FINDING HEART
CHAPTER TWENTY SIX
BY DRAGONWIND
See chapters one and four for disclaimer
Feedback welcome as long as it is constructive
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A pounding on the door awakened Aalyssa. She rolled over to find Konner had already
left for his training. She grabbed a wrap to put over her night shift and opened the door,
finding a Forlindon maid standing there. Aalyssa smiled, "Yes?"
"Her Majesty requests you in the family rooms within one hour to go for the fitting,
milady," the maid informed her.
"Thank you," she paused to remember the maid's name, "Millencia. I shall get dressed
and go for breakfast immediately."
The maid glanced around, not finding Elspeth present. "Would you like some
assistance, milady?"
"If you would not mind, Millencia," Aalyssa replied shyly. It would take her some time to
get used to having servants. From the wardrobe, she selected a pale green day gown,
with a sash of forest green and no other trim. She slipped from the shift and into the
gown, turning so Millencia could tie the laces.
The two young Elf ladies exited the room together, Millencia turning to head for the
Forlindon suite, Aalyssa heading for the dining hall.
Voices of the court ladies dropped to a whisper when she entered, Aalyssa hearing
little snippets of their conversations. "Good thing they discovered the babe now...No
question about it being that creatures...If she were a true lady, I would not say Aalyssa
deserved what he probably did to her out there...I think the pregnancy announcement is
a cover, just in case that creature..."
Aalyssa swallowed her tears and lifted her chin, heading for the table laden for
breakfast food. But in truth, I do not know what he may have done to me while I was
unconscious. A gasp escaped her when she realized the truth. The fear that had been
bothering her she now realized. I shall ask Mama after the fitting.
Aalyssa fixed herself a plate of fruit, along with an egg and a slice of ham and found a
quiet corner to sit alone and eat. A few of the courtiers cast her pitiful glances, some
looked down their noses at her. She kept her eyes on her plate as she ate, looking up
when she heard a female voice ask if she could join her. "Arwen, certainly," Aalyssa
greeted her.
"I am sorry I have not had a chance to visit, how are you doing?" Arwen inquired. "Are
you looking forward to tomorrow?"
"Oh yes, milady. I shall be most happy to be wed to Konner," Aalyssa gushed, then felt
her skin redden.
"Tis alright, Aalyssa. I understand your excitement," Arwen smiled softly at her.
Aalyssa squirmed a bit in her chair and glanced at Arwen, their eyes meeting. "Would
you be my Maid of Honor, Arwen?"
Her mouth dropped open in shock before responding, "I would be most pleased. I
thought you would ask one of your sisters."
"Iladori and I are sharing them as bridesmaids," Aalyssa smiled. "Mayniara, her niece,
shall be serving as her Maid of Honor."
Arwen shared a smile with Aalyssa as she also ate, "I most certainly shall. Do you have
any preference for the color of the gown?"
A thoughtful look settled on Aalyssa, "Pale yellow possibly. My gown is pink."
"Pale yellow it shall be," Arwen agreed. "I shall go to the dressmaker now, as I have an
appointment with Aragorn in an hour." A dreamy look settled in her eyes before she
shook it off.
Aalyssa smiled, "I believe you and Aragorn make a wonderful couple. You shall be very
happy."
"Thank you, Aalyssa. I shall possibly see you later today. Tell you what, I shall pick
several dresses and have the dressmaker show them to you. You pick the one you
would like me to wear."
Aalyssa nodded and watched Arwen stand and walk away. She finished her own
breakfast then stood and left the hall for the Forlindon suite.
Upon arrival she knocked, and Millencia admitted her. Aalyssa smiled and greeted
Ziellien, seeing a beaming Iladori standing in the corner.
"Sister!" Iladori greeted her, running over to embrace her. "I have such news."
"Do tell," Aalyssa prodded, sitting down next to her on the bench.
Iladori reached out to take her hands, "I changed my mind at the herbalist yesterday. I
could not take the chance. Legolas and I discussed it, and I shall be going to Mirkwood
with you and the family."
Aalyssa smiled brightly and hugged Iladori. "I cannot tell you how happy this makes me.
Just think, if you are with child, we will be pregnant together!"
"To tell you the truth, I am much relieved that I chose this path. I am looking forward to
being a mother. If not now, then when Legolas returns." Iladori returned her sister's
embrace, looking forward to embarking on a new life and adventure.
Myalora entered and smiled, "Hello, my loves. Are we ready to go for our fittings?"
"Yes, Mama," Aalyssa replied, a small tinge of sadness in her voice.
"What is it, darling?" Myalora asked, walking over to hug her.
"When we return, may we talk? I find I have a question or two," Aalyssa inquired. She
was hugged as Myalora assured her they would, and with that, the five Elf women were
off to the dressmakers.
~~~~~~
Aalyssa stepped out of the fitting room, the gown clinging to her like a second skin. "I
better not eat too much tonight," she laughed.
"Nonsense, love, tonight is your party," Myalora said. She turned to look at Aalyssa and
gasped when she saw the gown. "That dress is exactly what I had imagined for you."
She smiled at Myalora, "It called to me."
"Twas meant for you, milady," the shopkeeper said, echoing her thought from the day
prior. The shopkeeper was kneeling next to Iladori, pinning the cream gown Ziellien
had selected. "And this one was made for you as well."
"Tis lovely. Your taste is excellent as always, Ell."
"I aim to please, in both cases," Ell teased her sisters. When she noticed her mother's
questioning glance, she explained, "Lys did not feel the dress right for her, although
one look in her eyes and one knew how much she loved it."
Myalora nodded at her daughters. She smiled at the dressmaker when she stood and
announced the dresses would be ready before sunset. "I shall send my maid to pick
them up."
