I just want to say thanks to the people who has read my story and supported
it with their reviews. You guys Rock!!
Now, on with the story,
CHAPTER 25
MEMORIES
Eyes closed, bodies nearing; hearts beating, lips trembling. It was like living a dream, while being in a nightmare; so much confusion, but so much expectation and thrill. She held her breath, waiting for the final touch that would define the moment, but it never came.
A low rustle and a soft splashing sound came from the right and two pairs of eyes opened at unison; they looked at each other for a split second, a myriad of feelings letting show, before turning their heads to decipher the sudden sound. As they could both see, the improvised fishing line he had tossed to the ground earlier was now moving; to put it clear, it was being dragged towards the lake with amazing speed.
Legolas hesitated for a moment and turned to look at her, before launching full speed towards the lakeshore. Arwen let herself fall heavily, sitting upon a rock, and saw as he caught the very end of the cord, barely before it sunk completely into the lake. She didn't know what to think, or how to feel. Disappointed? Frustrated? Relieved? She couldn't tell, for they were all there. Confused? Oh yes! That was the predominating feeling; that she could tell. And déjà vu, for she was sure she had experienced that same thing at some point in her life; soon enough, the memory became clear, and she remembered every detail.
~~~~~~~~~*FLASHBACK***~~~~~~~~~
It was the beginning of the spring after a crude winter, and Lord Elrond, her father, had organized a celebration ball for the long awaited season. He invited every noble house in Middle Earth to assist; and so, every noble elf in Imladris was in the immense celebration hall, welcoming the groups of travelers that arrived from every corner of Arda. The guests came bearing gifts of appreciation to the noble family, and Elrond, Arwen and the twins were seated on a high part of the hall, nodding, smiling, and saluting the arriving guests.
Arwen was now a fully-grown lady, and her beauty had reached it's apex; she was taught to be polite, and so, she acknowledged every gift and compliment that the guests gave her. But, to tell the truth, she didn't like the gathering of people and all the hypocritical courtesy a bit. She would've preferred to lock herself in her room until everything was over, but her father didn't let her.
She was still affected by the loss of her mother, and she thought that this celebration was her father's desperate attempt to continue with their lives and move on. Years had already passed since Lady Celebrian's untimely departure, but she still wanted to mourn. Her father however, thought that it was time for her to come out to the light and stop mourning. But that wasn't the only reason for her to be upset, Arwen had always been reserved and preferred to be alone, ever since she was a child; for you see, Arwen was not always pretty, when she was very young, and specially as a teenager, she was not what you can call beautiful. She was skinny and bony; her movements were clumsy and ungraceful; and even if her eyes where always as bright stars, the face that framed them was not outstanding, at least not by elven standards. Since beauty is so important to elven society, she was always rejected by people outside her family, especially young elves around her own age; children would refuse to play with her, and in the worst cases, they mocked her. Since Elladan and Elrohir where already adults when she was born, she spent her first years in sad solitude. As she grew up, the situation became worst, for as she reached her teen years the mockery became meaner and crueler. Now, as the guests arrived, she recognized some of the young elves that were now all over her, overwhelming her with compliments and invitations, that were the same boys that used to call her names and ignored her; it was long ago, yes, but she couldn't forget their cruel words.
But there was a light in the midst of her darkness, for only one little boy of her own age clicked with her as soon as they met, and immediately became her only true friend, companion and confident; a little boy she had met in a visit to Lasgalen while wandering in the lush gardens near the caves; his name was Legolas Greenleaf, prince of Mirkwood, and when they bumped into each another and fell on their rears, she thought it was the most gorgeous boy she had ever seen in her life. She lowered her head, and prepared herself for the certain insults and mockeries she was used to hear, but nothing of that sort came from him; he apologized and offered his hand to her politely. She hesitated, thinking it was some sort of trick, but when she finally took his hand, he helped her up carefully and, after introducing himself with a charming smile, he asked for her name.
At first, she had her reserves about this cute and polite little boy; but upon seeing his sincere smile and real interest for her, she opened up to him and they became fast friends. Later, upon hanging out with him, she found out that he was too rejected by other kids and even grownups, who thought that he was strange, too mischievous and too adventurous for his age and social status.
Arwen felt that she had finally found someone who really understood her, and from there and on, as much as time and visits permitted, they became inseparable and when she was sad, he used to tell her not to worry, that she would grow up to be the most beautiful lady in Middle Earth.
