," he winks.
"I guess this is the part where I should ask better questions next time, am I right?"
"No." Legolas gives me a quick kiss on the cheek. "I just like seeing your reaction," he impishly grins and stands next to me so we're now facing the same direction. I blush but try to ignore the heat on my face. He doesn't seem to notice either since his focus is far in front of us.
"What are you looking for?" I examine his features as he seems to be looking for something.
"I am checking to see if there are any animals we'd be disturbing in the area," he answers. "We don't kill animals for our amusement, only when it's necessary."
"Well, the coast looks clear," I look around.
"Almost. There's a family of deer drinking water by a stream."
"Where?" I ask, looking around even harder to try to get a glimpse of them.
"They're a few yards ahead. Too far for your eyes to see," he tells me.
"I forget you can see farther than I can," I say disappointed.
"Don't worry. If they come around again, we'll get closer so you can see them," Legolas smiles.
He hands me an arrow and pulls another out of his quiver. "Hold your bow and your aim like mine with your feet spread apart," he instructs. I try to mirror him but his stance looks more graceful than my own sloppy position. "Focus on a target and follow it through with your eyes, fingers and arms." He shoots the first arrow and lands right in the center of a tree trunk. He smiles with satisfaction and stands back to watch me make a fool of myself because I know that's exactly what I'm going to do.
"Relax, Isa," he smiles again. "Try not to think so much. Just feel where your target is."
Okay. I can do this. I close my eyes and take a deep breath. After showing me how to hold the bow and arrow properly a few times, I think I've got it. I have a vision of the same tree in my head, the only one in my view. I open my eyes and let go of the arrow. It zips through the forest and lands right above Legolas's. I jumped into his arms, basking in the joy of hitting my first target.
"Excellent shot!" he says as he twirls me around.
It's not as perfect as his, but close enough! I kiss him on the lips without thinking about my actions. I quickly pull away, blushing. "Sorry…" I say, embarrassed.
Legolas rolls his eyes and puts me down. He brings his hands to my face, returning my impulsive kiss. "Stop apologizing," he says after leaving me breathless. "I rather you kiss me than the other Elves who would take pleasure in trying to court you."
I laugh sarcastically. "Right. What Elves?" As far as I know, half of them still don't know I exist.
"You can be quite obtuse," he laughs softly. "If you could only see how the others look at you then you would know I'm not the only one captured by your beauty."
"Will you stop that?" I ask, feeling uncomfortable by the compliment.
"What?" he grins.
"Calling me beautiful all the time," I say. "It makes me feel…weird."
"Why? You are beautiful."
"I'm just not used to it," I reply quietly. "Besides, why would the Elves like me? I've seen the females in Mirkwood. They're beyond gorgeous!"
Legolas shrugs. "They are, but my kin have fallen for your people before so it's not uncommon. We don't judge the one we want to be with solely on appearance. We're not that superficial," he rolls his eyes with a smile.
"I wasn't saying you were," I defend my words.
"Isa," Legolas puts an end to whatever else I'm going to say. "Stop it."
"Stop what?" I give him a puzzled look.
"Stop comparing yourself to others. Why would I lie to you about being beautiful? I'm not one for cruel jokes. Have more confidence in yourself. I know you're a strong woman, but it's up to you to believe it."
"Well, I'm sorry!" I say defensively. "This is all new to me, Legolas." I look down at the ground. "I've been learning so much more about myself here these last few weeks than I have in the last twenty-one years I spent in New York."
"I'm sure there are plenty of other things for you to learn about yourself," he smiles warmly. "Just give it time. We usually discover more about ourselves when certain events in our lives take place and sometimes, when we meet new people."
"I guess you have a point."
"I do. And will you just let me compliment you," he pokes my side that makes me flinch away. "Whether you like it or not you're going to hear them."
"Fine," I try to suppress a smile, pretending I'm not ticklish. "Just keep it to a minimum."
"Yes, milady," Legolas bows teasingly. He runs to the tree to removes our arrows. "Let's head back," he grabs my hand. "I believe your chicken is waiting."
I roll my eyes but excited we're about to eat—chicken or squirrel!
I I I
"Isa, we're almost there." I'm woken again for the hundredth nap on this trip and move to look out the window. The trees outside are bigger with golden leaves covering the forest and the branches. The area is quiet and serene. It's a place where one can go to for a quiet getaway.