"That will be fine, Majesty," she called out, hustling to the back room to begin the
alterations.
As the ladies walked back to their rooms, Iladori said, "I need to check in, I might be
due for a patrol."
"All right, darling. We shall see you for lunch then?"
"Yes, Mama," she replied, bending slightly to kiss Myalora's cheek before leaving the
shop.
Ziellien and Tracimia announced they were going to arrange flowers for the service,
leaving Aalyssa and Myalora alone. "Come little one, let us go to my rooms for our
discussion," Myalora said, wrapping an arm around Aalyssa's waist.
When the two reached the suite, Millencia opened the door to admit them. Aalyssa
spotted Careman sitting on one of the chairs and she turned to Myalora. "I need to ask
Papa something while I see him."
Myalora smiled and let her go. "Of course, darling."
"Papa?" Aalyssa said shyly, walking over to him.
"Good morning, sweeting. How are you this morning?"
She swallowed and sat on the chair next to his, "Fine, Papa. I was wondering if I might
ask a favor of you?"
"Certainly, anything," he smiled softly at his new daughter.
"I was wondering if you might walk me down the aisle tomorrow. I know it is a lot to ask,
having just met you, and considering the trouble I caused," she added hurriedly.
Careman smiled and reached for her hands, pulling Aalyssa to her feet. "Come, little
one, sit on my lap." He helped Aalyssa and situated her there. "I would be most
honored to walk my newest little girl down the aisle. You did not cause any trouble,
sweeting, you were misled." Careman hugged her then planted a kiss on her cheek. "I
only regret we did not find you when you were younger. Yet, you would possibly not
have met your life-mate, so things went as they should. The incidents of the past week
have made you stronger and strengthened your bond with Konner." He reached up to
brush her hair from her face, "If your relationship had not been tested this week, you
would have always wondered about his feelings. He may have also."
Aalyssa looked up and smiled at him, giving Careman a hug and a kiss. "Thank you
Papa."
"You are welcome, sweeting. This is what fathers are for. Hello, love," he greeted his
wife with a kiss.
She returned his kiss and smiled, "It seems you have stolen my daughter who wanted
to speak with me," Myalora teased.
A giggle escaped Aalyssa, "I needed to speak with Papa also."
"I know, little one." Myalora held her hand out to Aalyssa, "Are you ready?"
Aalyssa nodded and slid off of Careman's lap. "I will see you at lunch, Papa?"
He nodded and smiled, watching the two walk away.
Myalora sat on the cushioned seat in her sitting room, patting the empty spot next to
her. "Come little one, ask your question."
"I realized this morning what has been bothering me. Because that person knocked me
out, I do not know what happened between then and waking up. How do I ...how...I do
not know if he violated me," Aalyssa finally managed to say. "I mean, after all, I was not
pure."
"There still would have been signs." Myalora asked Aalyssa if she had any of the
symptoms.
"I do not know, Mama. I was so frightened that night, the only thing I truly remember is
the safety of Konner's arms."
"I understand Konner was in the room when you were examined by the healer?"
Myalora saw the small frightened nod. "Go to him and ask him. Konner will speak the
truth with you." She watched Aalyssa leave the room to go off in search of her
betrothed, then stood to go join Careman.
"Everything all right, my love?"
"Just fine. Aalyssa has discovered what has been bothering her the most, and once
she speaks with Konner, the weight of the world will have been lifted from her
shoulders."
Careman nodded and pulled his wife onto his lap.
~~~~~~~~
Aalyssa chewed on her lower lip as she headed for the training fields, hoping Konner
was still out there. She spotted him on the lower east field, working with long knives.
With a smile, she walked over to stand by the fence and watch. Aalyssa worked up her
nerve as she witnessed his training, hoping he would not hurt himself. She watched
intently, his body moving with a lithe grace, folding her arms on top of the fence and
resting her chin.
"Tis enough for today, Konner," Taisin said with a bow. "You are doing well."
Konner returned his bow, "Thank you, Taisin. Tomorrow?"
"Yes, in the afternoon."
"Until then," Konner replied, putting his blades up. He turned to leave when he saw
Aalyssa standing there, the sunlight reflecting off of her golden hair. He smiled and
walked over. "Good afternoon, love. How long have you been watching?"
"Hi, sweetheart. I just got here, truly," she said as he leaned over the fence to kiss her.
Aalyssa lifted her hand to his cheek as she returned his kiss, then folded her hands in
front of her, standing close to him.
"So, what have you been up to?"
"I have been visiting, then went to Mama for some advice." She watched as Konner
ducked under the fence, to exit the field. When he stood, he wrapped his arm around
her and kissed her again.
Konner began leading her to the gardens, "What did you need advice on?"
As they walked, Aalyssa chewed on her lower lip and leaned her head against Konner's
shoulder.
"What is wrong, a'maelamin? Something is bothering you. You know you can come to
me about anything, love."
"I know, tis that I just do not know how to open the subject with you." Aalyssa turned
worried and frightened eyes up to his, then turned to wrap her arms around his waist,
burying her face against his chest.
Konner stroked her hair gently, "Just ask me."
"Maybe...have you ever known something was bothering you but you could not figure
out what it was until you heard others speaking and it all fell into place. Yet you have
no way of discerning the truth on your own?"
He nodded hesitantly, "I believe I have experienced something similar to that. Why?"
"It happened to me this morn, and I do not know if I have something to be worried about
or not."
Konner led her to a seat and sat her down, then knelt in front of her, "Just tell me what
you heard."
"A few of...at breakfast, a few of the court women were saying...were...that...they
wondered if the announcement of the baby was a blessing or a cover up. That it was
being said in case..." Aalyssa paused to take a deep breath, "In case he had violated
me and the family did not want a scandal. I do not know, Konner, if he did or not.
