Kyrie
Legolas entered the library from the back door.
This time he was going to get his sister.
She has spent the last three moons in training with The Lady.
He felt it was his duty to test Arelén's improved senses of perception.
((I'm still not ok with the idea of her spending time with him)) Even the thought of his sister with that 'high and mighty' Haldir appalled him. He did everything he knew how to do to make sure she was safe.
He slowly walked up behind the familiar table with its habitual occupant.
As he moved his hand to touch her tickle spot, her hand caught his. "He is not - What news have you Legolas?"
As he was moved towards the front of the table, he couldn't contain his excitement. "Mirkwood's business is finished here. We're going home tomorrow!!"
Releasing his hand, Arelén put on her best face "Wonderful. I will join you when I finish this section."
Watching her brother walk down the stairs, she looked out of the nearest window. ((Half a day left. No use in wasting it inside))
She replaced the book upon the shelf. Packed up her inks, quills and notes into her satchel.
Haldir appeared at the doorway of the library carrying a small bag on his back. "I heard you are leaving. Do you have time for one more walk?"
Taking the now familiar hand in hers, "For you I would make time."
*****
They walked off in a new direction. After a while, Haldir stopped. "Arelén, close your eyes."
"Why?"
"I want to show you something"
Arelén closed her eyes as Haldir took her hands. "Only a few more steps."
Arelén felt the ground, air and sounds of the surroundings change.
"Where are you taking me?" she playfully questioned.
"You will see"
Not soon after Haldir stopped. His strong hands moved Arelén's shoulders to face a certain direction, "Open your eyes."
Arelén opened her eyes to a large, blue lake shimmering in the late afternoon sun.
"It's beautiful. Why have you never mentioned this place before?"
Haldir smiled "This is my special place."
Arelén stood at the water's edge soaking up the sunlight, new sounds. Her fingers played in the water.
Haldir laid his cloak out on the ground. Produced a bottle of wine and some food from his bag. "Care for lunch, M'Lady?"
Assuming a spot next to her host, Arelén was still in wonderment. "I did not know Lorien had such a lake."
"Nor did I. I made it my ambition to know every last inch of the Lord and Lady's realm. If I am to be a defender of Lóthlorien, I must know every place."
"This is such a magical place."
Haldir leaned back on his arms and smiled "Yes it is. I think the Valar themselves created this spot"
"All I ever see are towers and walls in Mirkwood. Lorien is filled with plants and trees. You can even see the stars. The library here is filled with books."
"What were you reading today?"
Arelén took a small sip of wine and began to discuss her readings.
After a while, Haldir stifled a yawn.
"I realize this is not thrilling to everyone." Said Arelén as she closed her book and smiled.
Haldir sat up "Since you taught me more about herbs than I ever knew. May I repay with an archery lesson?"
Arelén laughed, "You do know the last time I handled a bow, I shot my brother while he was standing behind me?"
"He did tell you the sharp end points out?" Haldir extended his hand to assist Arelén to stand.
Standing on her own, Arelén replied, "He might have skipped that."
Standing behind Arelén, Haldir placed his hand over hers guiding her fingers into the well worn grip.
"Keep this arm straight. Use these three fingers to pull the string back."
"Pull the string back to your cheek. Right here." Haldir ducked her drawn back elbow. He drew one finger along the side of her face. "Then remove your fingers from the string."
Arelén followed her teacher's instructions to the letter.
"Good. Now we'll try it with an arrow."
The few remaining hours of sunlight passed without a single injury.
*****
The sun dropped below the horizon as Haldir and Arelén return to the fabric for a post-lesson break
Haldir was impressed. "You would be a formidable fighter if you wanted to be."
Arelén smiled. "Thank you. No where as talented as you thought. But I will admit, learning how to handle weapons will teach me the way that wounds are made."
Haldir collected up the last pieces of food and now empty bottle of wine, "We must return for you to have time to pack."
