Chapter 18
As Emily hurried through the royal wing towards her room to get into a presentable dress for greeting their rather wet guests, she couldn't help but slow down near the common area when she heard the voices of both her uncles and her grandfather.
"Faervel, my dear son, stop fretting. All is well and there are no ill feelings over it." Thranduil was saying patiently. "As Lady Galadriel reminded you, it is far less than what happened nine hundred and ninety-two years ago when we visited her realm during a time when our relations were filled with a great deal of tension. As I recall, the imps responsible for stringing our party up like wild boars were among those doused in water today. Therefore by the traditions of our people, that score has been settled."
"This pranking is getting out of hand!" Faervel replied, his tone tense and adamant. "While I do not dispute that being hung upside down by a bunch of elflings who thought to capture a bunch of woodelves was among one of the more humiliating experiences of my life, it does not reflect well upon us that the first thing that happens to this party upon arrival is to have water dumped on them."
Legolas's voice interjected with amusement. "And yet the great difference here is that they were not the targets, and we were at the time. Let the youth have their fun, Faervel. The world is dark enough that they have so little time to actually BE youth."
"If you are so trouble by the unfortunate timing of these pranks, perhaps you should offer your services?" Thranduil suggested innocently, his tone betraying the desire to riel up his eldest child. "As I recall, your own youthful pranks were elaborate enough for me to order you to clean up after yourself so that the cleaning staff did not have to."
Emily peered in, swallowing a thick lump in her throat and watching as her elder uncle stood stiffly, staring ahead and twitching his shoulder in discomfort.
"I have long since out grown such things." Faervel stated quietly.
"Umm...daerada..." Emily said softly from the doorway, shifting nervously as she worked up the courage to speak further. All three turned to her, waiting expectantly. Judging from the smirk that stole onto Thranduil's face, Emily suspected that he already knew what she was about to say. "It was my fault...mine and Merenith's. I'm so so sorry, and I'll do what I need to in order to make it right." A glimmer of approval flashed across Faervel and Thranduil's faces while Legolas just looked proudly amused. "It...it was stupid. We should have stopped long ago with the pranks but...well, we just couldn't resist trying one last time to get back at the Dull Ones for all they have done already. They are beating us miserably at this war, and I think after today it's safe to say we have lost rather spectacularly to them. I'm really sorry. It won't happen again."
"Thank you, Emily, for coming forward on this." Thranduil said quietly, studying her carefully. "It speaks well of your character. The greeting of our guests is not for another two hours, which should be plenty of time for you to go and assist in cleaning up the mess you made, after which you will get dressed and join the rest of us in the throne room for welcoming our kin."
"I should apologize to them, should I not?" Emily asked meekly.
"Ordinarily I would say yes, however the Lady Galadriel stated that her people all unanimously agreed it was best to let the matter slid in light of a past event which I am happy to let this mishap stand against. No further mention of it is necessary...that being said, melui...perhaps for Faervel's sake avoid any further pranks for the next few weeks."
"Understood. We were going to stop anyway." Emily said softly, still staring at her feet and feeling foolish.
Her head snapped up when Legolas laughed brightly. "Oh, I would not write off the war yet, dear niece." Winking he added, "There may yet be hope."
"Don't encourage this." Faervel grumbled.
"In fact, there would be even MORE hope if certain other bodies allied themselves with you, thus helping to ensure things did not end in minor disasters..." Legolas baited, causing his father to smirk in to a glass of wine and turn away to hid a laugh when Faervel began to splutter.
"You expect ME to join in this...this mayhem and mischief?!"
"I mean...Merenith and I could use some better direction than what we give each other..." Emily had to admit, glancing worriedly at her uncle when he turned on her next. His cranky expression faltered slightly and he softened his tone to a gruff sort of affection.
"The day that I join another prank war will be a rather spectacular day indeed, and extremely unlikely ever to happen. Now, you have cleaning to do. Get going, little warg."
Gladly, Emily did as she as bid. While she and Merenith had tried to keep a low profile to keep people from knowing it was them who pulled half the pranks, they had taken to helping when they could to clean up after all of them, regardless of if they had done them or not. The cleaning staff seemed to appreciate this, and though they must have suspected the girls (people would be foolish not to suspect the youth of the kingdom for such things), they did not out them.
A few hours later, Emily found herself standing nervously with the rest of her family to welcome their guests to the Greenwood. It was a courteous affair, with many formalities and flowery speeches that exchanged pleasantries among the parties.
Lothlorien, Imladris and the Grey Havens had all sent some of their own people, though the most notable Emily found were the Lord and Lady of Lothlorien. Never had she seen such fair or grand people in all her life. They were dazzling and almost terrifying. From her studies of history and the different realms, Emily knew that of all the beings in Middle Earth, Lady Galadriel was the oldest person she would ever likely have the chance to meet on these shores. She had been there at the beginning of things, she remembered the light from the sacred trees, she had so much wisdom and knowledge and power, she could read minds and hearts easily and speak into the minds of others effortlessly. Emily was a little star struck to finally lay eyes on this lady from legends. She found it difficult to really concentrate on what was going on around her as she contemplated this elleth and wondered about her.
"And this is my youngest granddaughter, Emily Dawveen, daughter of Aewnith and Farland."
The girl gave a small start back to reality and then hurried to stumble into proper and respectful curtsy, face flushing with humiliation at being caught wandering. She lifted her eyes shyly and froze a little as she meet the eyes of the Lady Galadriel.
Time stop and all Emily could think was, Oh shit! She's totally going to know those water bombs were my fault!
The smile that came in answer to that thought was soft and knowing, while great amusement danced in the blue eyes.
