Legolas raised his eyes to the door, each time a new maiden entered the
ballroom, in hope of finding Meril. Yet, it always turned out to be someone
else. Two days had past, and he still hadn¹t seen her. He partially blamed
himself for her absence, maybe his words cast an even bigger gap between
them, then when they first met.
He had no business stirring up secrets in Rivendell, yet, he felt the right to know. Elrond approached him, a shadow cast on his face, resenting some sort of worry.
Legolas gave a formal bow. ³My lord, it is great to see thee.²
³The pleasure is mine, Legolas Greenleaf.² Elrond looked about the crowded room. Couples were scattered throughout the dancefloor, gracefully moving to the sweet serenading music emerging from the band of elves.
His eyes wandered over to the corner, were a small group of young elf maidens eyed Legolas with great interest. They softly nudged eachoter, whispering and giggling.
Elrond laughed softly, catching Legolas¹ attention.
³I see you have set quite a few maidens in a stirr.²
Legolas looked over to the girls, smiling. ³I take it so.²
³Does it not flatter you, my prince. So many fair maidens to chose from, and you have not yet held the desire to chose?² Elrond raised a suspicious eyebrow at him.
Trying to avoid his gaze, Legolas smirked, lowering his gaze to the floor. His cheeks took on a rosy hue, he shifted, as if uncomfortable.
³My lord, I have chosen in a way. Yet, I am afraid she has not the need to chose. Let us leave it at that.²
³She is quite a wild one to tame. Isn¹t she? Meril. Like a rose, so beautiful and pure. Fragile in many ways. Yet, she comes with her dangerous thorns.²
³She certainly does.² Legolas agreed, not taking heed to his words, then suddenly found himself dumbfounded. His face flushed with embarassment, he looked at Elrond, who was quietly chuckling to himself.
³My prince, I have noticed the way you act around her. I cannot be fooled. Love is a marvelous thing.²
³Why is her presence absent this night? I have not seen her face in days.²
Elrond¹s face fell under its shadow again. He stood in silence for a moment, as if in deep ponder.
³She has fallen ill.²
³Ill?² Legolas¹ eyebrows knitted together in frustration.
³A fever...She is suffering a fever. I am devastated, Legolas. How could an elf fall sick?²
³I do not kow...Lord, but I think it has something to do with her being in Hollin. She never told me why she was there in the first place, my lord. I¹ve tried pressing it out of her, yet, she vows to keep her secrets to herself.²
³Meril is a tough nut to crack, my prince. She is very stubborn....²
³I¹ve noticed.² Legolas smirked, folding his arms protectively infront of his chest. ³Why is it you never told anyone of her, my lord. She is your daughter, why not let it be known? Must her presence be held within shadow for all her immortality?²
Elrond appeared uncomfortable. Many times his lips moved, trying to form words, yet, no sound emerged. It seemed centuries to Legolas, and his eyes wandered over the the anxious crowd of maidens, as he waited for Elrond¹s answer. One in particular caught his eye. Her golden locks were pulled back partially, letting the rest of her curls hang freely over her shoulders. She smiled at him, her green eyes crinkling as she did.
Legolas smiled back. He saw her begin to approach him, more than likely to ask him for a dance. Suddenly Elrond spoke, tearing Legolas¹ attention from the young maiden.
³Meril is a very special elf, I¹ve noticed it since her birth. She has more capabilities than most of our kin. She possesses great power, that, once it is unleashed, may cause good or evil. I am afraid she has not yet discovered this. I was afraid that if she were to land in the wrong palms, all would be destroyed. And trust me, prince of Mirkwood, it could destroy Middle Earth all together.²
Legolas swallowed down Elrond¹s words. He scanned the lord¹s face, somewhat horrified.
³My lord, I will seek for her, and ask her. And pardon my actions, for I will not let her off that easy this time. I am determined to find out.²
Elrond didn¹t say a word, his eyes were set on the couples on the dance floor. The young maiden that had tried to approach Legolas earlier was wrapped within the security of another¹s arms, dancing freely to the music.
Legolas excused himself, bowing as he did. He dissapeared through the door and into the long, empty halls.
***************
Quietly, her bare feet descended down the stairs, into the garden. Up above, the moon cast it¹s pale light upon her, bathing her in dull gold. She walked slowly, as if studying every bit of scenery of nature.