Much of yesterday was spent eating and Legolas showing me how to shoot more arrows. He doesn't want to teach me how to use their Elven blades because he's worried I'd cut myself…or maybe him, perhaps? Once I get more familiar with the bow, he says he'd think about showing me a move or two with the blades. But, I doubt that will happen in the near future. I have a feeling Legolas wants me to get over my clumsiness first.
I also slept again last night in a dreamless slumber. My nights have been peaceful since we left Mirkwood and knowing we're close to meeting the Lady of Wood, I feel calm. I was nervous and worried before but my anxieties seem to have disappeared overnight. I'm still curious as to what she wants from me but I'm no longer afraid to find out why. The calmness I feel is such a strange feeling. It's not like me at all. Usually, I'm a nervous wreck meeting people who are deemed important.
The carriage soon stops as I sit back into my seat. I try not to seem overly excited to get out or meet the Lady. I want to play it cool. I can't hear anything and almost want to stick my head out the window again but I don't want to draw attention to myself. The minutes that pass seem like hours.
"Are you ready?" smiles Legolas.
I give a quick, short nod and extend my hand to his that he holds out to me. It's brighter outside than I thought it was from inside of my dark confines. The soldiers stand in two lines facing each other, a few good feet apart. They're in line with a staircase leading down to us. There's also another Elf standing by Legolas I don't recognize. He's dressed in similar attire but I can tell he's not one of the Elven soldiers from Mirkwood.
"Good day, Lady Culver," he says with a bow of his head. Does everyone know my last name?
"Hello," I answer with a polite bow.
"My name is Haldir, a Lórien archer and one of the Lady's protectors. If there is anything you need to make your stay more pleasurable in the Golden Wood, please do not hesitate to let me know."
"Thank you," I say quietly again. I glance at Legolas who seems to have another little smirk on his face. I can't imagine what he's being so smug about this time. I inwardly roll my eyes and wait with the rest of the crowd for the Lady of the Wood. While everyone is paying attention to the entrance I lean in toward Legolas's ear.
"What's the matter?" he asks, whispering.
"Can't I take a shower first or something? We've been travelling for three days I just woke up less than an hour ago," I whisper back. I feel gross and unfit to be presented to anyone of importance.
"Isa, those are unimportant things to concern yourself with. Galadriel will not care."
She slowly appears with another Elf, walking gracefully down the steps. Her focus is on me the entire time so I have to pay attention to her. We stare directly into each other's eyes. I try looking away but her gaze holds me in place. Her features are simple, yet beautiful. Her eyes are light blue that reminds me of my mother's. Like in my dream, she also has the pieces of silver in her blonde hair. She looks young, no older than Shohrae by my guess—even though I'm not sure how old the assistant is. Maybe mid-thirties or so but I have to remember Elves lived forever so she's most likely much, much older than Legolas.
"Greetings, Isa Culver," Galadriel says coolly. She briefly glances at Legolas then rests her focus back on me.
"Hello," I simply reply.
"Welcome to Lórien. I am Galadriel and this is my husband, Celeborn. I hope your journey was a pleasant one," she smiles warmly.
"Yes, milady. We received no hardships on our travel toward your Golden Woods," Legolas spoke up. "Thank you for your hospitality."
"You are always welcomed here, my dear friend," says Celeborn. "You must all be tired from your travels. Haldir," he calls to him, "please show our guests to their rooms."
"We will converse more during dinner. I am very pleased to see you, young Isa," Galadriel smiles at me again. She has a hidden secret behind her smile I can't put my finger on. I sense she has more to tell me, which is a strange feeling.
I I I
Haldir leads our party to another set of stairs up the huge treetops that branches out in different directions. This must be what they call telains—wooden platforms among the treetops. It feels surreal staying inside a tree, hollowed out to look like the inside of a real house.
"Legolas, I trust you know your way around," Haldir says to him.
"Yes. I will show Lady Culver to her room," he replies. The other Mirkwood soldiers seem to know where to go as well and start dispersing into their rooms as if it's some sort of fraternity house. Soon, Legolas and I are alone by the stairwell. Haldir has already walked back down.
"Do you come here often?" I ask Legolas.
"I used to a long time ago to visit or to just get away from my duties," he answers. "That's when my father was still here in Mirkwood, of course. Now that he's in England, I take care of his affairs and whatever else needs to be done. I actually haven't been to England in years. Not until recently."
"When was the last time you visited? Before I saw you…in Paris."
"About…twenty-one years ago." He smiles of some fond memory of the past.
"Wow," I mouth silently. "That was a long time ago. Makes me feel…really young."
