A/N Ami: Hello chikas!!! Wow...another chap! What fun! Again we apologize
for da time, but hey...I hope it's worth the wait! We love you guys! And
your reviews mean a lot to us! So keep them up! Thanx bunches! And enjoy!!!
A/N Dani: Hey everyone! here's another chap! enjoy! and please remember to review! we love to hear what you guys have to say! :D
Chapter 4
Betrothed, And Annoyed
Legolas stood at his balcony and breathed in the crisp fall air. His eyes scanned the kingdom of Mirkwood and saw all the browns, reds, and gold's that were appearing because of fall. The sun was shining brightly which caused the morning dew to sparkle like crystals.
"What a lovely day for archery." Legolas smiled to himself as he picked up his bow. Before he left the balcony, he leaned over the railing a bit more and scanned the palace grounds.
'I wonder where Nurruthien is.........' Legolas thought as he stared towards the gardens. Sure enough, Nurruthien was sitting by a large oak tree reading a book. A few months had passed and Nurruthien seemed to have accepted her father's wishes to not see Adulomeiel. However, she just barely spoke to her father unless she had to, there were still feelings of resentment between Nurruthien and Haeedhelion. Legolas had been trying to make Nurruthien's days better. Legolas often took her on hikes and let her watch his archery practice. Morbrethelion had problems with her at first but he learned that the prince would have his way, which was to keep Nurruthien by his side whenever he wished it. Dimmacilion of course didn't mind Nurruthien at all. He felt sorry for her as well.
Legolas was about to run out of his chambers when the door opened and his father walked in. Legolas stepped back with eyes wide in shock, wondering what Thranduil was doing. Legolas bowed slightly in reverence to his father.
"Hello, atar. How are you this morning? What brings you here?" Thranduil smiled at his son.
"Sit down, Legolas. I must speak of something with you."
Nothing knowing what his father had to say, Legolas sat down gingerly on a chaise lounge and looked up at his father.
"I've waited a very long time to tell you this, Legolas. But now I feel that you are old enough to know and understand fully what I am about to say." Thranduil sat down across from Legolas in a velvet armchair. Legolas shifted his position a bit and put down his bow. He was completely confused and a little anxious to know what his father had to say.
Thranduil sighed and slowly began to speak again. "Legolas, I'm glad to see that you and Nurruthien have been becoming a little closer than you used to be. It warms my heart and her fathers. I wish to tell you now, my son, that you and Nurruthien are betrothed. She is to be your wife, mother of your children, and queen of Mirkwood someday."
Legolas sat back with eyes wide open to try and let everything his father just said sink in. It hit him like a ton of bricks.
"N-Nurruthien is to be my WIFE? The MOTHER of my children?....." Legolas said more to himself than to his father.
Thranduil tried to stifle his smile as he watched his bewildered son. "Why are you so upset, Legolas? You're mother and I were betrothed and we loved each other very much. Besides, I see how you look at Nurruthien.........you have a strong feelings for her, deep in your heart."
Legolas looked up at his father and relaxed a little. "Yes.........yes I do have strong feelings for her. It's just that this news took me by surprise. I suppose it won't be so bad.........we are friends. Does she know?" Legolas looked his father in the eye.
"She will soon.........Haeedhelion is supposed to be telling her right this very moment. We thought it better that we approached you separately. You should see Nurruthien sometime during the day, see how she feels." Thranduil stood up and started towards the door. Before he opened the door, Thranduil turned back to Legolas.
"You will be king someday, Legolas, when I leave Middle-Earth. You need a wife by your side to make life easier and to give Mirkwood an heir to the throne. I know you and Nurruthien will be happy."
Legolas stood and walked up to his father. "I only hope that I can live up to your expectations father.........it will be hard to replace you."
Thranduil smiled and placed a comforting hand on Legolas' shoulder. Then, Thranduil turned and left Legolas' chambers. Turning quickly, Legolas ran back to his balcony where he gazed down at Nurruthien in the rose garden.
~*~*~*~
Nurruthien sat by her favorite tree in the rose garden reading. Her long hair ran down past her waist these days and when she sat it billowed all around her. Nurruthien's pale bronze dress brought out the whiteness in her hair even more. Some time had passed since the heartbreaking events of losing Rinwingiel and having to cease her friendship with Adulomeiel. However, at times of joy, Nurruthien could feel Adulomeiel at Almare. Nurruthien often stood at her balcony from her bedroom, staring towards Almare, and shared in the joy that Adulomeiel was feeling. In the beginning, Adulomeiel rarely visited Almare because of her grief but as time went on, she began going more and more. It was the only way the two girls could connect.
Nurruthien was so into her reading that she didn't hear the slight footsteps coming towards her. Nurruthien peeked up when she saw a tall figure coming towards her out of the corner of her eye.
"Hello, Lady Nurruthien." Morbrethelion merely sneered. He didn't even try to smile at her.
Nurruthien looked up at him with a hint of confusion in her face. "Hello Morbrethelion.........what brings you to the garden?"
"Why.........to see you of course." He inched towards her. Morbrethelion felt a sense of power over her, he could see in her eyes that she was confused and unaware of what he was capable of.
"Well, is there any reason you came to see me?" Nurruthien shut her book slowly but didn't move an inch. She didn't trust Morbrethelion. Basically because she got a bad feeling by the way he looked at her and sneered all the time. His dark brown hair hung loosely on his shoulders and she could see his bow attached to his quiver on his back. Haeedhelion always told Nurruthien to never show fear if she had any.........but Nurruthien didn't quite know how.
"I came to gaze upon your beauty.........try to see what Legolas sees." Just the way Morbrethelion looked her up and down almost brought a shiver to go down her spine. Nurruthien tried with all her might to be strong but it was hard. His piercing gaze was bothering her and she was about to get up and excuse herself when she heard another set of footsteps.
"Hello amin hini........." Haeedhelion greeted his daughter and Morbrethelion. Morbrethelion seemed caught off guard and bowed slightly to Haeedhelion.
"I was merely speaking to the lady, my lord. I'm on my way to the archery targets." Morbrethelion glanced sideways at Nurruthien. Haeedhelion smiled and placed a hand on Morbrethelion's shoulder.
"Tis good to see a young warrior training so hard. Go on then, Morbrethelion.........you will serve a great purpose in Mirkwood one day."
Morbrethelion smiled but to Nurruthien it looked more like a wince at the touch of Haeedhelion's hand. Morbrethelion bowed to Nurruthien and went on his way. But not before he glanced at Nurruthien one more time.........taking her in, measuring her up for something.
"Ah, hello my daughter. How are you this day?" Haeedhelion said almost timidly, for there was still tension between him and his daughter.
Nurruthien looked up at him and tried to blink away her confusion and almost fear of Morbrethelion. "Hello, atar. I am fine."
"I must speak with you my dearest, will you come sit with me by the fountain?" Haeedhelion offered his hand to Nurruthien. Nurruthien looked at her father's face and then his hand. She placed her hand in his and slowly arose alongside him. They walked over to the elaborate fountain that was placed in the middle of all the gardens. Nurruthien sat down on the edge of it and looked into the crystal clear water that flowed.
Haeedhelion sat also and looked around him and then at his daughter. "This is where I asked for your mother's hand in marriage, Nurruthien. She loved the gardens and this fountain especially. You remind me so much of her." Haeedhelion sighed heavily as he thought of his deceased wife. Nurruthien looked down because she always felt like she caused her father much grief because of how much she looked like her mother. Haeedhelion smiled slightly and took Nurruthien's hand.
"I've come to speak to you today of something very important, mela........." Haeedhelion looked into Nurruthien's eyes and seemed to search for what he would say next.
"Mela.........there is no other way to say this except to say that you are betrothed to prince Legolas." Nurruthien just stared at her father and for a moment she wasn't sure if she was dreaming or not. Haeedhelion touched her cheek slightly.
