Sanctus
Arelén flinched as the company crossed into the Lorien woods.
Behind her Legolas whispered, "What is it?" His eye searched the trees for any signs.
Arelén whispered "Archers - 5 I think."
As if on cue, a band of Lorien watchers appeared. "What business have you in the Golden Woods?" declared their leader.
The Chief Minister handed over the vellum scroll. "We are here by the Lady's invitation."
Legolas leaned into his sister. "There are 7." he teased.
Arelén placed a playful jab of her elbow into his stomach. "9 - there are two more behind us"
The leader unrolled the scroll and held it to the light. Finding it to his liking, he continued "Very well. We were told to expect you. Follow me"
*****
"M'Lord and M'Lady, our friends from Mirkwood have arrived safely." Announced the watcher's leader. "Lord Celeborn and Lady Gladriel, I come on business from King Thranduil." The Chief Minister stated as he bowed. As the conversation rolled on, Arelén's closed her eyes concentrating on the music she heard.
((Welcome to Lóthlorien, Arelén.))
Arelén did not see but felt the Lady's blue eyes. ((Lady I am very sorry about my behavior at Thranduil's banquet in your honor. P-Please forgive me.))
((What did you see?))
((Darkness. I also heard a scream. I wanted to sit next to you, but I was scared))
((Apology accepted. Please enjoy your time here. We will talk soon.))
Feeling a sweep of relief, Arelén smiled. ((Thank you Lady))
Arelén opened her eyes as she felt the familiar feeling of someone looking at her. Standing within the assembled Lorien guards, that someone stood a head taller and wider than her brother. His familiar gray eyes gave his identity away. ((That has to be Haldir))
She ducked her head behold Legolas' shoulder to block her view.
On their arrival into the appointed chamber, Arelén dropped her satchel on the smaller of the two beds. "Lets go exploring."
Weary from travel, Legolas sighed, "No. You don't know where anything is. You will get lost."
"That is the point." Arelén protested.
"Sister, while we are here, I have to be with you. Please do not go off by yourself."
"I feel safer here than I do at home."
"We are not going to have this discussion now. It's time for bed."
Arelén sighed. "If you insist."
Legolas stepped over to Arelén's bed. Tucking her in, he gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Sleep well, sister."
Sleepy gray eyes met his light blue. "Sleep well, brother."
*****
((Arelén))
((Lady?))
((Come to me. I wish to speak to you. You will know the way.))
Arelén quietly got out of bed. Skipping her shoes, she walked out into the silver black of Lóthlorien's midnight.
Arelén followed the winding path of stairs and bridges like she walked them her entire life. Upon stopping, she fell three quiet knocks upon the door.
Arelén slowly entered the large chamber. "Lady?"
Gladriel sat on a long bench in the center of the room. "Come in and sit with me for a while."
Arelén slowly walked over and knelt a respectable distance from the Lady's feet. "You asked for me, Lady?" ((I am so scared))
((Do not be frightened of me.)) "There is no need for you to play the servant's role here. Sit with me."
Arelén accepted the place on Gladriel's bench. She held her hands together in her lap. Trying to control her shaking.
Gladriel's face softened as, so many years ago, she brushed aside a wayward strand of red hair. Lifting up the frightened face to meet her deep blue eyes, "You are not a freak, Arelén. The Valar have gifted you."
Great relief crossed Arelén's gray eyes as a confused smile formed on her lips. She was unsure if she should blush or cry. "I do not understand."
Gladriel continued. "I saw it in your eyes during our visit. Tell me, do you see things before they happen?"
Arelén nodded. "Yes. I also hear things. Not only what is spoken, but what is thought. I say things that have no reason to be said. I am told my eyes change color or I have a strange blank look on my face. Thranduil forbade me to even make mention of this to anyone."
Gladriel smile grew brighter as Arelén explained all that was tightly locked in her heart. "You truly are gifted. The Valar themselves bestow this upon only one of our kind. One day you will outshine me."
"What?"
Gladriel nodded. "Your walk a path even I cannot see. While you are here let me teach you what I can."
"W - what about Legolas?" questioned Arelén. "Please tell me he is gifted as well."
Gladriel paused for a moment. "He too has exceptional gifts, but nothing like yours."
The wave demanding sleep could no longer be held back. Arelén slowly blinked her eyes. "Lady, could we begin tomorrow. I feel very tired."
Gladriel acknowledged the late hour. Taking Arelén's hands in her, she stood up. "Tomorrow you will find where you will do the most good. Sleep well."
Arelén bowed before leaving Gladriel's chamber.
Gladriel watched her new apprentice walk down the many flights of stairs to her chamber. "I hope I have caught her before the darkness has totally consumed her. Damn you Thranduil! You knew what she was. Why didn't you send her to me?"
The King of Mirkwood shivered as a wisp of cold air crossed his neck.
*****
Arelén awoke to a beam of mid-morning sun passing over her bed. Sitting up she realized Legolas was already gone. Upon the small table next to her bed laid a tray of fruit, bread, some tea and a note written in a familiar hand.
