CHAPTER TWENTY TWO
BY DRAGONWIND
Disclaimer: Nothing of Tolkein's belongs to me. Only Aalyssa, Konner, Iladori and the
Forlindon family, plus assorted baddies. Please don't sue...I have nothing. Written for
fun only, not profit
Feedback, if constructive, welcome
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Aalyssa closed her eyes, leaning her forehead against his, a slow, hot blush creeping
up her skin.
"Forgot to bar the door," Konner mumbled. He gave Aalyssa a quick kiss and turned his
attention to Laure. "Yes Mother?"
"What do you think you are doing?" Laure asked, hands on her hips.
Konner arched an eyebrow. "What does it look like I was doing, Mother? I was making
love to my wife to be." He watched Aalyssa blush redder.
"Konner Greenleaf! Is that anyway to behave?"
"No, Mother," he groaned, as Aalyssa hid her face against his chest. "Mother? Are you
going around walking in on all of your children this morn?"
"Excuse me," Aalyssa mumbled, pulling away from Konner, still blushing, and headed
for the bathing room, not looking up at Laure.
Konner adjusted his leggings. "Mother, we are engaged, she is pregnant. There is no
harm in us being together."
"That may be," Laure said, staring harshly at her eldest son. "But you will not share a
room until you are wed. Father is speaking with Lord Elrond this morn."
"Fine, fine, Mother. Now please go. I have to calm Aalyssa down." He watched her huff
at him then grudgingly leave the room.
He stood and went to the entrance of the bathing room, and leaned seductively against
the door frame. "Lyssa?"
Aalyssa splashed cold water on her reddened face, which was continuing to get redder.
She took a deep breath, "Yes Konner?"
"Are you all right?"
She came to the door frame and looked up at him, still red. "Aside from being mortified?
Yes, I am all right."
"Honey, let us be honest. It was not the first time it has happened to us."
"I know, but for it to be Mama..."
He walked over and pulled her into his arms, "Yes, it was the first time it was Mother. At
least she waited until it was almost over," he said, kissing her forehead.
Aalyssa hid her face against his chest, whispering, "After she was so kind to take me in
and care for me."
"Honey, this will not change how she feels about you, love."
"I hope not," Aalyssa whispered, keeping her eyes averted.
He reached out to tilt her chin upwards, "What is wrong?"
"I. . .nothing. I think I shall stroll through the gardens after mid-day meal." She glanced
out the window at the position of the sun. "It seems we missed breaking our fast."
Konner looked at her, knowing something was bothering her, but he could see she was
not going to tell him. "And we had a lot of fun doing so, as well. She loves you as a
daughter, Lys. I wonder how Legolas is doing with Iladori after Mother dropped in like
that?"
"She caught them too, then?"
"So it seems," he said, leading her into the chamber. He stopped and took her into his
arms.
"I do so like being in your arms," Aalyssa whispered, pressing her face against him.
"It is nice to know I am good for something," he said with a smile.
"You are good for a lot of things," Aalyssa said naughtily.
He chuckled, "Thank you, milady."
"You are very welcome, My Prince."
Konner smiled and lifted her hand to kiss it, "I guess we should get dressed and go
downstairs for mid-day meal."
"I suppose. And make sure Dori is all right."
He stared in the direction of his chamber, "I wonder if it is safe to go in there? All of my
clothes are there."
"Just knock first, love."
Konner glanced at Aalyssa, "Think they would notice if I was wearing the same outfit
from last night?"
"The court people?" she giggled, "Without a doubt."
He looked at her rumpled dress, "You need another dress also. I am afraid we quite
destroyed that one."
She looked down and smiled, "Yes, I guess I do."
"Do we brave bothering them together? Or must I face my brother alone?"
"I will join you."
Konner smiled and affected a little boy voice, "You will protect me from him?"
"Always. He knows what it is like to be smacked by me, he will back down." Aalyssa
smiled mischievously at him.
"My little warrior," he chuckled, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close.
"Whenever necessary," she smiled.
Together they walked next door and Konner knocked. He turned to Aalyssa and
whispered, "At least it was quiet this morning, with no constant knocking on the door
like yesterday."
"True."
"We were very popular yesterday."
"Indeed we were."
Konner knocked again on the door, "Hello?? Anyone there?"
"Legolas? Dori?" Aalyssa called out. "Odd."