"Mela? I know this must be shocking but certainly it can't be that bad. You and the prince have become great friends, I and mostly everyone else in the palace can see that."
Nurruthien looked down into the flowing water and thought deeply about what her father just said.
"I am to be queen of Mirkwood? Wife to Legolas and the mother of his children?........." Nurruthien whispered.
"Yes, mela. It had always been this way. You were promised to the prince since the day you were born."
Nurruthien turned her head sharply and stared at her father. "But what if I don't want to marry Legolas?! Don't I have any choice in the matter? You just promised me to him like I'm some sort of prize or reward!" Nurruthien was slightly angry and very upset, and Haeedhelion could see it.
Haeedhelion sighed and looked down. "Mela, I did not know this would upset you so much. No, I did not promise you to him like you were some sort of prize. You two were promised to each other.........Thranduil has spoken to Legolas of this matter as well this morning. Perhaps later, you and Legolas could speak about it together."
Haeedhelion stood up and slowly walked away, but not before he slightly touched Nurruthien's face. Nurruthien walked him walk away and then turned towards the tall walls of the palace perimeter. In the distance she could still see the outline of the part of the wall where she so often sneaked to Almare from. But now it was patched up and ivy was growing over it. Nurruthien sighed and looked up towards the sky.
"I wish I could see you, Adul........."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Firaglarion let out his contentment with a sigh as he sat down in his rocking seat.
He had just returned from a hunt with his beloved daughter, and now his body seemed to ache.
He looked over at his daughter, who was busy preparing a meal for her tired father, and smiled. Her long, dark hair was down a little past her waist in their abundance of silky curls, with only a portion of it pulled back from her fair face. Though her hair was much like her mothers and a few curls released themselves from the hold and hung in her face, as Rinwingiel's had often done.
Adulomeiel straightened herself and sighed in frustration as she pushed some of the curls out of her face.
"We are out of many things. I have had no time for the market." She said as she moved to the cabinet.
"Then you may go now. It will not kill me to wait an hour longer to eat. Anyhow, I feel I need to rest before even attempting to stand." He replied with a smile.
Adulomeiel turned with a smile of her own.
She nodded and picked up the same basket her mother used to carry to the market.
She walked over to her father to plant a small kiss onto his cheek.
"I enjoyed the hunt immensely atar. As always."
"And I have enjoyed it as well, but I daresay Adul...you sure do know how to wear an Elf out!" He said with a chuckle.
Adulomeiel laughed.
"Aye...but apparently not all Elves." She replied dryly.
"Ah...you speak of Telpedur." Her father said with an amused smile.
"Tis not funny Atar! I swear he refuses to understand of how much I detest him! I insult him, he laughs...I insult him worse, he laughs harder! It is all the same! I feel I shall never be rid of him." She said in annoyance as she slumped down on the chair that sat before her father.
Firaglarion laughed.
"Aye, he is quite smitten with you, but fear not. For if worse comes to worse, I shall run him off with my bow. Though I believe I have taught you well enough for you to do that on your own."
Adulomeiel laughed.
"Aye, you have."
"But someday will come, my dear daughter, where you will marry your prince, and move into the palace where you belong." Adulomeiel smiled at her sweet father.
"Aye...someday atar, but for now I am quite content with being here with you. And taking care of you. And hunting. I wish for nothing more..." She stood and began to walk to the door, but before she exited it, she turned back to her father once more. "...Except...to see my dearest friend again."
Her father smiled.
"Namarie atar."
And with that she turned and left the little hut.
When she reached the bottom of the rope ladder, she began to sing as she walked along the dusty road she and her father took to the village.
She entered the small village full of life, with a smile on her face. She loved the little village. It has always been filled of merry Elves, young and old.
She walked briskly along. Her home sewn, autumn coloured dress bristled around her feet as she walked.
She smiled kindly and nodded to the Elves that greeted her as she passed.
"Vedui' Dimmundo!" Adulomeiel greeted the tall Elf merchant.
Dimmundo smiled kindly at her from behind his booth.
"Vedui' Adulomeiel! Havn't seen you all fall." Adulomeiel smiled as she placed her basket on the counter.
"Yes well, I haven't had much time to come see you old friend. For that I am sorry."
Dimmundo laughed.
"You have the charm of your mother. And since you traveled with her on all her trips to the market, I am sure you know how to get what you want from me. Well, no need to barter. I am sure your father is waiting for his evening meal, and you are in a hurry. I shall get what you need now. And you may pay me later."
Adulomeiel smiled.
"I was hoping for that. Thank you."
"Adulomeiel!"
Adulomeiel turned at the sound of her name.
Her smile widened as she saw her two village friends.
"Annunlossiel! Alklindeiel! Hallo!" She greeted with a wave as the two blonde Elf maidens ran to her.
Annunlossiel and Alkindeiel were two of the village girls who befriended Adulomeiel after her mother's death. They were sisters, and looked every bit like it. She wasn't nearly as close to them as she was with Nurruthien...and Adulomeiel knew that they never would be.
"We have not seen you in the village much this time of year Adul...tell me, how does your father fair?" Alkindeiel asked in her sweet little voice. Alkindeiel was a small nervous she-Elf. She was the little one of the two, and was easily overpowered by her big sister.
"My father is well. He is at home waiting for me to return and fix his dinner."
"Aye, then we shall not keep you. Twas wonderful to see you again my dear Adul." Annunlossiel smiled as she hugged her.
"Aye, do not stay away long again. We miss seeing you in these parts." Alkindeiel chimed in.
"I am sorry for my absence dear friends, but you are welcome to come out to our flet any time you wish." She smiled and the other girls did as well.
"Namaarie."
"Namaarie Adul!" Both girls turned and walked away.
Adulomeiel turned back to her order and Dimmundo went into the back to retrieve all she had asked for.
"Adulomeiel...your beauty shines brightly this day, my lady."
Adulomeiel froze. If it had been any other voice, she would have turned and greeted the Elf with a smile. But no, she knew this voice well.
"Vedui' Telpedur." She said dryly without turning.
A red crimson rose appeared before her vision.
She sighed and turned to the figure who held it out to her.
"I picked this for you my lady." He said, still holding it out to her.
Adulomeiel only stared at him.
"I am sorry, but I cannot take it." She said as she turned back around.
"Adul...why doest thou hate me?" Telpedur asked as he lowered the rose with a scowl.
"I do not hate you Telpedur...I detest you. There is a difference, I am sure." She answered as she began to put the things, that Dimmundo was placing on the counter, into her basket.
"But why do you detest me? I have given you no reason too!" He persisted as he tried to get her to look at him.
Adulomeiel sighed as she turned to walk away from him.
"Adulomeiel, why do you ignore me?"
Adulomeiel rolled her eyes when she realized he was following her.
Telpedur narrowed his eyes when she didn't answer him. He moved around swiftly in front and stopped short right before her.
Adulomeiel ran into him, spilling some valuable things out of her basket.
"You ass! If any of these goods are damaged, you will be sure to pay for them!" She yelled as she fell to her knees to place them gently back into her basket.
Telpedur sighed and crossed his arms.
Adulomeiel stood and pushed by him.
"I am going to follow you every where you go until you talk to me." He persisted as he began to follow her once more.
At this Adulomeiel began to run. She would let her father deal with this pathetic excuse for an Elf warrior. As so he called himself. But Adulomeiel believed he always did get away to freely with his insolence.
Adulomeiel quickened her running pace when she heard Telpedur running after her.
She got to the clearing of their tree house right as Telpedur caught up to her.
He grabbed her arm and spun her around.
The basket flew from her arm and she spun round into a tree.
When Telpedur looked at her, he saw the fire flash in her piercing green eyes.
"How dare you sir!" She yelled.
"Oh I dare my lady." Telpedur answered as he stepped closer to her.
"Adul...cannot you see that I am in love with you?" He said as he placed his hands on either side of her, trapping her against the tree.