Didn't want to wake you. Out wandering -L
Arelén hurriedly dressed as she ate her breakfast. ((If he thinks I am going to stay here, he is sadly mistaken.))
Under the fine hand of her brother, she wrote, "So am I -a" Of course he will be a bit angry with her, but she didn't care.
Stepping out into the Lorien day, Arelén closed her eyes to decide which way to go. ((Where would I do the most good?)) Feeling a tug on her right side, she opened her eyes, climbed the nearest staircase and started exploring.
A right turn, followed by a short set of stairs, over a bridge lead Arelén to the doors of the healing house.
[Here.]
Upon entering the large doors, Lorien's healer looked up from his table.
"Are you well, little one?" the Healer asked as he walked toward Arelén.
"I am well Master Healer. Would you be willing to teach me? I know a little, but have so many questions"
The Healer's smile shined as the mid-day sun. "Of course."
*****
A moon cycle after Arelén was taken into training by the healer, Legolas ran into the healing house, dragging Haldir behind him.
"Sister, I've cut his hand. Can you fix it?"
"I will try."
"It is only a scrape, cousin. You did not harm me." The taller Lorien elf claimed.
"I want to stay and watch!" smiled Legolas sat on the edge of another bed.
Arelén gave her brother a sideways look. "Fine, but I will tell him about the time you cut your..." Legolas quickly placed his hand over her mouth. "I get the point. I'll be outside."
Arelén smiled at her patient. "What were you two doing?"
"We were practicing combat techniques. I nearly had him too."
Arelén shook her head. ((Boys)) "He is much better with a bow. Let me see."
She lightly held Haldir's hand. "It is not just a small scrape. His cut went deep. Good thing it was a sharp blade."
Haldir's eyes gleamed with pride as he lifted his head. "Lorien's fighters do not feel pain."
Arelén turned to face the table of mixtures, potions and herbs. ((Which one? Which one?)) She applied a few crushed leaves from a nearby jar onto Haldir's hand.
"Tanya awre!" {That hurt} Haldir tried to draw his hand away.
Arelén held the hand in hers tighter. "I thought Lorien warriors did not feel pain?"
A slight hint of embarrassment crossed Haldir's face.
Her gray met his. "I promise not to tell anyone." Wrapping a bandage around the leaves, Arelén instructed, "Leave this on for a few days and it will heal" ((I think))
Haldir nodded his thanks. "I will have to teach your brother a lesson or two in return."
"Please do." Arelén teased as Haldir left the healing house.
*****
The next day was Mid-Summer, the most important holiday in the Elvin year. It is belief that on this day, those who share a sip of wine are predestined to marry. The Elves of Lorien were busy preparing gifts to be exchanged, cooking the food for the feast that evening, and making the tournament fields ready.
Legolas and Haldir made their way into the library. Arelén was sitting at her usual table. Engrossed into her books she did not hear nor see them approach.
Two distinct voices chimed together "Will you come watch the tournament?"
Arelén continued in her reading.
Legolas reached to touch her shoulder. Arelén's hand caught his. A low dark voice spoke from her mouth, "Just a moment."
Taking a deep breath, Arelén's looked at the two in front of her. "What tournament?"
Haldir sat on the edge of the table, tracing his fingers over a carved box.
"The archery one of course. It is held every Mid-Summer."
Sliding the box away from Haldir's invading fingers, Arelén raised an eyebrow, "The thought of you two against each other in contest with pointed weapons is disturbing." She laughed, "But then it does sound amusing. I would be happy to attend."
As the two-faired haired ones quibbled about who was going to win, Arelén made her way out of the library. Halfway down the bridge, Arelén yelled back, "Well, are you two coming or not?"
Arelén took a small enjoyment in watching the disbelief between Legolas and Haldir as they realized she slipped by without their noticing. Joining her on the bridge, she gave her brother one arm, their Lorien cousin the other.
"Now we can go."
Arriving at the archery tournament, Haldir kissed Arelén's cheek. "Have no fear, M'Lady. I will win." Confidentially he walked away to select his spot upon the starting line.
Legolas kissed Arelén's other cheek. Mocking Haldir's voice "I will win for the honor of my dearest sister." His characterization of Haldir continued with an exaggerated walk to his starting position.
Arelén could not help but laugh. She found herself a quiet spot near a small tree to sit and watch.
Assuming his place upon the shooting line, Haldir smirked "I am the best shot in Lorien, cousin."
Legolas responded "And I am the best in Mirkwood. Your point, cousin?"
Haldir drew his bow. Aligned the shot. Released. The gray fletched arrow hit the target's center. "Dead center."
Not to be outdone, Legolas drew his bow. Aligned his shot. Released. His arrow, fletched in yellow, split Haldir's into two perfect pieces. "Mine too."
*****
The tournament lasted all afternoon. The field grew thinner and thinner finally leaving Haldir and Legolas tied. Only the eyesight of the elves could spot the location of the target now.
Legolas stood to take his last shot. If he got this one, he would win. His pride demanded he not let that conceited Lorien win.
Haldir bemused "What shall we wager on this shot, My Prince?"
