A/N Ami: Yooooo! Sorry it has taken so long for us to get this out! But I
think the seasons are getting to both of us!...lol...well thanx for so much
wonderful reviews on this!!! Me and Dani appreciate them sooooo much!!! You
guyz rock! Oh and just to let some ppl know...Flames aren't that welcome on
this story...me and Dani work hard on it and so...we prefure to see good
fruits from our work! We don't force you to read it! So flames aren't
needed! ::smiles:: But thanx to all u lovely reviewers! And to the ppl who
read it and don't review...at least you read the story! Well We love you
guyz! Enjoy da chap...some sad stuff is in store for Adulomeiel (me) so
break out the tissue boxes!...lol...ciao!!!
A/N Dani: Hey everyone. sorry it took so long ;) we're trying here! the holiday season has had me all kinds of crazy ;P just a quick note: me and Ami are no Shakespeares. We write what we want and how we want, not caring too much about how it sounds and stuff yanno? It's called poetic license ;) So if you don't like what you're reading.........please don't read then. Okie? :) Have a nice holiday everyone! And happy reading ;D
Chapter 5
Another loss
Many suns have risen and fallen, many seasons have come and gone, and many changes have taken place since that letter has been sent and received. Both girls grew into dazzling beauties...one of the palace halls, the other of the common village, but no matter how older, and wiser they grew...they never grew apart from each other.
With the help of Telephen, they kept in good contact with each other. Adulomeiel constantly visited Almare on her happy days. For she knew her dear friend could feel her happiness...and she wanted it no other way.
The air was chilly, and crisp this fine winter's night. Adulomeiel walked slowly through the woods, hardly leaving a print in the newly fallen snow.
She closed her eyes and took in a deep breath, releasing it with a smile. She loved this season. Twas cold and hard to do the usual outside chores, such as washing clothes, but it still held this magical feel to it.
Adulomeiel had just spent the day at Almare, reading and talking to Telephen as he came on his daily visits.
She had not meant to spend the entire day there, and she was sure her father was worried about her.
At this thought she began to run swiftly.
As she approached the flet, her fears had indeed been correct.
Firaglarion stood on the little platform outside their flet with a lit lantern in his hand.
He was leaning on the little railing he had built through his wife's plea, and had a look of concern etched across his handsome, yet wise face.
Adulomeiel slowed her pace and walked into the clearing. When her father saw her, a look of relief settled in his eyes.
Adulomeiel stopped just below and offered a smile.
His look grew stern and Adulomeiel sighed as she began to slowly climb the rope latter.
When she reached the top, Firaglarion stood by the door until she passed him into the safe surrounding.
He closed the door behind them and turned to her.
"I am sorry Atar...I lost track of the time." Adulomeiel spoke before he could.
Firaglarion sighed and set the lantern down on the small table.
"I understand that it is very easy to lose track of the time pen-neth, but not knowing where you are off too for such long hours of the day troubles me. The times are changing mela...soon it will not be safe for you to even walk to the village alone. I worry for you. Cannot you tell me where you are off to so often?"
Adulomeiel shook her head.
"I am sorry I worried you so Atar, but I cannot tell you where I go. Tis a secret none must know except for Nurru and me. I wish only for you to trust me on this."
"Oh Adul..." Firaglarion walked towards his daughter and caressed her face.
"I do trust you mela. Tis just that you are all I have...and knowing this makes me worry for you so. I do not want to chain you inside our flet, but understand where I come from."
"I understand Atar...for I feel the same for you."
Firaglarion smiled and pulled his daughter in, kissing her gently on the forehead.
"Now you have been gone all day, so I had to hunt on my own." He started as he turned to fix a plate of the meat he had hunted and cooked himself, for Adulomeiel.
Her eyes widened and a pout came onto her lips.
"But you know I look forward to that!"
Firaglarion shook his head with a smile as he set the plate down.
"I know this mela, but I had to go...we needed the meat."
"Yes but now that you have gotten it, we will not need more for months! Please atar...cannot we go tomorrow? Please?" She begged as she gave him the classic puppy dog eyes.
Firaglarion of course melted at this and smiled.
"Of course mela, if it will make you happy."
Her smile brightened and she kissed him on the cheek.
"Thank you atar! I look forward to spending that time with you." She said as she sat to eat her warm meal.
Firaglarion laughed softly at his daughter as he filled a glass with hot cider and placed it before her.
"As do I...pen-neth."
~*~*~*~
The next morning, Adulomeiel woke and smiled to herself.
She always enjoyed hunting with her father, and couldn't help the excitement that flowed through her.
She quickly got out of her warm bed and made it before she dressed for breakfast.
Her father was not home at the time, Adulomeiel figured he was out scouting for the best place to hunt.
She began to warm up some cider and pack some bread for the hunt.
Her father came in shortly with a smile on his face.
"Seems as if this day is a perfect day to hunt. I have seen much wild life."
Adulomeiel handed him a warm cup of cider with a smile.
"I shall be ready shortly."
She hurriedly put on her warm shawl and a scarf that her mother had made for her when she was little. The shawl was far from fair, but it would keep her warm if she felt the slightest bit of cold, which was unlikely, after all she is an Elf, but her father insisted she wear it, and she wore the scarf for good luck.
She twisted and braided her long dark hair back, so it would not flow in her face and distract her.
She then slid on her soft snowshoes and stood.
She walked into the small kitchen and caught her father deep in thought.
"Atar?" She asked softly.
He slowly raised his gaze to her.
"Something does not feel right mela. I feel as if we are not to go..."
"But Atar...you know I really look forward to this! Please!"