She quickly ducked from his lips, which tried desperately to kiss her, and under his arm.
"And cannot you see Telpedur, that I do not return your love? This is not love coming from you...tis madness!"
Telpedur sighed.
"Why can't you return it? Just give me one chance Adul, You will not regret it."
"Aye, but I will. I cannot force myself to be with someone I do not love. Someday...my prince will come." She said more to herself as she knelt to place the goods back into her basket.
"But Adul..." Telpedur took a step towards her, but was cut off by a sudden ZING and a flash of silver.
He quickly turned to see a silver arrow still shuddering from its forceful impact into the tree, centimeters from his head.
He looked up to see Firaglarion standing on the platform outside their flet.
Firaglarion scowled at the young Elf, and planted his longbow beside him with his other hand on his hip.
Telpedur looked back at the arrow and marveled at how good her father was. He nearly nicked him. If it was meant to scare him off...it didn't work.
"I say, great shot sir! That was brilliant! It was so close I felt the wind of it! Again I say...great shot!" He beamed as he pulled the arrow from the tree.
"What are you talking about?..." Adulomeiel said dryly as she stood and walked over to Telpedur.
"...He missed." She said as she yanked the arrow from his hand and turned towards the flet.
Firaglarion stood his ground until his daughter was safely up the ladder and in the flet.
Then he turned and entered after her.
Adulomeiel sighed as she placed the basket onto the table.
She mumbled a curse on Telpedur and his stupidity as she began to check them for any damages.
She turned when she felt her father's eyes. She smiled at him.
"Are you well Mela?" He asked with concern in his deep blue eyes.
"Aye atar...you came just in time! And for that, I thank thee." She said as she walked over to him and planted a kiss on his cheek.
He smiled down at her.
"I told you I would chase him off with my bow, did I not? I could hear you two coming a mile away, so I had it ready."
Adulomeiel laughed at her father.
"Your archery skills have proven themselves once again, though it is a pity you missed the target." She said dryly as she set herself busy with preparing their dinner.
Firaglarion chuckled.
"Nay mela, as much as you may wish it, I could not kill him."
"I do not wish him dead atar! Only gone. I cannot stand him any longer! This is the farthest he has gone. Who knows how much farther he will go to get what he wants." Adulomeiel argued as she cut up roots with the same paring knife her mother used for that purpose.
Firaglarion's smile faded at these words.
"He shall go no farther! Not with my daughter. I would be dead before I let that happen. Worry not my daughter...Telpedur will come near you no longer. Not so long as I am here...I have my bow to back me up on that one!" He placed a hand on her shoulder and she placed hers upon his with a warm smile.
Firaglarion pulled on one of her curls teasingly before turning to his chair.
He sat down with a satisfied sigh and pulled out a book.
~*~
Right outside their flet, an eager ear listened in.
Telpedur let out an angry sigh as he jumped down silently and began to run back to the village.
"If that is the way you want it Firaglarion, then that is the way you shall have it. For Adulomeiel WILL be mine...and I have MY bow to back me up on that." Telpedur laughed as he ran, letting his mind play over and over what his dark heart desired. And letting it drive him into the brink of evil madness.
~~~~~~~
Legolas strung an arrow onto his bow and looked on at his target. Narrowing his eyes ever so slightly to aim as he pulled back on the string and touched his cheek with his hand. Legolas took a deep breath and let go of the arrow. He watched it wiz through the air and go right into a tree, completely missing and alarming the deer he was aiming for. Legolas sighed as the deer sprinted away.
"Legolas, my friend, that's the third time today you've missed a target." Dimmacilion moved through the brush as if it weren't even there. He placed a hand on Legolas' shoulder.
"Are you all right? Your mind is preoccupied with something other than hunting." Dimmacilion stared at the distressed Legolas.
"Yes, Dimmacilion. My mind is preoccupied with something. I thought that hunting would ease me.........but I fear it has only made me worse." Stepping out into the clearing, Legolas walked up to the tree and pulled his arrow out. Staring at the arrowhead, Legolas thought deeply of what was bothering him. Dimmacilion walked into the clearing as well and tilted his head, patiently waiting for his friend to speak.
"My father gave me a bit of news today." Legolas started as he sat on a rock. Dimmacilion also sat and listened intently to Legolas.
Legolas twirled the arrow in his hands and stared at the ground. He was having great difficulty speaking his mind, which was strange for this elf.
"What did he tell you?" Dimmacilion tried to egg Legolas on. Legolas looked up at Dimmacilion and looked almost shocked that Dimmacilion spoke. Legolas swallowed and rubbed his temple.
"Nurruthien and I are betrothed. We are to be wed before my father leaves for the havens."
Dimmacilion sat back in shock and wonderment, not really knowing what to say. Legolas wasn't the type of elf to have immense feelings for the female kind. Legolas was just too involved and preoccupied with his training, he wanted to be a warrior and nothing else. Legolas stood up all of a sudden and started pacing.
"It's bad enough that I have to eventually be king.........but now I must wed? I did not know that I had to marry! I do not wish it! Even if I did want to marry, shouldn't it be someone I fall in love with?" Legolas practically shrieked. Dimmacilion stood up quickly and stopped Legolas from pacing. It un-nerved Dimmacilion to see Legolas this way, for it wasn't like Legolas to lose control of himself.
"Legolas, I know how you feel about such things as love and being king. However, it is your birthright to be king, you cannot avoid that. It is your duty.........your destiny."
Legolas stared right into Dimmacilion's eyes, "But is it my destiny to marry Nurruthien? Don't misunderstand me, my friend. I do care for her, she is my friend.........but I never had any intention on marrying her nor anyone else! I only wish to be a warrior and go on quests."
"You can still be that warrior, Legolas. However, if there is no one to rule Mirkwood while you are gone, then you cannot be that warrior. Don't you see? It is better if you wed. Besides, like you said, you and Nurruthien are friends. Right now, you are the only person she is really close to after all that has happened. Accept it and think how she is feeling right now. Have you spoken to her at all this day?"
Legolas shook his head silently, contemplating all that Dimmacilion had said.
"Perhaps then you should see her, maybe it will put your mind at ease." Dimmacilion smiled at Legolas. Legolas slowly smiled towards his friend.
"Thank you, Dimmacilion. Where would I be if it weren't for you?"
"Surely you would be insane by now. Namaarie, Legolas."
"Namaarie!" Legolas said as he walked away from the clearing and towards the palace. Legolas was unaware that Morbrethelion had been lurking in the brush listening to the conversation. Morbrethelion stepped into the clearing where Dimmacilion was gathering his bow and quiver.
"Morbrethelion, where have you been?" Dimmacilion asked as he looked on at Morbrethelion.
Morbrethelion's smile looked more like a sneer as he said, "Oh, just walking through the woods. I overheard your conversation, is it true that the prince is betrothed to Lady Nurruthien?"
Dimmacilion basically frowned but nodded his head slowly. "Yes, 'tis true."
"How very interesting........." Morbrethelion sneered again as he left the clearing with Dimmacilion on his heel.
~*~
Nurruthien lay at the end of her bed, her endless, platinum hair draped over the bed and onto the floor. After what her father told her, Nurruthien went to her chambers and decided to lay down. She had been staring into space for hours now and didn't seem to care. A soft knock on her door disturbed the silence in her chambers.
Nurruthien lifted her head merely to say, "Come in." She placed her head back on the bed and seemly ignored whoever entered her bed chamber.
"Have you been napping all day, Nurruthien?"
Nurruthien stirred and sat up at the familiar voice.
"Legolas.........I-, uhm, what are you doing here?" Nurruthien looked confused as she stuttered and tried to think of a reason why she had been in her bed chamber all day. Legolas smiled at her, he was amused at how she faltered at his presence. Nurruthien stared at him, Legolas had gone to his chambers after his hunt. Legolas had washed and changed into his evening attire, a light gold tunic and grey leggings.