In the distance, the constant flow of water could be heard. Leaves rustled as the wind swept past. The feel of it against her skin soothed her. Her long hair fanned out freely, exposing her bare shoulders. Amidst the shadows of the trees, a bird sang. Enchanted by its sweet song, she followed it, until she came to a small clearing. In the midst of it stood a fountain. A small faerie statue sat on its side, a golden harp placed in its hands.
Meril walked over to it, her fingers brushing the smooth, cool face of the statue. She felt better outdoors, than trapped behind doors, forced to stay in bed all day. She managed to sneak out unnoticed. Everyone attended her father¹s dance, giving her more time to spend outside.
In the distance, a branch snapped, followed by loud cursing. Meril spun around, her mouth opened in shock, but soon was replaced by a coy smile. Placing her hands on her hips, she threw a questionable look at her spy.
³Well, Mr. Greenleaf. Quite a graceful approach, I must say, I was stunned.²
Legolas frowned, brushing a strand of hair out of his face. ³I noticed your absence at tonight¹s dance......and....²
Meril watched with building enthusiasm. The smile on her face seemed to stretch from ear to ear.
Legolas managed to continue, through his embarrassment.
³Your father informed me on your health. He said you had a fever. I was worried.²
³Prince, ³Meril laughed. ³Do not worry for me. I am fine, I just needed to get some fresh air. Being locked up behind closed doors does not do me any good. Now, if you¹d excuse me, I need to speak to my father.²
She tried to walk past him. Quickly, he grabbed her arm, this time determined not to let go until he got what he came for. Answers.
³I am afraid I cannot let you go this time, princess. You owe me answers.²
³I do not owe you anything but the pleasure of being a guest in my father¹s realm.²
Pulling on her arm, he forced her to look at him.
³No, answers, that is all I want, Meril. I need answers. Do not walk from me now. For I will not let you.²
The thought of arguing back crossed her mind, instead, she gave in, her features softening.
³You¹re right. It is time for me to tell. If not you, them whom? Who else would ever listen to me, if not you, prince of Mirkwood?²
Legolas led her over to the fountain, she sat down, and he lowered himself next to her. Meril dipped her fingers into the smooth sheet of water, causing disturbing ripples to form. Legolas watched with dry enthusiasm.
³I bound myself to someone...²Meril began. ³I bound myself to a mortal. My father always kept me within the security and safety of his realm. I was never allowed to step out.²
Her story began to sound familiar to Legolas. He felt connected with her in a way. His eyes met her, encouraging her to continue.
³I grew curious with each awakening day. So I stepped out of my father¹s security one night. Explored all I could, and upon my way back home, I ran into Raphayelle......The most beautiful being I¹d ever seen in my life. I wanted to spend all eternity with him, but, you see, he is a mortal, not an elf. And to seal our promise, I bound myself to him. I snuck out to be with him every night. He promised me his love for all eternity, and father would never allow such a thing....so......we decided to meet.....in...² Her voice drifted off, her eyes grew moist.
³In Hollin.² Legolas finished for her.
Meril nodded. ³Yes....in Hollin.....My best friend and servant, Falasiel went with me....And when we met him, he somehow seemed strange. He no longer was himself....He took my immortality as streangth....I had no idea....Then, he sent an army of orcs after us. Falasiel urged me to run, and I ran, I ran as fast as I could with her by my side.....Then....she was gone, I went to go after her, but she would not allow it.....I faltered....I tried to stay and fight, not abiding her words...And due to my foolishness, I was caught and they......²
A bitter sob emerged from her, she covered her face in shame. Legolas placed a comforting hand upon her throbbing shoulder.
³They took her from me...my Falasiel......they killed her...........I live with shame and guilt for all immortality.....I know now why my father warned me day after day.....and yet....I was too stubborn to listen and lost my dearest friend, and a love I thought were true.....²
Legolas sat there in silence, trying to sort out words to say. Somehow, his hand managed to find hers, curling his fingers around hers. Meril looked up at him, a tear slipping out of her eye.
³All will be alright. I promise.² Was all he was able to say. His words bore little comfort, yet, she took it in.