Firaglarion sighed, but pushed the troubling thoughts back, and smiled.
"Aye mela, we shall go." He stood from his chair and picked up his bow.
Adulomeiel grinned and picked up hers as well. Twas a nice bow. Her father had made it and given it to her years ago. It had proven itself worthy and so she used it frequently on their hunts.
"Alright atar, lets go."
They both picked up their long knives before heading out and down the rope latter.
When they got to the bottom, they sheathed the knives and placed them on their backs along with their quiver.
Adulomeiel smiled up at her tall and handsome father as they set out.
Firaglarion placed a hand on her shoulder and walked with her under his arm.
All the time he was thinking what he would do without her.
And ironically enough...Adulomeiel was thinking the exact same thing about him.
~*~*~*~
Adulomeiel and her father walked through the woods, tracking wild life and enjoying each other's company.
"This looks like a nice spot Adul..." Firaglarion said as he placed a hand on his daughter's shoulder to still her.
Adulomeiel stopped and looked around.
"Why do you not stay here...and I shall take the fifth tree that way." Her father pointed out.
Adulomeiel nodded.
"Okay atar." She took her bow off of her back and pulled out a single silver arrow.
Firaglarion smiled with pride before he kissed his daughter on the forehead and walked silently to his tree that wasn't too far from Adulomeiel's.
Adulomeiel smiled when her father kissed her, but then grew serious as her deep green orbs searched around her for a sign of any movement.
~*~
A figure moved swiftly through the woods. His plan had gone smoothly and now his trap had been set with his prey so close.
Running silently never tripping, and never stopping...this being was desperate.
Ignoring the multiple voices inside his head that screamed at him. Telling him how wrong it was. But he cared not. He had waited a long time for his prize.
And now he was finally going to get it.
He felt an overwhelmingly evil excitement well up inside him, drowning out the now small voices.
He pushed on even harder until at last he saw his target...and his prize.
~*~
Adulomeiel sighed as she waited patiently.
She looked over at her father and he grinned at her.
She rolled her eyes, but smiled back. She then turned her attention back to her hunting.
She was beginning to think this wasn't such a prosperous spot at all.
~*~
Firaglarion laughed silently at his daughter.
Out of all her many wonderful qualities...patience was certainly not one of them.
He looked back over at his daughter and an overwhelming emotion of pride swept over him. She was his joy, his life, his everything.
Her beauty was beyond measure, and her cheerful personality always managed to make him smile, even when he was feeling at his worst.
He knew that if it had not been for her...he would not have made it through his wife's death.
At this thought Firaglarion's smile faltered.
He sighed as he looked up to the sky.
"Oh Rinwingiel, melamin...we did well." He whispered.
He looked back at his daughter and she glanced at him. She smiled sweetly and turned back to her concentrating.
This earned another soft chuckle from her father.
~*~
Silently waiting.
His time had now come.
He bent his bow, the arrow strong.
Yet another small voice leapt up inside him. Telling him not to do it.
But the evilness of his heart took over.
Telpedur hesitantly closed his eyes, and let loose the arrow.
~*~
Adulomeiel's heart stopped.
She knew what it was her Elven senses heard. An arrow. Being released from its bow.
In one horrifying moment, Adulomeiel watched the arrow in slow motion as it made its deadly path for it's target.
Firaglarion heard it too, but it was too late.
No time to move. The arrow came swiftly and pierced into him fiercely, throwing him on his back, in the snow, with a cry of shock.
"ATAR!" Adulomeiel screamed as she dropped her bow and ran to her father.
When she reached him she fell to her knees and took him in her arms.
"Oh atar." She sobbed.
Firaglarion was panting in pain. Tears flowed down his face, but not from the pain. The thought of leaving Adulomeiel at such a time hurt more.
Adulomeiel looked at the arrow. She began to cry in despair.
This couldn't possibly be happening.
The arrow had pierced his heart and now she knew her father was very near death.
"A-Adul..." Her father panted out.
She turned her tear-streaked face to him.
Firaglarion wept inside at the pain and despair he saw in her breathtaking eyes.
"I-I am sorry Adul..."
Adulomeiel began to cry harder as she shook her head.
No, this wasn't happening!
"Adul...m-mela...I-I am sorry that your mother died..."
Adulomeiel shook her head harder and tried to put on a small smile for her father.
"Nay atar...twas not your fault! You know I never blamed you...and I never will."
Firaglarion smiled and his complexion became paler.
The realization of what was happening hit Adulomeiel hard. Her body began to shake violently as she shook her head in protest.
"No atar please...please atar! You mustn't leave me! Please! You cannot!" She pulled his head onto her lap and wept with her cheek pressed against his.
Firaglarion, so near to death, grieved at his daughter's desperate pleas.
All her life he had given her what she wanted and needed. He had hoped that a time would never come where he could not fulfill her very last desire.
He cursed the day, and now it came.
"Adul...pen-neth..." He whispered into her ear.
She lifted her head slightly and tried to still her uncontrollable sobs.
"...Pen-neth I shall never leave you. For remember...when someone dwells in your heart, forever there they will dwell...even if we cannot see them."
He smiled at her as he lifted his hand and caressed her wet cheek.
Adulomeiel began to cry again as she placed her hand upon his and nodded her head.
"You dwell in my heart mela...as I know I shall forever dwell in yours. Amin mela lle pen-neth...my beautiful daughter... And I always will."
And with those last words said, Firaglarion's world covered in darkness...never again to see the light of day.
Adulomeiel stopped crying as the horrifying realization hit her.
Then all at once she burst into more unshed tears, the sobs racked her delicate body as they coursed through it.
She laid her head upon her dear fathers and screamed out her anguishing pain.