-Well, now she knows for certain.- came a laughing voice into Emily's mind. A shiver ran up her spine, though experience was not at all like anything she had ever encountered with thought-speaking. -Am I correct in assuming that the water bombs were meant for someone else?-
-Yes. I'm so so very sorry about that...-
-Do not worry. I, for one, found it extremely entertaining. However I must request that you be more careful in the future, for the sake of my people. To be caught so unawares is rather embarrassing for them...good for them, but embarrassing.-
-It's won't happen again.- Emily promised, ducking her head.
-Hmm, we shall see. Let us speak again soon, little light. I have greatly looked forward to our meeting.-
With that the lady turned away and began speaking to Thranduil once more. As the soft and subtle power faded from her mind, Emily couldn't help but think with a little sarcasm, 'That wasn't ominous at all.' A thought that was quickly followed by, 'Shoot! I hope she didn't hear that.'
That smile that still graced the great lady's lips could have been for any reason at all. All the same, Emily prayed it was for some other reason than picking up on her insolence.
That night, so as to ensure that their guests were able to rest and have some time to themselves before the Winter Festival began, they enjoyed a very low-key, quiet feast that did not go very long into the night.
Clare, Joel and Emily all stayed together, watching with interest and listening as discreetly as possible to the news being shared about between court officials, advisors and the visitors from afar. By order of Thranduil, Joel was to take part in this night's feast and the following day's opening celebrations, for it was the grandest day of the entire Festival. After that he would return to his work and previous routine. The young ellon was very humble about it and had tried to decline, feeling deeply that it was not his right to join in, however Thranduil had sternly rebuked him and that had been the end of that. As such, Joel still kept to himself as much as he possibly could, listened much and said little.
As the feast drew to a close and singing began, Thranduil found himself withdrawn to a corner with Galadriel and Elrond, which he knew was no coincidence.
"A great many things have disturbed these woods of late, Lord Thranduil." Galadriel said gravely. "Strange sightings, a witch with blood ties to other worlds, a powerful stone foraged by the binding of two worlds and created by none other than one of the Blue Wizards, and a great many other things...one would almost wonder if there were not a reasonable explanation for these events..."
"I know what you are suggesting." Thranduil said sharply, his previously calm demeanour becoming icy cold. "And the matter is not up for discussion."
"Thranduil." Elrond tried gently, "It is not something you can hide her away from, and we know well by now she has been touched by the Valar. They do not idly interfere with our lives, nor do they do things without a purpose."
"You know in your heart we are correct." Galadriel's deep voice stated calmly. "She must be trained, she must be taught. All three of them do."
"And what do you think we have been doing!?" Thranduil snapped. "Glorfindel has not stayed around for nothing. While he dearly loves them, he was first to recognize what the rest of us are only just seeing now and the dangers they present."
"There has not been one of her kind since Gondolin fell, nor has there been any with talents as strong as Joel or Clare's in a very long time." Elrond said softly. "Of course he would recognize it. Thranduil, she especially must be trained. You know well the Enemy lays only in waiting. Should he rise up and the worst happen, she would be invaluable-"
"Do NOT preach to me, Lord Elrond." Thranduil snarled, the power of his anger making the lanterns on the walls behind them flicker. "I will not have her or the other two become pawns for the White Council, with their life and freedom stolen away long before they ever has a chance to find their feet in this world. Have the Valar not already taken enough?! Do you truly believe they wish them to be fashioned into whatever the council pleases? I do not believe that, and I will not have it. I do not fully trust the Council. It is not time. This discussion is over."
"We do not speak for the White Council, Thranduil." Galadriel said gently. "We speak only as those who would see them safe. They are powerful, especially Emily, and being what she is she will attract all manner of darkness to her when he returns...we well know it is only a matter of time."
"You think I do not know this?" Thranduil hissed, hackles still raised. "I do not have the same luxuries the two of you do in protecting my people and keeping the darkness at bay, or have you forgotten that it was I who first sounded the alarm about who was laying in wait at Dol Guldur?"
"It is not forgotten." Galadriel said quietly, remaining unfrazzled in the face of the angered king. "Know this, Thranduil. You cannot keep her from this forever. Sooner, I fear, rather than later she will need to know what she is."
"I will tell her when it is time. I will tell them all when it is time." Thranduil growled. "Let them live as peacefully as they can for now. And in particular, let her be happy, let her be free of this burden for the few years of tentative peace we have left. Emily has faced enough hardship since entering this world. They can and will be trained without needing to know."
"Your secrecy may lead to greater sorrow." Elrond warned.
"That is a risk I am willing to take if it means they can live in peace for a time. Now, enough of this. You are ruining a perfectly good wine and are making me regret ever extending an invitation to either of you."
"Very well." Galadriel conceded graciously. "Then allow me to ask after the creature you call Gwilithel?"
Warily, Thranduil eyed the ancient elf standing across from him. "She is well and living under my protection. Why do you ask."
A curious look passed over the fair face and she smiled. "Mere curiosity."
Thranduil snorted, checking his mental walls carefully before thinking a little sourly, Mere curiosity my arse. Crazy elf-witch is always up to something.
The 'magic wardrobe' came through again, just as Emily had half joked and half hoped it would. She returned that previous evening after the small feast and had been putting the dress she was wearing away when the brand new one caught her eye.