"If you do not open the door, we are coming in."
"Go away, Konner," Legolas called out.
"Legolas, I need to get a change of clothes," Konner explained, looking at Aalyssa with
concern.
"Is everything all right in there?" she asked, sharing the concerned look.
Konner tapped on the door again, hearing a muted conversation between Legolas and
Iladori. "Legolas..."
"Come on in, Konner," Legolas called out.
The couple entered the room, Aalyssa going to Iladori's side when she saw the state
she was in. "Are you all right?" she asked, putting her arm around her sister.
Iladori shook her head quietly.
"Legolas, what happened?" Konner asked, mischief lighting his eyes. "We heard
Mother scream your name."
"Uhm, well..." he glanced over at Dori.
"Dori, how about we go over to my room for a minute?" Aalyssa asked. When Dori
nodded, she led her from the room, Legolas watching them leave.
"I knew Mother screamed rather loudly, but I did not know she screams quite that loud,
Konner," Legolas said after the two girls were in Aalyssa's room with the door closed.
"Well, she did. What happened, little brother? Iladori seems pretty shaken."
"Mother walked in while we..." Legolas looked down and shuffled his feet. "That is..."
"I kind of figured that," Konner smiled, "Since I walked in earlier to get some clothes.
And quickly left before you could notice."
"Oh stars. Not you too," Legolas groaned, sinking down on the bed.
"You need to learn to bar the door, little brother.
"I know, but I was lost in the moment."
Konner laughed, "You seem to be using that particular expression a lot lately, Legolas."
"Do not get smart with me, Konner. It is the truth."
"I know exactly what you mean," Konner sighed, sitting down next to his brother.
Aalyssa guided Iladori to the loveseat and they sat down. "What happened, Iladori?"
"Her Majesty walked in on us, while we were making love," Iladori admitted, blushing.
"I completely understand," Aalyssa nodded and smiled gently. "But you know what?
Underneath it all, she is a woman too."
"But I was screaming his name and behaving like a total wanton."
"Trust me when I say I completely understand, Dori. I have to confess something."
"I have never been so mortified," Iladori stated, looking Aalyssa in the eyes.
"I know, but it will pass," Aalyssa smiled softly. "I need to tell you, Her Majesty walked in
on Konner and myself as well."
Iladori's eyes widened, "Does she not knock?"
"Not today, it seems. And I too was behaving like a wanton, however it was Konner
screaming my name," Aalyssa added with a blush and a shy smile. "The thing is,
Iladori, you and Legolas are wed, and have every right to make love when and where
you want. So you also have right on your side. Once she calms down, Mama will realize
that and all will be forgotten."
"I was acting like such a wanton though. She caught us while I was begging him,"
Iladori buried her face in her hands.
"I was moaning rather loudly and er, moving rather wildly on Konner. While it was
rather gratifying, hearing Konner scream my name, she picked that precise moment to
enter. " Aalyssa tightened her arm around Iladori. "It will be all right. I assure you, she
is going to remember the two of you are wed and she was in the wrong for just barging
in."
"I am still mortified. How can I show my face downstairs? Everyone..."
"Everyone does not know. And the Queen is certainly not going to go down there telling
everyone. She has much more class than that. At least you were not barged in on the
very first time you ever made love."
"Your first time?" Iladori repeated, aghast.
"My very first time," Aalyssa nodded. "Konner and I were in the stables and all was
quiet. Except for us, of course. In barged this young stableboy who walked right in on
us."
"You must all think I am very silly. Childish even," Iladori blushed, looking down at her
feet.
"Not at all, Dori. We all have to learn about the ways between a man and a woman
somewhere. You have your mother, sisters, and now me, to help."
"You should just include yourself under sisters, you know. I was never interested in
finding someone like my sisters were. I feel like a fish out of water."
"It will come with time. We all had to start from scratch. I never looked for anyone but
Konner. I grew up with him and Legolas, and when I became interested in male elves,
well, the only object of my desire stood in front of me. All I had to do was gain his
interest and capture his heart. It took me awhile, but I followed my heart. I admit to
being a people watcher, though, and know a little more than I should. I have an idea of
what works and what does not."
Iladori shook her head, "The battlefield did not prepare me for this."
"Always remember, if you have questions or problems that you do not wish to go to
your mother or other sisters about, I am here for you. I will always be here for you."