He laughs softly. "I bet. You were just a baby then." Legolas appears to reminisce about something again, which I think is strange.
"What about Thranduil? Does he still visit Mirkwood from time to time?"
"No, not really. You can say he's retired to England. Anything he needs or wants done here Shohrae usually takes care of. If it's a bigger task, then I do it...as his son."
"So, what do you do in Mirkwood? What type of profession do you have? I asked Shohrae if you were a soldier or something and she wouldn't say."
Legolas looks very amused by my question. "Yes, you can consider me a soldier or warrior. I will say I do have authority on what goes on in Mirkwood. I help protect our people from dangers around the forest and any other threats to us," he says.
"Are you the prince?" I give him a teasing look. "Do you get to say, "Off with their heads!'" I laugh. "By the way, where are your king and prince? I haven't seen them once since I landed in Middle-earth. Isn't it customary for outsiders to be presented to the rulers so they can decide what to do with them? I'm sure they've heard of some strange girl in the castle."
"Yes, they know about you," Legolas grins. "But, the king has many affairs he's dealing with and the prince…well. I don't think you'd like him very much."
"Why is that?"
"Because we're a lot alike," he chuckles. "He's stubborn and used to getting his way. I'm much easier to deal with."
"Sounds like a great guy," I say sarcastically.
"He is," his grin is now from ear-to-ear. "And so, here we are." We stop by a set of double doors. Legolas opens one of them and gestures me inside. It's not as big as the room I'm using in Mirkwood but it's still a large room with warm colors. It has a cabin feel to it with the wooden walls, floor, and rooftop. "You have a balcony as well," Legolas points as he places my things down. "Go look outside."
I walk over to the opening where a door should be and stand by the railing. The scenery looks like a page from William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. Everything appears to glow and the area is completely surrounded by huge trees resembling a dome that opens at the top so you can see the moon and the stars. There are ladders and stairwells that swirl around the trunks and long steps along the paths. Lórien looks nothing like Mirkwood. It's definitely more serene and secluded from the outside world.
"It's beautiful here."
Legolas slinks his arms around my waist from behind, which startles me. I try to act cool by placing my hands over his but I know he's smiling to himself. "This place can be very enchanting," he rests his chin on my shoulder.
"It looks very enchanting," I reply. "But I feel very comfortable here for some reason. I was so nervous and worried before our trip but now I'm glad we came. I'm excited to go sightseeing."
He turns me around to face him. "Although this place is much safer than Mirkwood, you still need to be careful. This is Galadriel's domain and what she says is law. I'm afraid I might not be able to help you if you get yourself into something that displeases her." He places his hands on my cheeks and caresses them tenderly. "I don't know what I would do if I couldn't protect you."
I place my hands gently on his wrists. "Stop worrying so much. I won't get into trouble. You know why? Because you'll be right there with me," I smile mischievously. "You can be my tour guide and I'll even let you tell me what I can and can't touch, like poisonous mushrooms or deadly insects—whatever it is."
That makes him smile. "I think you'll just get us both into trouble, milady." I roll my eyes but he's probably right. "Just be careful and don't let your curious mind get the best of you while we are here."
"Me? Have a curious mind?" I pretend to be dense.
Legolas gives me a gentle kiss on the lips and then heads for the door. "Just don't wander too far if you go off by yourself. Dinner will be in about an hour. I'll come back and escort you to the dining hall."
"Okay," I sigh.
"I'm only down the hall if you need me before then," he winks with a crooked grin and finally closes the door behind him.
That Elf can be so frustrating sometimes but he sure knows how to make a girl's heart skip a beat with his words. He can easily have me wrapped around his little finger if he wants but I'm not going to let it happen. Just because I'm in this fairytale world, doesn't mean I need to lose myself completely. I've always a levelheaded person and I have to remind myself I don't belong here. I know I'll go back to my world eventually. But, for now, I'll enjoy my time here and try to keep my attachments at bay. And, a part of those attachments includes Legolas.
Whatever this attraction is between us I can't explain. I'm also not sure where it's heading, which is something I don't want to think about at the moment—not while we're in Lórien. I just want to concentrate on why Galadriel wants to see me. As Legolas told me from her letter, she did look curious and fascinated by me when we first met.
Pushing the thoughts of my blooming relationship with Legolas to the back of my mind, I check out the adjoining room and see a tub full of hot water. I'm so relieved I can finally take a bath! After dipping my weary body in the welcoming water, I change into a different dress Shohrae packed for me and fold the other dress I wore neatly on my bed.