Stars..." she murmured as a tear softly fell.
Konner's arms wrapped tightly around her as he kissed her forehead. "He did not
violate you, love."
"No? Because I do not know what he may have done after knocking me out," Aalyssa
whispered.
"It would not change my feelings for you, because I love you with all of my heart and
soul. I would give up forever for you. But he did not touch you, he said so himself."
Aalyssa's arms slipped around his waist, clinging to him, her face pressed against his
chest. She nodded and whispered, "I love you Konner."
"I love you more and more every day, my dearest heart."
"As I love you, with all of my heart. I just needed to know, that is all."
"I should have told you. Forgive me, I did not think to, I was just so relieved to have
found you."
Aalyssa tilted her face up and smiled at him, "Of course I forgive you," she replied,
kissing him softly. "I would forgive you almost anything. I must have blocked it out, or I
would have asked. Because after I heard them, I remembered him trying to...before..."
Konner kissed her nose then placed his finger under her chin, "Forget him, love. He is
the past."
"Yes, he is," she smiled through her tears.
"You are all that matters to me, and our child."
"And you and our child is all that matters to me," Aalyssa said with a smile, placing his
hand on her stomach. "Our own little family."
"Stars, it is hard to believe I am to be a father," Konner stated.
"And me a mother," she said, smiling happily.
"Lyssie, you were born to be a mother and will be a good one. I am more concerned
with me being a father."
"I know you will be a wonderful father, sweetheart," she assured him, moving her arms
up around his neck.
"And hopefully I shall be able to teach our sons how to defend themselves. Tis not as
easy as Legolas and Iladori make it look though."
Aalyssa gently tickled his side, "I heard Taisin say you are doing well, he does not give
undeserved compliments. You know, with all that is going on, perhaps I should learn,
and any daughters we may have. Just in case we are not near you and something
should happen."
"I will teach our daughters the basics, to protect themselves. I fear them wanting to be
like their aunt, though. I have heard their family's guard talk about her in battle."
Aalyssa was disappointed when he did not say if she could learn or not, and simply
responded with "I do not wish for them to be warriors, just to be able to protect
themselves when they are not with you."
"They will," he nodded. "And do you wish to learn as well?"
"Yes, please." Aalyssa never wanted to be put in a position again that she had been,
unable to defend herself.
"I will speak with the healers and see if it is okay for you in your condition. Then I will
speak with King Careman to see if one of the Princess' instructors can teach you. What
would you like to learn?"
"I was thinking of archery, actually. And possibly some sort of knife...I am not at all sure
I can handle a sword."
"Long knife then. From what I have seen of your sisters, only Dori knows how to use
swords. They say she sometimes uses two in battle at the same time, and I have never
heard of that."
Aalyssa nodded, "That must be impressive. All right, the bow and long knives."
"I would ask Legolas to teach you the bow," Konner said with an impish grin, "But he
does not have the temperment of late. Almost missed his target entirely a few days
ago."
"Really?" she asked, lifting an eyebrow.
Konner nodded gravely, "Yes, I fear it is true. My brother was distracted by a certain
Forlindon Princess blowing in his ear."
Aalyssa burst out laughing, "He really has it bad for Dori."
"It is nice to see him in love and with someone who seems as crazy for him as he is for
her."
"Yes it is, they deserve the happiness," Aalyssa commented, still being held securely in
Konner's arms. "Legolas needs to learn how to push Dori to open up, and she needs to
learn how to share her feelings. Otherwise, he will begin to feel more and more pushed
away by her."
"And sometimes, my love, you need to learn to let them be."
"Tis not healthy to keep things inside. When I did not have Legolas to confide in, twas a
terribly difficult time," Aalyssa admitted.
"You and Dori are very different people, my love," Konner told her. "You desire comfort
and love. She is very self sufficient. And Legolas tends to take things at face value."
Aalyssa snuggled against Konner, wrapping her arms around his waist. She smiled
when he leaned into her and kissed her deeply. Her hands moved up to entwine in his
unruly yet soft hair, pressing her body against his.
Konner wrapped her tightly in his arms, feeling her melt, then pulled slightly away and
smiled down at her, catching the dreamy look in her eyes as Aalyssa smiled up at him,
sliding her hand inside his tunic. "My Lyssie." His hands moved up in to her hair,
kissing her once more, his tongue searching out hers. He heard Aalyssa moan and
make a small purring sound, and her body pressed even tighter against him.
Lady Imeranian walked up behind them, unheard by either, lost in one another as they
were. "Well, is this any way for the Heir to the throne of Mirkwood to act?"
"What?" Konner croaked, pulling back from Aalyssa, hearing her issue a small choking
sound.
Aalyssa looked up, refusing to blush and looked Imeranian in the eye. "Good day, My
Lady."
"Aalyssa," Imeranian said cooly before looking at Konner.
"Forgive us, Lady Imeranian," Konner said, grabbing Aalyssa by the hand and leading
her from the garden, grumbling.
"WELL, I've never..." Imeranian sputtered indignantly.
"Yes, I am sure you have not," Konner mumbled under his breath, hearing Aalyssa
giggling. "They want us to find a bride, a mate, yet they patrol the gardens. What I want
to know is how Legolas and Iladori managed."
"I believe they came out here late at night for a reason," Aalyssa admitted.
"What do you mean, late at night?" Konner asked, shocked.
"From what I gathered, they spent most of their nights out here in the garden."
"What?" Konner asked incredulously. "And here I was trying to be honorable because
he and I were sharing a room, and he spent the nights in the garden." He smiled when
Aalyssa shrugged.
"Tis what I was told," she said.
"I would have never pegged him for that. In the gardens and they had not been caught.
He has the luck of the Valar or something. Tis hard to imagine my little brother, rolling
around in the gardens when there are beds to be had."