Aalyssa hugged her sister. "Now, let us go find something to wear for lunch."
"Thank you, Lys. I do have one question."
"You are very welcome. What is your question?"
"I would like to know what herbs to ask for at the herbalist, the ones to prevent
conception. Some parts of my future are in the air, and I do not think it would be wise
for me to conceive right now."
"I do not know the herb names, but I shall go along with you to the herbalist. But if I
may, I need to express a concern."
"Certainly, Lys."
"I do not know if you realize it, but it may be too late. I understand Legolas did not use
protection last night. If you take something now, and you have already conceived, it
would kill the babe. It is not terribly uncommon for a woman to do so willingly, but do
you want to take the chance when you do not know?"
"I. . .oh stars. No, please, no," Iladori whispered, pressing her hand against her
stomach.
Aalyssa took her hand, "Please, understand, Dori. I could be wrong. It is too soon to tell
or I would suggest seeing the healer. " Aalyssa looked off toward the window and
mumbled, "And this is why I should have smacked him harder."
"I cannot. . .I cannot. . ." Iladori looked at her twin in despair.
"It is your decision, Dori. If you want to get the herbs, I will accompany you."
"I cannot be pregnant. Not knowing what might happen to me."
Aalyssa looked at her with confusion, "Then you wish to get the herbs? You know, this
is not the first time I have been pregnant by Konner. So I am not going to judge you,
and no one else ever needs to know if you get the herbs. Just you, me, and the
herbalist."
"But you have no child," Iladori noted.
"Several years ago, I conceived. Konner was no where near ready to be a father or
take his responsibilities and I feared Mother would kill me for getting pregnant. He took
me to the herbalist and we. . .no, I got the herbs. So I know how hard of a decision it is
to make. I never told anyone, except Legolas a few days ago."
"It is not that I do not wish to carry Legolas' child, but this is not the right time. I am
certain he would agree. I would have to tell him though."
"Involving Legolas will not be easy. But if at all possible, you should make the decision
together, as Konner and I did. I now see it was the right decision for us at the time."
"Legolas is my husband."
"Yes he is, and that makes the situation a little different. The two of you should make
the decision together. If he agrees, he will wish to go with you to the herbalist."
"I could not ask that of him."
"I have seen other women who went all alone to the herbalist, no one to stand by them
and support them. Konner did that for me, and Legolas should for you. If he will not, or
you do not wish to ask him, I will go with you. You should not be alone for it."
"Is it painful? I . . ."
"There is some pain, but it passes. Yes, Dori?"
"I wish things were different, not as they are now," she sighed, a wistful look in her
eyes.
"I know, but you know what?" Aalyssa patted her stomach with one hand and patted
Dori's hand with the other. "Things will get better. And our children will play together
and have fun like children should. We can enjoy our children together, at least, when
you and Legolas come to visit us, and when we visit you."
Iladori grinned, "Right now we decided it best to split our time between Mirkwood and
Forlindon. I could not ask Legolas to give up his home, nor would he ask me to give up
mine. For now it will work out, if and when we have children."
"That seems fair. I always wondered how couples from two areas would work it out.
Shall we go get ready for the meal?"
"Yes, I should bathe and make myself presentable. I am sure there will be more talk
about last night."
"I have the feeling Lady Imeranian had things to spread about Konner and myself last
night also, but it got overshadowed. But it will get out today, because when I saw her,
she had seen me head in the same direction as Konner. Do you think one of our sisters
could lend me something again?"
"Yes, they offered, Lys. Now I know why they bring so many clothes. I never thought I
would be wearing several different dresses a day."
"Good, they have beautiful dresses."
"We like pretty things."
"As we should, being wenedheli. We are entitled to pretty things. Shall we?"
"I never really cared for them until recently," Iladori said then nodded. "I am certain
Legolas is wondering what is taking us so long."
"It does not happen at the same time in every female's life, but it does happen. As is
Konner, I am sure."
Legolas glanced at Konner. "I wonder what is taking Iladori and Aalyssa so long?"
"They are women, Legolas, get used to it."
"But it is almost time for mid day meal," Legolas complained.
Konner laughed, "You are beginning to sound like one of those hobbit creatures who
came in."
"I, uhm, kind of worked up an appetite."
"Did you now?" Konner asked, lifting his eyebrow, causing his little brother to blush.