"ATAR!" She screamed over and over again....the painful realization of him never answering her again as she called to him, came to her, causing her to scream it repeatedly. Wishing that this were all just some horrible dream, and her father would rush in at any moment to wake her and tell her all was well. And hold her, whispering comforting words into her ear until she fell into a peaceful sleep.
Never again would he do this.
Never again.
Adulomeiel cried non-stop until her head hurt and she was too weak to cry anymore.
She sniffled as she laid her father's head gently down in the snow.
She quickly jumped up and ran through the woods.
She ran, tripping in her strength less state and crying out fresh tears as they came.
Finally she broke into Almare. She threw herself onto the ground and screamed out in anger at the sky...
"Am I to die in my grief now? You leave me all alone on this cursed earth! To mourn the death of my family! Am I to have strength to do so?...TELL ME!" She screamed at no one. She finally fell onto her side and cried into the snow.
"Nurru...please come...save me from my death. For without you...I shall surely die." She whispered.
Her voice faded and all that was left to be heard...where the soft sobs that came from her broken spirit.
~~~
Nurruthien sighed as Maltadolwen placed a dress over her head. Nurruthien didn't like being attended to like a child. Nurruthien watched as Maltadolwen fluttered about her, fixing the dress.
"I can dress myself, you know." Nurruthien said somewhat bitterly.
Maltadolwen smiled and looked up at Nurruthien. "Then what's the point of having a lady-in-waiting? Besides, as queen you must have a lady-in- waiting."
Nurruthien frowned at the mention of her being queen. She flopped down on her bed and stared at the ceiling.
"Nurruthien! I just fixed your dress and hair!" Maltadolwen nearly shrieked. Nurruthien just lay there on her bed and let her feet dangle off the edge with a smile that stretched from ear to ear. Nurruthien knew she was getting to Maltadolwen and it made her smile.
Maltadolwen shook her head and sighed. "I'm getting too old for this. You'll certainly need to get a new lady-in-waiting once you become queen."
The smile disappeared as Nurruthien sat up. "What do you mean, Maltadolwen? You're leaving?"
Maltadolwen nodded with a sad smile on her face. "Yes, my dearest. I plan to leave with the king. But let us not dwell on that now. The prince awaits your company."
Nurruthien nodded slowly and watched as Maltadolwen slipped out of her chambers. Nurruthien sat on her bed and thought for a few moments. She didn't like change.........the thought of all the elders, including her own father, leaving Middle Earth and her becoming queen bothered Nurruthien.
Her thoughts were interrupted by an impatient rapping on her door. Nurruthien smiled at the thought of who it might be. "Come in." She said nonchalantly.
The door opened and Legolas strode in. He stood in front of her in his winter attire and a dark green cape flapping behind him. Legolas placed his hands on his hips and glared down at Nurruthien on her bed.
"Really now, Nurruthien. How long does it take for you to get ready?" Legolas stared down at her stocking feet dangling near the floor.
Nurruthien lightly laughed, "You're the one who wants to go on this picnic. You're mad! Have you seen the snow on the ground out there?" Nurruthien exclaimed as she got up and stood towards the glass doors that led to her balcony. Legolas walked up behind her and followed her gaze through the frosted glass.
"Yes, but I've found such a lovely spot. Besides, I need to get out of this place.........and I know you like to get outside as well. I thought winter was your favorite season." Legolas bowed his head down next to Nurruthien's. Nurruthien smiled and turned around to face Legolas.
"It is my favorite season Legolas, but from the inside." They both laughed. Legolas placed his hand on Nurruthien's back and nudged her towards her vanity.
"Will you please put your boots on.........I wish to get back before sundown." Legolas smirked and watched as Nurruthien put on her soft snow boots.
"Why don't you go get your horse ready while I put on my cape. I'll get the basket as well." Nurruthien smiled as she reached for her winter cape. It was a light peach color with hood and edges trimmed in white fur. Legolas smiled and reluctantly walked out of her chambers. Nurruthien simply smiled as she placed the cape around her neck, relishing in the comfort of the warm, soft material. She closed her door and made her way to the front hall. There, Maltadolwen stood with a basket in her arms.
"I retrieved this for you, dearest. I hope you have a nice time." Maltadolwen smiled and handed the basket to Nurruthien. Nurruthien smiled and took the basket as she looked into Maltadolwen's deep blue eyes. Her eyes were filled with many years of wisdom and grace. Nurruthien would miss her when she leaves. Nurruthien sighed and turned towards the stairs that would take her outside. Nurruthien was deep in thought as she walked down the steps one at a time with her dress and cape flowing down behind her.
Nurruthien's thoughts were interrupted by the cold air enveloping her and the neighing of Legolas' horse. The horse fidgeted about as Legolas tried to calm it.
"Easy, Perinzil, easy........." Legolas spoke softly to his horse and placed a comforting hand on Perinzil's nose. Nurruthien watched the scene with a soft heart. Watching Legolas petting his horse in the snow covered surroundings of Mirkwood made Nurruthien smile. Legolas turned and caught her staring.
He smiled, "Are you ready to go?" Nurruthien smiled and nodded as she made her way over to Legolas.
Nurruthien handed Legolas the basket and reached up to Perinzil's back. "Let me help you, mela." Legolas went to put the basket down and help Nurruthien.
"I can do it on my own, Legolas." Nurruthien smiled down at Legolas as she jumped up on Perinzil's back and sat sideways. Legolas smirked and handed her the basket. Then, Legolas jumped up behind Nurruthien and placed his arms around her to guide Perinzil. Legolas urged the horse forward as they left the palace gates in a slow gallop.