Aalyssa gently slugged him in the arm, "It was not that way and you know it. She was a
maiden until the other night. They were out here talking."
"What in Middle Earth could they have had to discuss for that long?" Konner teased,
contemplating the whole night by how many nights.
She shrugged, her hand going to his back. "You did not notice him not coming to bed at
night?"
"I figured he came in after I was asleep. I have been all alone in my bed," he
complained softly, "When I could have been with you. Sometimes being heir is a pain in
the arse."
Aalyssa kissed him below the ear, "You can join me tonight, now that you know." Her
hand traced circles on his back underneath his tunic.
"We could go to my room, but I fear finding Legolas and Dori there again," Konner
moaned.
"Well," Aalyssa began enticingly, running her finger down his chest, "There is always
my room. Just make certain to bar the door."
Konner chuckled and led Aalyssa to her chamber. Upon entering, he turned and slid
the bar into place. "Now, where were we?"
"I believe my hand was in your tunic, and you were kissing me very passionately, my
love," Aalyssa replied with a smile.
"Ahh, yes. Before we were interrupted by the old biddy," he said jokingly, his lips
coming down on hers.
"The nosy old biddy," she muttered before their lips met. Her hands slid gently back
into his tunic.
Konner kissed her slowly, his hands pushing down the bodice of her gown, exposing
her creamy shoulders, then slipped around to undo the laces in the back.
Aalyssa shivered under his ministrations, savoring the taste of his lips as she unlaced
his tunic.
He pulled back with a smile, "I love you. Have I told you that yet today?"
"Hmm...yes, but I never tire of hearing it." She slipped his tunic off, whispering against
his bare skin, "And I love you too, have I told you today?" Aalyssa tossed his tunic over
her shoulder to land on the chair by the window.
"I believe you have," Konner replied in a husky whisper, sliding the dress from her. He
felt Aalyssa's hands travel down to his leggings and start undoing the laces.
Konner pushed against her gently, toppling Aalyssa onto the bed and removed his
leggings.
Aalyssa's arms reached up for him and pulled him down to her, wrapping her arms
around his neck and kissing him, inch by inch.
Konner kissed her neck slowly, working down to the gentle swell of her breasts.
"I love when you do that, Konner," she said softly, tangling her hands in his hair.
Aalyssa moaned and moved slightly under Konner's gentle wandering touch moving
over her body, her hands playing in his hair. She lifted her head slightly and licked
behind Konner's ear.
Konner chuckled and kissed his way down to her navel, pausing to say, "Hello, my little
one."
Aalyssa smiled as he kissed his way back up.
"Sorry love, I cannot wait much longer," he stated, spreading her legs and settling
between them while kissing her.
"Nor can I, It has been way to long, my love," she replied, alternating kisses and licks
on his neck.
~~~~~~~~~~
Aalyssa was curled in his arms, her head on his shoulder, when Konner lifted his head
to peer at the clock. "We have forty minutes until dinner. I need a bath and to get
ready."
"Mmm...I need a bath and a nap," Aalyssa agreed.
Konner kissed her shoulder and got up, pulling on his clothes, "Bath yes, nap, no time."
"I suppose not," she sighed. "I hope I do not fall asleep during dinner." Aalyssa slipped
out of the bed to find a gown.
"Fall asleep during dinner I will have no choice but to sleep in my room tonight," Konner
teased. "You will need your sleep more than you will need me."
"I shall strive not to fall asleep during dinner. I am certain I can find something to
occupy my attention," Aalyssa stated, grinning mischeviously at Konner.
Konner chuckled and left for his chamber.
He returned half an hour later to find Aalyssa frowning. ""Hello, beautiful," he greeted
her, kissing her softly. "What is wrong?"
"Hi, sweetheart," she replied, returning his kiss. "Elspeth has not brought my gowns
back from the laundry yet. I should have gotten more it seems, and I wish I had
something prettier than this," she indicated the white gown with pastel trims.
"What is wrong with that one?" he asked, perplexed. "That one is pretty, you are
dressed like a proper Elven Maid."
"Tis pretty, but I am not really a Maid now, since I am betrothed."
"Correct me if I am wrong, but do not all Maids where white until they are wed?"
"I think being pregnant also makes me not a Maid."
"But protocol says you are, and should wear white. As does Court tradition," he scolded
her mildly.
"I suppose," she whispered, her hand slipping around his arm.
"Plus," he began with a smile, "Think of it this way, when our daughters are old enough
to be presented, it shall be easier because everyone will remember you did not flaunt
tradition like Dori."
"Hmm, let me think on that. Kidnapped, pregnant before wed, set a royal family on it's
ear...did I not?"
Konner threw his head back and laughed, "You know what I mean. You did not come to
court wearing leather leggings and bearing arms. And you did not begin wearing colors
until we were betrothed. You are having a real wedding ceremony, not a handfasting."
Aalyssa eyed him from the corner of her eye. "True. But Dori's gowns have always
been so lovely, and I have always wanted to wear colours."
"Yes, but when their daughters are of age and come to Court, they will carry the
memories of her actions here, and will have a harder time. And we both know, as much
as we would like things to change, they are very slow to do so."
"I know. But still..."
Konner glanced at her.
"I know you will find this silly, but I am not even certain I want to subject our daughters
to the shenanigans of the court."
He shook his head, "It is the best way for them to find husbands though, Lyssie. Look at
Dori and Legolas."
"I know. But all of the backstabbing, Konner..." her voice trailed off.
"We will raise them to be honest and true, Lyssie."
"Yes, and they shall know they can come to us about anything at all."
"And who knows, maybe some things will have changed by then.
"Possibly," Aalyssa agreed with a smile, as he led them into the dining hall, finding both
families seated together.