"So, Konner. You and Aalyssa looked a little reddened yourselves. Did something
happen?"
"Mother decided to visit us after she barged in on you. And, in the state I was in, I forgot
to bar the door like I usually do," Konner explained.
"She did not knock on your door either?" Legolas shook his head. "And yet you lectured
me."
"I have been barged in on before. I do not have a new bride who was a virgin until last
night either. One who was a true innocent," Konner added, giving Legolas a meaningful
look.
"Point taken."
"So, little brother, do not even attempt to lecture me."
"I will try to remember to bar the door before getting lost in the moment. Still,
though...why was it right for you to take Aalyssa without marriage and not right for me
and Iladori?"
"Aalyssa knew what she was asking for. She was not the innocent Iladori was and
really still is. Aalyssa knew the consequences and repercussions. Also she is not
royalty like Iladori is."
"I thought. . .that is, I thought you were Aalyssa's first."
Konner shook his head. "Aalyssa was a maiden, Legolas. She was a virgin, but there is
being a virgin and being a virgin. Aalyssa is worldly in court ways, remember. Iladori is
not."
"This is confusing," Legolas said, sitting back down.
"Legolas. You cannot go around Elven courts without realizing what is going on. The
games, the backstabbing."
"I realize that. But when it comes down to it, is it not the same between every male and
female? And I do not speak of the public games."
Konner sat down next to him. "Legolas, what is Iladori? And I am not asking you to tell
me she is an elf, either."
"The most beautiful, wonderful, sweetest, female elf in the world," Legolas sighed.
"Yes, I know that, but what else is she?" Konner asked, getting agitated.
"My wife," Legolas smiled. "And you already know she is an elf, why would I tell you
that?"
Konner sighed and smacked him up side the head. "She is a warrior, you idiot. Trained
by her guard and lives her life as a warrior."
Legolas reached up to rub his head. "Ouch. First Aalyssa, now you. Do I suddenly have
a target painted on my head? All right. And your point is?"
"Warriors do not care about the ways of the court, they are fighters. Does she act like a
typical female? I mean, preening and all of that."
"No," Legolas shook his head.
"Legolas, until you made your way into her life, I do not believe Iladori even cared
about relationships or being a woman. Her focus was on being a fighter, protecting her
family lands. You cannot hold her up to the same expectations as someone like
Aalyssa or the other women you have known."
"I am not holding her up to any expectations, Konner. I just wanted to know why it was
all right for you but not me."
"Because, idiot, Iladori did not know what she was getting into. She is a true innocent,
which is something rare. She could kill you in a heartbeat and have no remorse, but
seduction is something she would not know."
"I see, innocent not only in body but mind as well. I understand now."
"About time," Konner sighed, leaning his head back to think about Aalyssa.
Legolas picked up a toss pillow and threw it at his brother who ducked as the pillow
went by. "You are no innocent, Legolas. You have experiences with women."
"Yes, but with Dori, it just seemed nothing went the way it should have."
"She is your soul mate, Legolas. The one you have waited for."
"She makes me feel complete."
"As Lyssa does for me, but you need to tread carefully. Iladori will be easily hurt."
"I will try my best." Legolas smiled at his older brother. "I am glad you realized you love
Aalyssa. She deserves happiness, and I see she will have that with you."
"I only wish I had done so earlier," Konner admitted as there was a knock at the door.
"Who is it?" Legolas called out.
"It is us. We are going up to my family's rooms to get cleaned up for mid day meal,"
Iladori responded.
"We shall meet you up there then, sweetness," Legolas told her.
Konner sighed and stood to walk over to the door and open it. "Would you like an
escort to your family's suite, fair maidens?" he asked, thinking his brother's brain had
been thoroughly addled.
Aalyssa glared past Konner at Legolas then smiled at Konner. "I would love that,
sweetheart."
Konner smiled and held out a hand to her.
Legolas walked over to Iladori and took her hand, "May I have the honor of escorting
you, sweetness?"
"I would be honored," Iladori said, a confused look in her eyes.
"I do not wish to spend time away from you that I could be spending with you," he
explained.
"I thought you might want to bathe and dress," Iladori said softly.
"We will escort you there and come back here," Legolas said, glancing at Konner who
nodded at him.
"We will have time after we see you safely to the suite. Women take longer in these
things, after all," Konner said.