After a short while riding through forest of Mirkwood, Legolas halted Perinzil. He sat still and looked ahead in silence. Nurruthien turned slightly and looked up at Legolas.
"Legolas? Are we here?"
Legolas looked down at Nurruthien and smiled, "Yes, we only have to walk past these trees."
They both got off Perenzil and walked through the trees. The sight that Nurruthien saw before her made her gasp and stare in amazement. Legolas came up beside her and placed a hand on her back.
"I knew you would like it." He smiled and then walked over to a very large, flat stone that has no snow on it. He spread a blanket over it and beckoned Nurruthien to come sit with him. Nurruthien just stared at the horizon. Legolas had brought her to a cliff looking down into a valley. In the distance there were snow-covered mountains and the afternoon sun peeking out from just behind them.
"Nurru.........come sit with me." Legolas smiled. Nurruthien snapped out of her trance at the sound of her nickname. The nickname that Adulomeiel had given her. Nurruthien felt sad for a moment but she ignored it and went over to Legolas. Nurruthien was trying to get used to the idea that her future with her best friend was unknown. Nurruthien sat down next to Legolas, who was stretched out on the rock with his eyes closed. Nurruthien smiled at him and placed the basket down.
"How did you find this place, Legolas?" Legolas opened his eyes and looked at Nurruthien.
"I was just on a hike with Dimmacilion one day and I happened upon this place. It's beautiful isn't it? I've never seen anything like it before." Legolas looked out at the valley, taking in all that it was. Nurruthien sighed and looked out at the valley as well.
After a few moments, Legolas sat up and turned towards Nurruthien. "I'm hungry, what is there to eat?" Nurruthien smiled and began unpacking things for them to eat.
With full bellies, the two elves relaxed on their backs, staring up at the sky. They exchanged small talk or sat in silence for a while. Legolas' mind was going fast as many thoughts came to him. What life was going to be like for him and what his future with Nurruthien held for them both. He was about to turn to Nurruthien and question her about these things when she spoke.
"Legolas, will you admit that you love me?" Nurruthien stared him straight in the eyes with an expression on her face that Legolas could not read. The question caught him off guard and unnerved him. How was he to answer such a question as that when he couldn't even answer it for himself?
"I-," Legolas started.........but could not find the words to go on. He searched her face for the answer, wishing that he would find it somewhere written on her beautiful face.
"Just admit it.........fear not." Nurruthien smiled at him. Legolas couldn't help but smile back at her. Perhaps that was his answer.
"I know that you have fallen in love with me, Legolas. I can see it in your eyes." Nurruthien now had a playful smile on face. Legolas took a deep breath and stared at her hazel eyes. Her eyelids were half closed in a lazy sort of way, but the deep pools of shimmering gold and green sparkled with the brightness of life.
"But, dearest Nurruthien, do you love me?" Legolas questioned as his heart quickened. An arrow aimed straight at his head didn't make him nervous. But this, this somewhat scary question looming in the air made him nervous. Legolas didn't know what he would do if he was rejected. Nurruthien only smiled at Legolas and tilted her head to the side. She was studying him, taking in everything that he was. Legolas had grown much from the little imp that once tortured her. Now, he adored her. Nurruthien knew no other way to answer him than what she was about to do.
Slowly, Nurruthien leaned over towards Legolas' face, her hair came flowing over her shoulders in one fell swoop. She could feel no cold air except for the heat emanating from Legolas' face. Nurruthien took one deep breath as she touched her lips lightly to Legolas'. Memories of the day when he kissed her on her terrace came flooding back at full force times ten. His lips were still soft and sweet and as they moved against her lips, they felt like soft velvet. After a moment, Nurruthien slowly moved away from him and stared straight into his eyes.
Legolas' eyes were now lazily drooped and he had a half smile on his face. "So.........you do love me."
Nurruthien laughed and touched his cheek, "Let us get back to the palace, it will be getting dark soon." Legolas nodded and moved off the huge, flat rock with a spring in his step. Nurruthien also climbed down and went to help Legolas prepare Perinzil for the hike back to the palace. Just as Nurruthien stepped on the ground, she felt a sharp stab in her heart.
Nurruthien gasped and clenched at her gown as if it were on fire and burning her flesh. The pain was overwhelming, but not physical. It was emotional pain, pain that Nurruthien only felt when something terribly wrong had happened.
"Adulomeiel........." Nurruthien whispered. This was like no other disaster. Something terrible had happened to Adulomeiel and Nurruthien could not linger. She glanced at Legolas petting Perinzil and pushing him away from a cluster of frozen grass. His back was turned, this was Nurruthien's only chance. She couldn't leave Adulomeiel to suffer this way alone. Nurruthien knew that Adulomeiel was alone for some reason.
Quickly, Nurruthien turned on her heal and hiked up her skirts. Nurruthien jumped over a low hedge and ran into the forest. Ignoring the branches that scratched her skin or tore her dress.........all she could think about was getting to Adulomeiel.
Legolas turned away from Perinzil and was about to speak when he noticed that Nurruthien was gone.
"Nurruthien?" Legolas walked over to the spot where Nurruthien last stood. Legolas searched the snow-covered ground looking for footprints. He rolled his eyes at himself, realizing he wouldn't find any.
"Nuruthien!" He called again, but still no answer came.
Panic began to grip him. Where in all Valinor could she be?
He cursed himself silently for not being more alert and listening to her every move.
He quickly mounted Perinzil and stilled him as the steed was a bit startled by his masters sudden mount.
Legolas looked out into the forest, and then up at the sky.
It was quickly getting dark and he feared him searching for Nurruthien alone in the cover of darkness, would be of no use.