CHAPTER TWENTY SIX
BY DRAGONWIND
See chapters one and four for disclaimer
Feedback welcome as long as it is constructive
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A pounding on the door awakened Aalyssa. She rolled over to find Konner had already
left for his training. She grabbed a wrap to put over her night shift and opened the door,
finding a Forlindon maid standing there. Aalyssa smiled, "Yes?"
"Her Majesty requests you in the family rooms within one hour to go for the fitting,
milady," the maid informed her.
"Thank you," she paused to remember the maid's name, "Millencia. I shall get dressed
and go for breakfast immediately."
The maid glanced around, not finding Elspeth present. "Would you like some
assistance, milady?"
"If you would not mind, Millencia," Aalyssa replied shyly. It would take her some time to
get used to having servants. From the wardrobe, she selected a pale green day gown,
with a sash of forest green and no other trim. She slipped from the shift and into the
gown, turning so Millencia could tie the laces.
The two young Elf ladies exited the room together, Millencia turning to head for the
Forlindon suite, Aalyssa heading for the dining hall.
Voices of the court ladies dropped to a whisper when she entered, Aalyssa hearing
little snippets of their conversations. "Good thing they discovered the babe now...No
question about it being that creatures...If she were a true lady, I would not say Aalyssa
deserved what he probably did to her out there...I think the pregnancy announcement is
a cover, just in case that creature..."
Aalyssa swallowed her tears and lifted her chin, heading for the table laden for
breakfast food. But in truth, I do not know what he may have done to me while I was
unconscious. A gasp escaped her when she realized the truth. The fear that had been
bothering her she now realized. I shall ask Mama after the fitting.
Aalyssa fixed herself a plate of fruit, along with an egg and a slice of ham and found a
quiet corner to sit alone and eat. A few of the courtiers cast her pitiful glances, some
looked down their noses at her. She kept her eyes on her plate as she ate, looking up
when she heard a female voice ask if she could join her. "Arwen, certainly," Aalyssa
greeted her.
"I am sorry I have not had a chance to visit, how are you doing?" Arwen inquired. "Are
you looking forward to tomorrow?"
"Oh yes, milady. I shall be most happy to be wed to Konner," Aalyssa gushed, then felt
her skin redden.
"Tis alright, Aalyssa. I understand your excitement," Arwen smiled softly at her.
Aalyssa squirmed a bit in her chair and glanced at Arwen, their eyes meeting. "Would
you be my Maid of Honor, Arwen?"
Her mouth dropped open in shock before responding, "I would be most pleased. I
thought you would ask one of your sisters."
"Iladori and I are sharing them as bridesmaids," Aalyssa smiled. "Mayniara, her niece,
shall be serving as her Maid of Honor."
Arwen shared a smile with Aalyssa as she also ate, "I most certainly shall. Do you have
any preference for the color of the gown?"
A thoughtful look settled on Aalyssa, "Pale yellow possibly. My gown is pink."
"Pale yellow it shall be," Arwen agreed. "I shall go to the dressmaker now, as I have an
appointment with Aragorn in an hour." A dreamy look settled in her eyes before she
shook it off.
Aalyssa smiled, "I believe you and Aragorn make a wonderful couple. You shall be very
happy."
"Thank you, Aalyssa. I shall possibly see you later today. Tell you what, I shall pick
several dresses and have the dressmaker show them to you. You pick the one you
would like me to wear."
Aalyssa nodded and watched Arwen stand and walk away. She finished her own
breakfast then stood and left the hall for the Forlindon suite.
Upon arrival she knocked, and Millencia admitted her. Aalyssa smiled and greeted
Ziellien, seeing a beaming Iladori standing in the corner.
"Sister!" Iladori greeted her, running over to embrace her. "I have such news."
"Do tell," Aalyssa prodded, sitting down next to her on the bench.
Iladori reached out to take her hands, "I changed my mind at the herbalist yesterday. I
could not take the chance. Legolas and I discussed it, and I shall be going to Mirkwood
with you and the family."
Aalyssa smiled brightly and hugged Iladori. "I cannot tell you how happy this makes me.
Just think, if you are with child, we will be pregnant together!"
"To tell you the truth, I am much relieved that I chose this path. I am looking forward to
being a mother. If not now, then when Legolas returns." Iladori returned her sister's
embrace, looking forward to embarking on a new life and adventure.
Myalora entered and smiled, "Hello, my loves. Are we ready to go for our fittings?"
"Yes, Mama," Aalyssa replied, a small tinge of sadness in her voice.
"What is it, darling?" Myalora asked, walking over to hug her.
"When we return, may we talk? I find I have a question or two," Aalyssa inquired. She
was hugged as Myalora assured her they would, and with that, the five Elf women were
off to the dressmakers.
~~~~~~
Aalyssa stepped out of the fitting room, the gown clinging to her like a second skin. "I
better not eat too much tonight," she laughed.
"Nonsense, love, tonight is your party," Myalora said. She turned to look at Aalyssa and
gasped when she saw the gown. "That dress is exactly what I had imagined for you."
She smiled at Myalora, "It called to me."
"Twas meant for you, milady," the shopkeeper said, echoing her thought from the day
prior. The shopkeeper was kneeling next to Iladori, pinning the cream gown Ziellien
had selected. "And this one was made for you as well."
"Tis lovely. Your taste is excellent as always, Ell."
"I aim to please, in both cases," Ell teased her sisters. When she noticed her mother's
questioning glance, she explained, "Lys did not feel the dress right for her, although
one look in her eyes and one knew how much she loved it."
Myalora nodded at her daughters. She smiled at the dressmaker when she stood and
announced the dresses would be ready before sunset. "I shall send my maid to pick
them up."