BY DRAGONWIND
Disclaimer: Nothing of Tolkein's belongs to me. Only Aalyssa, Konner, Iladori and the
Forlindon family, plus assorted baddies. Please don't sue...I have nothing. Written for
fun only, not profit
Feedback, if constructive, welcome
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Aalyssa closed her eyes, leaning her forehead against his, a slow, hot blush creeping
up her skin.
"Forgot to bar the door," Konner mumbled. He gave Aalyssa a quick kiss and turned his
attention to Laure. "Yes Mother?"
"What do you think you are doing?" Laure asked, hands on her hips.
Konner arched an eyebrow. "What does it look like I was doing, Mother? I was making
love to my wife to be." He watched Aalyssa blush redder.
"Konner Greenleaf! Is that anyway to behave?"
"No, Mother," he groaned, as Aalyssa hid her face against his chest. "Mother? Are you
going around walking in on all of your children this morn?"
"Excuse me," Aalyssa mumbled, pulling away from Konner, still blushing, and headed
for the bathing room, not looking up at Laure.
Konner adjusted his leggings. "Mother, we are engaged, she is pregnant. There is no
harm in us being together."
"That may be," Laure said, staring harshly at her eldest son. "But you will not share a
room until you are wed. Father is speaking with Lord Elrond this morn."
"Fine, fine, Mother. Now please go. I have to calm Aalyssa down." He watched her huff
at him then grudgingly leave the room.
He stood and went to the entrance of the bathing room, and leaned seductively against
the door frame. "Lyssa?"
Aalyssa splashed cold water on her reddened face, which was continuing to get redder.
She took a deep breath, "Yes Konner?"
"Are you all right?"
She came to the door frame and looked up at him, still red. "Aside from being mortified?
Yes, I am all right."
"Honey, let us be honest. It was not the first time it has happened to us."
"I know, but for it to be Mama..."
He walked over and pulled her into his arms, "Yes, it was the first time it was Mother. At
least she waited until it was almost over," he said, kissing her forehead.
Aalyssa hid her face against his chest, whispering, "After she was so kind to take me in
and care for me."
"Honey, this will not change how she feels about you, love."
"I hope not," Aalyssa whispered, keeping her eyes averted.
He reached out to tilt her chin upwards, "What is wrong?"
"I. . .nothing. I think I shall stroll through the gardens after mid-day meal." She glanced
out the window at the position of the sun. "It seems we missed breaking our fast."
Konner looked at her, knowing something was bothering her, but he could see she was
not going to tell him. "And we had a lot of fun doing so, as well. She loves you as a
daughter, Lys. I wonder how Legolas is doing with Iladori after Mother dropped in like
that?"
"She caught them too, then?"
"So it seems," he said, leading her into the chamber. He stopped and took her into his
arms.
"I do so like being in your arms," Aalyssa whispered, pressing her face against him.
"It is nice to know I am good for something," he said with a smile.
"You are good for a lot of things," Aalyssa said naughtily.
He chuckled, "Thank you, milady."
"You are very welcome, My Prince."
Konner smiled and lifted her hand to kiss it, "I guess we should get dressed and go
downstairs for mid-day meal."
"I suppose. And make sure Dori is all right."
He stared in the direction of his chamber, "I wonder if it is safe to go in there? All of my
clothes are there."
"Just knock first, love."
Konner glanced at Aalyssa, "Think they would notice if I was wearing the same outfit
from last night?"
"The court people?" she giggled, "Without a doubt."
He looked at her rumpled dress, "You need another dress also. I am afraid we quite
destroyed that one."
She looked down and smiled, "Yes, I guess I do."
"Do we brave bothering them together? Or must I face my brother alone?"
"I will join you."
Konner smiled and affected a little boy voice, "You will protect me from him?"
"Always. He knows what it is like to be smacked by me, he will back down." Aalyssa
smiled mischievously at him.
"My little warrior," he chuckled, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close.
"Whenever necessary," she smiled.
Together they walked next door and Konner knocked. He turned to Aalyssa and
whispered, "At least it was quiet this morning, with no constant knocking on the door
like yesterday."
"True."
"We were very popular yesterday."
"Indeed we were."
Konner knocked again on the door, "Hello?? Anyone there?"
"Legolas? Dori?" Aalyssa called out. "Odd."