Taking in a deep breath Legolas attempted to ignore this last barb at his stability.
"Mayhap a kiss from your sister?"
Legolas' flinch released the arrow far above and beyond the intended target.
Anger flamed in his eyes as he turned around to face Haldir. "My sister is not to be bargained for."
Legolas picked up his quiver and stormed away from the field.
Arelén stood from her spot. Taking long strides she met Haldir face to face. "What did you say to him?" she demanded.
Haldir's gray eyes glimmered in victory. "Just a simple wager, M'Lady. Which I intend to collect."
Haldir's extended arm was ignored.
Arelén's eyes stared through Haldir's. "You wagered something that is not yours." She ran off following her brother's path.
Haldir's victory no longer tasted sweet.
*****
Arelén found Legolas in their chamber face down on his bed.
"Brother, What did he say to you?" Legolas grumbled. "He barbed me all day I could take no more. He wanted to wager a kiss from you on the last shot. I should know better than to react like that. I can not believe I lost! And to him."
"You were only protecting me. Isn't that what brothers do?"
A shrug of the shoulders was his response as Legolas muttered something into his pillow.
Arelén massaged her brother's shoulders and arms for a while. "Feeling any better?"
Legolas rolled over to face his sister. "Much. Would you teach me how you focus?"
"How mean you?"
"You become so engrossed in what you do, it is nearly impossible to get your attention. Show me please?"
"Of course. But for now, we have to get ready for tonight's celebration. Go get cleaned up and I will do your hair."
After Legolas returned from his cleaning up, Arelén sat behind him. As she brushed his long hair she relayed some of the things she overheard from Gladriel's maidens.
Legolas seemed lost in thought. "That's it! Haldir wants you."
Arelén gave a gentle tug on the braid in progress, "Stop it. Do not tease me about that. Especially when I have your hair in my hands..."
"It's true! He does. I see it in his eyes. The way he looks at you gives it all away. He will never be good enough for you though."
In silence Arelén finished the last braid. "All done."
Legolas went to the closet. "Sister, where is my green suit."
"Getting repaired. I made you a new one. Here." Arelén handed over a small bundle from under her bed.
Legolas' slipped the new tunic over his head and fastened the closures on the front. The blue dye matched the color of his eyes perfectly.
"It took the dyer almost forever to match your color, brother." As she straightened up the back, she peeked over his shoulder to catch a glimpse in the mirror.
"I adore it! I assume you had a hand in the silverwork?" He turned slightly to allow the sunlight play off the delicately worked leaves.
"Of course! Can not have the Prince of Mirkwood going around unadorned, can we?"
"I have something for you." He handed over a new silver barrette engraved with intertwined L's and A's.
Arelén smiled. "This is beautiful. Thank you so much."
"Get dressed and we will go to the party together." ***** Soon after, brother and sister made their entrance into the great hall of Lóthlorien to the hall steward's introduction of "Legolas, Prince of Mirkwood and Arelén, Princess of Mirkwood"
((Thranduil would have a fit to end all fits if he heard that)) Arelén thought as a smile crossed her face. Lóthlorien's great hall was not a solid structure as the great hall at Mirkwood, The tree's branches provided the walls and arched ceiling. Moonlight filtered through the leaves turning the "room" into radiant silver.
Arelén willed herself to blend into the wall. She watched her brother make fast friends with a small flock of Lorien maidens.
((Well,)) thought Arelén ((He is quite handsome. Will make someone an excellent partner one day.))
[And none for you??]
Arelén lowered her head. ((None that I have seen.))
[He will be king]
((Yes he will.))
Upon the arrival of the Lord and Lady, dinner and the entertainment commenced. There were singers, storytellers, poets and all manner of musicians.
Confusion passed over Arelén's face as the assembled assumed their chairs for dinner. She had no idea where to sit. For all of Thranduil's banquets she knew her place. Nobody would notice if she was not there. She could acquire some leftovers from the kitchen later. She quietly made her way back to the chamber door.
((Arelén, where are you going?)) Although her physical attention was drawn towards Celebron, Arelén could feel Gladriel's eyes upon her.
Her escape stopped. ((Lady, I do not know where to sit.))
((Turn around and you will see))
Arelén calmed herself down. Turning around she saw the two chairs next to Celeborn were empty.
Quietly making her way to the head table, she placed one hand on the back of each chair. The one on the right felt warmer.
Arelén assumed a chair a few feet away from Celeborn. Leaving one empty spot in between them.
Her eyes darted around to find her brother. He was happily seated between two of the maidens from the group he met on the way in.
Arelén and the rest of the assembled broke into peals of laughter as one of the Lorien guards gave his demonstration of juggling techniques.
In between fits of laughter, Arelén absent-mindedly reached towards the goblet on her left.
After taking a small sip she realizes this is not hers. ((But there is no one sitting there))
Her attempt to replace the goblet was met by Haldir's hand.
"I believe this is mine..." His voice startled her.
Gray eyes grew wide "I-I only had a small sip. I meant no harm." Arelén handed the cup back to Haldir using both hands so not to drop it.