It was prefect. The light blues and silvers swirled in beautiful patterns like the blowing snows in sunlight, making her dress look like a playful winters day any time her skirts moved. With such a light color mixed with a few dark blues, she found as she put it on that following evening it complimented her slightly darker complexion very well and gave her barely shoulder length hair a wonderful canvas for showing off the honey brown highlights in her curls. The neckline was modest and her sleeves where a light enough material that she wouldn't become too hot indoors, while still being comfortable in the cold evening outdoors. Emily gave a small nod as she surveyed the half up hair do her mother had done for her, the soft curls with her newly pointed ears peeking through and her small silver circuit tucking down upon her brow that was matched by a pair of glittering dangly earrings from her lobes.
This was about as good as it was going to get, and at the moment she was happy with it.
"Emily!" Clare yelled from the common area. "Come on! It's time to go!"
"Coming!" Emily hurried to cram her feet into the soft, moccasin like shoes that matched her dress and then flew out the door, smacking her shoulder into the frame as she went. "Ouch."
"You should really be more careful." Her Vede Legolas teased, while simultaneously giving her a wince of sympathy. He looked very fine in his courtly robes, though she noted that, as was usual, he opted not to wear as rich or heavy outer robes like his father and brother did. Instead he settled for an intricate tunic and his silver circuit atop his head.
"I try to be." Emily sighed.
"You'll get used to it!" Clare tried to encourage, though to Emily it came across mildly patronizing. "You look amazing! See, was picking a dress so hard? Why didn't you just say you had one already!?"
"I didn't. My magic wardrobe produced this one." Emily answered flatly, her eyes taking in the dark, rich blue and gold her sister wore. It showed off her figure exquisitely and her dark hair cascaded in slight rolling waves, half of which were carefully schooled into a fancy pile of braids at the back of her head. Bright, yet subtle gems were also hidden amid the braids, making her hair look as though there was freshly fallen snow glistening throughout it. A delicate band of soft metal held one sapphire blue gem upon her brow, accenting her blue eyes and making them sparkly. Her fair skin was flawless, and her ears elegantly poked through her hair, showing off the perfect way they were so distinctly pointed. In the shadow of her sister's absolute radiance, Emily found her heart fall and then twist uncomfortably. "You look stunning!"
"Oh, thank you! Not my best work, but I think the hair turned out alright!" Clare answered happily, oblivious to the green tinge Emily went with her envy.
"You are both very beautiful." Legolas said gently, his eyes meeting Emily's in a meaningful way that made the girl squirm and look away, embarrassed that his talents had picked up on her ugly envy.
"Are we ready to go?" Aewnith asked as she entered with her husband. Both looked as stately as they should. Aewnith was in a dark red with gold tread that spiralled into lovely patterns across the sleeves and down into the skirts. Farland matched his wife with a similar tunic and brown trousers that tucked into well polished boots. He almost looked a little plain compared to Aewnith and the others, however Emily knew well that this was about as dressed up as they could get her father. He much preferred to be out doing something in practical clothing than dressing up 'as a peacock'. In a way, Emily very much shared this sentiment and it suddenly occurred to her that perhaps her father was just as uncomfortable and nervous in there social gatherings as she was.
"Yes, we are all here. Ada, Faervel and Joel are waiting by the doors for us." Legolas replied placidly, offering both his arms to his nieces and escorting them down the hall to where the others were waiting for them.
Predictably, Joel was dressed as humbly as Legolas and Farland, though he did look handsome, Emily decided. His hair was a shaggy mop at the moment, for it had been very short when they first arrived in Middle Earth. However, Emily had to admit it suited him well now. She wondered if he would keep it shorter like the race of men, or if he would embrace the style of the elves.
Faervel was in a straight, almost stiff looking tunic of silver and red tread. His outer robe was more elaborate, though it still was rigidly formal, just like the rest of him.
Thranduil, on the other hand, appeared perfectly at ease. His attire was fine, fancy and extremely intricate, yet he still managed to wear it in such a way that he looked comfortable. The silvers, gold, blue and white were mesmerizing and Emily had no trouble being in awe of how stately her grandfather looked.
As they all walked together to the great hall for the opening night feasting, Emily kept casting glances around at the splendour of her family and increasingly found it very difficult to not feel like an ugly duckling among a group of swans.
This did not go unnoticed, for just before they all entered the great hall, Thranduil held Emily back, waving the rest to go in without them. Unquestioned, the rest did as they were bid, entering through the doors to join in the boisterous sounds of singing, laughter and talking.
Emily looked up questioningly at Thranduil, unsure why he was keeping them there.
"What is it, penneth." The elder asked softly, brow creased. "What is wrong. I know you are troubled and I will not have this evening darkened by anything that we might be able to fix."
"It's nothing important." Emily mumbled, chewing her lip and avoiding his keen stare.
"Then there will be no harm in sharing it with me."
Drawing a shuddering breath, Emily shrugged. "I just...sometimes I wish I was more...elvish looking...like Clare. She's tall, graceful and gorgeous...and that was even before she started to change. I'm just...short. Probably the shortest elf here. I'm awkward and compared to her sharp, delicate bones I'm...clunky...I'm not at all like her or mum...and my hair is still so short...I thought after the change I would be, I don't know...prettier, and way more graceful...but I just look like plain old me and now I'm clumsier than I've ever been...I just...I just thought I would, I don't know, FEEL more like an elf after I changed. And this dress...it is so pretty...but I feel like I just drag it down with how unspectacular I am."
"On a few of those items, you are correct. You do not share very many of the same features as your mother or your sister." Thranduil stated crisply, confirming Emily's lament. "Your stature and features are more that of your grandmother...who was particularly dazzling, in my opinion. She had, like you, the most wondrous color of hair, beautiful brown eyes that suited her face perfectly, a lovely figure and though she was taller than you, she was still shorter than is common among our kind. That being said she was mighty force to be reckoned with. Therefore, I believe it is safe to say that there is nothing remotely wrong with the way you are, penneth. Even covered head to toe in mud you would be equally stunning as your sister. No dress in this entire world could truly add or retract from your beauty."