Taking one last look at the sunset over the lake, Arelén's voice went low. "I will always remember this place."
As they walked back, Arleen laughed quietly to herself. "I never finished that section of the book."
Haldir was a bit confused.
Arelén explained "Before you met me on the stairs, I told Legolas that I would join him after I finished the section I was reading. He is going to be upset when we return."
"He is very protective of you"
Arelén nodded. "Yes he is. We are from the same parents, but King Thranduil has never claimed me as his. Legolas is the only family I have. I would be lost without him."
"Lady Gladriel and Lord Celebron adopted me and my brothers after our parents were killed. I owe them my loyalty."
"I have noticed the three of you are very close."
"Yes we are. As you and Legolas."
"Who's the eldest?"
Haldir smiled, "I am. Rúmil is the youngest. What about you two?"
Arelén shrugged her shoulders. "Neither one of us knows. I think he is older. I know his birthday, but I do not know mine."
"How can you not know your birthday?"
"Besides the Gods, there are three who know it. Two are dead and the third never discusses that matter."
"Do you like living in Mirkwood?"
Dark hair shook "Not really. I feel that I was meant to be here. But, let us talk of happier things."
*****
The return journey ended upon the bridge outside the chamber at moonrise.
"Haldir, I sincerely thank you for all your kindness while we have been here." Arelén's gray eyes reflected the now silver coloring of the trees.
Brushing the fabric on her shoulder, Haldir implored "You could stay here if you wanted. Start a new life."
Arelén sighed, "Not yet." ((Gods know I want to))
"Are you sure you won't stay?" He asked. Arelén's sadness even swept over Haldir.
"One day - Maybe." Her voice cracked. He could tell his question upset her greatly.
His strong hand reached out, caressing her soft pale face, just brushing the ends of her ears. "Arelén, I..."
"ARELÉN!!" Legolas' yell echoed in the trees.
Dark hair angrily turned, brushing Haldir's face. "WHAT?!" growled Arelén's voice. ((Now he even sounds like Thranduil)) Her gray eyes darkening towards black.
Legolas grabbed his sister's arm, "I have been looking for you all over! We need to being packing for our leaving for home tomorrow."
Haldir held her other arm. "She wants to stay."
"Her home is Mirkwood!" Legolas pulled her arm to his side.
"Her home is Lóthlorien!" The taller growled pulling her arm to his side.
Forcibly, Arelén shoved them both away. Not even moonlight was reflected in the depths of her eyes. "Stop this."
Stepping away backwards her dark voice continued. "I see the fury between you two. I am not something for the two of you to fight over."
Storming off the platform into the threshold of the chamber, she turned around to face the two left on the bridge.
Black returned to normal gray as Arelén regained control.
"I love you both."
Tearfully she entered the chamber and slammed the door closed.
Two fair-haired elves stood frozen in amazement. Speechless.
*****
Hearing the door open, she shot her brother the "Don't even think about talking to me" look.
Legolas watched in amazement. Even in her anger, she was very careful in her packing. Each article of clothing was meticulously folded and placed into the travel chest in a very specific order.
Giving her time to calm down, Legolas walked over to where she was sitting next to the chest.
"Arelén, I - " he began.
Hearing his voice, Arelén closed the chest and bowed her head.
Instead of that strong willed creature he saw on the bridge, she was returning to her obedient servant role. It pained him to see her torn like this. ((It is for the better. Father would have her killed if he knew))
He continued, "I'm going to bed now."
"Sleep well, My Prince."
Arelén finished the packing well after Legolas fell asleep. She replaced his worn clothing with his traveling suit.
*****
Sneaking out of the chamber, Arelén found her favorite bridge. Sitting with her knees pulled to her forehead, she let her hair fall all round. Trying her best to keep her crying silent.
Sitting in her meditation, she felt a presence upon the bridge. ((I do not want to go back to Mirkwood. I can not believe that happened.))