³I thank thee, Legolas.²
³Do not thank me. I understand now, you do not need to tell me more in detail, for your heart seems to tear at re-living such memories....We should head on back. May I escort you back to your chambers?²
Meril rose to her feet, smiling. ³Of course, I¹d certainly accept such an offer.²
************
Meril laughed out loud. ³Oh my! Never in my life had I thought that a dwarf and an elf could be such dear friends!²
She stopped in her tracks, bringing Legolas to an abrupt halt, as she took hold of his arm. ³Say, I would like to meet this dwarf, Gimli, you say?²
Legolas nodded his head. ³Yes!² Meril stated excitedly. ³I would like to meet Gimli! And the hobbits! I want to see the world, Legolas! I want to lay eyes upone what you already have laid yours on! When you go on another journey, I beg thee take me with thee!²
Legolas laughed, clasping his free hand onto hers, which held onto the sleeve of his tunic. ³My princess, such desires that fill your heart. I¹m sure I could talk to Elrond about it. I¹ll have you see the ocean for the first time. Feel the sea¹s breeze. Mountains, distant forests. And even hobbits. ³ Legolas added with a grin. ³I¹ll have you see it all.²
³I cannot wait!²
They came to Meril¹s chambers. She began to turn the knob, but then decided to turn around and lean against the door instead. Legolas remained standing before her. Meril shyly smiled at him, her hand still fidgeting with the knob behind her back.
³I thank thee, Legolas. Thank you for lending your ears to me this night. It had lifted a heavy burden from my soul.²
³I am glad I was of help. And I¹m glad that now I finally know, and understand. I hope that your health does not get any worse. Instead, I pray it gets better.²
³Do not worry for me prince. I am fine, after being with you.² Meril felt her cheeks grow hot. She was sure her face showed it too. Crimson circles bloomed on her cheecks.
Legolas studied her, and for the first time that night noticed how tight her white gown clung to her body in certain places. He drank in the sight before him. Her well rounded curves, her slender figure.
He quickly tore his eyes from her body, feeling himself turn red. He scratched the back of his head, nervously.
³Well, I will bid you good night now. I myself will try to get some rest.²
³Maybe....when father hosts another dance, I will be present, and I shall have a dance with you. Hopefully a more pleasant one than last time....Oh! And I beg you, do not tell my father of my being in the garden at this time!²
She laughed, opened the door and stepped into her room. Legolas remained in place, smiling at her. ³Goodnight my prince.²
The oak door shut behind her.
³Good night.²
His heart seemed to leap, as if it had wings. He was overcome with some strange stirring sensation in his stomach. She seemed to enchant him with each of her movements. Every word she wove together on her tongue was silver magic. He felt himself fall for her.
Finally he could sleep tonight, for now he knew. He had his answers.
Legolas sucked in a deep breath of air, then made his way to his own chambers.
| |Top of Form [pic][pic][pic][pic][pic] Bottom of Form
He had no business stirring up secrets in Rivendell, yet, he felt the right to know. Elrond approached him, a shadow cast on his face, resenting some sort of worry.
Legolas gave a formal bow. ³My lord, it is great to see thee.²
³The pleasure is mine, Legolas Greenleaf.² Elrond looked about the crowded room. Couples were scattered throughout the dancefloor, gracefully moving to the sweet serenading music emerging from the band of elves.
His eyes wandered over to the corner, were a small group of young elf maidens eyed Legolas with great interest. They softly nudged eachoter, whispering and giggling.
Elrond laughed softly, catching Legolas¹ attention.
³I see you have set quite a few maidens in a stirr.²
Legolas looked over to the girls, smiling. ³I take it so.²
³Does it not flatter you, my prince. So many fair maidens to chose from, and you have not yet held the desire to chose?² Elrond raised a suspicious eyebrow at him.
Trying to avoid his gaze, Legolas smirked, lowering his gaze to the floor. His cheeks took on a rosy hue, he shifted, as if uncomfortable.
³My lord, I have chosen in a way. Yet, I am afraid she has not the need to chose. Let us leave it at that.²
³She is quite a wild one to tame. Isn¹t she? Meril. Like a rose, so beautiful and pure. Fragile in many ways. Yet, she comes with her dangerous thorns.²
³She certainly does.² Legolas agreed, not taking heed to his words, then suddenly found himself dumbfounded. His face flushed with embarassment, he looked at Elrond, who was quietly chuckling to himself.
³My prince, I have noticed the way you act around her. I cannot be fooled. Love is a marvelous thing.²
³Why is her presence absent this night? I have not seen her face in days.²
Elrond¹s face fell under its shadow again. He stood in silence for a moment, as if in deep ponder.
³She has fallen ill.²
³Ill?² Legolas¹ eyebrows knitted together in frustration.