He sighed angrily before spinning Perinzil alround.
"Aut Perinzil! Aut!" He shouted, and the horse took off in the direction of the palace.
Legolas glanced back one last time wishing with all his heart she would be standing there.
He turned his attention back onto the road and urged the poor horse on faster.
Silently he prayed to the Valor that she was safe.
A/N Dani: Hey everyone. sorry it took so long ;) we're trying here! the holiday season has had me all kinds of crazy ;P just a quick note: me and Ami are no Shakespeares. We write what we want and how we want, not caring too much about how it sounds and stuff yanno? It's called poetic license ;) So if you don't like what you're reading.........please don't read then. Okie? :) Have a nice holiday everyone! And happy reading ;D
Chapter 5
Another loss
Many suns have risen and fallen, many seasons have come and gone, and many changes have taken place since that letter has been sent and received. Both girls grew into dazzling beauties...one of the palace halls, the other of the common village, but no matter how older, and wiser they grew...they never grew apart from each other.
With the help of Telephen, they kept in good contact with each other. Adulomeiel constantly visited Almare on her happy days. For she knew her dear friend could feel her happiness...and she wanted it no other way.
The air was chilly, and crisp this fine winter's night. Adulomeiel walked slowly through the woods, hardly leaving a print in the newly fallen snow.
She closed her eyes and took in a deep breath, releasing it with a smile. She loved this season. Twas cold and hard to do the usual outside chores, such as washing clothes, but it still held this magical feel to it.
Adulomeiel had just spent the day at Almare, reading and talking to Telephen as he came on his daily visits.
She had not meant to spend the entire day there, and she was sure her father was worried about her.
At this thought she began to run swiftly.
As she approached the flet, her fears had indeed been correct.
Firaglarion stood on the little platform outside their flet with a lit lantern in his hand.
He was leaning on the little railing he had built through his wife's plea, and had a look of concern etched across his handsome, yet wise face.
Adulomeiel slowed her pace and walked into the clearing. When her father saw her, a look of relief settled in his eyes.
Adulomeiel stopped just below and offered a smile.
His look grew stern and Adulomeiel sighed as she began to slowly climb the rope latter.
When she reached the top, Firaglarion stood by the door until she passed him into the safe surrounding.
He closed the door behind them and turned to her.
"I am sorry Atar...I lost track of the time." Adulomeiel spoke before he could.
Firaglarion sighed and set the lantern down on the small table.
"I understand that it is very easy to lose track of the time pen-neth, but not knowing where you are off too for such long hours of the day troubles me. The times are changing mela...soon it will not be safe for you to even walk to the village alone. I worry for you. Cannot you tell me where you are off to so often?"
Adulomeiel shook her head.
"I am sorry I worried you so Atar, but I cannot tell you where I go. Tis a secret none must know except for Nurru and me. I wish only for you to trust me on this."
"Oh Adul..." Firaglarion walked towards his daughter and caressed her face.
"I do trust you mela. Tis just that you are all I have...and knowing this makes me worry for you so. I do not want to chain you inside our flet, but understand where I come from."
"I understand Atar...for I feel the same for you."
Firaglarion smiled and pulled his daughter in, kissing her gently on the forehead.
"Now you have been gone all day, so I had to hunt on my own." He started as he turned to fix a plate of the meat he had hunted and cooked himself, for Adulomeiel.
Her eyes widened and a pout came onto her lips.
"But you know I look forward to that!"
Firaglarion shook his head with a smile as he set the plate down.
"I know this mela, but I had to go...we needed the meat."
"Yes but now that you have gotten it, we will not need more for months! Please atar...cannot we go tomorrow? Please?" She begged as she gave him the classic puppy dog eyes.
Firaglarion of course melted at this and smiled.
"Of course mela, if it will make you happy."
Her smile brightened and she kissed him on the cheek.
"Thank you atar! I look forward to spending that time with you." She said as she sat to eat her warm meal.
Firaglarion laughed softly at his daughter as he filled a glass with hot cider and placed it before her.
"As do I...pen-neth."
~*~*~*~
The next morning, Adulomeiel woke and smiled to herself.
She always enjoyed hunting with her father, and couldn't help the excitement that flowed through her.
She quickly got out of her warm bed and made it before she dressed for breakfast.
Her father was not home at the time, Adulomeiel figured he was out scouting for the best place to hunt.
She began to warm up some cider and pack some bread for the hunt.
Her father came in shortly with a smile on his face.
"Seems as if this day is a perfect day to hunt. I have seen much wild life."
Adulomeiel handed him a warm cup of cider with a smile.
"I shall be ready shortly."
She hurriedly put on her warm shawl and a scarf that her mother had made for her when she was little. The shawl was far from fair, but it would keep her warm if she felt the slightest bit of cold, which was unlikely, after all she is an Elf, but her father insisted she wear it, and she wore the scarf for good luck.
She twisted and braided her long dark hair back, so it would not flow in her face and distract her.
She then slid on her soft snowshoes and stood.
She walked into the small kitchen and caught her father deep in thought.
"Atar?" She asked softly.
He slowly raised his gaze to her.
"Something does not feel right mela. I feel as if we are not to go..."
"But Atar...you know I really look forward to this! Please!"
Firaglarion sighed, but pushed the troubling thoughts back, and smiled.
"Aye mela, we shall go." He stood from his chair and picked up his bow.
Adulomeiel grinned and picked up hers as well. Twas a nice bow. Her father had made it and given it to her years ago. It had proven itself worthy and so she used it frequently on their hunts.
"Alright atar, lets go."
They both picked up their long knives before heading out and down the rope latter.