The young girl was dumbfounded by this frank disclosure of information.
"Really?" she breathed in hopeful disbelief.
The elf-king frowned not unkindly and then said sternly, "I would not say so, if it were not true. Now, come. The merriment awaits."
Allowing her grandfather to thread her arm through his own, Emily meekly walked at his side, frantically blinking away tears that had gathered. They paused a moment near the doors when it was clear that Emily was struggling and her grandfather remedied the situation by looking at her very seriously and saying gravely, "Yes, I fear there may be a long night ahead of me. After all, it is going to take a great amount of restraint not to drag away any young ellon who dances with you and giving him a very healthy dose of fear..."
His comment had the desired affect because Emily burst out laughing. "I won't be dancing, daerada. I can hardly walk without falling into people or things let alone coordinate myself enough to dance."
Her bright face darkened again at that thought and worry once more crept up as she imagined all the ways she might embarrass herself because of her stupid lack of coordination.
"Emily." Thranduil said gently. "All will be well. The more you worry and think about your movements the harder they will be. Relax and stop fighting yourself. You will be as graceful as the rest of us in little time, I am confident."
"What if I never do?" Emily blurted, anxiety showing clearly in her voice and face. "I'm already getting headaches from sensitive hearing and eyesight that neither of my siblings ever got. I'm still more cold than a normal elf gets. My reflexes are either over compensating and making a mess or not there at all. Their change didn't bother them at all! They just became like...super people...and my balance is terrible, and I've broken things because I don't know my strength and-"
"Emily." Thranduil stopped her with a gentle shake of her shoulder. "Look at me. This will pass. You changed faster than your siblings and so it is taking longer for you to catch up with those changes, as you well know because I heard Medlinor and Elrond tell you so. Look how far you have come in just a few days. Be patient, penneth. It will come."
Taking a shaky breath, Emily nodded. "Ok."
"Now. Shall we? I hear there are a great many surprises to come these next joyous days."
Upon entering the Great Hall, Emily saw that much had changed from it's normal, everyday splendour. Gems and lights gleamed from the candle stands, lanterns floated high above, giving off a soft glow and dancing off the glittering crowd below. Garland adorned the posts, with sweet smelling branches and bows giving the hall an even more woodsy and magical look than it already had. Ribbons of red and gold also were to be found amid the garland, making Emily gasp and then grin a wobbly smile of emotion when she finally realized that these were all things she would have found within Earth traditions.
Glancing up at Thranduil, Emily saw that the elf king was watching her with a soft smile.
"Do you like it?" He inquired quietly as they made their way through the laughing and merry crowd to where the rest of the family was waiting for opening ceremonies.
"Very much! It reminds me of Christmas on Earth." Emily told him, swallowing a happy lump in her throat.
"Does it now?" Thranduil said with mock surprise, eyes twinkling in the lantern light. "Who knows...perhaps more than one tradition has carried over this night."
Emily had no way of answering, for she was too happy to even speak as she gazed around at the very Christmas like room.
The huge crowd of joyous people settled gradually as the royal family assembled and Thranduil started the evening by announcing the beginning of the festivities, thanking his people for another year of hard work and vigilance and welcoming their esteemed guests.
Then, the entire company each took a small candle lantern, lighting them while they sang a song of restoration, peace, beauty and the good providence of Eru. Once all had a lantern, Thranduil lead the way out of his halls, through the gates and into the woods for a distance, all the while singing with his people their song of light and hope.
Not knowing the song at all, Emily walked along beside her two uncles and listened closely to the way their voices resonated with music, filling her mind and soul with warmth. It was in an older dialect of elvish that she had yet to learn much thus far, and she found that she was greatly wishing that she knew more.
Sensing her restless longing, Legolas gave her a small sidelong glance whilst still singing before grinning and reaching out a thread of his inner light towards her, inviting her to himself. Hesitating, Emily slipped a thread of her own light out to meet him and instantly found she was able to understand the words as he acted as interpreter for her.
It spoke of a time of great darkness, ignorance and loss, lamenting the mistakes of the past and the sorrows they caused. It also spoke of great love, warmth, light and joy which was given with such mercy and grace by the great powers above. Hope reverberated more and more with each verse that was sung, reflected by the very nature around them that was shrouded in the dormancy of winter and the darkest days of the year. With the return of the sun came the promise of spring and new life. They were a people waiting in darkness, rejoicing in the promises of Eru and far off shores.
As the song began to draw towards an end, with the great company's voices singing loud and clear into the crisp, starry night, they came upon a grand clearing that was so exquisitely lit and decorated, one had to gasp in awe at the beauty.
Great tables of wood had been placed, all filled with hot food of every kind. Multiple bonfires dotted the clearing with seating enough that would leave none wanting a spot. The temperature was drastically different as they stepped through the ring of torches that surrounded the clearing. It was warmer, and yet the snow did not melt, nor did the delicate array of icicles on the branches drip. Everything shimmered and glinted in a beauty no creature could reproduce, for nature had it's own splendours that nothing could replace.
On the far side of the clearing, a group of musicians already sat ready with their instruments beside a space that had been reserved for dancing.
Torches, lanterns and candles illuminated the area, making it warm and cheery as the fair folk swept in to take their places and begin the feast.
"Is it like this every year?" Emily asked her uncles, mouth open an staring around at the magical place she had just walked into. Even the stars above seemed brighter than usual, which only added to the wonder.