³A fever...She is suffering a fever. I am devastated, Legolas. How could an elf fall sick?²
³I do not kow...Lord, but I think it has something to do with her being in Hollin. She never told me why she was there in the first place, my lord. I¹ve tried pressing it out of her, yet, she vows to keep her secrets to herself.²
³Meril is a tough nut to crack, my prince. She is very stubborn....²
³I¹ve noticed.² Legolas smirked, folding his arms protectively infront of his chest. ³Why is it you never told anyone of her, my lord. She is your daughter, why not let it be known? Must her presence be held within shadow for all her immortality?²
Elrond appeared uncomfortable. Many times his lips moved, trying to form words, yet, no sound emerged. It seemed centuries to Legolas, and his eyes wandered over the the anxious crowd of maidens, as he waited for Elrond¹s answer. One in particular caught his eye. Her golden locks were pulled back partially, letting the rest of her curls hang freely over her shoulders. She smiled at him, her green eyes crinkling as she did.
Legolas smiled back. He saw her begin to approach him, more than likely to ask him for a dance. Suddenly Elrond spoke, tearing Legolas¹ attention from the young maiden.
³Meril is a very special elf, I¹ve noticed it since her birth. She has more capabilities than most of our kin. She possesses great power, that, once it is unleashed, may cause good or evil. I am afraid she has not yet discovered this. I was afraid that if she were to land in the wrong palms, all would be destroyed. And trust me, prince of Mirkwood, it could destroy Middle Earth all together.²
Legolas swallowed down Elrond¹s words. He scanned the lord¹s face, somewhat horrified.
³My lord, I will seek for her, and ask her. And pardon my actions, for I will not let her off that easy this time. I am determined to find out.²
Elrond didn¹t say a word, his eyes were set on the couples on the dance floor. The young maiden that had tried to approach Legolas earlier was wrapped within the security of another¹s arms, dancing freely to the music.
Legolas excused himself, bowing as he did. He dissapeared through the door and into the long, empty halls.
***************
Quietly, her bare feet descended down the stairs, into the garden. Up above, the moon cast it¹s pale light upon her, bathing her in dull gold. She walked slowly, as if studying every bit of scenery of nature.
In the distance, the constant flow of water could be heard. Leaves rustled as the wind swept past. The feel of it against her skin soothed her. Her long hair fanned out freely, exposing her bare shoulders. Amidst the shadows of the trees, a bird sang. Enchanted by its sweet song, she followed it, until she came to a small clearing. In the midst of it stood a fountain. A small faerie statue sat on its side, a golden harp placed in its hands.
Meril walked over to it, her fingers brushing the smooth, cool face of the statue. She felt better outdoors, than trapped behind doors, forced to stay in bed all day. She managed to sneak out unnoticed. Everyone attended her father¹s dance, giving her more time to spend outside.
In the distance, a branch snapped, followed by loud cursing. Meril spun around, her mouth opened in shock, but soon was replaced by a coy smile. Placing her hands on her hips, she threw a questionable look at her spy.
³Well, Mr. Greenleaf. Quite a graceful approach, I must say, I was stunned.²
Legolas frowned, brushing a strand of hair out of his face. ³I noticed your absence at tonight¹s dance......and....²
Meril watched with building enthusiasm. The smile on her face seemed to stretch from ear to ear.
Legolas managed to continue, through his embarrassment.
³Your father informed me on your health. He said you had a fever. I was worried.²
³Prince, ³Meril laughed. ³Do not worry for me. I am fine, I just needed to get some fresh air. Being locked up behind closed doors does not do me any good. Now, if you¹d excuse me, I need to speak to my father.²
She tried to walk past him. Quickly, he grabbed her arm, this time determined not to let go until he got what he came for. Answers.
³I am afraid I cannot let you go this time, princess. You owe me answers.²
³I do not owe you anything but the pleasure of being a guest in my father¹s realm.²
Pulling on her arm, he forced her to look at him.
³No, answers, that is all I want, Meril. I need answers. Do not walk from me now. For I will not let you.²
The thought of arguing back crossed her mind, instead, she gave in, her features softening.
³You¹re right. It is time for me to tell. If not you, them whom? Who else would ever listen to me, if not you, prince of Mirkwood?²
Legolas led her over to the fountain, she sat down, and he lowered himself next to her. Meril dipped her fingers into the smooth sheet of water, causing disturbing ripples to form. Legolas watched with dry enthusiasm.
³I bound myself to someone...²Meril began. ³I bound myself to a mortal. My father always kept me within the security and safety of his realm. I was never allowed to step out.²
Her story began to sound familiar to Legolas. He felt connected with her in a way. His eyes met her, encouraging her to continue.