When they got to the bottom, they sheathed the knives and placed them on their backs along with their quiver.
Adulomeiel smiled up at her tall and handsome father as they set out.
Firaglarion placed a hand on her shoulder and walked with her under his arm.
All the time he was thinking what he would do without her.
And ironically enough...Adulomeiel was thinking the exact same thing about him.
~*~*~*~
Adulomeiel and her father walked through the woods, tracking wild life and enjoying each other's company.
"This looks like a nice spot Adul..." Firaglarion said as he placed a hand on his daughter's shoulder to still her.
Adulomeiel stopped and looked around.
"Why do you not stay here...and I shall take the fifth tree that way." Her father pointed out.
Adulomeiel nodded.
"Okay atar." She took her bow off of her back and pulled out a single silver arrow.
Firaglarion smiled with pride before he kissed his daughter on the forehead and walked silently to his tree that wasn't too far from Adulomeiel's.
Adulomeiel smiled when her father kissed her, but then grew serious as her deep green orbs searched around her for a sign of any movement.
~*~
A figure moved swiftly through the woods. His plan had gone smoothly and now his trap had been set with his prey so close.
Running silently never tripping, and never stopping...this being was desperate.
Ignoring the multiple voices inside his head that screamed at him. Telling him how wrong it was. But he cared not. He had waited a long time for his prize.
And now he was finally going to get it.
He felt an overwhelmingly evil excitement well up inside him, drowning out the now small voices.
He pushed on even harder until at last he saw his target...and his prize.
~*~
Adulomeiel sighed as she waited patiently.
She looked over at her father and he grinned at her.
She rolled her eyes, but smiled back. She then turned her attention back to her hunting.
She was beginning to think this wasn't such a prosperous spot at all.
~*~
Firaglarion laughed silently at his daughter.
Out of all her many wonderful qualities...patience was certainly not one of them.
He looked back over at his daughter and an overwhelming emotion of pride swept over him. She was his joy, his life, his everything.
Her beauty was beyond measure, and her cheerful personality always managed to make him smile, even when he was feeling at his worst.
He knew that if it had not been for her...he would not have made it through his wife's death.
At this thought Firaglarion's smile faltered.
He sighed as he looked up to the sky.
"Oh Rinwingiel, melamin...we did well." He whispered.
He looked back at his daughter and she glanced at him. She smiled sweetly and turned back to her concentrating.
This earned another soft chuckle from her father.
~*~
Silently waiting.
His time had now come.
He bent his bow, the arrow strong.
Yet another small voice leapt up inside him. Telling him not to do it.
But the evilness of his heart took over.
Telpedur hesitantly closed his eyes, and let loose the arrow.
~*~
Adulomeiel's heart stopped.
She knew what it was her Elven senses heard. An arrow. Being released from its bow.
In one horrifying moment, Adulomeiel watched the arrow in slow motion as it made its deadly path for it's target.
Firaglarion heard it too, but it was too late.
No time to move. The arrow came swiftly and pierced into him fiercely, throwing him on his back, in the snow, with a cry of shock.
"ATAR!" Adulomeiel screamed as she dropped her bow and ran to her father.
When she reached him she fell to her knees and took him in her arms.
"Oh atar." She sobbed.
Firaglarion was panting in pain. Tears flowed down his face, but not from the pain. The thought of leaving Adulomeiel at such a time hurt more.
Adulomeiel looked at the arrow. She began to cry in despair.
This couldn't possibly be happening.
The arrow had pierced his heart and now she knew her father was very near death.
"A-Adul..." Her father panted out.
She turned her tear-streaked face to him.
Firaglarion wept inside at the pain and despair he saw in her breathtaking eyes.
"I-I am sorry Adul..."
Adulomeiel began to cry harder as she shook her head.
No, this wasn't happening!
"Adul...m-mela...I-I am sorry that your mother died..."
Adulomeiel shook her head harder and tried to put on a small smile for her father.
"Nay atar...twas not your fault! You know I never blamed you...and I never will."
Firaglarion smiled and his complexion became paler.
The realization of what was happening hit Adulomeiel hard. Her body began to shake violently as she shook her head in protest.
"No atar please...please atar! You mustn't leave me! Please! You cannot!" She pulled his head onto her lap and wept with her cheek pressed against his.
Firaglarion, so near to death, grieved at his daughter's desperate pleas.
All her life he had given her what she wanted and needed. He had hoped that a time would never come where he could not fulfill her very last desire.
He cursed the day, and now it came.
"Adul...pen-neth..." He whispered into her ear.
She lifted her head slightly and tried to still her uncontrollable sobs.
"...Pen-neth I shall never leave you. For remember...when someone dwells in your heart, forever there they will dwell...even if we cannot see them."
He smiled at her as he lifted his hand and caressed her wet cheek.
Adulomeiel began to cry again as she placed her hand upon his and nodded her head.
"You dwell in my heart mela...as I know I shall forever dwell in yours. Amin mela lle pen-neth...my beautiful daughter... And I always will."
And with those last words said, Firaglarion's world covered in darkness...never again to see the light of day.
Adulomeiel stopped crying as the horrifying realization hit her.
Then all at once she burst into more unshed tears, the sobs racked her delicate body as they coursed through it.
She laid her head upon her dear fathers and screamed out her anguishing pain.
"ATAR!" She screamed over and over again....the painful realization of him never answering her again as she called to him, came to her, causing her to scream it repeatedly. Wishing that this were all just some horrible dream, and her father would rush in at any moment to wake her and tell her all was well. And hold her, whispering comforting words into her ear until she fell into a peaceful sleep.
Never again would he do this.