"It has not been like this for a very long time." Legolas said gently.
"Not since nanath passed." Faervel added, his voice suspiciously tight. "She would have loved this...it's perfect."
And indeed it was the perfect evening.
The feast was as merry an occasion as any Emily had ever witnessed. The food was superb and she was yet again overjoyed to discover that somehow, dishes from Earth traditions had made their way into the mix of delicious treats. The music was unearthly, filled with so much joy and beauty that she felt nothing could make this night any better than it already was.
Shortly after the feast, when the music changed and people began lively dancing, Emily managed to slip away from Merenith and the Dull Ones before they roped her into dancing with them. Instead, she meandered over to her grandfather and father in order to casually enjoy their company whilst hoping to not be asked to dance at all for fear of embarrassing herself.
Idly she listened to the polite conversation between son-in-law and father-in-law, wondering briefly if her father was ever intimidated by her grandfather. It was not a very interesting discussion, and so Emily let her thoughts wander instead as she watched the swirling sea of people dancing about, taking note with some envy that her sister was dancing with several different people. Some from their own realm, and then some from the other elvish realms. It looked like fun, and Emily didn't have to think long over how it was there were so many different partners for her sister. The young elf was indeed gorgeous and her easy laugh that evening made her doubly attractive.
"Emily," said Farland pleasantly, turning to his youngest with a twinkle in his eye. "I've hardly seen you dancing at all this evening. Why is that? Aren't there any males that have caught your fancy?"
"Indeed! I am also curious." Thranduil intoned as he swirled his wine casually, "It cannot be from lack of willing dance partners. I know for certain there are many who would be delighted to dance with you."
Emily looked up to her left and right at the two with an expression of unimpressed cynicism, hoping to mask the true reason behind her lack of dancing. The cheeky smile of her father and smirk that the elf-king hid as he took a sip of his drink confirmed her suspicions that she was being teased to some extent, though her father had unwittingly stumbled over a sensitive topic. Her grandfather was merely playing along, while subtly reminding her of their earlier conversation that evening.
"Oh please." Emily growled as she looked back at the dancing people. "One: Ain't nobody got time for that! Two: I've had enough of boys for at least twenty years. Three: I wager not one is less than two centuries older than me, and that would just be weird-"
"On the contrary, melui indyo, there are four ellons under two hundred whom would be happy to dance with you..." Thranduil reminded her with a light smirk and amused look exchanged with Farland when the girl purposely pretended she hadn't heard him and kept going.
"Four: I don't dare dance with anyone because I hardly know how to dance, plus I am still as clumsy as ever in this 'new improved' elf body sooooo." Emily folded her arms, then added. "Besides, do you really want me to end up like Clare? I mean really, what a flirt! Especially with...yea! The blond elf she's dancing with! That's the fourth time in the past hour!"
"Fifth." Thranduil corrected with a chuckle, watching with a cool smirk as the pair swirled round the great hall floor.
"Who is that then?" asked Farland, suddenly getting serious and interested as he also watched the pair sharply.
"His name is Haldir, Marchwarden of Lothlorien and he comes with excellent references." said a melodious and almost deep female voice. The three turned and graciously welcomed Lady Galadriel into their conversation. The fair lady was smiling lightly, as though she knew something that was incredibly funny and yet was keeping it to herself at this time. "But, pray tell me dear Emily, why you feel that your sister is a 'flirt'?"
Emily tried not to shiver when clear blue eyes pieced through her, despite the warm smile of encouragement. "Well," Emily began a little timidly, "I supposed perhaps I am a bit harsh in my judgment of her behaviour. She isn't really being a flirt. But it sure is obvious that she actually does like him. You would just think she would be smarter than that. I mean really, males are always trouble."
Galadriel's laugh rang out like a clear flow of water before is settled into merry giggles that Emily never would have thought to hear from the great elven lady. Farland and Thranduil cast Emily a mock injured look at the tail end of her little speech before Farland squawked, "HEY! Watch what you say to whom, little missy!"
Giving a disinterested wave of her hand Emily replied, "Oh, calm down. You're family. It doesn't count for you...well, actually it does, but there isn't anything I can do about it."
"I would argue your assumption that males are trouble, insolent grandchild of mine." Thranduil drawled as he regarded her coolly. Emily had to bite her cheek to keep from laughing up at him. Something about his manner made it impossible to take him seriously. Had it been in Imladris when she first arrived and only weeks after meeting the elf, Emily would have been quaking, however, now it was all she could do to keep from snickering whenever he was 'stern' with her.
"Oh?" said Emily as innocently as possible, which was difficult when the Lady of Light was still sniggering beside her.
"Yes. I would. It is a well known fact that any trouble a male gets into, it is often because of a female! Therefore, it is female's who are at the heart of all chaos."
- Says the elf-king who has gotten himself in and out of more scraps than I can count and all most assuredly of his own volition. Not because of a female. He even begged me once not to tell his late queen of a particularly dangerous exploit for fear of her wrath... and then there are his children. Legolas is no better...and Faervel, for all his kindly manners has a terrible nack for getting into trouble. Conclusion; males are always more trouble than they like to admit.- Galadriels voice echoed in Emily's thoughts, laced with mirth.
Emily hiccupped shapely as she tried to stifle a laugh.
Thranduil's sharp gaze flicked to Galadriel and then to Emily.
"What is she telling you?" He demanded suspiciously.
"Just a few interesting truths?" Emily offered, her grin wide and innocent.
"You would be wise not to believe everything she tells you." Thranduil grumbled, sending a rather cranky look at the Lady. It only served to make her smile all the more.