"None taken." Haldir raised the goblet to Arelén and took a deep drink. Turning the chair to face hers, he sat down. "Your brother seems to be enjoying himself."
Arelén smiled. "He always has enjoyed being the center of attention. With so many rays of beauty around him, how could he not glow?"
"I only see the one in front of me." Just under the reach of Elvin hearing.
Arelén pretended not to hear as she looked at Haldir's hand. "You took your bandage off. Let me see."
Regret crossed her face as she traced the small crescent shaped welt on his hand. "I used the wrong herb. You will have a scar. Faint, by the looks of it. I should have known better. Pardon my inexperience?
Haldir's gray eyes met hers. "If you forgive me for wagering something that isn't mine."
Arelén nodded as she pulled her hand way. "Agreed."
Taking another drink from his goblet, Haldir asked "Was I your first patient?"
"Not really. I know the plants of Mirkwood very well. Here they are slightly different. I am so sorry."
"It is no matter." Haldir ended the discussion.
Arelén smiled. ((I would not want word of this reaching Thranduil.))
Leaning closer to Arelén's chair, Haldir lightly brushed his finger over her hair. "Today was the first time I have seen you outside. The light does wonders for you."
Arelén could feel her face turning darker. ((What was it about his voice that bothers me like this)) "I - I do not get out much. Most of my time is spent in study."
Finishing the meal on his plate Haldir inquired, "What are you studying?"
As dinner wound down, Arelén explained her interest in herbs, their healing properties and how they can be combined to remedy all sorts of injuries.
Taking a last drink from his goblet, Haldir asked "Have you had a chance to explore these woods?"
"Not as much as I would like to."
Haldir smiled as he extended his hand "Then, M'Lady, would you walk with me?"
Arelén looked over Haldir's shoulder catching Gladriel's eyes. ((Go ahead. You are safe here))
A slightly shaking hand is gently placed in his. "On a night such as this, how could I say 'no'?"
Legolas managed a small glance as his sister walked out of the hall with him. He stood to follow, but was swept into the circle of dancers.
*****
Hours passed before a happy and laughing Arelén and Haldir descend a small staircase to see a very annoyed Legolas pacing in front of the chamber door.
"M'Lady, I wish you a pleasant sleep." Haldir bowed and left exchanging glances with Legolas.
"You look like Thranduil when you do that." Arelén coldly sniped as she walked into the chamber.
"Well, he is my father." Legolas grumbled as he closed the door. "Where have you been?"
"Out." Ignoring the first comment.
Legolas tried a different approach. "You left the party."
"Yes."
Frustration crossed Legolas' face. "Where did you go? Answer me!"
Arelén turned around, "If you MUST know, we - Haldir took me on a tour of the woods. Your concern is appreciated. However, I was safe and well protected."
"I do not like how he looks at you."
Walking away to the changing chamber Arelén continued, "There is nothing wrong with how he looks at me. I find his company quite pleasant and he makes me feel comfortable."
"Comfortable? The way his eyes look at you is comfortable? Enjoy it as long as you can. As soon as the business here is finished, you will never come back."
"We shall see, Brother."
"He's an arrogant, snobby Lorien elf."
Arelén returned in her sleeping gown wrapped in her well worn robe. She stared directly into Legolas' eyes. ((Yes he is)) "Your point, brother? You do not seem to mind their snobbery when their maidens are fawning over you. And what of their arrogance when you have their drink in your cup?"
"He's not good enough for you." Retorted the fair-haired one. ((She's doing that again. I am not going to win this argument))
"Not good enough? Who is good enough in your eyes? You can not keep me locked away."
Taking a few steps closer, Legolas pleaded "Not so loud."
Arelén's voice got louder as she stepped backwards. "I am tired of keeping my voice down. I am tired of hiding in the shadows. I am tired of having my birthright denied me."
Arelén's dark voice growled, "Answer me one question, brother."
Legolas shook. Never before had he seen her like this. "Anything."
"Why?" Her eyes glowed.
Miserably, Legolas sat on his bed. "I have no answer for you."
"No one ever does." The fire in her eyes died down. "I know I am only a fire haired freak, but do I not also have feelings and wants?"
Arelén sat on the edge of her bed, shaking her head to regain her composure. "What happened?"
Legolas' face betrayed his puzzlement. "You did that again."
Arelén sighed, "I didn't even feel it happen this time. Twice at dinner I heard that voice."
Legolas inquired, "Is Lady's training helping?"
Dark hair nodded. "I think so. I do not really know."
Arelén fluffed her pillows. "I am tired. A good night's rest will do wonders for both of us. Sleep well, brother." Hanging her robe on the bed's headboard she pulled the covers over her head.
Legolas turned off the lamp before lying down into his bed. "Pleasant dreams."
When Legolas thought Arelén was sleeping, he quietly whispered to the dark "I don't think you're a freak. You're my sister."
Feigning sleep, Arelén smiled quietly.
Making sure Legolas was sleeping, she walked over to the side of his bed. Pulling up kicked off covers, she stood looking at his face in the moonlight. "I'm not so little anymore, Brother. One day you will have to let me go."