The Lady's voice wove into her thoughts. "Even after all this time, you still can not ask for my help." ((You have unfinished business in Mirkwood.))
Arelén's body and mind stilled. The dark voice spoke "A power greater than you is guiding this one."
One single tear rolled down Gladriel's face. "I see for her great pain in finding her true home."
"Yes. She will remember what she has learned here. Your teachings will be the light upon the dark path she must walk."
Gladriel placed on hand on Arelén's shoulder as she left. "Remember."
As Arelén awoke from her meditation, one single leaf fell into her lap.
*****
After placing the tray carrying breakfast on the table, Arelén brushed her brother's face, "Time to wake up. I will meet you at the assembly point"
Legolas arrived a while later. "Look what followed me here..."
Arelén turned from strapping the satchel to their horse and smiled "Haldir."
Nudging his way past Legolas, he stood very close to Arelén.
"I have something for you."
Taking Arelén's hand in his, he gently placed one kiss in the center of her palm. Closing her fingers over a small silk wrapped package placed over the kiss spot
Legolas' blue eyes closed into slits. Staring at the Lorien elf.
((No matter what she said, she is still my sister)) Arelén opened her hand slowly. ((Stay calm)) The silk fell open to reveal on a thin silver chain a crescent moon formed from a fine mesh of silver leaves.
Two pairs of gray eyes met and lit up.
"T-Thank-k you H-Haldir. Would you put it on me?"
Haldir leaned over Arelén's shoulder. She caught a slight scent of sandalwood in his light hair. Moving her hair aside, he brushed her neck and closed the clasp.
Gently whispering into her ear, "Now we both have one, M'Lady" ((gods that voice.)) Arelén felt the heat on her face turning her skin the same color as her hair.
"I will treasure it always." Arelén regained just enough composure to mount her horse.
Legolas grabbed the tall shoulder in front of him "Heed my warning cousin, you will not have my sister."
Haldir turned around to face the owner of the intruding hand. "We shall see, cousin. She is her own to give to whom she pleases."
((Damn arrogant Lorien elf))
Haldir smirked as he accompanied Arelén on her horse. Leaving Legolas, temporarily, to find other transportation. "To make sure you reach the ends of the Lord and Lady's realm safely."
Chief minister face carried a sour look. Certainly he will tell the king of her behavior when they returned. "We leave now!"
A mile or so down the way, Arelén whispered so Legolas would not hear, "Haldir, I am very sorry about last night."
The pair of strong arms around her waist held tighter. "There is no need. I would love you even if you were normal."
His voice sent shivers through her body. She leaned back into the one behind her.
Haldir ran a free hand through the mass of red hair in front of him. It was a simple gesture, but one that brought some comfort to both involved.
"One small favor?" Haldir's voice questioned.
"Name it."
"One lock of your hair to -"
"Yes. Take as much as you want."
A quick flash of silver detached a long stream of red from its former home.
At realm's edge, Haldir slid off Arelén's horse. Her back felt cold and empty. He bowed and kissed Arelén's hand. "Safe journey, M'Lady."
Mirkwood's company kept moving homewards.
Only the presence of her brother kept Arelén from dismounting and returning to the Golden Woods.
Legolas, now occupying the empty spot questioned, "What did he say to you?"
Burying her feelings deep in her heart, Arelén shook her head "Nothing."
*****
That evening, Arelén's thoughts were as scattered as the stars. The now familiar voice kept her inner thoughts spinning.
He kissed me. Thranduil will have me skinned alive for this.
[He will never know]
Why should he matter? I am not his child.
[Even if he doesn't acknowledge it, you are his child.]
He kissed me. Asked for a lock of my hair?
Called me Lady.
[Well, you are even if the King doesn't recognize you]
He's Lóthlorien AND the son of the Lord and Lady you're Mirkwood.
[You're more than that]
Only in the old stories does this work out.
[You did share wine on Mid-Summer's]
That's only a myth.
Rolling over to face her brother she fell asleep.