"If you do not open the door, we are coming in."
"Go away, Konner," Legolas called out.
"Legolas, I need to get a change of clothes," Konner explained, looking at Aalyssa with
concern.
"Is everything all right in there?" she asked, sharing the concerned look.
Konner tapped on the door again, hearing a muted conversation between Legolas and
Iladori. "Legolas..."
"Come on in, Konner," Legolas called out.
The couple entered the room, Aalyssa going to Iladori's side when she saw the state
she was in. "Are you all right?" she asked, putting her arm around her sister.
Iladori shook her head quietly.
"Legolas, what happened?" Konner asked, mischief lighting his eyes. "We heard
Mother scream your name."
"Uhm, well..." he glanced over at Dori.
"Dori, how about we go over to my room for a minute?" Aalyssa asked. When Dori
nodded, she led her from the room, Legolas watching them leave.
"I knew Mother screamed rather loudly, but I did not know she screams quite that loud,
Konner," Legolas said after the two girls were in Aalyssa's room with the door closed.
"Well, she did. What happened, little brother? Iladori seems pretty shaken."
"Mother walked in while we..." Legolas looked down and shuffled his feet. "That is..."
"I kind of figured that," Konner smiled, "Since I walked in earlier to get some clothes.
And quickly left before you could notice."
"Oh stars. Not you too," Legolas groaned, sinking down on the bed.
"You need to learn to bar the door, little brother.
"I know, but I was lost in the moment."
Konner laughed, "You seem to be using that particular expression a lot lately, Legolas."
"Do not get smart with me, Konner. It is the truth."
"I know exactly what you mean," Konner sighed, sitting down next to his brother.
Aalyssa guided Iladori to the loveseat and they sat down. "What happened, Iladori?"
"Her Majesty walked in on us, while we were making love," Iladori admitted, blushing.
"I completely understand," Aalyssa nodded and smiled gently. "But you know what?
Underneath it all, she is a woman too."
"But I was screaming his name and behaving like a total wanton."
"Trust me when I say I completely understand, Dori. I have to confess something."
"I have never been so mortified," Iladori stated, looking Aalyssa in the eyes.
"I know, but it will pass," Aalyssa smiled softly. "I need to tell you, Her Majesty walked in
on Konner and myself as well."
Iladori's eyes widened, "Does she not knock?"
"Not today, it seems. And I too was behaving like a wanton, however it was Konner
screaming my name," Aalyssa added with a blush and a shy smile. "The thing is,
Iladori, you and Legolas are wed, and have every right to make love when and where
you want. So you also have right on your side. Once she calms down, Mama will realize
that and all will be forgotten."
"I was acting like such a wanton though. She caught us while I was begging him,"
Iladori buried her face in her hands.
"I was moaning rather loudly and er, moving rather wildly on Konner. While it was
rather gratifying, hearing Konner scream my name, she picked that precise moment to
enter. " Aalyssa tightened her arm around Iladori. "It will be all right. I assure you, she
is going to remember the two of you are wed and she was in the wrong for just barging
in."
"I am still mortified. How can I show my face downstairs? Everyone..."
"Everyone does not know. And the Queen is certainly not going to go down there telling
everyone. She has much more class than that. At least you were not barged in on the
very first time you ever made love."
"Your first time?" Iladori repeated, aghast.
"My very first time," Aalyssa nodded. "Konner and I were in the stables and all was
quiet. Except for us, of course. In barged this young stableboy who walked right in on
us."
"You must all think I am very silly. Childish even," Iladori blushed, looking down at her
feet.
"Not at all, Dori. We all have to learn about the ways between a man and a woman
somewhere. You have your mother, sisters, and now me, to help."
"You should just include yourself under sisters, you know. I was never interested in
finding someone like my sisters were. I feel like a fish out of water."
"It will come with time. We all had to start from scratch. I never looked for anyone but
Konner. I grew up with him and Legolas, and when I became interested in male elves,
well, the only object of my desire stood in front of me. All I had to do was gain his
interest and capture his heart. It took me awhile, but I followed my heart. I admit to
being a people watcher, though, and know a little more than I should. I have an idea of
what works and what does not."
Iladori shook her head, "The battlefield did not prepare me for this."
"Always remember, if you have questions or problems that you do not wish to go to
your mother or other sisters about, I am here for you. I will always be here for you."