"My wife is exceptional at getting under your skin, King Thranduil." Celeborn said smoothly as he too join their circle. "Surely by now you have learned she does it just to annoy you...ancient as she may be, she truly can be a child at times."
"That must be where those impossible grandchildren of yours get it from." Thranduil commented, eyes sparking with light appreciation for Celeborn backing him up in this 'little war of wits'.
"Oh, they have inherited a good many things from me." Galadriel said sweetly, then turning to her husband she gave him a mock unimpressed look. "You, husband of mine, would do well not to antagonize me too much."
"I merely state the truth." He replied calmly and unmoved by her stare. "Care to dance?"
A smile graced the face of the lady and she laughed a little. "I could perhaps be persuaded to..."
Then she took his hand and they joined the thong of dancers, brightening the joyous group with their own laughter and wide smiles of affection for one another as they bantered good naturedly back and forth.
"I should also probably dance with my wife." Farland sighed as he spotted Aewnith coming for him across the clearing. "It would not do well to have her upset with me for not doing so."
And with that, Farland left them as well.
"So..." Emily said with a devious grin. "I hear you often get into scraps and beg people not to tell on you about them..."
"Do not tease unless you are prepared to deal with my retaliation." Thranduil warned.
"I'm just saying...you seem to have a history you don't want anyone to know about...recklessness...secrets from your wife...sons who follow in your foot steps...all just proving that males are always trouble."
"Indeed?" There was a certain danger in the tone that made Emily's skin prickle with the knowledge she could end up in a snow bank very soon if she kept this up.
"I'm sorry, daerada..." said Emily as submissively as possible while fighting a grin.
"I do not accept remorseless apologies." Thranduil said briskly as he set his glass down and turned to face Emily. "Therefore, you shall have to atone for your crimes by dancing with me."
The girl stared at him for a spilt second before taking a quick step back in preparation to flee. It wasn't fast enough, of course, and the elf-king struck forwards to catch her up into the air by her waist and held her there as if she were a small child, much to Emily's dismay. She squealed in surprise and clutched at his forearms as she stared down into his smug, laughing eyes.
"Ok. You've made your point. Please, let me down!?" gasped Emily, glancing around wildly and not at all pleased that attention was being drawn to her as he swung her round in a dance. "Daerada! Put me down! Please?!"
"Nay...perhaps I shall just twirl you round up there for a while."
"Ohdearheavens-pleasedon't!"
"Very well. I shall have to exact revenge another way then." Thranduil laughed as he set her down once more. "My dear Glorfindel! Have I got something very important to tell you! Come over here a moment, for Emily will wish to tell her part as well!"
Emily's face went slack in surprise as she realize what was happening. "NO! Daerada! He'll never let me sleep in again! He'll make training a nightmare!"
"What's all this now?" Glorfindel asked jovially. "Emily looks a little worried! This aught to be good! Do share, Thranduil!?"
Smiling and ignoring the way Emily was shaking her head adamantly that he not do so, Thranduil asked, "Do you remember that time your were bested by a little slip of an elfling?"
The grin on Glorfindel's face faltered and his eyes flashed dangerous. "I thought we agreed you would never mention that event again!"
"You shall be glad that I have..." Thranduil turned to look down at Emily and raised an eyebrow. "Emily...don't you have something to add?"
Now Glorfindel's smile slipped away entirely and was replaced by confusion. "Why would Emily have something to add to this?"
"No reason!" Emily said with haste. "You look well this evening, Glorfindel! How is your night going?"
Eyes narrowing, Glorfindel studied her. "No, no...you don't get to change the subject. Why would you have something to add?"
"Look closely, old friend...you should figure it out if you try hard enough." Thranduil drawled while retrieving his glass and taking another sip of wine. "Surely you should recognize the individual who bruised your ego so, even if she is bigger now."
Glorfindel blinked a little, clasped his hands behind his back and leaned down to look Emily over intently with a squinty kind of expression. Emily shifted uncomfortably and found guilt prevented her from meeting his gaze.
Eyes suddenly bugging out, Glorfindel straightened with a small gasp of wonder and shock.
"YOU! YOU BAD LITTLE WARG!" Turning to Thranduil he was speechless for a moments, mouth gaping like a fish out of water before he managed, "How? How is this even possible?!"
Thranduil smirked and shrugged carelessly knowing it would further annoy his friend whilst stating. "A little time travel it would seem. Gift of the Valar upon Emily's insolent request."
"I never asked them to send me back in time!" Emily defended. "And I had been half joking when I asked them my request! It's not my fault!"
Flabbergasted, Glorfindel could only manage, "I'm sorry, what?!"
"Ugh." Emily drew a deep breath, and then glanced around nervously, for Glorfindel's outbursts were drawing attention. "Keep your voice down! I don't think it should be common knowledge that the Valar sent me back in time because of a frivolous and insolent request."
"Well," Thranduil chuckled, "It is highly unusual of them, though I am sure they have done stranger things."
"I'm sorry, but I am still confused. WHY? Why did they send you back in time as an elfling?" Glorfindel asked, lowering his voice just a little.
"I asked them to help me find a way to make dareada be less cranky about winter and festivities and stuff..." Emily mumbled, hating how silly it sounded in her ears. "And I might have said they owed me one because of all the crap they've put me through..."
"And they sent you back in time...oh goodness..." Glorfindel gave a soft laugh and shook his head. "That does sound about right, I will admit...they do have a good sense of humour when they feel inclined."
"And the joke is partially on you and has been for many many years." Thranduil snickered. "What a joy it must have been for them as well to see you brought to your knees by a child...you, the great and mighty Balrog Slayer...twice born and hero of old..."