I check my appearance in the mirror and give my reflection a nod of approval. Because I have no clue how formal their dinner gatherings are in the Golden Wood, I choose an ivory dress with a few beads embroidered around the waist. It's a nice, simple, elegant dress.
The handsome Elf soon comes knocking on my door. I open it to find him in a light blue-silver tunic with his hair tied back into a low ponytail. He looks dashing in his outfit, something I'd never seen him wear before. His blue sapphire eyes seem to sparkle more as he smiles.
"I'm not too overdressed am I?" I ask for his approval.
"No, you're perfect," Legolas says, kissing my hand.
"And so are you, Master Legolas," I curtsey and can't help but chuckle at my words.
He rolls his eyes, but smiles. "Just Legolas will do," he corrects me.
"Just Isa will do, too, and not milady," I shoot back.
"Come on," he grabs my hand and drags me to the dining hall as I continue to laugh.
I I I
There are so many Elves when we enter the room. It's as if the entire city is here. There are also at least ten long tables that can sit about twelve people comfortably on each side and two on the short end. Legolas and I sit on opposite sides of each other with Galadriel and Celeborn at the head of the table. The Mirkwood Elves are scattered around, socializing and laughing with old acquaintances. Everyone is given food on their plate with Elven wine except for me. One of the servants gives me water in my glass instead. I look at Legolas who simply smiles. He most likely requested they not give me wine, which I'm happy about. I only started to feel better and hope the food will get me back to feeling one hundred percent again.
Most of dinner is spent with the other Elves talking about politics with a few jokes here and there. I try to pay attention in case I'm asked a question but I mostly keep drowning in and out of their conversations. I nod my head a few times to evade falling asleep. When the night draws late into the evening, some of the Elves at our table decide to turn in for the night or mingle with the other tables. Even Celeborn decides to socialize elsewhere. Soon, there are only a few of us left.
It's during this time Galadriel turns her attention to me. "So, Isa, how do you like Lórien so far?" she asks.
"I like it a lot," I smile politely. "It's very beautiful here. Thank you for having us."
"Would you ever considering visiting again?"
Her question catches me off guard. I barely got to experience her realm and already she's wondering if I want to come back. "Umm…yes, in the future if I'm able to. Your culture is very fascinating to me."
"And so is yours," she nods. "Humans in your world are very smart and intelligent, however, never satisfied with what you have. One thing I do admire is your thirst for knowledge and trying to advance yourselves with your technology."
"Lady Galadriel…is that why you asked me here, to know more about my world?" I muster the courage to ask.
She laughs whole-heartedly. I blush and know Legolas notices but he remains silent. "Oh, my dear, I do apologize. I am not trying to embarrass you in any way. I am only amused by how forward you are—very straight to the point. Not many Elves can do that with me," she smiles. "I can see why you like her, Legolas." He only smiles when she glances his way and half-nods while taking a sip of his wine. I turn even redder. "It is your first night in Caras Galadhon so enjoy yourself before we speak of more essential matters."
"Thank you," I reply quietly.
"Legolas knows these woods like it is his own home. He can take you wherever you desire." Galadriel stands. Legolas and I stand as well. Before the Lady of Wood leaves, she suddenly places a hand on my cheek, which catches me by surprise. She stares deeply into my eyes again.
"You are beautiful," she says and then walks away. I remaining standing, somewhat stunned, watching her as she departs. I'm bewildered, not by her compliment, but because I saw a hint of sadness in her eyes she tried to hide.
I look at Legolas who only takes my hand. "Let's get some fresh air," he suggests.
"Okay…" I whisper.
I I I
"So, how did you like the food at dinner?" Legolas asks once the cool air hits us. Our hands remain intertwined as we walk down one of the walkways away from the crowd. We pass by Herill and the captain who try to hide their mischievous, boyish grins. Legolas tells them to go do something more productive and so they leave, snickering at us in private. "Don't mind them," he says. "They're used to seeing me spend most of my nights alone while they gather and socialize with Elf-maidens around a fire."
"Are you saying you haven't taken a stroll with one of the Elf-maidens here before?" I raise a skeptical eyebrow. "The way some of them were looking at you at dinner, I thought they were going to throw me against the wall just so they could sit in my place and be that much closer to you," I joke teasingly.
He laughs softly, shaking his head. "The Elf-maidens here are more reserved than that. They're more discreet with trying to steal my attention away from someone than the Elf-maidens in Mirkwood."