"I've come to escort you to the dining halls." Legolas moved closer to Nurruthien.
Nurruthien's brow furried in even more confusion. "But, Legolas.........dinner isn't for another two hours at least. You know that."
Legolas looked down at his feet as he often did when he knew he was caught. "Yes, I know. I've come to speak with you, my friend. May I sit?" Legolas motioned towards the spot next to Nurruthien on the bed. Nurruthien merely nodded her head, allowing him to sit.
"I suppose your father has spoken to you as well." Nurruthien said as she watched him sit next to her and place his hands on his knees.
"Yes, he has. It has been on my mind all day and I'm sorry I did not come to you earlier." Legolas looked very distraught as he stared at her floor. Legolas stirred as he felt Nurruthien's warm hand cover his hand.
"'Tis quite all right. It has been on my mind all day as well." Legolas looked up and into her eyes. Legolas didn't see any anger or sadness in her eyes, but an anxiousness for the future. He stared into them and basically everything he wanted to say to her was swept away. After all, they were good friends.
"What was it that you wanted to say to me?" Nurruthien said softly to him, as she realized the future wouldn't be so bad for her. She wasn't angry at Legolas, she was angry at her father.
"Oh, uh, I just want to make sure that you're all right with.........our betrothment." Nurruthien smiled at how sweet Legolas was trying to be.
"I'm fine with it if you are. Though I will admit I am a little scared." Nurruthien said softly. Legolas squeezed her hand ever so slightly.
"I am too. But, we'll do it together." Legolas smiled and stood up. He bent over and kissed her forehead lightly. Despite what he had said earlier to Dimmacilion, Legolas felt extremely different now with Nurruthien. Legolas didn't know what was happening to him, Nurruthien made him lose control of himself and made his knees weak. Legolas liked the feeling though, he knew that great things were going to happen to him and Nurruthien.
"Go now, I must get ready for dinner. Will you return for me?" Nurruthien looked up at Legolas and smiled.
Legolas bowed his head, "Of course. Namaarie." Legolas turned and walked out of Nurruthien's chambers with a grin that spread from ear to ear plastered on his face.
Nurruthien sat up and went over to her writing table. She lifted up a chain from under her dress that held a tiny, gold key around her neck. Nurruthien took the key and unlocked one of the draws in the table. She dug around for a few moments until she lifted up a piece of paper that was half written on. Nurruthien sat and continued writing her letter that she had begun earlier in the day. This letter was one of many that were apart of the correspondence between Nurruthien and Adulomeiel. In this letter, Nurruthien was writing all her feelings about the news of her betrothment. Very quickly, before Maltadolwen came in to help her get ready for dinner, Nurruthien signed her name, rolled the letter up and sealed it with candle wax.
Nurruthien carried the letter up to a cage on her balcony where a bird the size of a falcon was resting. It's feathers were the color of gold and it's tail ran down to the bottom of the cage like the long hair of Nurruthien. Nurruthien opened the door to the cage and tied the tiny scroll onto the foot of the bird. Taking the bird onto her forearm, Nurruthien walked to the edge of her balcony.
"Carry this with care, my friend." Nurruthien pet the bird and then released it into the air. Nurruthien watched as the evening sun made her pet's wings glisten and thought of Adulomeiel.
~~~~~~~~~~
Adulomeiel hummed softly to herself as she washed the dinner dishes.
Her father sat in his chair adding a stronger string to his bow.
Adulomeiel had just finished and went to place the last dish in its rightful place, when she felt a stirring in her heart.
She gasped and almost dropped the dish, but caught it and quickly placed it in the cupboard.
"What is it mela?" She heard her father's voice, full of concern.
Adulomeiel turned to him with a smile. He saw she held her hand to her heart.
"Oh Atar! Tis Nurruthien! I can feel her!" She ran to the other side of the room to place her soft shoes onto her feet.
"Nay mela, you cannot go out when it is dark...you know this." Firaglarion stood from his seat.
"But atar I must! Tis Nurruthien! I must go to her! Besides...I know these woods like the back of my own hand! I shall not get lost...not even in the dark." She draped her long shawl over her slender shoulders and stopped in front of her father.
"Tis not the darkness I fear mela." He said as he placed his hands on her shoulders.
Adulomeiel sighed.
"If I bring one of my knives...will you let me go?" Firalgarion couldn't help the smile that formed on his lips.
He knew he could not keep his daughter from her friend.
"Aye..." He finally sighed out.
"...But you must promise me to be careful...and take a lantern." Adulomeiel smiled and hugged her father tightly.
"Thank you Atar!" She quickly grabbed one of her long Elvish knives that her father had spent months making for one of her earlier birthdays, and placed it in a sheath. She placed the sheaths strap around her shoulder and draped her shawl back over as to cover it.
She grabbed a lit lantern and kissed her father's cheek.
"I shall not be gone long atar. Do not feel the need to wait up for me."
"Aye, but I will...so long as you are out there." Firaglarion waved to his daughter as she climbed down the ladder and took off into the woods.
He sighed as he watched the light of her little lantern flicker from his sight, and he prayed to the valar that she'd be safe in these darkening times.
~*~
Adulomeiel ran with her long shawl flapping behind her to the one place she could feel her friend's presence.
Almare.
She felt her pulse quicken and the excitement almost overwhelmed her as she burst into the beloved clearing.
But she saw her friend nowhere.
"Nurru?" She called, but no answer came.
"Nurru!" She yelled again.
She heard a squawk behind her and turned with her lantern raised only to see the bird she had grown so familiar with.
"Oh...tis only you Telephen. I thought it was Nurru." She walked over to the beautiful bird and sat on the living log beside it.
Telephen squawked again and pecked at his foot.
Adulomeiel saw a scroll tied to his foot and reached over to untie it.
"For such a pretty bird Telephen, your music gives you no justice." She released the bird of his burden and patted his head lightly. Still he did not leave, and Adulomeiel knew he was to stay until she had finished reading it.
She lifted the lantern and gently unrolled the fine, silver paper that had been sealed by her dear friend's ring.
She adjusted the lantern one last time before she began to read.
'My dearest Adul,
Many suns have come and gone since we last met. I miss you terribly and wait impatiently for the day we shall see each other once again.
My heart yearns to be with you daily as we once were. I hope you and your atar are fairing well. At least a lot better then I am with mine. But that is not the purpose of this letter.
I am writing you to tell of some rather unexpected news.
My atar came to me this morning and informed me that I am betrothed to the prince Legolas, and always have been.
I was angry. I am not given the chance to choose for myself on who I am to marry.
Legolas is a dear friend...do I really want to lose that? Yet another part of me rejoices! Aye tis true when I see him, my heart flutters and my knees weaken.........what elf-maiden wouldn't melt at the sight of the prince?! But can I truly fit the picture of the perfect bride for the perfect prince, who is to rule a perfect kingdom? I miss you Adul, I miss your council and your comforting presence. I feel my future with Legolas will not be vain, but I still cannot pass this feeling of loss. I lost my right to choose. Am I being selfish? Legolas has lost his right as well! Yet as I saw him this evening, he seemed rather pleased with the idea at the end. Maybe it will not be as bad as I thought. Only time can tell...and destiny rule. Oh, I must go, for I must prepare for feasting at the halls. I love you, my dear friend. And until we shall see each other again, you will remain dear to me. As I am sure I will to you. Namaarie Adul.
~Nurruthien'
Adulomeiel lowered the paper and wiped at her tears. She was happy for Nurruthien. And knew her and the prince would be well together, but she couldn't help but feel a longing inside of her.
She shook it from herself and smiled. She knew Nurruthien could feel her presence, and feelings as she sat in the enchanted spot.
"I wish you all the best Nurru...And do not fear, Legolas loves you, I am sure. Until we meet again." She stood and patted the bird one last time before he took off into the trees.