Never again.
Adulomeiel cried non-stop until her head hurt and she was too weak to cry anymore.
She sniffled as she laid her father's head gently down in the snow.
She quickly jumped up and ran through the woods.
She ran, tripping in her strength less state and crying out fresh tears as they came.
Finally she broke into Almare. She threw herself onto the ground and screamed out in anger at the sky...
"Am I to die in my grief now? You leave me all alone on this cursed earth! To mourn the death of my family! Am I to have strength to do so?...TELL ME!" She screamed at no one. She finally fell onto her side and cried into the snow.
"Nurru...please come...save me from my death. For without you...I shall surely die." She whispered.
Her voice faded and all that was left to be heard...where the soft sobs that came from her broken spirit.
~~~
Nurruthien sighed as Maltadolwen placed a dress over her head. Nurruthien didn't like being attended to like a child. Nurruthien watched as Maltadolwen fluttered about her, fixing the dress.
"I can dress myself, you know." Nurruthien said somewhat bitterly.
Maltadolwen smiled and looked up at Nurruthien. "Then what's the point of having a lady-in-waiting? Besides, as queen you must have a lady-in- waiting."
Nurruthien frowned at the mention of her being queen. She flopped down on her bed and stared at the ceiling.
"Nurruthien! I just fixed your dress and hair!" Maltadolwen nearly shrieked. Nurruthien just lay there on her bed and let her feet dangle off the edge with a smile that stretched from ear to ear. Nurruthien knew she was getting to Maltadolwen and it made her smile.
Maltadolwen shook her head and sighed. "I'm getting too old for this. You'll certainly need to get a new lady-in-waiting once you become queen."
The smile disappeared as Nurruthien sat up. "What do you mean, Maltadolwen? You're leaving?"
Maltadolwen nodded with a sad smile on her face. "Yes, my dearest. I plan to leave with the king. But let us not dwell on that now. The prince awaits your company."
Nurruthien nodded slowly and watched as Maltadolwen slipped out of her chambers. Nurruthien sat on her bed and thought for a few moments. She didn't like change.........the thought of all the elders, including her own father, leaving Middle Earth and her becoming queen bothered Nurruthien.
Her thoughts were interrupted by an impatient rapping on her door. Nurruthien smiled at the thought of who it might be. "Come in." She said nonchalantly.
The door opened and Legolas strode in. He stood in front of her in his winter attire and a dark green cape flapping behind him. Legolas placed his hands on his hips and glared down at Nurruthien on her bed.
"Really now, Nurruthien. How long does it take for you to get ready?" Legolas stared down at her stocking feet dangling near the floor.
Nurruthien lightly laughed, "You're the one who wants to go on this picnic. You're mad! Have you seen the snow on the ground out there?" Nurruthien exclaimed as she got up and stood towards the glass doors that led to her balcony. Legolas walked up behind her and followed her gaze through the frosted glass.
"Yes, but I've found such a lovely spot. Besides, I need to get out of this place.........and I know you like to get outside as well. I thought winter was your favorite season." Legolas bowed his head down next to Nurruthien's. Nurruthien smiled and turned around to face Legolas.
"It is my favorite season Legolas, but from the inside." They both laughed. Legolas placed his hand on Nurruthien's back and nudged her towards her vanity.
"Will you please put your boots on.........I wish to get back before sundown." Legolas smirked and watched as Nurruthien put on her soft snow boots.
"Why don't you go get your horse ready while I put on my cape. I'll get the basket as well." Nurruthien smiled as she reached for her winter cape. It was a light peach color with hood and edges trimmed in white fur. Legolas smiled and reluctantly walked out of her chambers. Nurruthien simply smiled as she placed the cape around her neck, relishing in the comfort of the warm, soft material. She closed her door and made her way to the front hall. There, Maltadolwen stood with a basket in her arms.
"I retrieved this for you, dearest. I hope you have a nice time." Maltadolwen smiled and handed the basket to Nurruthien. Nurruthien smiled and took the basket as she looked into Maltadolwen's deep blue eyes. Her eyes were filled with many years of wisdom and grace. Nurruthien would miss her when she leaves. Nurruthien sighed and turned towards the stairs that would take her outside. Nurruthien was deep in thought as she walked down the steps one at a time with her dress and cape flowing down behind her.
Nurruthien's thoughts were interrupted by the cold air enveloping her and the neighing of Legolas' horse. The horse fidgeted about as Legolas tried to calm it.
"Easy, Perinzil, easy........." Legolas spoke softly to his horse and placed a comforting hand on Perinzil's nose. Nurruthien watched the scene with a soft heart. Watching Legolas petting his horse in the snow covered surroundings of Mirkwood made Nurruthien smile. Legolas turned and caught her staring.
He smiled, "Are you ready to go?" Nurruthien smiled and nodded as she made her way over to Legolas.
Nurruthien handed Legolas the basket and reached up to Perinzil's back. "Let me help you, mela." Legolas went to put the basket down and help Nurruthien.
"I can do it on my own, Legolas." Nurruthien smiled down at Legolas as she jumped up on Perinzil's back and sat sideways. Legolas smirked and handed her the basket. Then, Legolas jumped up behind Nurruthien and placed his arms around her to guide Perinzil. Legolas urged the horse forward as they left the palace gates in a slow gallop.
After a short while riding through forest of Mirkwood, Legolas halted Perinzil. He sat still and looked ahead in silence. Nurruthien turned slightly and looked up at Legolas.
"Legolas? Are we here?"
Legolas looked down at Nurruthien and smiled, "Yes, we only have to walk past these trees."