"That will be fine, Majesty," she called out, hustling to the back room to begin the
alterations.
As the ladies walked back to their rooms, Iladori said, "I need to check in, I might be
due for a patrol."
"All right, darling. We shall see you for lunch then?"
"Yes, Mama," she replied, bending slightly to kiss Myalora's cheek before leaving the
shop.
Ziellien and Tracimia announced they were going to arrange flowers for the service,
leaving Aalyssa and Myalora alone. "Come little one, let us go to my rooms for our
discussion," Myalora said, wrapping an arm around Aalyssa's waist.
When the two reached the suite, Millencia opened the door to admit them. Aalyssa
spotted Careman sitting on one of the chairs and she turned to Myalora. "I need to ask
Papa something while I see him."
Myalora smiled and let her go. "Of course, darling."
"Papa?" Aalyssa said shyly, walking over to him.
"Good morning, sweeting. How are you this morning?"
She swallowed and sat on the chair next to his, "Fine, Papa. I was wondering if I might
ask a favor of you?"
"Certainly, anything," he smiled softly at his new daughter.
"I was wondering if you might walk me down the aisle tomorrow. I know it is a lot to ask,
having just met you, and considering the trouble I caused," she added hurriedly.
Careman smiled and reached for her hands, pulling Aalyssa to her feet. "Come, little
one, sit on my lap." He helped Aalyssa and situated her there. "I would be most
honored to walk my newest little girl down the aisle. You did not cause any trouble,
sweeting, you were misled." Careman hugged her then planted a kiss on her cheek. "I
only regret we did not find you when you were younger. Yet, you would possibly not
have met your life-mate, so things went as they should. The incidents of the past week
have made you stronger and strengthened your bond with Konner." He reached up to
brush her hair from her face, "If your relationship had not been tested this week, you
would have always wondered about his feelings. He may have also."
Aalyssa looked up and smiled at him, giving Careman a hug and a kiss. "Thank you
Papa."
"You are welcome, sweeting. This is what fathers are for. Hello, love," he greeted his
wife with a kiss.
She returned his kiss and smiled, "It seems you have stolen my daughter who wanted
to speak with me," Myalora teased.
A giggle escaped Aalyssa, "I needed to speak with Papa also."
"I know, little one." Myalora held her hand out to Aalyssa, "Are you ready?"
Aalyssa nodded and slid off of Careman's lap. "I will see you at lunch, Papa?"
He nodded and smiled, watching the two walk away.
Myalora sat on the cushioned seat in her sitting room, patting the empty spot next to
her. "Come little one, ask your question."
"I realized this morning what has been bothering me. Because that person knocked me
out, I do not know what happened between then and waking up. How do I ...how...I do
not know if he violated me," Aalyssa finally managed to say. "I mean, after all, I was not
pure."
"There still would have been signs." Myalora asked Aalyssa if she had any of the
symptoms.
"I do not know, Mama. I was so frightened that night, the only thing I truly remember is
the safety of Konner's arms."
"I understand Konner was in the room when you were examined by the healer?"
Myalora saw the small frightened nod. "Go to him and ask him. Konner will speak the
truth with you." She watched Aalyssa leave the room to go off in search of her
betrothed, then stood to go join Careman.
"Everything all right, my love?"
"Just fine. Aalyssa has discovered what has been bothering her the most, and once
she speaks with Konner, the weight of the world will have been lifted from her
shoulders."
Careman nodded and pulled his wife onto his lap.
~~~~~~~~
Aalyssa chewed on her lower lip as she headed for the training fields, hoping Konner
was still out there. She spotted him on the lower east field, working with long knives.
With a smile, she walked over to stand by the fence and watch. Aalyssa worked up her
nerve as she witnessed his training, hoping he would not hurt himself. She watched
intently, his body moving with a lithe grace, folding her arms on top of the fence and
resting her chin.
"Tis enough for today, Konner," Taisin said with a bow. "You are doing well."
Konner returned his bow, "Thank you, Taisin. Tomorrow?"
"Yes, in the afternoon."
"Until then," Konner replied, putting his blades up. He turned to leave when he saw
Aalyssa standing there, the sunlight reflecting off of her golden hair. He smiled and
walked over. "Good afternoon, love. How long have you been watching?"
"Hi, sweetheart. I just got here, truly," she said as he leaned over the fence to kiss her.
Aalyssa lifted her hand to his cheek as she returned his kiss, then folded her hands in
front of her, standing close to him.
"So, what have you been up to?"
"I have been visiting, then went to Mama for some advice." She watched as Konner
ducked under the fence, to exit the field. When he stood, he wrapped his arm around
her and kissed her again.
Konner began leading her to the gardens, "What did you need advice on?"
As they walked, Aalyssa chewed on her lower lip and leaned her head against Konner's
shoulder.
"What is wrong, a'maelamin? Something is bothering you. You know you can come to
me about anything, love."
"I know, tis that I just do not know how to open the subject with you." Aalyssa turned
worried and frightened eyes up to his, then turned to wrap her arms around his waist,
burying her face against his chest.
Konner stroked her hair gently, "Just ask me."
"Maybe...have you ever known something was bothering you but you could not figure
out what it was until you heard others speaking and it all fell into place. Yet you have
no way of discerning the truth on your own?"
He nodded hesitantly, "I believe I have experienced something similar to that. Why?"
"It happened to me this morn, and I do not know if I have something to be worried about
or not."
Konner led her to a seat and sat her down, then knelt in front of her, "Just tell me what
you heard."
"A few of...at breakfast, a few of the court women were saying...were...that...they
wondered if the announcement of the baby was a blessing or a cover up. That it was
being said in case..." Aalyssa paused to take a deep breath, "In case he had violated
me and the family did not want a scandal. I do not know, Konner, if he did or not.