Legolas entered the library from the back door.
This time he was going to get his sister.
She has spent the last three moons in training with The Lady.
He felt it was his duty to test Arelén's improved senses of perception.
((I'm still not ok with the idea of her spending time with him)) Even the thought of his sister with that 'high and mighty' Haldir appalled him. He did everything he knew how to do to make sure she was safe.
He slowly walked up behind the familiar table with its habitual occupant.
As he moved his hand to touch her tickle spot, her hand caught his. "He is not - What news have you Legolas?"
As he was moved towards the front of the table, he couldn't contain his excitement. "Mirkwood's business is finished here. We're going home tomorrow!!"
Releasing his hand, Arelén put on her best face "Wonderful. I will join you when I finish this section."
Watching her brother walk down the stairs, she looked out of the nearest window. ((Half a day left. No use in wasting it inside))
She replaced the book upon the shelf. Packed up her inks, quills and notes into her satchel.
Haldir appeared at the doorway of the library carrying a small bag on his back. "I heard you are leaving. Do you have time for one more walk?"
Taking the now familiar hand in hers, "For you I would make time."
*****
They walked off in a new direction. After a while, Haldir stopped. "Arelén, close your eyes."
"Why?"
"I want to show you something"
Arelén closed her eyes as Haldir took her hands. "Only a few more steps."
Arelén felt the ground, air and sounds of the surroundings change.
"Where are you taking me?" she playfully questioned.
"You will see"
Not soon after Haldir stopped. His strong hands moved Arelén's shoulders to face a certain direction, "Open your eyes."
Arelén opened her eyes to a large, blue lake shimmering in the late afternoon sun.
"It's beautiful. Why have you never mentioned this place before?"
Haldir smiled "This is my special place."
Arelén stood at the water's edge soaking up the sunlight, new sounds. Her fingers played in the water.
Haldir laid his cloak out on the ground. Produced a bottle of wine and some food from his bag. "Care for lunch, M'Lady?"
Assuming a spot next to her host, Arelén was still in wonderment. "I did not know Lorien had such a lake."
"Nor did I. I made it my ambition to know every last inch of the Lord and Lady's realm. If I am to be a defender of Lóthlorien, I must know every place."
"This is such a magical place."
Haldir leaned back on his arms and smiled "Yes it is. I think the Valar themselves created this spot"
"All I ever see are towers and walls in Mirkwood. Lorien is filled with plants and trees. You can even see the stars. The library here is filled with books."
"What were you reading today?"
Arelén took a small sip of wine and began to discuss her readings.
After a while, Haldir stifled a yawn.
"I realize this is not thrilling to everyone." Said Arelén as she closed her book and smiled.
Haldir sat up "Since you taught me more about herbs than I ever knew. May I repay with an archery lesson?"
Arelén laughed, "You do know the last time I handled a bow, I shot my brother while he was standing behind me?"
"He did tell you the sharp end points out?" Haldir extended his hand to assist Arelén to stand.
Standing on her own, Arelén replied, "He might have skipped that."
Standing behind Arelén, Haldir placed his hand over hers guiding her fingers into the well worn grip.
"Keep this arm straight. Use these three fingers to pull the string back."
"Pull the string back to your cheek. Right here." Haldir ducked her drawn back elbow. He drew one finger along the side of her face. "Then remove your fingers from the string."
Arelén followed her teacher's instructions to the letter.
"Good. Now we'll try it with an arrow."
The few remaining hours of sunlight passed without a single injury.
*****
The sun dropped below the horizon as Haldir and Arelén return to the fabric for a post-lesson break
Haldir was impressed. "You would be a formidable fighter if you wanted to be."
Arelén smiled. "Thank you. No where as talented as you thought. But I will admit, learning how to handle weapons will teach me the way that wounds are made."
Haldir collected up the last pieces of food and now empty bottle of wine, "We must return for you to have time to pack."