Growling, Glorfindel whacked Thranduil in the shoulder, hard. Then he turned a steely, unreadable gaze on Emily which made her shrink a little.
"At least now I can be proud of that moment!" Glorfindel stated, his face serious and the steely eyes melting to a fire, smouldering with growing pride and satisfaction.
"Oh?" Thranduil sounded bored and curious all at once.
"Yes, because the only reason a little slip of an elfling could bring me down was because I was the one who trained her in the first place!" His smile returned and suddenly he swung Emily up into a fierce bear hug. "Well done, penneth! I could not be more proud of you nor pleased to know this information! My ego is restored to it's former glory!"
"Hmm." Thranduil sounded disappointed.
"Hah!" Emily laughed, hugging her mentor back just as tightly while giving Thranduil a sassy look. "Looks like your plan backfired! So much for revenge!"
A cold, dangerous smile grew across the elf-king's face and instantly Emily regretted her words.
"Elladan. Elrohir." Thranduil called loudly, stopping them as they waltzed past to get more wine and drawing them over. "Emily has yet to dance. See to it that she does lots of that with many different individuals. It would be a terrible shame to not show her off when she is so beautifully put together tonight."
Laughing faces instantly gleaming with mischief, the twins bowed to the king and said in chorus, "It shall be done, hir nin!"
And so, Emily was instantly dragged away protesting into the dancing by the twins and spun between them at a dizzying speed.
Laughing as Emily was twirled off, Thranduil took a moment to stand back alone and enjoy watching the merriment around him. All was as it should be, and he felt happier than he had in a long time. Somehow, his wife's spirit was alive in this clearing, bright and clear as the stars above them.
Drinking in the constellations shinning down at him and breathing deeply, Thranduil smiled contentedly as he listened to yet another song composed by his wife. He remembered when she wrote it. He knew which parts had caused her grief and frustration when she couldn't make them work. He knew what moments brought her great joy. He knew what inspired each note.
Movement in the dark shadows of the high up branches at the edge of the clearing caught his eye just then and Thranduil stiffened. Like a hawk, he watched closely.
Something was there, he could feel it watching him right back. It knew he had sensed it.
The dark thing shuffled forwards so it's face peeked into the light and Thranduil gave a small laugh of relief.
Of course it was Gwilithel. What other creature could slip in so closely and not fall under the enchantments protecting the party in the clearing? She was pure of heart and he had secretly hoped that perhaps the big creature would appear.
He meandered over to her tree, casually and quietly so as to keep too much attention from her. Coming to stand below her, he took a quick look about and then swung gracefully up into the tree, climbing with little effort until he was perched on a branch across from her.
"You don't have to hide up here, you know." He said quietly, staring steadily into her luminous orbs. "You are welcome to come down, eat, warm yourself...be among us..."
A quiver ran through her body, making her wings rustle and she sighed, conflicted. Her head tilted with confusion as she gazed down at the figures dancing, leaning forwards so far she was nearly at the end of the branches' capacity.
"I will not insist." Thranduil added gently. "Just know you are welcome with us, my dear friend. You are one of us now."
She didn't seem to hear him, still mesmerized by the merriment and troubled by what she saw. Graciously, Thranduil slipped down once more and left her in peace.
Back in the dancing, Emily was struggling to keep up with her partners.
"Oh, come now, Emily!" Elladan laughed as he stopped her from stumbling into someone else. "You know this dance! We taught it to you not long ago!"
"And we will tell you the same thing we did then. Trust us. You'll have fun if you would just relax and stop worrying about what people will think." Elrohir added.
"I'm not coordinated enough!" Emily argued, awkwardly falling into step with Elladan when he brought her back out of a spin again. "I'm not graceful like the rest of you! I can't make myself look good...not like..."
"Not like your sister?" Elrohir guessed, cutting in and guiding her around the dancing space easily. "My dear little friend, there is nothing wrong with you. Relax and you will find the more you do so, the more fun you will have and that the rest matters not. Enjoy this evening! No more hiding!"
With time, the twins were able to coax her out of her self imposed shell effectively enough that after a few songs, they decided it was time to spin her off into a new partner's arms. Faervel was the next one to take her around. His usually serious face was brighter than she had seen in a long time as he laughed at her startled look of surprise when he took over for Elladan. After a song or two, he then spun her off into Legolas and before she knew it, Emily was laughing and actually enjoying herself as she was passed from person to person. She danced with Estel, her own father, Glorfindel, Thranduil and even Joel at one point. She danced with more and more ease, smiling brightly, rosy cheeked and lively eyes that well suited her. Only when her grandfather twirled her off into the waiting arms of Tirnel did Emily falter a little, for she could see Rusgon waiting eagerly for his turn next. His face dripped with mischief as he bounced, waiting for his opportunity.
"Don't worry." Tirnel assured her, his own face filled with wicked mirth. "I won't throw you to him. I've already arrange for Gurador to toss Merenith to him. That will keep him entertained and greatly annoy her."
"Thank you." Emily breathed a laugh.
"Oh...you might not want to thank me yet." Tirnel answered, lowering his voice he said quietly, "A little bird accidentally let slip that someone might be denying she has a special interest in a dear friend of mine...so I thought it only fair that you should dance with him."
Emily's eyes went round. "Wait...what?"
Tirnel just grinned, tossed her out for a twirl and then called, "Sidhel! Catch!"
She crashed into him with very little grace and was mortified when she stepped on his foot.
Instantly she found herself babbling, "Oh my gosh I am so sorry I-"
"No harm done." Sidhel answered, though he was casting Tirnel a rather dark look before lowering it to meet her worried and anxious look. The stern cloud instantly vanished and he offered a smile instead. "Would you, Emily, like to keep dancing? Or are you perhaps done being tossed about this floor...either way I am happy so long as it is what you want."