She smiled and picked up her lantern, letting out a sigh as she began her long walk home, to her dear father.
A/N Dani: Hey everyone! here's another chap! enjoy! and please remember to review! we love to hear what you guys have to say! :D
Chapter 4
Betrothed, And Annoyed
Legolas stood at his balcony and breathed in the crisp fall air. His eyes scanned the kingdom of Mirkwood and saw all the browns, reds, and gold's that were appearing because of fall. The sun was shining brightly which caused the morning dew to sparkle like crystals.
"What a lovely day for archery." Legolas smiled to himself as he picked up his bow. Before he left the balcony, he leaned over the railing a bit more and scanned the palace grounds.
'I wonder where Nurruthien is.........' Legolas thought as he stared towards the gardens. Sure enough, Nurruthien was sitting by a large oak tree reading a book. A few months had passed and Nurruthien seemed to have accepted her father's wishes to not see Adulomeiel. However, she just barely spoke to her father unless she had to, there were still feelings of resentment between Nurruthien and Haeedhelion. Legolas had been trying to make Nurruthien's days better. Legolas often took her on hikes and let her watch his archery practice. Morbrethelion had problems with her at first but he learned that the prince would have his way, which was to keep Nurruthien by his side whenever he wished it. Dimmacilion of course didn't mind Nurruthien at all. He felt sorry for her as well.
Legolas was about to run out of his chambers when the door opened and his father walked in. Legolas stepped back with eyes wide in shock, wondering what Thranduil was doing. Legolas bowed slightly in reverence to his father.
"Hello, atar. How are you this morning? What brings you here?" Thranduil smiled at his son.
"Sit down, Legolas. I must speak of something with you."
Nothing knowing what his father had to say, Legolas sat down gingerly on a chaise lounge and looked up at his father.
"I've waited a very long time to tell you this, Legolas. But now I feel that you are old enough to know and understand fully what I am about to say." Thranduil sat down across from Legolas in a velvet armchair. Legolas shifted his position a bit and put down his bow. He was completely confused and a little anxious to know what his father had to say.
Thranduil sighed and slowly began to speak again. "Legolas, I'm glad to see that you and Nurruthien have been becoming a little closer than you used to be. It warms my heart and her fathers. I wish to tell you now, my son, that you and Nurruthien are betrothed. She is to be your wife, mother of your children, and queen of Mirkwood someday."
Legolas sat back with eyes wide open to try and let everything his father just said sink in. It hit him like a ton of bricks.
"N-Nurruthien is to be my WIFE? The MOTHER of my children?....." Legolas said more to himself than to his father.
Thranduil tried to stifle his smile as he watched his bewildered son. "Why are you so upset, Legolas? You're mother and I were betrothed and we loved each other very much. Besides, I see how you look at Nurruthien.........you have a strong feelings for her, deep in your heart."
Legolas looked up at his father and relaxed a little. "Yes.........yes I do have strong feelings for her. It's just that this news took me by surprise. I suppose it won't be so bad.........we are friends. Does she know?" Legolas looked his father in the eye.
"She will soon.........Haeedhelion is supposed to be telling her right this very moment. We thought it better that we approached you separately. You should see Nurruthien sometime during the day, see how she feels." Thranduil stood up and started towards the door. Before he opened the door, Thranduil turned back to Legolas.
"You will be king someday, Legolas, when I leave Middle-Earth. You need a wife by your side to make life easier and to give Mirkwood an heir to the throne. I know you and Nurruthien will be happy."
Legolas stood and walked up to his father. "I only hope that I can live up to your expectations father.........it will be hard to replace you."
Thranduil smiled and placed a comforting hand on Legolas' shoulder. Then, Thranduil turned and left Legolas' chambers. Turning quickly, Legolas ran back to his balcony where he gazed down at Nurruthien in the rose garden.
~*~*~*~
Nurruthien sat by her favorite tree in the rose garden reading. Her long hair ran down past her waist these days and when she sat it billowed all around her. Nurruthien's pale bronze dress brought out the whiteness in her hair even more. Some time had passed since the heartbreaking events of losing Rinwingiel and having to cease her friendship with Adulomeiel. However, at times of joy, Nurruthien could feel Adulomeiel at Almare. Nurruthien often stood at her balcony from her bedroom, staring towards Almare, and shared in the joy that Adulomeiel was feeling. In the beginning, Adulomeiel rarely visited Almare because of her grief but as time went on, she began going more and more. It was the only way the two girls could connect.
Nurruthien was so into her reading that she didn't hear the slight footsteps coming towards her. Nurruthien peeked up when she saw a tall figure coming towards her out of the corner of her eye.
"Hello, Lady Nurruthien." Morbrethelion merely sneered. He didn't even try to smile at her.
Nurruthien looked up at him with a hint of confusion in her face. "Hello Morbrethelion.........what brings you to the garden?"
"Why.........to see you of course." He inched towards her. Morbrethelion felt a sense of power over her, he could see in her eyes that she was confused and unaware of what he was capable of.
"Well, is there any reason you came to see me?" Nurruthien shut her book slowly but didn't move an inch. She didn't trust Morbrethelion. Basically because she got a bad feeling by the way he looked at her and sneered all the time. His dark brown hair hung loosely on his shoulders and she could see his bow attached to his quiver on his back. Haeedhelion always told Nurruthien to never show fear if she had any.........but Nurruthien didn't quite know how.
"I came to gaze upon your beauty.........try to see what Legolas sees." Just the way Morbrethelion looked her up and down almost brought a shiver to go down her spine. Nurruthien tried with all her might to be strong but it was hard. His piercing gaze was bothering her and she was about to get up and excuse herself when she heard another set of footsteps.
"Hello amin hini........." Haeedhelion greeted his daughter and Morbrethelion. Morbrethelion seemed caught off guard and bowed slightly to Haeedhelion.
"I was merely speaking to the lady, my lord. I'm on my way to the archery targets." Morbrethelion glanced sideways at Nurruthien. Haeedhelion smiled and placed a hand on Morbrethelion's shoulder.
"Tis good to see a young warrior training so hard. Go on then, Morbrethelion.........you will serve a great purpose in Mirkwood one day."
Morbrethelion smiled but to Nurruthien it looked more like a wince at the touch of Haeedhelion's hand. Morbrethelion bowed to Nurruthien and went on his way. But not before he glanced at Nurruthien one more time.........taking her in, measuring her up for something.
"Ah, hello my daughter. How are you this day?" Haeedhelion said almost timidly, for there was still tension between him and his daughter.
Nurruthien looked up at him and tried to blink away her confusion and almost fear of Morbrethelion. "Hello, atar. I am fine."
"I must speak with you my dearest, will you come sit with me by the fountain?" Haeedhelion offered his hand to Nurruthien. Nurruthien looked at her father's face and then his hand. She placed her hand in his and slowly arose alongside him. They walked over to the elaborate fountain that was placed in the middle of all the gardens. Nurruthien sat down on the edge of it and looked into the crystal clear water that flowed.
Haeedhelion sat also and looked around him and then at his daughter. "This is where I asked for your mother's hand in marriage, Nurruthien. She loved the gardens and this fountain especially. You remind me so much of her." Haeedhelion sighed heavily as he thought of his deceased wife. Nurruthien looked down because she always felt like she caused her father much grief because of how much she looked like her mother. Haeedhelion smiled slightly and took Nurruthien's hand.
"I've come to speak to you today of something very important, mela........." Haeedhelion looked into Nurruthien's eyes and seemed to search for what he would say next.
"Mela.........there is no other way to say this except to say that you are betrothed to prince Legolas." Nurruthien just stared at her father and for a moment she wasn't sure if she was dreaming or not. Haeedhelion touched her cheek slightly.
"Mela? I know this must be shocking but certainly it can't be that bad. You and the prince have become great friends, I and mostly everyone else in the palace can see that."