"You'll see" - he used to say - "every lady in Middle Earth will envy your beauty." - little did she know then, that his words would come out to be true.
Many years had passed since she had last seen him; in Lothlorien, to be exact, where he had given her a rushed first kiss, more from curiosity than anything else. After that, Legolas' father decided that it was time for him to receive formal training to become a first class warrior, and his hard training kept them apart for the rest of their growth. Now, the prospect of seeing him again after all those years, was the only thing that kept Arwen inside the boring hall, waiting for the arrival of Mirkwood's group with anticipation.
Off course she was terribly disappointed at the arrival of a messenger, sent by the royal house of Mirkwood, who came bearing a message of apology, for their group was delayed and they would arrive later that day, probably after the ball started. She let out a disappointed sigh, while her father indicated the different groups the way to their respective rooms, and summoned them all to be ready for the ball, that would start at sundown. Free of her obligations, she went to her room, avoiding at all cost the senseless chatter of the guests.
At sundown everything was ready and the ball begun, every group gave their own musical presentation, interpreting melodies traditional to their own lands. Some were soft and soothing; and some were rather bold and vigorous, as were the dances performed by the young elves. Dozens of invitations came for her to dance, since she was the most beautiful lady in the room and everybody wanted to dance with her. But she rejected everyone of them and stayed seated in place, with boredom written all over her face, even after the twins made their way to the dance floor, accompanied by some foreign lasses.
Suddenly, the music was interrupted and she noted that everyone was staring at the main entrance door. The crowd broke into cheers when the Mirkwood group was announced, for Mirkwood elves were known for being the best musicians and dancers in middle earth. As soon as she heard the announcement, Arwen stood up and stretched over a veranda, looking for him; but the group was quickly surrounded by the swarming multitude and she couldn't see him, so she seated back in her place, her hands sweating from anticipation.
Then, Lord Elrond spoke loud enough to the whole crowd to listen.
"Imladris welcomes the Royal House of Mirkwood, specially his majesty Prince Legolas who is kind enough to join us, even in this time of distress for his people. I have offered the group the opportunity to go to their rooms and freshen up, but they said they are ready to party, even as I speak"
Elrond's words were received with loud cheers from the crowd. He lifted up his hands, signaling them to quiet down.
"Wait, that is not all; they have also said that they want to delight us with some music and dancing from their land. And as a gift from them to all of us, Prince Legolas will perform a traditional dance, in honor of our celebration.
The cheers came even louder this time, and Arwen wandered about since when he had become so popular with noble elves.
The musicians gave their instruments to the Mirkwood group who took their places and began tuning the cords and drums; and the crowd opened up a big space in the center of the hall, conveniently located right in front of her. She searched every face, frantically looking for him; but to no avail. The Mirkwood musicians started playing; and a powerful, passionate melody filled every corner of the hall. A tall figure took a few steps forward, towards the center of the hall and she finally saw what she waited so long to see, it was him.
The last time she had seen him, he was little more than a boy; now in front of her he stood tall and handsome; she noted his broad shoulders and the golden mane rested on them. His face was also different; his jaw was strong and chiseled, his eyes piercing and mysterious.
He looked up at her and smiled a crooked smile; mischievous like in old times, but at the same time masculine and absolutely irresistible. She smiled back timidly and waved at him briefly. He gave a courtly bow and proceeded to remove his tunic, revealing his lean body dressed with a silky white shirt, suede leggings and light boots. Despite the loud music, Arwen overheard some loud gasps coming from the ladies in the room, and without knowing why, she felt annoyed and let it show with a frown.
But her frown quickly disappeared, for at the sound of the music, Legolas began to dance. His movements were a perfect combination of strength and grace as he performed an inspired dance, traditional of his people. Energy seemed to exude from his body with every vigorous movement, as the music increased its pace in a passionate crescendo of symphonic accords until it reached a climax that screamed power, liberty and wild beauty. Then, the music stopped and complete silence filled the hall, as every soul was too stunned to utter sound. Arwen noted how her breathing was now rushed; and she was sure that every lady in the hall was feeling the same way.
Once again, Legolas gave a courtly bow and the crowd broke into claps and cheers, rewarding his outstanding performance. He nodded in acknowledgment and gave a small signal to the musicians, who immediately started playing a slow, beautiful song.