"Well, what's the difference? How do the Elf-maidens in Mirkwood do it?" I ask, very curious.
"I suppose they're like any other females who try to fight over someone's affection in your world," he shrugs. "Name calling, hair pulling, devious…"
"Are you serious? I can't picture that. You all seem so…proper and well-mannered."
"Elves are for the most part but, of course, we're not perfect beings contrary to popular belief. We have our flaws as well," he replies.
"Yes, I know. I've seen yours first-hand," I poke him on the side playfully.
Legolas chuckles again, taking both my hands, and wrapping them around his neck. He looks around to see if the coast is clear and gently pushes me against a tree. "But, you've been able to tolerate me," he grins, speaking very close to my face. I can feel the sweet scent of his breath on me.
"Correction, still trying to tolerate," I grin back, trying to focus on his eyes and not his lips that are only inches away from mine.
"Well, at least we have something in common," he shoots back. I open my mouth in protest and try to pinch him, but it only causes him to laugh aloud at my reaction, putting space between us.
"Hey, you're supposed to be charming," I pout.
"I am charming," he says with a smirk. I can't tell him he isn't because he is and he knows it. He smiles even more when I can't come up with some sort of witty response. He closes the gap between us again and falls silent, searching my eyes.
"What is it?" I ask softly, staring back into his.
"It's been long time since I've felt like this," he says quietly.
"You barely know me," I try to get him to rethink his next words.
My heart is racing. I don't belong in Middle-earth and he's already making it difficult for me in wanting to leave. I can't stay here and I know he can't stay in my world because of his responsibilities in Mirkwood, which brings on more thoughts of disappointment. I'm not even sure if I'm ready for anything further between us. Things are really moving too quickly.
"I told you. You don't need to know someone for very long to know how you feel about them," he whispers into my ear, sending chills down my spine. "If you can honestly tell me you don't have the same feelings for me, then I will back away and no longer pursue you."
Pursue me? My cheeks grow hotter by the second. I hate being put on the spot. I just wish the dark night can cover some of the red glow on my face. "Legolas…"
"Yes?"
My feelings are swimming around in my stomach. Before I realize it, his lips crash into mine. My face holds a shocked expression but I don't pull away. The more he kisses me, the more I gradually relax into his arms and eventually give into my desires. We only pull away when we both need to come up for air. He continues to kiss my cheek and my neck with butterfly kisses, making me close my eyes again.
"Legolas…" I breathe.
"Yes," he murmurs again, returning his attention back to me with a smirk.
I fix my posture and try to regain some of my senses back. "Why did you just kiss me like that?"
"Well…you didn't exactly say no so I thought I'd take my chances." He grins mischievously at me.
I roll my eyes. "Be happy you're still in one piece," I flatly threaten.
"Trust me, I am," he continues to smile. He can't seem to get that ridiculous smirk off his face.
"Sire," Paltos appears on the same path. "Lord Celeborn wishes to see you."
"Now?" he sounds annoyed, pulling away from me.
"Yes, sire. Right away."
"It's okay, Legolas," I assure him. "You should go. It's probably important." I can tell he wants to object to the command but he knows he can't shrug off the request from one of the rulers of the Golden Wood. The three of us walk back up the walkway to the main path where most of the others Elves are hanging around.
"Captain, will you give us a few moments?" he asks as we approach the bottom of the staircase leading up toward our rooms.
"Of course, sire," he bows. "Good night, Lady Culver."
"Good night," I smile politely.
Legolas turns to me after Paltos leaves. "I wish we could spend more of the evening together but it seems that duty calls…once again," he apologies.
I take his hands into mine and smile letting him now I understand. "It's okay. We'll be here for a few days. You can show me around before we leave."
He kisses my hands and draws me closer to him. "May you have a pleasant night, milady," he kisses me gently on the lips, letting himself lingering there for a second and pulls away sooner than I want him to. Legolas gives one last smile and heads in the same direction as the captain. I watch him until he disappears into the tall bushes.
I I I
It's a quiet night. I look up the staircase to our chambers and then back at the forest. I'm not really that tired and something in me feels like wandering around a little more—as if the forest is calling to me. I tell myself I won't go too far and be back before Legolas's meeting with Celeborn is done. I head in another direction to see a different area of the woods.