Arelén flinched as the company crossed into the Lorien woods.
Behind her Legolas whispered, "What is it?" His eye searched the trees for any signs.
Arelén whispered "Archers - 5 I think."
As if on cue, a band of Lorien watchers appeared. "What business have you in the Golden Woods?" declared their leader.
The Chief Minister handed over the vellum scroll. "We are here by the Lady's invitation."
Legolas leaned into his sister. "There are 7." he teased.
Arelén placed a playful jab of her elbow into his stomach. "9 - there are two more behind us"
The leader unrolled the scroll and held it to the light. Finding it to his liking, he continued "Very well. We were told to expect you. Follow me"
*****
"M'Lord and M'Lady, our friends from Mirkwood have arrived safely." Announced the watcher's leader. "Lord Celeborn and Lady Gladriel, I come on business from King Thranduil." The Chief Minister stated as he bowed. As the conversation rolled on, Arelén's closed her eyes concentrating on the music she heard.
((Welcome to Lóthlorien, Arelén.))
Arelén did not see but felt the Lady's blue eyes. ((Lady I am very sorry about my behavior at Thranduil's banquet in your honor. P-Please forgive me.))
((What did you see?))
((Darkness. I also heard a scream. I wanted to sit next to you, but I was scared))
((Apology accepted. Please enjoy your time here. We will talk soon.))
Feeling a sweep of relief, Arelén smiled. ((Thank you Lady))
Arelén opened her eyes as she felt the familiar feeling of someone looking at her. Standing within the assembled Lorien guards, that someone stood a head taller and wider than her brother. His familiar gray eyes gave his identity away. ((That has to be Haldir))
She ducked her head behold Legolas' shoulder to block her view.
On their arrival into the appointed chamber, Arelén dropped her satchel on the smaller of the two beds. "Lets go exploring."
Weary from travel, Legolas sighed, "No. You don't know where anything is. You will get lost."
"That is the point." Arelén protested.
"Sister, while we are here, I have to be with you. Please do not go off by yourself."
"I feel safer here than I do at home."
"We are not going to have this discussion now. It's time for bed."
Arelén sighed. "If you insist."
Legolas stepped over to Arelén's bed. Tucking her in, he gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Sleep well, sister."
Sleepy gray eyes met his light blue. "Sleep well, brother."
*****
((Arelén))
((Lady?))
((Come to me. I wish to speak to you. You will know the way.))
Arelén quietly got out of bed. Skipping her shoes, she walked out into the silver black of Lóthlorien's midnight.
Arelén followed the winding path of stairs and bridges like she walked them her entire life. Upon stopping, she fell three quiet knocks upon the door.
Arelén slowly entered the large chamber. "Lady?"
Gladriel sat on a long bench in the center of the room. "Come in and sit with me for a while."
Arelén slowly walked over and knelt a respectable distance from the Lady's feet. "You asked for me, Lady?" ((I am so scared))
((Do not be frightened of me.)) "There is no need for you to play the servant's role here. Sit with me."
Arelén accepted the place on Gladriel's bench. She held her hands together in her lap. Trying to control her shaking.
Gladriel's face softened as, so many years ago, she brushed aside a wayward strand of red hair. Lifting up the frightened face to meet her deep blue eyes, "You are not a freak, Arelén. The Valar have gifted you."
Great relief crossed Arelén's gray eyes as a confused smile formed on her lips. She was unsure if she should blush or cry. "I do not understand."
Gladriel continued. "I saw it in your eyes during our visit. Tell me, do you see things before they happen?"
Arelén nodded. "Yes. I also hear things. Not only what is spoken, but what is thought. I say things that have no reason to be said. I am told my eyes change color or I have a strange blank look on my face. Thranduil forbade me to even make mention of this to anyone."
Gladriel smile grew brighter as Arelén explained all that was tightly locked in her heart. "You truly are gifted. The Valar themselves bestow this upon only one of our kind. One day you will outshine me."
"What?"
Gladriel nodded. "Your walk a path even I cannot see. While you are here let me teach you what I can."
"W - what about Legolas?" questioned Arelén. "Please tell me he is gifted as well."
Gladriel paused for a moment. "He too has exceptional gifts, but nothing like yours."
The wave demanding sleep could no longer be held back. Arelén slowly blinked her eyes. "Lady, could we begin tomorrow. I feel very tired."
Gladriel acknowledged the late hour. Taking Arelén's hands in her, she stood up. "Tomorrow you will find where you will do the most good. Sleep well."
Arelén bowed before leaving Gladriel's chamber.
Gladriel watched her new apprentice walk down the many flights of stairs to her chamber. "I hope I have caught her before the darkness has totally consumed her. Damn you Thranduil! You knew what she was. Why didn't you send her to me?"
The King of Mirkwood shivered as a wisp of cold air crossed his neck.
*****
Arelén awoke to a beam of mid-morning sun passing over her bed. Sitting up she realized Legolas was already gone. Upon the small table next to her bed laid a tray of fruit, bread, some tea and a note written in a familiar hand.