Arwen couldn't believe her eyes as she saw this charmer coming her way, much less when he swiftly came to her side and kneeled on front of her. He took her hand and placed a small kiss in the back of it; then he proceeded to ask her to dance.
"Would the most stunning lady in this world care to dance with an old friend?" - he said with a honeyed, masculine voice. She looked at him with horror, for she had never danced in public.
"Off course that I understand if you would prefer to do it later, since you must have a million invitations ahead of mine. But it is just that I have being waiting for this dance for weeks, and upon seeing your beauty, I don't think I can resist another minute without dancing with you." - he paused, looked into her eyes and continued. - "Please?"
Amazed by her own boldness, she extended her hand to him. How could she say no to him? It was impossible to deny anything from this charming, irresistible creature. He ceremoniously took her hand and led her to the dance floor.
Many ooohhs! and aaahhhs! were heard when they took the center of the dance floor, and other couples opened up a space for the amazing pair. Lifting her hand in his, and placing the other one over her hip he motioned her to start dancing. Arwen hesitated a moment, and in turn, placed her hand over his shoulder. They began moving at the slow rhythm of the music, and guided by his skills, Arwen felt as she was dancing in mid air; their movements together were fluid and graceful, and Arwen was sure to check the jealous looks that the elves their own age were giving them. No longer were they the rejected children, no longer could they call them strange or mock them in any way; they'd truly grown up to be special, and now as they both gleamed in the dance floor, they were admired and envied by everybody.
Legolas leaned and talked softly into her ear, tickling her with his warm breath - "I have missed you so much"
"So have I, you have no idea" - she merely whispered. "I am sorry about your mother, I mourned her; and I regret that I couldn't be here for you"
"Thank you; but let us not talk about the sad days, make me forget about all my sorrows now" - upon hearing her request, and while still dancing slowly, he pulled her closer to him in a warm embrace, and she wrapped her arms around his neck and leant her head on his shoulder.
"Hmm, you smell so good" - she heard herself say.
"So do you" - he said, blushing slightly, while sensing the tantalizing scent of her hair.
Suddenly, the music changed; it became fast and rhythmical, very much like the one he danced before. Arwen didn't know how to dance this kind of music, and for a moment she felt confused; but when Legolas grabbed her by the wrists and started twirling her effortlessly all over the dance floor, she found herself in complete bliss, laughing lightheartedly at his amusing comments.
From that night an on, she became a different person; she found her pride, her security and self-esteem. She was able to forgive the ones who had hurt her; and for all that, she thanked him.
After many dances, and both refusing to dance with anybody else, Legolas finally stopped, looked at her and breathed out some words - "I don't know about you Arwen, but I am exhausted; is there a possibility to go outside and get some fresh air."
"Oh, you are already tired? I could go on all night" - she said jokingly.
"Really? Well, isn't that interesting?" - he said huskily, amused of her vigor.
"Really! But come on, let us get you some air" - she said while grabbing his hand, and dragging him through the crowd, to the back door of the hall.
They came out to one of the gardens, and Legolas sighed, pleased by the cold, fresh air of the night. They seated on a bench, and under the moonlight, they contemplated each other.
"Goodness Arwen! It is so good to see you. I have been dying without you." - he said while kissing the back of her hand once again.
She remained silent for a moment, gazing into his eyes. - "it is you, you are really here, this is not a dream" - she finally said.
"You have dreamt of me too?"
"Yes, of course. But you are different from how I pictured you to be like."
"And..Are you disappointed?
"No, oh no! On the contrary, I'm impressed, very impressed. How about you, are you disappointed?
"What? The only thing I could think when I saw you was WOW! And looking at you now, all I can think is double WOW! Moonlight really favors you, you know? You look glorious."
"Hmm, you don't look so bad yourself."
"Thank you" - he said softly, while lifting his hand to touch her hair briefly. Then, his hand moved down to her cheek, but stopped before touching her - "Can I?"
"Yes, off course" - after getting her approval, he brushed his palm against her cheek, which is a form of intimate salutation and a signal of deep friendship and caring among elves. She lifted her palm also, and caressed his smooth cheek. Then, Legolas felt her hand gently pulling him closer, and heard a voice inside his head.
"Come closer Legolas" - she whispered to his mind; and from that moment an on, their mental connection was born.
He did as he was told, and got closer to her, their faces where now inches apart. Right then, the moment was perfect, for there were no feelings of confusion, nor guilt to cloud what they were feeling.