Taking one last look at the sunset over the lake, Arelén's voice went low. "I will always remember this place."
As they walked back, Arleen laughed quietly to herself. "I never finished that section of the book."
Haldir was a bit confused.
Arelén explained "Before you met me on the stairs, I told Legolas that I would join him after I finished the section I was reading. He is going to be upset when we return."
"He is very protective of you"
Arelén nodded. "Yes he is. We are from the same parents, but King Thranduil has never claimed me as his. Legolas is the only family I have. I would be lost without him."
"Lady Gladriel and Lord Celebron adopted me and my brothers after our parents were killed. I owe them my loyalty."
"I have noticed the three of you are very close."
"Yes we are. As you and Legolas."
"Who's the eldest?"
Haldir smiled, "I am. Rúmil is the youngest. What about you two?"
Arelén shrugged her shoulders. "Neither one of us knows. I think he is older. I know his birthday, but I do not know mine."
"How can you not know your birthday?"
"Besides the Gods, there are three who know it. Two are dead and the third never discusses that matter."
"Do you like living in Mirkwood?"
Dark hair shook "Not really. I feel that I was meant to be here. But, let us talk of happier things."
*****
The return journey ended upon the bridge outside the chamber at moonrise.
"Haldir, I sincerely thank you for all your kindness while we have been here." Arelén's gray eyes reflected the now silver coloring of the trees.
Brushing the fabric on her shoulder, Haldir implored "You could stay here if you wanted. Start a new life."
Arelén sighed, "Not yet." ((Gods know I want to))
"Are you sure you won't stay?" He asked. Arelén's sadness even swept over Haldir.
"One day - Maybe." Her voice cracked. He could tell his question upset her greatly.
His strong hand reached out, caressing her soft pale face, just brushing the ends of her ears. "Arelén, I..."
"ARELÉN!!" Legolas' yell echoed in the trees.
Dark hair angrily turned, brushing Haldir's face. "WHAT?!" growled Arelén's voice. ((Now he even sounds like Thranduil)) Her gray eyes darkening towards black.
Legolas grabbed his sister's arm, "I have been looking for you all over! We need to being packing for our leaving for home tomorrow."
Haldir held her other arm. "She wants to stay."
"Her home is Mirkwood!" Legolas pulled her arm to his side.
"Her home is Lóthlorien!" The taller growled pulling her arm to his side.
Forcibly, Arelén shoved them both away. Not even moonlight was reflected in the depths of her eyes. "Stop this."
Stepping away backwards her dark voice continued. "I see the fury between you two. I am not something for the two of you to fight over."
Storming off the platform into the threshold of the chamber, she turned around to face the two left on the bridge.
Black returned to normal gray as Arelén regained control.
"I love you both."
Tearfully she entered the chamber and slammed the door closed.
Two fair-haired elves stood frozen in amazement. Speechless.
*****
Hearing the door open, she shot her brother the "Don't even think about talking to me" look.
Legolas watched in amazement. Even in her anger, she was very careful in her packing. Each article of clothing was meticulously folded and placed into the travel chest in a very specific order.
Giving her time to calm down, Legolas walked over to where she was sitting next to the chest.
"Arelén, I - " he began.
Hearing his voice, Arelén closed the chest and bowed her head.
Instead of that strong willed creature he saw on the bridge, she was returning to her obedient servant role. It pained him to see her torn like this. ((It is for the better. Father would have her killed if he knew))
He continued, "I'm going to bed now."
"Sleep well, My Prince."
Arelén finished the packing well after Legolas fell asleep. She replaced his worn clothing with his traveling suit.
*****
Sneaking out of the chamber, Arelén found her favorite bridge. Sitting with her knees pulled to her forehead, she let her hair fall all round. Trying her best to keep her crying silent.
Sitting in her meditation, she felt a presence upon the bridge. ((I do not want to go back to Mirkwood. I can not believe that happened.))