Didn't want to wake you. Out wandering -L
Arelén hurriedly dressed as she ate her breakfast. ((If he thinks I am going to stay here, he is sadly mistaken.))
Under the fine hand of her brother, she wrote, "So am I -a" Of course he will be a bit angry with her, but she didn't care.
Stepping out into the Lorien day, Arelén closed her eyes to decide which way to go. ((Where would I do the most good?)) Feeling a tug on her right side, she opened her eyes, climbed the nearest staircase and started exploring.
A right turn, followed by a short set of stairs, over a bridge lead Arelén to the doors of the healing house.
[Here.]
Upon entering the large doors, Lorien's healer looked up from his table.
"Are you well, little one?" the Healer asked as he walked toward Arelén.
"I am well Master Healer. Would you be willing to teach me? I know a little, but have so many questions"
The Healer's smile shined as the mid-day sun. "Of course."
*****
A moon cycle after Arelén was taken into training by the healer, Legolas ran into the healing house, dragging Haldir behind him.
"Sister, I've cut his hand. Can you fix it?"
"I will try."
"It is only a scrape, cousin. You did not harm me." The taller Lorien elf claimed.
"I want to stay and watch!" smiled Legolas sat on the edge of another bed.
Arelén gave her brother a sideways look. "Fine, but I will tell him about the time you cut your..." Legolas quickly placed his hand over her mouth. "I get the point. I'll be outside."
Arelén smiled at her patient. "What were you two doing?"
"We were practicing combat techniques. I nearly had him too."
Arelén shook her head. ((Boys)) "He is much better with a bow. Let me see."
She lightly held Haldir's hand. "It is not just a small scrape. His cut went deep. Good thing it was a sharp blade."
Haldir's eyes gleamed with pride as he lifted his head. "Lorien's fighters do not feel pain."
Arelén turned to face the table of mixtures, potions and herbs. ((Which one? Which one?)) She applied a few crushed leaves from a nearby jar onto Haldir's hand.
"Tanya awre!" {That hurt} Haldir tried to draw his hand away.
Arelén held the hand in hers tighter. "I thought Lorien warriors did not feel pain?"
A slight hint of embarrassment crossed Haldir's face.
Her gray met his. "I promise not to tell anyone." Wrapping a bandage around the leaves, Arelén instructed, "Leave this on for a few days and it will heal" ((I think))
Haldir nodded his thanks. "I will have to teach your brother a lesson or two in return."
"Please do." Arelén teased as Haldir left the healing house.
*****
The next day was Mid-Summer, the most important holiday in the Elvin year. It is belief that on this day, those who share a sip of wine are predestined to marry. The Elves of Lorien were busy preparing gifts to be exchanged, cooking the food for the feast that evening, and making the tournament fields ready.
Legolas and Haldir made their way into the library. Arelén was sitting at her usual table. Engrossed into her books she did not hear nor see them approach.
Two distinct voices chimed together "Will you come watch the tournament?"
Arelén continued in her reading.
Legolas reached to touch her shoulder. Arelén's hand caught his. A low dark voice spoke from her mouth, "Just a moment."
Taking a deep breath, Arelén's looked at the two in front of her. "What tournament?"
Haldir sat on the edge of the table, tracing his fingers over a carved box.
"The archery one of course. It is held every Mid-Summer."
Sliding the box away from Haldir's invading fingers, Arelén raised an eyebrow, "The thought of you two against each other in contest with pointed weapons is disturbing." She laughed, "But then it does sound amusing. I would be happy to attend."
As the two-faired haired ones quibbled about who was going to win, Arelén made her way out of the library. Halfway down the bridge, Arelén yelled back, "Well, are you two coming or not?"
Arelén took a small enjoyment in watching the disbelief between Legolas and Haldir as they realized she slipped by without their noticing. Joining her on the bridge, she gave her brother one arm, their Lorien cousin the other.
"Now we can go."
Arriving at the archery tournament, Haldir kissed Arelén's cheek. "Have no fear, M'Lady. I will win." Confidentially he walked away to select his spot upon the starting line.
Legolas kissed Arelén's other cheek. Mocking Haldir's voice "I will win for the honor of my dearest sister." His characterization of Haldir continued with an exaggerated walk to his starting position.
Arelén could not help but laugh. She found herself a quiet spot near a small tree to sit and watch.
Assuming his place upon the shooting line, Haldir smirked "I am the best shot in Lorien, cousin."
Legolas responded "And I am the best in Mirkwood. Your point, cousin?"
Haldir drew his bow. Aligned the shot. Released. The gray fletched arrow hit the target's center. "Dead center."
Not to be outdone, Legolas drew his bow. Aligned his shot. Released. His arrow, fletched in yellow, split Haldir's into two perfect pieces. "Mine too."
*****
The tournament lasted all afternoon. The field grew thinner and thinner finally leaving Haldir and Legolas tied. Only the eyesight of the elves could spot the location of the target now.
Legolas stood to take his last shot. If he got this one, he would win. His pride demanded he not let that conceited Lorien win.
Haldir bemused "What shall we wager on this shot, My Prince?"