And as would happen in the lake, happened that night; for they looked at each other with much more than friendship, closed their eyes and leant to seal their feeling with a well-deserved kiss. But as happened in the lake, happened that night; for as they were almost touching, a sound interrupted them, the voice of one of Mirkwood's elves.
"Prince Legolas! Where are you?"
They opened their eyes and the moment was ruined.
"I am over here. What happened?" - he answered annoyed, he looked at Arwen apologetically and whispered to her - "This better be good, or he'll know the price for interrupting the most glorious moment of my life."
As it turned to be, it was good.
"Your highness, Lasgalen has been attacked by the spiders. It is an attack beyond precedent; your father summons you immediately to his side."
Legolas stared at the young elf silently, frowning deeply from concern; then he turned around to face Arwen, who was already standing and had placed a hand over his shoulder in a gesture of silent support.
"I apologize Arwen, I must depart now."
"I understand Legolas. May your arm be steady, and your aim sharp; may Orome bless you with skills and strength. And promise me that you'll come back." - She said, then, she tiptoed to kiss his forehead.
"I promise" - he said simply, then, he touched her cheek once again, and following his countryman, he disappeared into the night.
Only one time, did he visit her, after many years of fighting the cursed spiders; and she noted how he seemed cold and distant during the short visit. Next time she'd seen him was at the Council of Elrond, and even then, he was evasive.
As she came back to the present, Arwen wondered why he had behaved like that.
~~~~~~~~~~~**END OF FLASHBACK**~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Legolas cursed himself as he violently pulled the cord. -"What the heck almost happened?" - he thought. - "I almost kissed her; what a fool I am!! She is forbidden to me, I made a promise." He told himself while pulling out a huge rainbow-colored fish.
He held the wiggling fish in front of him, his mind still fixed on the recent events. - "Get a hold of yourself Legolas" - he nagged himself silently - "It is not like that night at the Spring Ball, you had your chance then and you blew it"
Trying his best to hide his feeling behind a calmed façade, he turned around to face her, unsure of what else he could say or do.
...................... ...
That's it?
Yup, that's it; at least until next chapter. If you liked this one, wait till the other one is posted, you are going to love it. I expect to finish it next week, so stay tuned.
And........review! Please? (looks at you with puppy dog eyes and pouts lower lip)
Elwe.
Now, on with the story,
CHAPTER 25
MEMORIES
Eyes closed, bodies nearing; hearts beating, lips trembling. It was like living a dream, while being in a nightmare; so much confusion, but so much expectation and thrill. She held her breath, waiting for the final touch that would define the moment, but it never came.
A low rustle and a soft splashing sound came from the right and two pairs of eyes opened at unison; they looked at each other for a split second, a myriad of feelings letting show, before turning their heads to decipher the sudden sound. As they could both see, the improvised fishing line he had tossed to the ground earlier was now moving; to put it clear, it was being dragged towards the lake with amazing speed.
Legolas hesitated for a moment and turned to look at her, before launching full speed towards the lakeshore. Arwen let herself fall heavily, sitting upon a rock, and saw as he caught the very end of the cord, barely before it sunk completely into the lake. She didn't know what to think, or how to feel. Disappointed? Frustrated? Relieved? She couldn't tell, for they were all there. Confused? Oh yes! That was the predominating feeling; that she could tell. And déjà vu, for she was sure she had experienced that same thing at some point in her life; soon enough, the memory became clear, and she remembered every detail.
~~~~~~~~~*FLASHBACK***~~~~~~~~~
It was the beginning of the spring after a crude winter, and Lord Elrond, her father, had organized a celebration ball for the long awaited season. He invited every noble house in Middle Earth to assist; and so, every noble elf in Imladris was in the immense celebration hall, welcoming the groups of travelers that arrived from every corner of Arda. The guests came bearing gifts of appreciation to the noble family, and Elrond, Arwen and the twins were seated on a high part of the hall, nodding, smiling, and saluting the arriving guests.
Arwen was now a fully-grown lady, and her beauty had reached it's apex; she was taught to be polite, and so, she acknowledged every gift and compliment that the guests gave her. But, to tell the truth, she didn't like the gathering of people and all the hypocritical courtesy a bit. She would've preferred to lock herself in her room until everything was over, but her father didn't let her.