Nurruthien looked down into the flowing water and thought deeply about what her father just said.
"I am to be queen of Mirkwood? Wife to Legolas and the mother of his children?........." Nurruthien whispered.
"Yes, mela. It had always been this way. You were promised to the prince since the day you were born."
Nurruthien turned her head sharply and stared at her father. "But what if I don't want to marry Legolas?! Don't I have any choice in the matter? You just promised me to him like I'm some sort of prize or reward!" Nurruthien was slightly angry and very upset, and Haeedhelion could see it.
Haeedhelion sighed and looked down. "Mela, I did not know this would upset you so much. No, I did not promise you to him like you were some sort of prize. You two were promised to each other.........Thranduil has spoken to Legolas of this matter as well this morning. Perhaps later, you and Legolas could speak about it together."
Haeedhelion stood up and slowly walked away, but not before he slightly touched Nurruthien's face. Nurruthien walked him walk away and then turned towards the tall walls of the palace perimeter. In the distance she could still see the outline of the part of the wall where she so often sneaked to Almare from. But now it was patched up and ivy was growing over it. Nurruthien sighed and looked up towards the sky.
"I wish I could see you, Adul........."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Firaglarion let out his contentment with a sigh as he sat down in his rocking seat.
He had just returned from a hunt with his beloved daughter, and now his body seemed to ache.
He looked over at his daughter, who was busy preparing a meal for her tired father, and smiled. Her long, dark hair was down a little past her waist in their abundance of silky curls, with only a portion of it pulled back from her fair face. Though her hair was much like her mothers and a few curls released themselves from the hold and hung in her face, as Rinwingiel's had often done.
Adulomeiel straightened herself and sighed in frustration as she pushed some of the curls out of her face.
"We are out of many things. I have had no time for the market." She said as she moved to the cabinet.
"Then you may go now. It will not kill me to wait an hour longer to eat. Anyhow, I feel I need to rest before even attempting to stand." He replied with a smile.
Adulomeiel turned with a smile of her own.
She nodded and picked up the same basket her mother used to carry to the market.
She walked over to her father to plant a small kiss onto his cheek.
"I enjoyed the hunt immensely atar. As always."
"And I have enjoyed it as well, but I daresay Adul...you sure do know how to wear an Elf out!" He said with a chuckle.
Adulomeiel laughed.
"Aye...but apparently not all Elves." She replied dryly.
"Ah...you speak of Telpedur." Her father said with an amused smile.
"Tis not funny Atar! I swear he refuses to understand of how much I detest him! I insult him, he laughs...I insult him worse, he laughs harder! It is all the same! I feel I shall never be rid of him." She said in annoyance as she slumped down on the chair that sat before her father.
Firaglarion laughed.
"Aye, he is quite smitten with you, but fear not. For if worse comes to worse, I shall run him off with my bow. Though I believe I have taught you well enough for you to do that on your own."
Adulomeiel laughed.
"Aye, you have."
"But someday will come, my dear daughter, where you will marry your prince, and move into the palace where you belong." Adulomeiel smiled at her sweet father.
"Aye...someday atar, but for now I am quite content with being here with you. And taking care of you. And hunting. I wish for nothing more..." She stood and began to walk to the door, but before she exited it, she turned back to her father once more. "...Except...to see my dearest friend again."
Her father smiled.
"Namarie atar."
And with that she turned and left the little hut.
When she reached the bottom of the rope ladder, she began to sing as she walked along the dusty road she and her father took to the village.
She entered the small village full of life, with a smile on her face. She loved the little village. It has always been filled of merry Elves, young and old.
She walked briskly along. Her home sewn, autumn coloured dress bristled around her feet as she walked.
She smiled kindly and nodded to the Elves that greeted her as she passed.
"Vedui' Dimmundo!" Adulomeiel greeted the tall Elf merchant.
Dimmundo smiled kindly at her from behind his booth.
"Vedui' Adulomeiel! Havn't seen you all fall." Adulomeiel smiled as she placed her basket on the counter.
"Yes well, I haven't had much time to come see you old friend. For that I am sorry."
Dimmundo laughed.
"You have the charm of your mother. And since you traveled with her on all her trips to the market, I am sure you know how to get what you want from me. Well, no need to barter. I am sure your father is waiting for his evening meal, and you are in a hurry. I shall get what you need now. And you may pay me later."
Adulomeiel smiled.
"I was hoping for that. Thank you."
"Adulomeiel!"
Adulomeiel turned at the sound of her name.
Her smile widened as she saw her two village friends.
"Annunlossiel! Alklindeiel! Hallo!" She greeted with a wave as the two blonde Elf maidens ran to her.
Annunlossiel and Alkindeiel were two of the village girls who befriended Adulomeiel after her mother's death. They were sisters, and looked every bit like it. She wasn't nearly as close to them as she was with Nurruthien...and Adulomeiel knew that they never would be.
"We have not seen you in the village much this time of year Adul...tell me, how does your father fair?" Alkindeiel asked in her sweet little voice. Alkindeiel was a small nervous she-Elf. She was the little one of the two, and was easily overpowered by her big sister.
"My father is well. He is at home waiting for me to return and fix his dinner."
"Aye, then we shall not keep you. Twas wonderful to see you again my dear Adul." Annunlossiel smiled as she hugged her.
"Aye, do not stay away long again. We miss seeing you in these parts." Alkindeiel chimed in.
"I am sorry for my absence dear friends, but you are welcome to come out to our flet any time you wish." She smiled and the other girls did as well.
"Namaarie."
"Namaarie Adul!" Both girls turned and walked away.
Adulomeiel turned back to her order and Dimmundo went into the back to retrieve all she had asked for.
"Adulomeiel...your beauty shines brightly this day, my lady."
Adulomeiel froze. If it had been any other voice, she would have turned and greeted the Elf with a smile. But no, she knew this voice well.
"Vedui' Telpedur." She said dryly without turning.
A red crimson rose appeared before her vision.
She sighed and turned to the figure who held it out to her.
"I picked this for you my lady." He said, still holding it out to her.
Adulomeiel only stared at him.
"I am sorry, but I cannot take it." She said as she turned back around.
"Adul...why doest thou hate me?" Telpedur asked as he lowered the rose with a scowl.
"I do not hate you Telpedur...I detest you. There is a difference, I am sure." She answered as she began to put the things, that Dimmundo was placing on the counter, into her basket.
"But why do you detest me? I have given you no reason too!" He persisted as he tried to get her to look at him.
Adulomeiel sighed as she turned to walk away from him.
"Adulomeiel, why do you ignore me?"
Adulomeiel rolled her eyes when she realized he was following her.
Telpedur narrowed his eyes when she didn't answer him. He moved around swiftly in front and stopped short right before her.
Adulomeiel ran into him, spilling some valuable things out of her basket.
"You ass! If any of these goods are damaged, you will be sure to pay for them!" She yelled as she fell to her knees to place them gently back into her basket.
Telpedur sighed and crossed his arms.
Adulomeiel stood and pushed by him.
"I am going to follow you every where you go until you talk to me." He persisted as he began to follow her once more.
At this Adulomeiel began to run. She would let her father deal with this pathetic excuse for an Elf warrior. As so he called himself. But Adulomeiel believed he always did get away to freely with his insolence.
Adulomeiel quickened her running pace when she heard Telpedur running after her.
She got to the clearing of their tree house right as Telpedur caught up to her.
He grabbed her arm and spun her around.
The basket flew from her arm and she spun round into a tree.
When Telpedur looked at her, he saw the fire flash in her piercing green eyes.
"How dare you sir!" She yelled.
"Oh I dare my lady." Telpedur answered as he stepped closer to her.
"Adul...cannot you see that I am in love with you?" He said as he placed his hands on either side of her, trapping her against the tree.
She quickly ducked from his lips, which tried desperately to kiss her, and under his arm.