Taking in a deep breath Legolas attempted to ignore this last barb at his stability.
"Mayhap a kiss from your sister?"
Legolas' flinch released the arrow far above and beyond the intended target.
Anger flamed in his eyes as he turned around to face Haldir. "My sister is not to be bargained for."
Legolas picked up his quiver and stormed away from the field.
Arelén stood from her spot. Taking long strides she met Haldir face to face. "What did you say to him?" she demanded.
Haldir's gray eyes glimmered in victory. "Just a simple wager, M'Lady. Which I intend to collect."
Haldir's extended arm was ignored.
Arelén's eyes stared through Haldir's. "You wagered something that is not yours." She ran off following her brother's path.
Haldir's victory no longer tasted sweet.
*****
Arelén found Legolas in their chamber face down on his bed.
"Brother, What did he say to you?" Legolas grumbled. "He barbed me all day I could take no more. He wanted to wager a kiss from you on the last shot. I should know better than to react like that. I can not believe I lost! And to him."
"You were only protecting me. Isn't that what brothers do?"
A shrug of the shoulders was his response as Legolas muttered something into his pillow.
Arelén massaged her brother's shoulders and arms for a while. "Feeling any better?"
Legolas rolled over to face his sister. "Much. Would you teach me how you focus?"
"How mean you?"
"You become so engrossed in what you do, it is nearly impossible to get your attention. Show me please?"
"Of course. But for now, we have to get ready for tonight's celebration. Go get cleaned up and I will do your hair."
After Legolas returned from his cleaning up, Arelén sat behind him. As she brushed his long hair she relayed some of the things she overheard from Gladriel's maidens.
Legolas seemed lost in thought. "That's it! Haldir wants you."
Arelén gave a gentle tug on the braid in progress, "Stop it. Do not tease me about that. Especially when I have your hair in my hands..."
"It's true! He does. I see it in his eyes. The way he looks at you gives it all away. He will never be good enough for you though."
In silence Arelén finished the last braid. "All done."
Legolas went to the closet. "Sister, where is my green suit."
"Getting repaired. I made you a new one. Here." Arelén handed over a small bundle from under her bed.
Legolas' slipped the new tunic over his head and fastened the closures on the front. The blue dye matched the color of his eyes perfectly.
"It took the dyer almost forever to match your color, brother." As she straightened up the back, she peeked over his shoulder to catch a glimpse in the mirror.
"I adore it! I assume you had a hand in the silverwork?" He turned slightly to allow the sunlight play off the delicately worked leaves.
"Of course! Can not have the Prince of Mirkwood going around unadorned, can we?"
"I have something for you." He handed over a new silver barrette engraved with intertwined L's and A's.
Arelén smiled. "This is beautiful. Thank you so much."
"Get dressed and we will go to the party together." ***** Soon after, brother and sister made their entrance into the great hall of Lóthlorien to the hall steward's introduction of "Legolas, Prince of Mirkwood and Arelén, Princess of Mirkwood"
((Thranduil would have a fit to end all fits if he heard that)) Arelén thought as a smile crossed her face. Lóthlorien's great hall was not a solid structure as the great hall at Mirkwood, The tree's branches provided the walls and arched ceiling. Moonlight filtered through the leaves turning the "room" into radiant silver.
Arelén willed herself to blend into the wall. She watched her brother make fast friends with a small flock of Lorien maidens.
((Well,)) thought Arelén ((He is quite handsome. Will make someone an excellent partner one day.))
[And none for you??]
Arelén lowered her head. ((None that I have seen.))
[He will be king]
((Yes he will.))
Upon the arrival of the Lord and Lady, dinner and the entertainment commenced. There were singers, storytellers, poets and all manner of musicians.
Confusion passed over Arelén's face as the assembled assumed their chairs for dinner. She had no idea where to sit. For all of Thranduil's banquets she knew her place. Nobody would notice if she was not there. She could acquire some leftovers from the kitchen later. She quietly made her way back to the chamber door.
((Arelén, where are you going?)) Although her physical attention was drawn towards Celebron, Arelén could feel Gladriel's eyes upon her.
Her escape stopped. ((Lady, I do not know where to sit.))
((Turn around and you will see))
Arelén calmed herself down. Turning around she saw the two chairs next to Celeborn were empty.
Quietly making her way to the head table, she placed one hand on the back of each chair. The one on the right felt warmer.
Arelén assumed a chair a few feet away from Celeborn. Leaving one empty spot in between them.
Her eyes darted around to find her brother. He was happily seated between two of the maidens from the group he met on the way in.
Arelén and the rest of the assembled broke into peals of laughter as one of the Lorien guards gave his demonstration of juggling techniques.
In between fits of laughter, Arelén absent-mindedly reached towards the goblet on her left.
After taking a small sip she realizes this is not hers. ((But there is no one sitting there))
Her attempt to replace the goblet was met by Haldir's hand.
"I believe this is mine..." His voice startled her.
Gray eyes grew wide "I-I only had a small sip. I meant no harm." Arelén handed the cup back to Haldir using both hands so not to drop it.