She was still affected by the loss of her mother, and she thought that this celebration was her father's desperate attempt to continue with their lives and move on. Years had already passed since Lady Celebrian's untimely departure, but she still wanted to mourn. Her father however, thought that it was time for her to come out to the light and stop mourning. But that wasn't the only reason for her to be upset, Arwen had always been reserved and preferred to be alone, ever since she was a child; for you see, Arwen was not always pretty, when she was very young, and specially as a teenager, she was not what you can call beautiful. She was skinny and bony; her movements were clumsy and ungraceful; and even if her eyes where always as bright stars, the face that framed them was not outstanding, at least not by elven standards. Since beauty is so important to elven society, she was always rejected by people outside her family, especially young elves around her own age; children would refuse to play with her, and in the worst cases, they mocked her. Since Elladan and Elrohir where already adults when she was born, she spent her first years in sad solitude. As she grew up, the situation became worst, for as she reached her teen years the mockery became meaner and crueler. Now, as the guests arrived, she recognized some of the young elves that were now all over her, overwhelming her with compliments and invitations, that were the same boys that used to call her names and ignored her; it was long ago, yes, but she couldn't forget their cruel words.
But there was a light in the midst of her darkness, for only one little boy of her own age clicked with her as soon as they met, and immediately became her only true friend, companion and confident; a little boy she had met in a visit to Lasgalen while wandering in the lush gardens near the caves; his name was Legolas Greenleaf, prince of Mirkwood, and when they bumped into each another and fell on their rears, she thought it was the most gorgeous boy she had ever seen in her life. She lowered her head, and prepared herself for the certain insults and mockeries she was used to hear, but nothing of that sort came from him; he apologized and offered his hand to her politely. She hesitated, thinking it was some sort of trick, but when she finally took his hand, he helped her up carefully and, after introducing himself with a charming smile, he asked for her name.
At first, she had her reserves about this cute and polite little boy; but upon seeing his sincere smile and real interest for her, she opened up to him and they became fast friends. Later, upon hanging out with him, she found out that he was too rejected by other kids and even grownups, who thought that he was strange, too mischievous and too adventurous for his age and social status.
Arwen felt that she had finally found someone who really understood her, and from there and on, as much as time and visits permitted, they became inseparable and when she was sad, he used to tell her not to worry, that she would grow up to be the most beautiful lady in Middle Earth.
"You'll see" - he used to say - "every lady in Middle Earth will envy your beauty." - little did she know then, that his words would come out to be true.
Many years had passed since she had last seen him; in Lothlorien, to be exact, where he had given her a rushed first kiss, more from curiosity than anything else. After that, Legolas' father decided that it was time for him to receive formal training to become a first class warrior, and his hard training kept them apart for the rest of their growth. Now, the prospect of seeing him again after all those years, was the only thing that kept Arwen inside the boring hall, waiting for the arrival of Mirkwood's group with anticipation.
Off course she was terribly disappointed at the arrival of a messenger, sent by the royal house of Mirkwood, who came bearing a message of apology, for their group was delayed and they would arrive later that day, probably after the ball started. She let out a disappointed sigh, while her father indicated the different groups the way to their respective rooms, and summoned them all to be ready for the ball, that would start at sundown. Free of her obligations, she went to her room, avoiding at all cost the senseless chatter of the guests.
At sundown everything was ready and the ball begun, every group gave their own musical presentation, interpreting melodies traditional to their own lands. Some were soft and soothing; and some were rather bold and vigorous, as were the dances performed by the young elves. Dozens of invitations came for her to dance, since she was the most beautiful lady in the room and everybody wanted to dance with her. But she rejected everyone of them and stayed seated in place, with boredom written all over her face, even after the twins made their way to the dance floor, accompanied by some foreign lasses.
Suddenly, the music was interrupted and she noted that everyone was staring at the main entrance door. The crowd broke into cheers when the Mirkwood group was announced, for Mirkwood elves were known for being the best musicians and dancers in middle earth. As soon as she heard the announcement, Arwen stood up and stretched over a veranda, looking for him; but the group was quickly surrounded by the swarming multitude and she couldn't see him, so she seated back in her place, her hands sweating from anticipation.
Then, Lord Elrond spoke loud enough to the whole crowd to listen.
"Imladris welcomes the Royal House of Mirkwood, specially his majesty Prince Legolas who is kind enough to join us, even in this time of distress for his people. I have offered the group the opportunity to go to their rooms and freshen up, but they said they are ready to party, even as I speak"
Elrond's words were received with loud cheers from the crowd. He lifted up his hands, signaling them to quiet down.