"And cannot you see Telpedur, that I do not return your love? This is not love coming from you...tis madness!"
Telpedur sighed.
"Why can't you return it? Just give me one chance Adul, You will not regret it."
"Aye, but I will. I cannot force myself to be with someone I do not love. Someday...my prince will come." She said more to herself as she knelt to place the goods back into her basket.
"But Adul..." Telpedur took a step towards her, but was cut off by a sudden ZING and a flash of silver.
He quickly turned to see a silver arrow still shuddering from its forceful impact into the tree, centimeters from his head.
He looked up to see Firaglarion standing on the platform outside their flet.
Firaglarion scowled at the young Elf, and planted his longbow beside him with his other hand on his hip.
Telpedur looked back at the arrow and marveled at how good her father was. He nearly nicked him. If it was meant to scare him off...it didn't work.
"I say, great shot sir! That was brilliant! It was so close I felt the wind of it! Again I say...great shot!" He beamed as he pulled the arrow from the tree.
"What are you talking about?..." Adulomeiel said dryly as she stood and walked over to Telpedur.
"...He missed." She said as she yanked the arrow from his hand and turned towards the flet.
Firaglarion stood his ground until his daughter was safely up the ladder and in the flet.
Then he turned and entered after her.
Adulomeiel sighed as she placed the basket onto the table.
She mumbled a curse on Telpedur and his stupidity as she began to check them for any damages.
She turned when she felt her father's eyes. She smiled at him.
"Are you well Mela?" He asked with concern in his deep blue eyes.
"Aye atar...you came just in time! And for that, I thank thee." She said as she walked over to him and planted a kiss on his cheek.
He smiled down at her.
"I told you I would chase him off with my bow, did I not? I could hear you two coming a mile away, so I had it ready."
Adulomeiel laughed at her father.
"Your archery skills have proven themselves once again, though it is a pity you missed the target." She said dryly as she set herself busy with preparing their dinner.
Firaglarion chuckled.
"Nay mela, as much as you may wish it, I could not kill him."
"I do not wish him dead atar! Only gone. I cannot stand him any longer! This is the farthest he has gone. Who knows how much farther he will go to get what he wants." Adulomeiel argued as she cut up roots with the same paring knife her mother used for that purpose.
Firaglarion's smile faded at these words.
"He shall go no farther! Not with my daughter. I would be dead before I let that happen. Worry not my daughter...Telpedur will come near you no longer. Not so long as I am here...I have my bow to back me up on that one!" He placed a hand on her shoulder and she placed hers upon his with a warm smile.
Firaglarion pulled on one of her curls teasingly before turning to his chair.
He sat down with a satisfied sigh and pulled out a book.
~*~
Right outside their flet, an eager ear listened in.
Telpedur let out an angry sigh as he jumped down silently and began to run back to the village.
"If that is the way you want it Firaglarion, then that is the way you shall have it. For Adulomeiel WILL be mine...and I have MY bow to back me up on that." Telpedur laughed as he ran, letting his mind play over and over what his dark heart desired. And letting it drive him into the brink of evil madness.
~~~~~~~
Legolas strung an arrow onto his bow and looked on at his target. Narrowing his eyes ever so slightly to aim as he pulled back on the string and touched his cheek with his hand. Legolas took a deep breath and let go of the arrow. He watched it wiz through the air and go right into a tree, completely missing and alarming the deer he was aiming for. Legolas sighed as the deer sprinted away.
"Legolas, my friend, that's the third time today you've missed a target." Dimmacilion moved through the brush as if it weren't even there. He placed a hand on Legolas' shoulder.
"Are you all right? Your mind is preoccupied with something other than hunting." Dimmacilion stared at the distressed Legolas.
"Yes, Dimmacilion. My mind is preoccupied with something. I thought that hunting would ease me.........but I fear it has only made me worse." Stepping out into the clearing, Legolas walked up to the tree and pulled his arrow out. Staring at the arrowhead, Legolas thought deeply of what was bothering him. Dimmacilion walked into the clearing as well and tilted his head, patiently waiting for his friend to speak.
"My father gave me a bit of news today." Legolas started as he sat on a rock. Dimmacilion also sat and listened intently to Legolas.
Legolas twirled the arrow in his hands and stared at the ground. He was having great difficulty speaking his mind, which was strange for this elf.
"What did he tell you?" Dimmacilion tried to egg Legolas on. Legolas looked up at Dimmacilion and looked almost shocked that Dimmacilion spoke. Legolas swallowed and rubbed his temple.
"Nurruthien and I are betrothed. We are to be wed before my father leaves for the havens."
Dimmacilion sat back in shock and wonderment, not really knowing what to say. Legolas wasn't the type of elf to have immense feelings for the female kind. Legolas was just too involved and preoccupied with his training, he wanted to be a warrior and nothing else. Legolas stood up all of a sudden and started pacing.
"It's bad enough that I have to eventually be king.........but now I must wed? I did not know that I had to marry! I do not wish it! Even if I did want to marry, shouldn't it be someone I fall in love with?" Legolas practically shrieked. Dimmacilion stood up quickly and stopped Legolas from pacing. It un-nerved Dimmacilion to see Legolas this way, for it wasn't like Legolas to lose control of himself.
"Legolas, I know how you feel about such things as love and being king. However, it is your birthright to be king, you cannot avoid that. It is your duty.........your destiny."
Legolas stared right into Dimmacilion's eyes, "But is it my destiny to marry Nurruthien? Don't misunderstand me, my friend. I do care for her, she is my friend.........but I never had any intention on marrying her nor anyone else! I only wish to be a warrior and go on quests."
"You can still be that warrior, Legolas. However, if there is no one to rule Mirkwood while you are gone, then you cannot be that warrior. Don't you see? It is better if you wed. Besides, like you said, you and Nurruthien are friends. Right now, you are the only person she is really close to after all that has happened. Accept it and think how she is feeling right now. Have you spoken to her at all this day?"
Legolas shook his head silently, contemplating all that Dimmacilion had said.
"Perhaps then you should see her, maybe it will put your mind at ease." Dimmacilion smiled at Legolas. Legolas slowly smiled towards his friend.
"Thank you, Dimmacilion. Where would I be if it weren't for you?"
"Surely you would be insane by now. Namaarie, Legolas."
"Namaarie!" Legolas said as he walked away from the clearing and towards the palace. Legolas was unaware that Morbrethelion had been lurking in the brush listening to the conversation. Morbrethelion stepped into the clearing where Dimmacilion was gathering his bow and quiver.
"Morbrethelion, where have you been?" Dimmacilion asked as he looked on at Morbrethelion.
Morbrethelion's smile looked more like a sneer as he said, "Oh, just walking through the woods. I overheard your conversation, is it true that the prince is betrothed to Lady Nurruthien?"
Dimmacilion basically frowned but nodded his head slowly. "Yes, 'tis true."
"How very interesting........." Morbrethelion sneered again as he left the clearing with Dimmacilion on his heel.
~*~
Nurruthien lay at the end of her bed, her endless, platinum hair draped over the bed and onto the floor. After what her father told her, Nurruthien went to her chambers and decided to lay down. She had been staring into space for hours now and didn't seem to care. A soft knock on her door disturbed the silence in her chambers.
Nurruthien lifted her head merely to say, "Come in." She placed her head back on the bed and seemly ignored whoever entered her bed chamber.
"Have you been napping all day, Nurruthien?"
Nurruthien stirred and sat up at the familiar voice.
"Legolas.........I-, uhm, what are you doing here?" Nurruthien looked confused as she stuttered and tried to think of a reason why she had been in her bed chamber all day. Legolas smiled at her, he was amused at how she faltered at his presence. Nurruthien stared at him, Legolas had gone to his chambers after his hunt. Legolas had washed and changed into his evening attire, a light gold tunic and grey leggings.
"I've come to escort you to the dining halls." Legolas moved closer to Nurruthien.