Everything on this pathway seems to be glowing. Little fireflies are everywhere, illuminating the branches, bushes, and even my hair. They aren't dangerous so I let them rest on me. I feel peaceful and almost graceful walking around barefoot. I took off my shoes because something told me I didn't need them. Strange. I leave them discarded by the staircase. I have to remember to pick them up on my way back or Legolas might think I've gone missing or that someone kidnapped me. There's no need for him overreacting over nothing.
Isa…
I turned my head at the call of my name. It's a voice of a woman I don't recognize. "Who's there?" I ask.
Isa, come this way…
Curiosity gets the best of me again and I can't help but obey. Even if I don't want to, my feet continue toward the direction of the voice. And for some reason I can't stop until I get there…wherever there is. "Where are you? How do you know my name?" I ask again.
This way, Isa…
The voice keeps repeating itself, almost in a playful, excited way. I'm like a small child running toward the voice of their mother. I stop short when the path opens to different clearing. There's a set of concrete stairs with moss and ferns all around it leading down to an opening in the earth. In the middle of it is a silver basin with encircled vines. It must be the basin Legolas mentioned that belongs to Galadriel.
However, the Lady of the Wood is nowhere in sight so I decide to investigate. On the ground next to it is a silver pitcher that matches the designs on the basin. I pick it up but it's empty. I place it down again and look into the empty basin wondering what it's doing in the middle of the forest. "Hello, Isa Culver."
The voice startles me as I spin around. "Lady Galadriel," I breathe. "I'm sorry if I'm trespassing. I thought I heard…something, but I'll leave now. Sorry, again!" I try to make my way back up the steps as quickly as possible but she stops me.
"Why are you in such a hurry, child?" she asks. "Come here."
I slowly turn again with my heart pounding in my chest. "Legolas might be looking for me," I tell her.
She smiles and picks up her silver pitcher. "Legolas knows where you are." Water suddenly comes out of it as she pours it into the basin.
"That was empty when I picked it up a moment ago," I look at it suspiciously. Galadriel only smiles again and waits until the basin is full of water.
"Tell me about your father," she says.
"My…father?" I ask confused. Why would she want to know about my dad?
"Yes. What do you know about him? You were very young when he passed."
"How…did you know that?" I give her a puzzled look.
"I know many things," she replies, a small smile playing on her lips. "Tell me about him and your mother."
I walk closer to her intimidating figure. "Well, my dad owned a winery company in New York. He met my mom in London but because her parents didn't approve of him, she followed him back to New York where I was born. He died in a plane crash shortly thereafter. I only have pictures of him to go by. He doesn't have any siblings or relatives that I know of."
"And your mother?" Galadriel asks, walking around the basin. "What can you tell me about her?"
I begin to miss my mom instantly, my throat tightening before I speak. "My mom was beautiful. She had long sandy-blonde hair with piercing blue eyes, and a smile that could light up a room. She was a caring, strong, and an independent woman—always putting the needs of others before her own. Even though we lived a pretty good life, she taught me to work hard to achieve my goals, be kind to others, and be thankful for the people we have in our lives."
"She loved your father, didn't she?"
I nod. "Very much. She never remarried again or even dated anyone, even though she had many suitors after her. She was very easy to get along with. I would see her sometimes looking at old pictures of my dad and I could tell she still really missed him."
"Your mother did have many suitors. She could also be very stubborn—a trait which you seem to have inherited," she replies with a small grin.
I give Galadriel another strange look. "How would you know that?"
"Tell me, child, what is the name your mother uses?" she asks, avoiding my question.
"Her name was…Bree," I answer.
"Do you know your mother's real name?" Galadriel looks at me questioningly.
"As far as I know her real name is Bree. Her maiden name was Elltaes."
My answer seems to make her smile. "At least she kept a part of her true name. Your mother did well to keep her secrets from you."
"What secrets? What do you know about my mother?" More questions swim in my head. What exactly does she know about my mom and my family? About me?
"Your mother's true name is Celebrían Elltaes. She was named after her grandmother as were you, Isa Arwen," she tells me.
"I've never told anyone my real name before," I say with goose bumps riding up and down my arm. "How do you know me? Who…are you?"
Galadriel comes face-to-face with me and caresses my cheek. "You have the same dark hair as your grandmother, Arwen Evenstar, and emerald eyes like your great-grandmother Celebrían. I wanted to grieve your mother's passing but I could not. Instead, we lamented a song for her."
"Wait—" I put my hand in the air to stop her and take a step back. She looks at me quizzically.
"I don't understand. Are you trying to tell me my mom was an Elf?" I almost can't help but laugh at the notion.