Stars..." she murmured as a tear softly fell.
Konner's arms wrapped tightly around her as he kissed her forehead. "He did not
violate you, love."
"No? Because I do not know what he may have done after knocking me out," Aalyssa
whispered.
"It would not change my feelings for you, because I love you with all of my heart and
soul. I would give up forever for you. But he did not touch you, he said so himself."
Aalyssa's arms slipped around his waist, clinging to him, her face pressed against his
chest. She nodded and whispered, "I love you Konner."
"I love you more and more every day, my dearest heart."
"As I love you, with all of my heart. I just needed to know, that is all."
"I should have told you. Forgive me, I did not think to, I was just so relieved to have
found you."
Aalyssa tilted her face up and smiled at him, "Of course I forgive you," she replied,
kissing him softly. "I would forgive you almost anything. I must have blocked it out, or I
would have asked. Because after I heard them, I remembered him trying to...before..."
Konner kissed her nose then placed his finger under her chin, "Forget him, love. He is
the past."
"Yes, he is," she smiled through her tears.
"You are all that matters to me, and our child."
"And you and our child is all that matters to me," Aalyssa said with a smile, placing his
hand on her stomach. "Our own little family."
"Stars, it is hard to believe I am to be a father," Konner stated.
"And me a mother," she said, smiling happily.
"Lyssie, you were born to be a mother and will be a good one. I am more concerned
with me being a father."
"I know you will be a wonderful father, sweetheart," she assured him, moving her arms
up around his neck.
"And hopefully I shall be able to teach our sons how to defend themselves. Tis not as
easy as Legolas and Iladori make it look though."
Aalyssa gently tickled his side, "I heard Taisin say you are doing well, he does not give
undeserved compliments. You know, with all that is going on, perhaps I should learn,
and any daughters we may have. Just in case we are not near you and something
should happen."
"I will teach our daughters the basics, to protect themselves. I fear them wanting to be
like their aunt, though. I have heard their family's guard talk about her in battle."
Aalyssa was disappointed when he did not say if she could learn or not, and simply
responded with "I do not wish for them to be warriors, just to be able to protect
themselves when they are not with you."
"They will," he nodded. "And do you wish to learn as well?"
"Yes, please." Aalyssa never wanted to be put in a position again that she had been,
unable to defend herself.
"I will speak with the healers and see if it is okay for you in your condition. Then I will
speak with King Careman to see if one of the Princess' instructors can teach you. What
would you like to learn?"
"I was thinking of archery, actually. And possibly some sort of knife...I am not at all sure
I can handle a sword."
"Long knife then. From what I have seen of your sisters, only Dori knows how to use
swords. They say she sometimes uses two in battle at the same time, and I have never
heard of that."
Aalyssa nodded, "That must be impressive. All right, the bow and long knives."
"I would ask Legolas to teach you the bow," Konner said with an impish grin, "But he
does not have the temperment of late. Almost missed his target entirely a few days
ago."
"Really?" she asked, lifting an eyebrow.
Konner nodded gravely, "Yes, I fear it is true. My brother was distracted by a certain
Forlindon Princess blowing in his ear."
Aalyssa burst out laughing, "He really has it bad for Dori."
"It is nice to see him in love and with someone who seems as crazy for him as he is for
her."
"Yes it is, they deserve the happiness," Aalyssa commented, still being held securely in
Konner's arms. "Legolas needs to learn how to push Dori to open up, and she needs to
learn how to share her feelings. Otherwise, he will begin to feel more and more pushed
away by her."
"And sometimes, my love, you need to learn to let them be."
"Tis not healthy to keep things inside. When I did not have Legolas to confide in, twas a
terribly difficult time," Aalyssa admitted.
"You and Dori are very different people, my love," Konner told her. "You desire comfort
and love. She is very self sufficient. And Legolas tends to take things at face value."
Aalyssa snuggled against Konner, wrapping her arms around his waist. She smiled
when he leaned into her and kissed her deeply. Her hands moved up to entwine in his
unruly yet soft hair, pressing her body against his.
Konner wrapped her tightly in his arms, feeling her melt, then pulled slightly away and
smiled down at her, catching the dreamy look in her eyes as Aalyssa smiled up at him,
sliding her hand inside his tunic. "My Lyssie." His hands moved up in to her hair,
kissing her once more, his tongue searching out hers. He heard Aalyssa moan and
make a small purring sound, and her body pressed even tighter against him.
Lady Imeranian walked up behind them, unheard by either, lost in one another as they
were. "Well, is this any way for the Heir to the throne of Mirkwood to act?"
"What?" Konner croaked, pulling back from Aalyssa, hearing her issue a small choking
sound.
Aalyssa looked up, refusing to blush and looked Imeranian in the eye. "Good day, My
Lady."
"Aalyssa," Imeranian said cooly before looking at Konner.
"Forgive us, Lady Imeranian," Konner said, grabbing Aalyssa by the hand and leading
her from the garden, grumbling.
"WELL, I've never..." Imeranian sputtered indignantly.
"Yes, I am sure you have not," Konner mumbled under his breath, hearing Aalyssa
giggling. "They want us to find a bride, a mate, yet they patrol the gardens. What I want
to know is how Legolas and Iladori managed."
"I believe they came out here late at night for a reason," Aalyssa admitted.
"What do you mean, late at night?" Konner asked, shocked.
"From what I gathered, they spent most of their nights out here in the garden."
"What?" Konner asked incredulously. "And here I was trying to be honorable because
he and I were sharing a room, and he spent the nights in the garden." He smiled when
Aalyssa shrugged.
"Tis what I was told," she said.
"I would have never pegged him for that. In the gardens and they had not been caught.
He has the luck of the Valar or something. Tis hard to imagine my little brother, rolling
around in the gardens when there are beds to be had."