"None taken." Haldir raised the goblet to Arelén and took a deep drink. Turning the chair to face hers, he sat down. "Your brother seems to be enjoying himself."
Arelén smiled. "He always has enjoyed being the center of attention. With so many rays of beauty around him, how could he not glow?"
"I only see the one in front of me." Just under the reach of Elvin hearing.
Arelén pretended not to hear as she looked at Haldir's hand. "You took your bandage off. Let me see."
Regret crossed her face as she traced the small crescent shaped welt on his hand. "I used the wrong herb. You will have a scar. Faint, by the looks of it. I should have known better. Pardon my inexperience?
Haldir's gray eyes met hers. "If you forgive me for wagering something that isn't mine."
Arelén nodded as she pulled her hand way. "Agreed."
Taking another drink from his goblet, Haldir asked "Was I your first patient?"
"Not really. I know the plants of Mirkwood very well. Here they are slightly different. I am so sorry."
"It is no matter." Haldir ended the discussion.
Arelén smiled. ((I would not want word of this reaching Thranduil.))
Leaning closer to Arelén's chair, Haldir lightly brushed his finger over her hair. "Today was the first time I have seen you outside. The light does wonders for you."
Arelén could feel her face turning darker. ((What was it about his voice that bothers me like this)) "I - I do not get out much. Most of my time is spent in study."
Finishing the meal on his plate Haldir inquired, "What are you studying?"
As dinner wound down, Arelén explained her interest in herbs, their healing properties and how they can be combined to remedy all sorts of injuries.
Taking a last drink from his goblet, Haldir asked "Have you had a chance to explore these woods?"
"Not as much as I would like to."
Haldir smiled as he extended his hand "Then, M'Lady, would you walk with me?"
Arelén looked over Haldir's shoulder catching Gladriel's eyes. ((Go ahead. You are safe here))
A slightly shaking hand is gently placed in his. "On a night such as this, how could I say 'no'?"
Legolas managed a small glance as his sister walked out of the hall with him. He stood to follow, but was swept into the circle of dancers.
*****
Hours passed before a happy and laughing Arelén and Haldir descend a small staircase to see a very annoyed Legolas pacing in front of the chamber door.
"M'Lady, I wish you a pleasant sleep." Haldir bowed and left exchanging glances with Legolas.
"You look like Thranduil when you do that." Arelén coldly sniped as she walked into the chamber.
"Well, he is my father." Legolas grumbled as he closed the door. "Where have you been?"
"Out." Ignoring the first comment.
Legolas tried a different approach. "You left the party."
"Yes."
Frustration crossed Legolas' face. "Where did you go? Answer me!"
Arelén turned around, "If you MUST know, we - Haldir took me on a tour of the woods. Your concern is appreciated. However, I was safe and well protected."
"I do not like how he looks at you."
Walking away to the changing chamber Arelén continued, "There is nothing wrong with how he looks at me. I find his company quite pleasant and he makes me feel comfortable."
"Comfortable? The way his eyes look at you is comfortable? Enjoy it as long as you can. As soon as the business here is finished, you will never come back."
"We shall see, Brother."
"He's an arrogant, snobby Lorien elf."
Arelén returned in her sleeping gown wrapped in her well worn robe. She stared directly into Legolas' eyes. ((Yes he is)) "Your point, brother? You do not seem to mind their snobbery when their maidens are fawning over you. And what of their arrogance when you have their drink in your cup?"
"He's not good enough for you." Retorted the fair-haired one. ((She's doing that again. I am not going to win this argument))
"Not good enough? Who is good enough in your eyes? You can not keep me locked away."
Taking a few steps closer, Legolas pleaded "Not so loud."
Arelén's voice got louder as she stepped backwards. "I am tired of keeping my voice down. I am tired of hiding in the shadows. I am tired of having my birthright denied me."
Arelén's dark voice growled, "Answer me one question, brother."
Legolas shook. Never before had he seen her like this. "Anything."
"Why?" Her eyes glowed.
Miserably, Legolas sat on his bed. "I have no answer for you."
"No one ever does." The fire in her eyes died down. "I know I am only a fire haired freak, but do I not also have feelings and wants?"
Arelén sat on the edge of her bed, shaking her head to regain her composure. "What happened?"
Legolas' face betrayed his puzzlement. "You did that again."
Arelén sighed, "I didn't even feel it happen this time. Twice at dinner I heard that voice."
Legolas inquired, "Is Lady's training helping?"
Dark hair nodded. "I think so. I do not really know."
Arelén fluffed her pillows. "I am tired. A good night's rest will do wonders for both of us. Sleep well, brother." Hanging her robe on the bed's headboard she pulled the covers over her head.
Legolas turned off the lamp before lying down into his bed. "Pleasant dreams."
When Legolas thought Arelén was sleeping, he quietly whispered to the dark "I don't think you're a freak. You're my sister."
Feigning sleep, Arelén smiled quietly.
Making sure Legolas was sleeping, she walked over to the side of his bed. Pulling up kicked off covers, she stood looking at his face in the moonlight. "I'm not so little anymore, Brother. One day you will have to let me go."