Aalyssa hugged her sister. "Now, let us go find something to wear for lunch."
"Thank you, Lys. I do have one question."
"You are very welcome. What is your question?"
"I would like to know what herbs to ask for at the herbalist, the ones to prevent
conception. Some parts of my future are in the air, and I do not think it would be wise
for me to conceive right now."
"I do not know the herb names, but I shall go along with you to the herbalist. But if I
may, I need to express a concern."
"Certainly, Lys."
"I do not know if you realize it, but it may be too late. I understand Legolas did not use
protection last night. If you take something now, and you have already conceived, it
would kill the babe. It is not terribly uncommon for a woman to do so willingly, but do
you want to take the chance when you do not know?"
"I. . .oh stars. No, please, no," Iladori whispered, pressing her hand against her
stomach.
Aalyssa took her hand, "Please, understand, Dori. I could be wrong. It is too soon to tell
or I would suggest seeing the healer. " Aalyssa looked off toward the window and
mumbled, "And this is why I should have smacked him harder."
"I cannot. . .I cannot. . ." Iladori looked at her twin in despair.
"It is your decision, Dori. If you want to get the herbs, I will accompany you."
"I cannot be pregnant. Not knowing what might happen to me."
Aalyssa looked at her with confusion, "Then you wish to get the herbs? You know, this
is not the first time I have been pregnant by Konner. So I am not going to judge you,
and no one else ever needs to know if you get the herbs. Just you, me, and the
herbalist."
"But you have no child," Iladori noted.
"Several years ago, I conceived. Konner was no where near ready to be a father or
take his responsibilities and I feared Mother would kill me for getting pregnant. He took
me to the herbalist and we. . .no, I got the herbs. So I know how hard of a decision it is
to make. I never told anyone, except Legolas a few days ago."
"It is not that I do not wish to carry Legolas' child, but this is not the right time. I am
certain he would agree. I would have to tell him though."
"Involving Legolas will not be easy. But if at all possible, you should make the decision
together, as Konner and I did. I now see it was the right decision for us at the time."
"Legolas is my husband."
"Yes he is, and that makes the situation a little different. The two of you should make
the decision together. If he agrees, he will wish to go with you to the herbalist."
"I could not ask that of him."
"I have seen other women who went all alone to the herbalist, no one to stand by them
and support them. Konner did that for me, and Legolas should for you. If he will not, or
you do not wish to ask him, I will go with you. You should not be alone for it."
"Is it painful? I . . ."
"There is some pain, but it passes. Yes, Dori?"
"I wish things were different, not as they are now," she sighed, a wistful look in her
eyes.
"I know, but you know what?" Aalyssa patted her stomach with one hand and patted
Dori's hand with the other. "Things will get better. And our children will play together
and have fun like children should. We can enjoy our children together, at least, when
you and Legolas come to visit us, and when we visit you."
Iladori grinned, "Right now we decided it best to split our time between Mirkwood and
Forlindon. I could not ask Legolas to give up his home, nor would he ask me to give up
mine. For now it will work out, if and when we have children."
"That seems fair. I always wondered how couples from two areas would work it out.
Shall we go get ready for the meal?"
"Yes, I should bathe and make myself presentable. I am sure there will be more talk
about last night."
"I have the feeling Lady Imeranian had things to spread about Konner and myself last
night also, but it got overshadowed. But it will get out today, because when I saw her,
she had seen me head in the same direction as Konner. Do you think one of our sisters
could lend me something again?"
"Yes, they offered, Lys. Now I know why they bring so many clothes. I never thought I
would be wearing several different dresses a day."
"Good, they have beautiful dresses."
"We like pretty things."
"As we should, being wenedheli. We are entitled to pretty things. Shall we?"
"I never really cared for them until recently," Iladori said then nodded. "I am certain
Legolas is wondering what is taking us so long."
"It does not happen at the same time in every female's life, but it does happen. As is
Konner, I am sure."
Legolas glanced at Konner. "I wonder what is taking Iladori and Aalyssa so long?"
"They are women, Legolas, get used to it."
"But it is almost time for mid day meal," Legolas complained.
Konner laughed, "You are beginning to sound like one of those hobbit creatures who
came in."
"I, uhm, kind of worked up an appetite."
"Did you now?" Konner asked, lifting his eyebrow, causing his little brother to blush.