"Wait, that is not all; they have also said that they want to delight us with some music and dancing from their land. And as a gift from them to all of us, Prince Legolas will perform a traditional dance, in honor of our celebration.
The cheers came even louder this time, and Arwen wandered about since when he had become so popular with noble elves.
The musicians gave their instruments to the Mirkwood group who took their places and began tuning the cords and drums; and the crowd opened up a big space in the center of the hall, conveniently located right in front of her. She searched every face, frantically looking for him; but to no avail. The Mirkwood musicians started playing; and a powerful, passionate melody filled every corner of the hall. A tall figure took a few steps forward, towards the center of the hall and she finally saw what she waited so long to see, it was him.
The last time she had seen him, he was little more than a boy; now in front of her he stood tall and handsome; she noted his broad shoulders and the golden mane rested on them. His face was also different; his jaw was strong and chiseled, his eyes piercing and mysterious.
He looked up at her and smiled a crooked smile; mischievous like in old times, but at the same time masculine and absolutely irresistible. She smiled back timidly and waved at him briefly. He gave a courtly bow and proceeded to remove his tunic, revealing his lean body dressed with a silky white shirt, suede leggings and light boots. Despite the loud music, Arwen overheard some loud gasps coming from the ladies in the room, and without knowing why, she felt annoyed and let it show with a frown.
But her frown quickly disappeared, for at the sound of the music, Legolas began to dance. His movements were a perfect combination of strength and grace as he performed an inspired dance, traditional of his people. Energy seemed to exude from his body with every vigorous movement, as the music increased its pace in a passionate crescendo of symphonic accords until it reached a climax that screamed power, liberty and wild beauty. Then, the music stopped and complete silence filled the hall, as every soul was too stunned to utter sound. Arwen noted how her breathing was now rushed; and she was sure that every lady in the hall was feeling the same way.
Once again, Legolas gave a courtly bow and the crowd broke into claps and cheers, rewarding his outstanding performance. He nodded in acknowledgment and gave a small signal to the musicians, who immediately started playing a slow, beautiful song.
Arwen couldn't believe her eyes as she saw this charmer coming her way, much less when he swiftly came to her side and kneeled on front of her. He took her hand and placed a small kiss in the back of it; then he proceeded to ask her to dance.
"Would the most stunning lady in this world care to dance with an old friend?" - he said with a honeyed, masculine voice. She looked at him with horror, for she had never danced in public.
"Off course that I understand if you would prefer to do it later, since you must have a million invitations ahead of mine. But it is just that I have being waiting for this dance for weeks, and upon seeing your beauty, I don't think I can resist another minute without dancing with you." - he paused, looked into her eyes and continued. - "Please?"
Amazed by her own boldness, she extended her hand to him. How could she say no to him? It was impossible to deny anything from this charming, irresistible creature. He ceremoniously took her hand and led her to the dance floor.
Many ooohhs! and aaahhhs! were heard when they took the center of the dance floor, and other couples opened up a space for the amazing pair. Lifting her hand in his, and placing the other one over her hip he motioned her to start dancing. Arwen hesitated a moment, and in turn, placed her hand over his shoulder. They began moving at the slow rhythm of the music, and guided by his skills, Arwen felt as she was dancing in mid air; their movements together were fluid and graceful, and Arwen was sure to check the jealous looks that the elves their own age were giving them. No longer were they the rejected children, no longer could they call them strange or mock them in any way; they'd truly grown up to be special, and now as they both gleamed in the dance floor, they were admired and envied by everybody.
Legolas leaned and talked softly into her ear, tickling her with his warm breath - "I have missed you so much"
"So have I, you have no idea" - she merely whispered. "I am sorry about your mother, I mourned her; and I regret that I couldn't be here for you"
"Thank you; but let us not talk about the sad days, make me forget about all my sorrows now" - upon hearing her request, and while still dancing slowly, he pulled her closer to him in a warm embrace, and she wrapped her arms around his neck and leant her head on his shoulder.
"Hmm, you smell so good" - she heard herself say.
"So do you" - he said, blushing slightly, while sensing the tantalizing scent of her hair.
Suddenly, the music changed; it became fast and rhythmical, very much like the one he danced before. Arwen didn't know how to dance this kind of music, and for a moment she felt confused; but when Legolas grabbed her by the wrists and started twirling her effortlessly all over the dance floor, she found herself in complete bliss, laughing lightheartedly at his amusing comments.