"Ummm..." Emily stared a little dumbly up at him, face getting more and more red as she fumbled to distract herself from the fact that he was holding her forearms, they weren't moving and people where having to manoeuvre around them. A nervous quiver of warmth snaked up and coiled around her lungs before she found herself blurting, "You don't have to dance with me...I mean, unless you want to...I don't mind...I would dance...if you wanted to..."
Sidhel laughed a little, "Yes or no, Emily. Do you want to dance?"
"Yes."
"Then I do as well." Sidhel replied, taking her hand and starting them around with the rest of the bodies.
It took a few tries, for Emily was now shaking just a little from embarrassment and kept apologizing for even the smallest misstep. In the end, she found herself relaxing as the other began distracting her from being self conscious by asking her questions about Reisa, her horses and anything else under the sun that Sidhel seemed to know she loved.
From the side lines, Thranduil watched the pair and a warm sort of satisfaction rose in his chest the longer they danced together. Should his hope pan out, there would be many more nights of dancing for them.
The song ended, and it was then that his chief musician announced the song he had been waiting for. With the night at it's prime, the special composition of 'Remember Us' floated into the air with such perfection and soul that all stopped dancing and just stood in wonder, feeling each note.
Thranduil closed his eyes, drinking in the sounds and letting its magic wash over him. Memories, clear and pure, flooded his mind. Days of happiness, love and peace. He could hear her laugh, he could almost smell her scent, he could see her dancing about in the gardens, the sparkle in her eyes, her joyful teasing of him. There was so much good to remember, and for once he felt no pain doing so. How could he be in pain when a piece of his wife was touching his soul through the music?
-Thranduil...-
He bristled with irritation when he felt Galadriel nudging his thoughts.
-Thranduil...look at your winged friend...-
Opening his eyes, Thranduil turned discretely to gaze up where Gwilithel had been only to find she had descended and was standing upon the ground beneath the tree instead.
Her wings were held limp and her ears flat in utter bewilderment as she watch the musicians play. The heart of the song rose and fell in it's intensity, like a river thawing in springtime.
Curious, Thranduil watched until the great cat suddenly snorted and stumbled back a few steps, shaking her head hard and blinking dazedly. Seconds later, as the song built into a thrumming and swelling chorus, Gwilithel turned tail and staggered into the darkness, away from the light.
Something stirred in Thranduil, deep within his mind and without a thought, he slipped after her.
Concern filled him when he found her a short distance away, limbs shaking violently as she gasped and heaved for air.
"Gwilithel!" He called, hurrying towards her.
The great cat moaned pitifully as it staggered away from him.
"Gwilithel! Let me help you!"
Confused and desperate golden brown eyes met Thranduil's blue ones and then closed in pain. His song reacted without prompting, ripping out to snake around the strange connection they had and pushing all the comfort he could into it. The chaos responded, latching on desperately so that it was anchored in the fear and pain.
"Thranduil!" It was Glorfindel. "Thranduil, what's happening?"
"I know not...I...I feel...I feel her pain, Glorfindel..." Thranduil gasped, gripping onto his friend for support and it intensified. "She...knows what she is...at least to some extent..."
Looking up sharply at the cat, Glorfindel drew a breath, "Do you think it is enough for her to come back to her true form? Will she walk among her own people again?"
"I do no know." Thranduil panted, the pain radiating through him. "She is still so confused and lost...
Take a step closer to her, Thranduil whispered, "Come back, friend...come back to your people...come back..."
She looked eyes with him once more, drinking in the reassurance he offered, then let her head fall nearly nose to the ground.
An agonizing cry filled the night as the feline swayed on her feet. As the cry rose into the air and she clawed the ground in anguish, the voice changed as the body of the cat thinned and fell away, receding like water until all the fur was replaced with perfectly smooth skin and a lithe form with such long hair it covered her bareness as she collapsed face first into the snowy ground.
For a brief second all was deathly still, then Thranduil burst forwards, sweeping off his own cloak to cover the female laying vulnerable.
"Glorfindel! Help me!" He cried sharply as he gently draped the cloak around her and slowly turned her over while wrapping it around her. His friend was there in a second, assisting in manoeuvring the material to protect her dignity. Her head looped to the side as Thranduil brush the hair out of her face, giving him full view of her elvish features.
Time stood still as both ministers froze, going white as they stared at the ghost in Thranduil's arms.
"Sweet Valar! It's..." Thranduil breathed, his hand drawing back slightly as though it were burned and then returning to hesitantly cup the face of the female. "It cannot be...this cannot be real...Glorfindel...?"
"It is real, Thranduil...I know not how...but, it is real..." Glorfindel confirmed, his face breaking in wonder as his eyes grew bright with moisture.
"My Cellissel..." Thranduil gasped, reverently pushing back her hair and paying little heed to the obvious tremor in his voice. "My beautiful wife...she's alive...how can this be?"
AN: Well, we are about 4 and a half weeks out from my due date, which means I could theoretically go into labor at any time. Terrifying. Lol. As such I am frantically trying to get at least the next chapter up for you all before I have to disappear for a while until my life reorients enough to start writing again. Family will always have to come first, but I do promise I won't abandon this story. You may just have to be a little more patient for a few months until the dust settles :) Let me tell you though...I am sooooo ready to be not pregnant anymore. It's true what they say. The last two months are most challenging.
Review if you can! I love to hear from you all and I thank you all from the depths of my heart for your continued support through these years of story telling!
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Take care everyone!