"So, Konner. You and Aalyssa looked a little reddened yourselves. Did something
happen?"
"Mother decided to visit us after she barged in on you. And, in the state I was in, I forgot
to bar the door like I usually do," Konner explained.
"She did not knock on your door either?" Legolas shook his head. "And yet you lectured
me."
"I have been barged in on before. I do not have a new bride who was a virgin until last
night either. One who was a true innocent," Konner added, giving Legolas a meaningful
look.
"Point taken."
"So, little brother, do not even attempt to lecture me."
"I will try to remember to bar the door before getting lost in the moment. Still,
though...why was it right for you to take Aalyssa without marriage and not right for me
and Iladori?"
"Aalyssa knew what she was asking for. She was not the innocent Iladori was and
really still is. Aalyssa knew the consequences and repercussions. Also she is not
royalty like Iladori is."
"I thought. . .that is, I thought you were Aalyssa's first."
Konner shook his head. "Aalyssa was a maiden, Legolas. She was a virgin, but there is
being a virgin and being a virgin. Aalyssa is worldly in court ways, remember. Iladori is
not."
"This is confusing," Legolas said, sitting back down.
"Legolas. You cannot go around Elven courts without realizing what is going on. The
games, the backstabbing."
"I realize that. But when it comes down to it, is it not the same between every male and
female? And I do not speak of the public games."
Konner sat down next to him. "Legolas, what is Iladori? And I am not asking you to tell
me she is an elf, either."
"The most beautiful, wonderful, sweetest, female elf in the world," Legolas sighed.
"Yes, I know that, but what else is she?" Konner asked, getting agitated.
"My wife," Legolas smiled. "And you already know she is an elf, why would I tell you
that?"
Konner sighed and smacked him up side the head. "She is a warrior, you idiot. Trained
by her guard and lives her life as a warrior."
Legolas reached up to rub his head. "Ouch. First Aalyssa, now you. Do I suddenly have
a target painted on my head? All right. And your point is?"
"Warriors do not care about the ways of the court, they are fighters. Does she act like a
typical female? I mean, preening and all of that."
"No," Legolas shook his head.
"Legolas, until you made your way into her life, I do not believe Iladori even cared
about relationships or being a woman. Her focus was on being a fighter, protecting her
family lands. You cannot hold her up to the same expectations as someone like
Aalyssa or the other women you have known."
"I am not holding her up to any expectations, Konner. I just wanted to know why it was
all right for you but not me."
"Because, idiot, Iladori did not know what she was getting into. She is a true innocent,
which is something rare. She could kill you in a heartbeat and have no remorse, but
seduction is something she would not know."
"I see, innocent not only in body but mind as well. I understand now."
"About time," Konner sighed, leaning his head back to think about Aalyssa.
Legolas picked up a toss pillow and threw it at his brother who ducked as the pillow
went by. "You are no innocent, Legolas. You have experiences with women."
"Yes, but with Dori, it just seemed nothing went the way it should have."
"She is your soul mate, Legolas. The one you have waited for."
"She makes me feel complete."
"As Lyssa does for me, but you need to tread carefully. Iladori will be easily hurt."
"I will try my best." Legolas smiled at his older brother. "I am glad you realized you love
Aalyssa. She deserves happiness, and I see she will have that with you."
"I only wish I had done so earlier," Konner admitted as there was a knock at the door.
"Who is it?" Legolas called out.
"It is us. We are going up to my family's rooms to get cleaned up for mid day meal,"
Iladori responded.
"We shall meet you up there then, sweetness," Legolas told her.
Konner sighed and stood to walk over to the door and open it. "Would you like an
escort to your family's suite, fair maidens?" he asked, thinking his brother's brain had
been thoroughly addled.
Aalyssa glared past Konner at Legolas then smiled at Konner. "I would love that,
sweetheart."
Konner smiled and held out a hand to her.
Legolas walked over to Iladori and took her hand, "May I have the honor of escorting
you, sweetness?"
"I would be honored," Iladori said, a confused look in her eyes.
"I do not wish to spend time away from you that I could be spending with you," he
explained.
"I thought you might want to bathe and dress," Iladori said softly.
"We will escort you there and come back here," Legolas said, glancing at Konner who
nodded at him.
"We will have time after we see you safely to the suite. Women take longer in these
things, after all," Konner said.