Nurruthien's brow furried in even more confusion. "But, Legolas.........dinner isn't for another two hours at least. You know that."
Legolas looked down at his feet as he often did when he knew he was caught. "Yes, I know. I've come to speak with you, my friend. May I sit?" Legolas motioned towards the spot next to Nurruthien on the bed. Nurruthien merely nodded her head, allowing him to sit.
"I suppose your father has spoken to you as well." Nurruthien said as she watched him sit next to her and place his hands on his knees.
"Yes, he has. It has been on my mind all day and I'm sorry I did not come to you earlier." Legolas looked very distraught as he stared at her floor. Legolas stirred as he felt Nurruthien's warm hand cover his hand.
"'Tis quite all right. It has been on my mind all day as well." Legolas looked up and into her eyes. Legolas didn't see any anger or sadness in her eyes, but an anxiousness for the future. He stared into them and basically everything he wanted to say to her was swept away. After all, they were good friends.
"What was it that you wanted to say to me?" Nurruthien said softly to him, as she realized the future wouldn't be so bad for her. She wasn't angry at Legolas, she was angry at her father.
"Oh, uh, I just want to make sure that you're all right with.........our betrothment." Nurruthien smiled at how sweet Legolas was trying to be.
"I'm fine with it if you are. Though I will admit I am a little scared." Nurruthien said softly. Legolas squeezed her hand ever so slightly.
"I am too. But, we'll do it together." Legolas smiled and stood up. He bent over and kissed her forehead lightly. Despite what he had said earlier to Dimmacilion, Legolas felt extremely different now with Nurruthien. Legolas didn't know what was happening to him, Nurruthien made him lose control of himself and made his knees weak. Legolas liked the feeling though, he knew that great things were going to happen to him and Nurruthien.
"Go now, I must get ready for dinner. Will you return for me?" Nurruthien looked up at Legolas and smiled.
Legolas bowed his head, "Of course. Namaarie." Legolas turned and walked out of Nurruthien's chambers with a grin that spread from ear to ear plastered on his face.
Nurruthien sat up and went over to her writing table. She lifted up a chain from under her dress that held a tiny, gold key around her neck. Nurruthien took the key and unlocked one of the draws in the table. She dug around for a few moments until she lifted up a piece of paper that was half written on. Nurruthien sat and continued writing her letter that she had begun earlier in the day. This letter was one of many that were apart of the correspondence between Nurruthien and Adulomeiel. In this letter, Nurruthien was writing all her feelings about the news of her betrothment. Very quickly, before Maltadolwen came in to help her get ready for dinner, Nurruthien signed her name, rolled the letter up and sealed it with candle wax.
Nurruthien carried the letter up to a cage on her balcony where a bird the size of a falcon was resting. It's feathers were the color of gold and it's tail ran down to the bottom of the cage like the long hair of Nurruthien. Nurruthien opened the door to the cage and tied the tiny scroll onto the foot of the bird. Taking the bird onto her forearm, Nurruthien walked to the edge of her balcony.
"Carry this with care, my friend." Nurruthien pet the bird and then released it into the air. Nurruthien watched as the evening sun made her pet's wings glisten and thought of Adulomeiel.
~~~~~~~~~~
Adulomeiel hummed softly to herself as she washed the dinner dishes.
Her father sat in his chair adding a stronger string to his bow.
Adulomeiel had just finished and went to place the last dish in its rightful place, when she felt a stirring in her heart.
She gasped and almost dropped the dish, but caught it and quickly placed it in the cupboard.
"What is it mela?" She heard her father's voice, full of concern.
Adulomeiel turned to him with a smile. He saw she held her hand to her heart.
"Oh Atar! Tis Nurruthien! I can feel her!" She ran to the other side of the room to place her soft shoes onto her feet.
"Nay mela, you cannot go out when it is dark...you know this." Firaglarion stood from his seat.
"But atar I must! Tis Nurruthien! I must go to her! Besides...I know these woods like the back of my own hand! I shall not get lost...not even in the dark." She draped her long shawl over her slender shoulders and stopped in front of her father.
"Tis not the darkness I fear mela." He said as he placed his hands on her shoulders.
Adulomeiel sighed.
"If I bring one of my knives...will you let me go?" Firalgarion couldn't help the smile that formed on his lips.
He knew he could not keep his daughter from her friend.
"Aye..." He finally sighed out.
"...But you must promise me to be careful...and take a lantern." Adulomeiel smiled and hugged her father tightly.
"Thank you Atar!" She quickly grabbed one of her long Elvish knives that her father had spent months making for one of her earlier birthdays, and placed it in a sheath. She placed the sheaths strap around her shoulder and draped her shawl back over as to cover it.
She grabbed a lit lantern and kissed her father's cheek.
"I shall not be gone long atar. Do not feel the need to wait up for me."
"Aye, but I will...so long as you are out there." Firaglarion waved to his daughter as she climbed down the ladder and took off into the woods.
He sighed as he watched the light of her little lantern flicker from his sight, and he prayed to the valar that she'd be safe in these darkening times.
~*~
Adulomeiel ran with her long shawl flapping behind her to the one place she could feel her friend's presence.
Almare.
She felt her pulse quicken and the excitement almost overwhelmed her as she burst into the beloved clearing.
But she saw her friend nowhere.
"Nurru?" She called, but no answer came.
"Nurru!" She yelled again.
She heard a squawk behind her and turned with her lantern raised only to see the bird she had grown so familiar with.
"Oh...tis only you Telephen. I thought it was Nurru." She walked over to the beautiful bird and sat on the living log beside it.
Telephen squawked again and pecked at his foot.
Adulomeiel saw a scroll tied to his foot and reached over to untie it.
"For such a pretty bird Telephen, your music gives you no justice." She released the bird of his burden and patted his head lightly. Still he did not leave, and Adulomeiel knew he was to stay until she had finished reading it.
She lifted the lantern and gently unrolled the fine, silver paper that had been sealed by her dear friend's ring.
She adjusted the lantern one last time before she began to read.
'My dearest Adul,
Many suns have come and gone since we last met. I miss you terribly and wait impatiently for the day we shall see each other once again.
My heart yearns to be with you daily as we once were. I hope you and your atar are fairing well. At least a lot better then I am with mine. But that is not the purpose of this letter.
I am writing you to tell of some rather unexpected news.
My atar came to me this morning and informed me that I am betrothed to the prince Legolas, and always have been.
I was angry. I am not given the chance to choose for myself on who I am to marry.
Legolas is a dear friend...do I really want to lose that? Yet another part of me rejoices! Aye tis true when I see him, my heart flutters and my knees weaken.........what elf-maiden wouldn't melt at the sight of the prince?! But can I truly fit the picture of the perfect bride for the perfect prince, who is to rule a perfect kingdom? I miss you Adul, I miss your council and your comforting presence. I feel my future with Legolas will not be vain, but I still cannot pass this feeling of loss. I lost my right to choose. Am I being selfish? Legolas has lost his right as well! Yet as I saw him this evening, he seemed rather pleased with the idea at the end. Maybe it will not be as bad as I thought. Only time can tell...and destiny rule. Oh, I must go, for I must prepare for feasting at the halls. I love you, my dear friend. And until we shall see each other again, you will remain dear to me. As I am sure I will to you. Namaarie Adul.
~Nurruthien'
Adulomeiel lowered the paper and wiped at her tears. She was happy for Nurruthien. And knew her and the prince would be well together, but she couldn't help but feel a longing inside of her.
She shook it from herself and smiled. She knew Nurruthien could feel her presence, and feelings as she sat in the enchanted spot.
"I wish you all the best Nurru...And do not fear, Legolas loves you, I am sure. Until we meet again." She stood and patted the bird one last time before he took off into the trees.
She smiled and picked up her lantern, letting out a sigh as she began her long walk home, to her dear father.