The Lady's voice wove into her thoughts. "Even after all this time, you still can not ask for my help." ((You have unfinished business in Mirkwood.))
Arelén's body and mind stilled. The dark voice spoke "A power greater than you is guiding this one."
One single tear rolled down Gladriel's face. "I see for her great pain in finding her true home."
"Yes. She will remember what she has learned here. Your teachings will be the light upon the dark path she must walk."
Gladriel placed on hand on Arelén's shoulder as she left. "Remember."
As Arelén awoke from her meditation, one single leaf fell into her lap.
*****
After placing the tray carrying breakfast on the table, Arelén brushed her brother's face, "Time to wake up. I will meet you at the assembly point"
Legolas arrived a while later. "Look what followed me here..."
Arelén turned from strapping the satchel to their horse and smiled "Haldir."
Nudging his way past Legolas, he stood very close to Arelén.
"I have something for you."
Taking Arelén's hand in his, he gently placed one kiss in the center of her palm. Closing her fingers over a small silk wrapped package placed over the kiss spot
Legolas' blue eyes closed into slits. Staring at the Lorien elf.
((No matter what she said, she is still my sister)) Arelén opened her hand slowly. ((Stay calm)) The silk fell open to reveal on a thin silver chain a crescent moon formed from a fine mesh of silver leaves.
Two pairs of gray eyes met and lit up.
"T-Thank-k you H-Haldir. Would you put it on me?"
Haldir leaned over Arelén's shoulder. She caught a slight scent of sandalwood in his light hair. Moving her hair aside, he brushed her neck and closed the clasp.
Gently whispering into her ear, "Now we both have one, M'Lady" ((gods that voice.)) Arelén felt the heat on her face turning her skin the same color as her hair.
"I will treasure it always." Arelén regained just enough composure to mount her horse.
Legolas grabbed the tall shoulder in front of him "Heed my warning cousin, you will not have my sister."
Haldir turned around to face the owner of the intruding hand. "We shall see, cousin. She is her own to give to whom she pleases."
((Damn arrogant Lorien elf))
Haldir smirked as he accompanied Arelén on her horse. Leaving Legolas, temporarily, to find other transportation. "To make sure you reach the ends of the Lord and Lady's realm safely."
Chief minister face carried a sour look. Certainly he will tell the king of her behavior when they returned. "We leave now!"
A mile or so down the way, Arelén whispered so Legolas would not hear, "Haldir, I am very sorry about last night."
The pair of strong arms around her waist held tighter. "There is no need. I would love you even if you were normal."
His voice sent shivers through her body. She leaned back into the one behind her.
Haldir ran a free hand through the mass of red hair in front of him. It was a simple gesture, but one that brought some comfort to both involved.
"One small favor?" Haldir's voice questioned.
"Name it."
"One lock of your hair to -"
"Yes. Take as much as you want."
A quick flash of silver detached a long stream of red from its former home.
At realm's edge, Haldir slid off Arelén's horse. Her back felt cold and empty. He bowed and kissed Arelén's hand. "Safe journey, M'Lady."
Mirkwood's company kept moving homewards.
Only the presence of her brother kept Arelén from dismounting and returning to the Golden Woods.
Legolas, now occupying the empty spot questioned, "What did he say to you?"
Burying her feelings deep in her heart, Arelén shook her head "Nothing."
*****
That evening, Arelén's thoughts were as scattered as the stars. The now familiar voice kept her inner thoughts spinning.
He kissed me. Thranduil will have me skinned alive for this.
[He will never know]
Why should he matter? I am not his child.
[Even if he doesn't acknowledge it, you are his child.]
He kissed me. Asked for a lock of my hair?
Called me Lady.
[Well, you are even if the King doesn't recognize you]
He's Lóthlorien AND the son of the Lord and Lady you're Mirkwood.
[You're more than that]
Only in the old stories does this work out.
[You did share wine on Mid-Summer's]
That's only a myth.
Rolling over to face her brother she fell asleep.