Aalyssa gently slugged him in the arm, "It was not that way and you know it. She was a
maiden until the other night. They were out here talking."
"What in Middle Earth could they have had to discuss for that long?" Konner teased,
contemplating the whole night by how many nights.
She shrugged, her hand going to his back. "You did not notice him not coming to bed at
night?"
"I figured he came in after I was asleep. I have been all alone in my bed," he
complained softly, "When I could have been with you. Sometimes being heir is a pain in
the arse."
Aalyssa kissed him below the ear, "You can join me tonight, now that you know." Her
hand traced circles on his back underneath his tunic.
"We could go to my room, but I fear finding Legolas and Dori there again," Konner
moaned.
"Well," Aalyssa began enticingly, running her finger down his chest, "There is always
my room. Just make certain to bar the door."
Konner chuckled and led Aalyssa to her chamber. Upon entering, he turned and slid
the bar into place. "Now, where were we?"
"I believe my hand was in your tunic, and you were kissing me very passionately, my
love," Aalyssa replied with a smile.
"Ahh, yes. Before we were interrupted by the old biddy," he said jokingly, his lips
coming down on hers.
"The nosy old biddy," she muttered before their lips met. Her hands slid gently back
into his tunic.
Konner kissed her slowly, his hands pushing down the bodice of her gown, exposing
her creamy shoulders, then slipped around to undo the laces in the back.
Aalyssa shivered under his ministrations, savoring the taste of his lips as she unlaced
his tunic.
He pulled back with a smile, "I love you. Have I told you that yet today?"
"Hmm...yes, but I never tire of hearing it." She slipped his tunic off, whispering against
his bare skin, "And I love you too, have I told you today?" Aalyssa tossed his tunic over
her shoulder to land on the chair by the window.
"I believe you have," Konner replied in a husky whisper, sliding the dress from her. He
felt Aalyssa's hands travel down to his leggings and start undoing the laces.
Konner pushed against her gently, toppling Aalyssa onto the bed and removed his
leggings.
Aalyssa's arms reached up for him and pulled him down to her, wrapping her arms
around his neck and kissing him, inch by inch.
Konner kissed her neck slowly, working down to the gentle swell of her breasts.
"I love when you do that, Konner," she said softly, tangling her hands in his hair.
Aalyssa moaned and moved slightly under Konner's gentle wandering touch moving
over her body, her hands playing in his hair. She lifted her head slightly and licked
behind Konner's ear.
Konner chuckled and kissed his way down to her navel, pausing to say, "Hello, my little
one."
Aalyssa smiled as he kissed his way back up.
"Sorry love, I cannot wait much longer," he stated, spreading her legs and settling
between them while kissing her.
"Nor can I, It has been way to long, my love," she replied, alternating kisses and licks
on his neck.
~~~~~~~~~~
Aalyssa was curled in his arms, her head on his shoulder, when Konner lifted his head
to peer at the clock. "We have forty minutes until dinner. I need a bath and to get
ready."
"Mmm...I need a bath and a nap," Aalyssa agreed.
Konner kissed her shoulder and got up, pulling on his clothes, "Bath yes, nap, no time."
"I suppose not," she sighed. "I hope I do not fall asleep during dinner." Aalyssa slipped
out of the bed to find a gown.
"Fall asleep during dinner I will have no choice but to sleep in my room tonight," Konner
teased. "You will need your sleep more than you will need me."
"I shall strive not to fall asleep during dinner. I am certain I can find something to
occupy my attention," Aalyssa stated, grinning mischeviously at Konner.
Konner chuckled and left for his chamber.
He returned half an hour later to find Aalyssa frowning. ""Hello, beautiful," he greeted
her, kissing her softly. "What is wrong?"
"Hi, sweetheart," she replied, returning his kiss. "Elspeth has not brought my gowns
back from the laundry yet. I should have gotten more it seems, and I wish I had
something prettier than this," she indicated the white gown with pastel trims.
"What is wrong with that one?" he asked, perplexed. "That one is pretty, you are
dressed like a proper Elven Maid."
"Tis pretty, but I am not really a Maid now, since I am betrothed."
"Correct me if I am wrong, but do not all Maids where white until they are wed?"
"I think being pregnant also makes me not a Maid."
"But protocol says you are, and should wear white. As does Court tradition," he scolded
her mildly.
"I suppose," she whispered, her hand slipping around his arm.
"Plus," he began with a smile, "Think of it this way, when our daughters are old enough
to be presented, it shall be easier because everyone will remember you did not flaunt
tradition like Dori."
"Hmm, let me think on that. Kidnapped, pregnant before wed, set a royal family on it's
ear...did I not?"
Konner threw his head back and laughed, "You know what I mean. You did not come to
court wearing leather leggings and bearing arms. And you did not begin wearing colors
until we were betrothed. You are having a real wedding ceremony, not a handfasting."
Aalyssa eyed him from the corner of her eye. "True. But Dori's gowns have always
been so lovely, and I have always wanted to wear colours."
"Yes, but when their daughters are of age and come to Court, they will carry the
memories of her actions here, and will have a harder time. And we both know, as much
as we would like things to change, they are very slow to do so."
"I know. But still..."
Konner glanced at her.
"I know you will find this silly, but I am not even certain I want to subject our daughters
to the shenanigans of the court."
He shook his head, "It is the best way for them to find husbands though, Lyssie. Look at
Dori and Legolas."
"I know. But all of the backstabbing, Konner..." her voice trailed off.
"We will raise them to be honest and true, Lyssie."
"Yes, and they shall know they can come to us about anything at all."
"And who knows, maybe some things will have changed by then.
"Possibly," Aalyssa agreed with a smile, as he led them into the dining hall, finding both
families seated together.