"Is it really that hard to believe given where you now stand?" Galadriel asks me calmly.
I almost want to cry aloud finding out this secret my mom's kept from me—if it's really true. How could I have not known? I try to keep my cool and not break down in front of the sorceress. "Why didn't she tell me?" I whisper, forcing the tears back.
"Because she loved you and felt it was best you have a normal life in your world," she answers. "Celebrían and her parents often came to London to attend the galas her father supported. She was a free spirit and stubborn—always wanting to do things her way. She met your father one night and fell in love. Your grandparents had nothing against your father. They only had other plans for her. When they discovered she was with child, they felt you should be raised here in Middle-earth to learn the customs and ways of our people. When you were old enough, you would be given the choice of which world you wanted to be in. The portal was always open for you if you chose to return."
"Chose to return? Where exactly was I born?"
"You were born in New York, that part is true. Your father accepted your mother's heritage and told her he would allow you to come to Middle-earth, but your mother refused. She thought if you stayed here and with your father's travelling, you would not be a complete family."
"So…she hid the truth to keep us together?" I was almost asking myself aloud.
"The reason why Celebrían never returned to Rivendell is because she did not want either of you to be away from your father. After your father passed away, she grieved him. She tried her best to move on with her life, especially for you—just a newborn—but we did not know if she would survive the sorrow alone. Thranduil convinced her for a time to come back to Middle-earth."
"Then I have been here before!"
Galadriel nods. "Yes, until you were a year old. Celebrían still wanted you to grow up in your world so that is where you have been ever since. Thranduil is a close friend and ally who vowed to look after you."
"He's been great," I half-smile. "No wonder why certain things here seemed so familiar to me."
"Those are your Elven senses," she says. "Your abilities have lain dormant in your world but are stronger here. You will have to concentrate and practice them when you return."
"Return? You mean I can go home?" I ask.
"Yes, the portals are open now. I only closed them for a time so I could meet with you. I have not seen you since you were first born," she smiles.
"How do you know so much about my mom and her family?" I ask curiously.
Galadriel smiles once more and walks around her basin again. "Has Legolas told you about the last Heir of Isildur?"
"Yes. Aragorn Elessar, right?" I also read about him in the journal.
"Correct. Did he tell you the name of the Elf-maiden he married?"
"I…don't remember," I answer a little embarrassed. "But I know she was the daughter of Lord Elrond who lived in Rivendell where you tell me my mom is from."
"Lord Elrond's daughter is Arwen Evenstar…your grandmother, and who also happens to be my granddaughter."
"What?" I breathe disbelievingly. "Then that makes you…"
"Your great-great-grandmother," Galadriel reveals with a small smile.
"No," I shake my head. She has to be joking with me. "How is that possible?"
"Many of us have sailed the Sea but I chose to stay in the Outer Lands to protect the Golden Wood. But, my time is drawing near and I, too, shall eventually leave. You, following Legolas into the woods that night, made me curious to see you as a young woman."
"So, you knew about that?" I blush.
"Of course. I have tried to protect you as much as I could since you were born. Would you like to see a part of your past?" She motions for me to come closer. I slowly obey, glancing at her basin.
"All you have to do is look into the water."
I inch closer and stare at the tiny ripples. I'm not sure what I'm looking at exactly. Suddenly, an image begins to appear. It shows my mom and dad meeting and dancing the night away. Then it jumps to an image where my mom is packing her belonging and heading for New York. The next image shows her crying over my dad's death and bringing me as a baby to Middle-earth. I see Thranduil laughing and playing with me, even Ellie, who I'm surprised to see. Shohrae is also in the vision and so is...Legolas? None of them look a day older than they do now.
My mom hands me to Legolas to hold. I'm laughing and drooling on his shirt, which only seems to make him laugh even more—a look I know by heart. He even kisses me on the cheek. The images in the basin make more confused by the second.
"Lady Galadriel, can I ask you a question?"
"Of course, my dear."
"Did you ask Legolas to keep this a secret from me?"
"I only asked him to bring you here so I could reunite with you."
"So, Legolas knew this all along and he never told me?" I can feel anger creeping to the surface. "After everything I went through, everything we talked about—not once did he mention any of this."
"Do not be upset with him. I am sure he has his reasons," she tries to convince me.
"Well, it's too late for that," I storm away. I can tell she wants to stop me and say something but she lets me go without a word. Do not blame him for his actions… I hear a voice say inside my head. "Don't blame me for my actions," I mutter to myself. I feel like an even bigger fool than ever. This whole time Legolas knew who my mom was and he kept it from me!