³I grew curious with each awakening day. So I stepped out of my father¹s security one night. Explored all I could, and upon my way back home, I ran into Raphayelle......The most beautiful being I¹d ever seen in my life. I wanted to spend all eternity with him, but, you see, he is a mortal, not an elf. And to seal our promise, I bound myself to him. I snuck out to be with him every night. He promised me his love for all eternity, and father would never allow such a thing....so......we decided to meet.....in...² Her voice drifted off, her eyes grew moist.
³In Hollin.² Legolas finished for her.
Meril nodded. ³Yes....in Hollin.....My best friend and servant, Falasiel went with me....And when we met him, he somehow seemed strange. He no longer was himself....He took my immortality as streangth....I had no idea....Then, he sent an army of orcs after us. Falasiel urged me to run, and I ran, I ran as fast as I could with her by my side.....Then....she was gone, I went to go after her, but she would not allow it.....I faltered....I tried to stay and fight, not abiding her words...And due to my foolishness, I was caught and they......²
A bitter sob emerged from her, she covered her face in shame. Legolas placed a comforting hand upon her throbbing shoulder.
³They took her from me...my Falasiel......they killed her...........I live with shame and guilt for all immortality.....I know now why my father warned me day after day.....and yet....I was too stubborn to listen and lost my dearest friend, and a love I thought were true.....²
Legolas sat there in silence, trying to sort out words to say. Somehow, his hand managed to find hers, curling his fingers around hers. Meril looked up at him, a tear slipping out of her eye.
³All will be alright. I promise.² Was all he was able to say. His words bore little comfort, yet, she took it in.
³I thank thee, Legolas.²
³Do not thank me. I understand now, you do not need to tell me more in detail, for your heart seems to tear at re-living such memories....We should head on back. May I escort you back to your chambers?²
Meril rose to her feet, smiling. ³Of course, I¹d certainly accept such an offer.²
************
Meril laughed out loud. ³Oh my! Never in my life had I thought that a dwarf and an elf could be such dear friends!²
She stopped in her tracks, bringing Legolas to an abrupt halt, as she took hold of his arm. ³Say, I would like to meet this dwarf, Gimli, you say?²
Legolas nodded his head. ³Yes!² Meril stated excitedly. ³I would like to meet Gimli! And the hobbits! I want to see the world, Legolas! I want to lay eyes upone what you already have laid yours on! When you go on another journey, I beg thee take me with thee!²
Legolas laughed, clasping his free hand onto hers, which held onto the sleeve of his tunic. ³My princess, such desires that fill your heart. I¹m sure I could talk to Elrond about it. I¹ll have you see the ocean for the first time. Feel the sea¹s breeze. Mountains, distant forests. And even hobbits. ³ Legolas added with a grin. ³I¹ll have you see it all.²
³I cannot wait!²
They came to Meril¹s chambers. She began to turn the knob, but then decided to turn around and lean against the door instead. Legolas remained standing before her. Meril shyly smiled at him, her hand still fidgeting with the knob behind her back.
³I thank thee, Legolas. Thank you for lending your ears to me this night. It had lifted a heavy burden from my soul.²
³I am glad I was of help. And I¹m glad that now I finally know, and understand. I hope that your health does not get any worse. Instead, I pray it gets better.²
³Do not worry for me prince. I am fine, after being with you.² Meril felt her cheeks grow hot. She was sure her face showed it too. Crimson circles bloomed on her cheecks.
Legolas studied her, and for the first time that night noticed how tight her white gown clung to her body in certain places. He drank in the sight before him. Her well rounded curves, her slender figure.
He quickly tore his eyes from her body, feeling himself turn red. He scratched the back of his head, nervously.
³Well, I will bid you good night now. I myself will try to get some rest.²
³Maybe....when father hosts another dance, I will be present, and I shall have a dance with you. Hopefully a more pleasant one than last time....Oh! And I beg you, do not tell my father of my being in the garden at this time!²
She laughed, opened the door and stepped into her room. Legolas remained in place, smiling at her. ³Goodnight my prince.²
The oak door shut behind her.
³Good night.²
His heart seemed to leap, as if it had wings. He was overcome with some strange stirring sensation in his stomach. She seemed to enchant him with each of her movements. Every word she wove together on her tongue was silver magic. He felt himself fall for her.
Finally he could sleep tonight, for now he knew. He had his answers.
Legolas sucked in a deep breath of air, then made his way to his own chambers.
| |Top of Form [pic][pic][pic][pic][pic] Bottom of Form