From that night an on, she became a different person; she found her pride, her security and self-esteem. She was able to forgive the ones who had hurt her; and for all that, she thanked him.
After many dances, and both refusing to dance with anybody else, Legolas finally stopped, looked at her and breathed out some words - "I don't know about you Arwen, but I am exhausted; is there a possibility to go outside and get some fresh air."
"Oh, you are already tired? I could go on all night" - she said jokingly.
"Really? Well, isn't that interesting?" - he said huskily, amused of her vigor.
"Really! But come on, let us get you some air" - she said while grabbing his hand, and dragging him through the crowd, to the back door of the hall.
They came out to one of the gardens, and Legolas sighed, pleased by the cold, fresh air of the night. They seated on a bench, and under the moonlight, they contemplated each other.
"Goodness Arwen! It is so good to see you. I have been dying without you." - he said while kissing the back of her hand once again.
She remained silent for a moment, gazing into his eyes. - "it is you, you are really here, this is not a dream" - she finally said.
"You have dreamt of me too?"
"Yes, of course. But you are different from how I pictured you to be like."
"And..Are you disappointed?
"No, oh no! On the contrary, I'm impressed, very impressed. How about you, are you disappointed?
"What? The only thing I could think when I saw you was WOW! And looking at you now, all I can think is double WOW! Moonlight really favors you, you know? You look glorious."
"Hmm, you don't look so bad yourself."
"Thank you" - he said softly, while lifting his hand to touch her hair briefly. Then, his hand moved down to her cheek, but stopped before touching her - "Can I?"
"Yes, off course" - after getting her approval, he brushed his palm against her cheek, which is a form of intimate salutation and a signal of deep friendship and caring among elves. She lifted her palm also, and caressed his smooth cheek. Then, Legolas felt her hand gently pulling him closer, and heard a voice inside his head.
"Come closer Legolas" - she whispered to his mind; and from that moment an on, their mental connection was born.
He did as he was told, and got closer to her, their faces where now inches apart. Right then, the moment was perfect, for there were no feelings of confusion, nor guilt to cloud what they were feeling.
And as would happen in the lake, happened that night; for they looked at each other with much more than friendship, closed their eyes and leant to seal their feeling with a well-deserved kiss. But as happened in the lake, happened that night; for as they were almost touching, a sound interrupted them, the voice of one of Mirkwood's elves.
"Prince Legolas! Where are you?"
They opened their eyes and the moment was ruined.
"I am over here. What happened?" - he answered annoyed, he looked at Arwen apologetically and whispered to her - "This better be good, or he'll know the price for interrupting the most glorious moment of my life."
As it turned to be, it was good.
"Your highness, Lasgalen has been attacked by the spiders. It is an attack beyond precedent; your father summons you immediately to his side."
Legolas stared at the young elf silently, frowning deeply from concern; then he turned around to face Arwen, who was already standing and had placed a hand over his shoulder in a gesture of silent support.
"I apologize Arwen, I must depart now."
"I understand Legolas. May your arm be steady, and your aim sharp; may Orome bless you with skills and strength. And promise me that you'll come back." - She said, then, she tiptoed to kiss his forehead.
"I promise" - he said simply, then, he touched her cheek once again, and following his countryman, he disappeared into the night.
Only one time, did he visit her, after many years of fighting the cursed spiders; and she noted how he seemed cold and distant during the short visit. Next time she'd seen him was at the Council of Elrond, and even then, he was evasive.
As she came back to the present, Arwen wondered why he had behaved like that.
~~~~~~~~~~~**END OF FLASHBACK**~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Legolas cursed himself as he violently pulled the cord. -"What the heck almost happened?" - he thought. - "I almost kissed her; what a fool I am!! She is forbidden to me, I made a promise." He told himself while pulling out a huge rainbow-colored fish.
He held the wiggling fish in front of him, his mind still fixed on the recent events. - "Get a hold of yourself Legolas" - he nagged himself silently - "It is not like that night at the Spring Ball, you had your chance then and you blew it"
Trying his best to hide his feeling behind a calmed façade, he turned around to face her, unsure of what else he could say or do.
...................... ...
That's it?
Yup, that's it; at least until next chapter. If you liked this one, wait till the other one is posted, you are going to love it. I expect to finish it next week, so stay tuned.
And........review! Please? (looks at you with puppy dog eyes and pouts lower lip)
Elwe.