I now realize meeting him in Paris was no coincidence. He knew I was going to be there. He was probably watching me the entire time. It never occurred to me to ask Legolas if my mom knew about him and his father being Elves, and how she knew Thranduil. I don't know why I didn't bother asking instead of letting it linger on my mind.
My hands are balled into fists now. I'm still holding back the tears that threaten to spill. So many things are running through my mind and my emotions are all over the place. I see Legolas and the captain by the staircase, examining my shoes where I left them.
"Isa, there you are!" he runs over to me. "You had me worried. I thought another spider had gotten you," he jokes and tries to kiss me on the cheek but I back away. "Isa, what's wrong?" Legolas finally sees the distraught state I'm in.
"Why, Legolas?" I ask, the tears now freely falling. "Why didn't you tell me you knew my mom and who she was? Who I was."
A stab of pain graces his features. "Isa…"
"Why, Legolas? Tell me!" I demand. The captain makes moves farther away from us since he knows this is clearly between me and Legolas. "Not once did my mom mention Thranduil had a son. And why didn't your own parent ever talk about you? What other secrets are you hiding from me?"
"Isa, please—I know you want to know the truth, but it can wait until tomorrow?" he begs.
Legolas moves closer with cautious steps to try to calm my ranting. "Let me explain in the morning." He places his hands on my shoulders, which I slap away. "Isa, please…just wait until the morning," he tries again, hugging me in a tight embrace, which I break free from. I slap him across the face without thinking about my actions. He's just as shock as I am. It all happened so fast. But he deserves it, I tell myself.
"You insolent girl! How dare you touch the Prince of Mirkwood in such a manner?" Paltos yells, running over to us.
"It's all right, captain," Legolas keeps him at bay. "Please give us a moment alone." The captain hesitates to leave but follows his command nonetheless.
"Pr…prince of Mirkwood?" I stutter. "You're the Prince of Mirkwood!" I can't believe what I've just heard. What other surprises were going to be thrown at me? "It all makes sense now. I should have known…I'm so stupid!" I shake my head in frustration.
"It doesn't matter who I am, Isa—I care about you. Please, just give me a chance to explain everything," his eyes plead with me.
"You should have explained yourself in Paris," I seethe. "At least then I could talk back to you instead of just drooling on your shirt like did when I was a baby!"
"I understand you're upset but please—"
"No, Legolas. I'm tired," I turn my back to him. Slowly, I turn to face him again, walk up to him, and staring into his eyes. Pain resides in them while mine are cold and furious. "I told you that you barely knew me and it seems I don't know you at all. You asked me if I had feelings for you and I didn't know then…but I do now. I have no feelings for you, Legolas, so please leave me alone," I say coldly and begin to walk away as he tries to follow behind.
"Isa, please. You don't know what you're saying," he sounds flustered, a first for him.
I turn around sharply to face him once more. "The portals are open and I want to go home. Now!" I demand. "And I don't want you escorting me. Anyone but you." I storm up to my room.
"Isa, please don't do this!" his voice sounds desperate, almost on edge.
"Stop it, Legolas! Just stop it," I yell out my frustration at him. "You betrayed my trust! This sweet, charming person I thought you were becoming was all a lie! You're nothing but an insensitive, selfish prince. Someone I wouldn't like, just like you said. Don't ever speak to me again for as long as I live," I spat out at him and ran up the stairs.
"You should do well to watch your tongue, girl." I hear the captain's angry voice from where he stands. I disappear around the corner and let my body willingly collapse on the stairs, sobbing quietly. "She needs to be taught a lesson, sire," Paltos says him. I'm a good flight up the stairs but I can still hear them whispering. My elven hearing is probably awakening.
"No, leave her be, Captain Palaren. I don't want anyone disturbing her. She has the right to be angry," Legolas says quietly. "Have one of the female servants pack up her belongings in the morning and tell Herill to escort her to the portal."
"But, Master Legolas…"
"Just do it," he says sternly.
"Sire, no one has ever spoken in such a crude manner like that to the Royal Family without receiving some sort of punishment," Paltos tries to tell him again.
"Do you want to be punished? Do as I command!" Legolas yells.
Paltos knows not to test his master's patience. "Yes, sire, right away," the captain quickly replies with a low bow and walks away.
"I deserved it…" he says quietly to himself and walks off in a different direction. I cry even harder on the staircase.