They both got off Perenzil and walked through the trees. The sight that Nurruthien saw before her made her gasp and stare in amazement. Legolas came up beside her and placed a hand on her back.
"I knew you would like it." He smiled and then walked over to a very large, flat stone that has no snow on it. He spread a blanket over it and beckoned Nurruthien to come sit with him. Nurruthien just stared at the horizon. Legolas had brought her to a cliff looking down into a valley. In the distance there were snow-covered mountains and the afternoon sun peeking out from just behind them.
"Nurru.........come sit with me." Legolas smiled. Nurruthien snapped out of her trance at the sound of her nickname. The nickname that Adulomeiel had given her. Nurruthien felt sad for a moment but she ignored it and went over to Legolas. Nurruthien was trying to get used to the idea that her future with her best friend was unknown. Nurruthien sat down next to Legolas, who was stretched out on the rock with his eyes closed. Nurruthien smiled at him and placed the basket down.
"How did you find this place, Legolas?" Legolas opened his eyes and looked at Nurruthien.
"I was just on a hike with Dimmacilion one day and I happened upon this place. It's beautiful isn't it? I've never seen anything like it before." Legolas looked out at the valley, taking in all that it was. Nurruthien sighed and looked out at the valley as well.
After a few moments, Legolas sat up and turned towards Nurruthien. "I'm hungry, what is there to eat?" Nurruthien smiled and began unpacking things for them to eat.
With full bellies, the two elves relaxed on their backs, staring up at the sky. They exchanged small talk or sat in silence for a while. Legolas' mind was going fast as many thoughts came to him. What life was going to be like for him and what his future with Nurruthien held for them both. He was about to turn to Nurruthien and question her about these things when she spoke.
"Legolas, will you admit that you love me?" Nurruthien stared him straight in the eyes with an expression on her face that Legolas could not read. The question caught him off guard and unnerved him. How was he to answer such a question as that when he couldn't even answer it for himself?
"I-," Legolas started.........but could not find the words to go on. He searched her face for the answer, wishing that he would find it somewhere written on her beautiful face.
"Just admit it.........fear not." Nurruthien smiled at him. Legolas couldn't help but smile back at her. Perhaps that was his answer.
"I know that you have fallen in love with me, Legolas. I can see it in your eyes." Nurruthien now had a playful smile on face. Legolas took a deep breath and stared at her hazel eyes. Her eyelids were half closed in a lazy sort of way, but the deep pools of shimmering gold and green sparkled with the brightness of life.
"But, dearest Nurruthien, do you love me?" Legolas questioned as his heart quickened. An arrow aimed straight at his head didn't make him nervous. But this, this somewhat scary question looming in the air made him nervous. Legolas didn't know what he would do if he was rejected. Nurruthien only smiled at Legolas and tilted her head to the side. She was studying him, taking in everything that he was. Legolas had grown much from the little imp that once tortured her. Now, he adored her. Nurruthien knew no other way to answer him than what she was about to do.
Slowly, Nurruthien leaned over towards Legolas' face, her hair came flowing over her shoulders in one fell swoop. She could feel no cold air except for the heat emanating from Legolas' face. Nurruthien took one deep breath as she touched her lips lightly to Legolas'. Memories of the day when he kissed her on her terrace came flooding back at full force times ten. His lips were still soft and sweet and as they moved against her lips, they felt like soft velvet. After a moment, Nurruthien slowly moved away from him and stared straight into his eyes.
Legolas' eyes were now lazily drooped and he had a half smile on his face. "So.........you do love me."
Nurruthien laughed and touched his cheek, "Let us get back to the palace, it will be getting dark soon." Legolas nodded and moved off the huge, flat rock with a spring in his step. Nurruthien also climbed down and went to help Legolas prepare Perinzil for the hike back to the palace. Just as Nurruthien stepped on the ground, she felt a sharp stab in her heart.
Nurruthien gasped and clenched at her gown as if it were on fire and burning her flesh. The pain was overwhelming, but not physical. It was emotional pain, pain that Nurruthien only felt when something terribly wrong had happened.
"Adulomeiel........." Nurruthien whispered. This was like no other disaster. Something terrible had happened to Adulomeiel and Nurruthien could not linger. She glanced at Legolas petting Perinzil and pushing him away from a cluster of frozen grass. His back was turned, this was Nurruthien's only chance. She couldn't leave Adulomeiel to suffer this way alone. Nurruthien knew that Adulomeiel was alone for some reason.
Quickly, Nurruthien turned on her heal and hiked up her skirts. Nurruthien jumped over a low hedge and ran into the forest. Ignoring the branches that scratched her skin or tore her dress.........all she could think about was getting to Adulomeiel.
Legolas turned away from Perinzil and was about to speak when he noticed that Nurruthien was gone.
"Nurruthien?" Legolas walked over to the spot where Nurruthien last stood. Legolas searched the snow-covered ground looking for footprints. He rolled his eyes at himself, realizing he wouldn't find any.
"Nuruthien!" He called again, but still no answer came.
Panic began to grip him. Where in all Valinor could she be?
He cursed himself silently for not being more alert and listening to her every move.
He quickly mounted Perinzil and stilled him as the steed was a bit startled by his masters sudden mount.
Legolas looked out into the forest, and then up at the sky.
It was quickly getting dark and he feared him searching for Nurruthien alone in the cover of darkness, would be of no use.
He sighed angrily before spinning Perinzil alround.
"Aut Perinzil! Aut!" He shouted, and the horse took off in the direction of the palace.
Legolas glanced back one last time wishing with all his heart she would be standing there.
He turned his attention back onto the road and urged the poor horse on faster.
Silently he prayed to the Valor that she was safe.