Disclaimer: LOTR belongs to the creative genius of JRR Tolkien, not me.

Engaging Plans

Chapter 3

Aragorn was seated at the head of the banquet table, feigning interest in a discussion between Kerwyn's father and uncle about the poor yield of the vineyards over the past few years. Although he found the conversation to be extremely boring, he had to admit it was preferable to dancing with the myriad of relatives and friends of the bride-to-be. He amused himself by thinking of ways she could repay him, when they were alone, for his cooperation.

"You know, Elessar, your elf friend has a way with growing plants and such, perhaps you could insist that he and his friends come and help improve our crops?" suggested the uncle. Whether or not he realised that Legolas and Éomer had approached and heard his remark, Aragorn could not tell, but he cringed inwardly at the arrogance of the man's words, and even Arwen, who was sitting beside him as she entertained Kerwyn's mother and sisters, felt embarrassed for her husband.

"Perhaps you might *ask* Legolas yourself," she said, smiling sweetly as the elf in question bowed politely to the ladies.

"Several of my friends are interested in wine making, and I am sure an arrangement can be made to assist your vintners," Legolas said graciously to Aragorn's guest. He looked over to where Faramir was speaking to the musicians and at his nod he turned to Arwen just as the first strains of one of her favourite elvish dance tunes drifted across the room.

"Ai, I see that Faramir and Éowyn have accepted my challenge to teach an elvish dance to your guests. Would you care to join me in assisting them, Queen Arwen?" he asked gallantly, holding out his hand.

"I do not see how I can refuse, especially since I have neglected to partner you for a dance all evening," she replied, taking his arm as he led her to join the others.

"I would like to learn an elvish dance, too, do you know this one, Eldarion?" asked Kerwyn. At his nod of affirmation, she took his hand and they also made for the dance floor.

"King Elessar," said Éomer formally, "I wonder if we may have a few words in private?" Looking relieved at the chance to remove himself from his present company, Éomer caught Aragorn's eye and winked. The King of Gondor suddenly understood what had just occurred, and felt very grateful that he had such loyal friends.

"If you ladies and gentlemen will excuse me, I need to speak to King Éomer, in private," he said as he rose from the table and followed his friend out into the courtyard.

"Over here!" called Gimli, indicating one of the tables he had helped set up earlier that day. There was a large jug of ale and several mugs as well as a platter of several kinds of cheese. "I hope you do not mind, but I sent one of the servants to fetch your pipe and weed, Aragorn. You look in need of a little relaxation."

"I do not mind at all and I am very grateful for the respite, but I fear Arwen will not be amused when she finds me neglecting our guests."

"You have performed admirably all evening," said Éomer, handing him a mug of ale. "A short break will do your reputation as a host no harm."

"Well, I hope you remember to thank the Elf, for it was his idea," said Gimli. "He seems to think he can keep Arwen from missing you for quite a while."

"I will be sure to thank him. So tell me Éomer, how fares Prince Imrahil? I had heard he was not well."

"His health is ailing, that is why Lothiriel is not here, she has gone to take care of him for a while."

"I am sorry to hear that, let us drink to his quick recovery," he said as they raised their mugs in a toast to the health of the Prince of Dol Amroth. The servant arrived with Aragorn's pipe and weed, which he eagerly lit as he leaned casually back in his chair and asked for news of Rohan.

******

Faramir and Éowyn, who rarely missed the many festive occasions held by the Elves in Ithilien, were well familiar with the elvish dance and joined the other two couples in leading the dance. The steps were simple yet elegant with many turns and swirls and changing of partners. Once it became apparent that everyone would have a chance to dance with Legolas, the dance floor became very crowded and Faramir could not help but laugh at the predicament the Elf found himself in. When it came to Legolas' turn to partner the Queen again he was unable to resist commenting on how her plan to keep the maids away from him had been thwarted.

"My dear Legolas, you have only yourself to blame, had you not relinquished Ellraen to young Joseth, you would have not been sought after as you are now," she answered tartly.

"I am afraid that Ellraen much preferred his company to mine. I had not the heart to stand in the path of true love," he answered, his tone of voice indicating his sincerity. "Were you aware of her affection for the young man?" he asked as the music changed to a less lively tune and they saw that Faramir and Éowyn left the dance floor. Legolas twirled Arwen around so that she did not see them make their way to the doors that lead to the courtyard where Aragorn, Éomer and Gimli had sought refuge.

"It seems the men and women of Gondor do not have the stamina to continue the dance," Arwen said as their movements slowed with the music and by unspoken agreement they continued to dance as they talked. "In answer to your question, I knew she had been spending much of her time at the Healer's Hall for our youngest seems to have the healing talent of her father."

"It is a strong family trait," said Legolas, alluding also to Elrond and Arwen's brothers.

"Yes, I suppose it is. Joseth is also learning to be a Healer, so I imagine they have been spending much time together, under the supervision of his father, of course."

"I hope that you and Aragorn would approve of the match, for I can tell you that their love shines not only in their eyes, but from within, just as it does with you and Aragorn, and those two," he said, inclining his head in towards Eldarion and Kerwyn.

"Neither of us would argue with elvish perception," she answered. "We both have a great deal of respect for Joseth and his family, and I am pleased that Ellraen has chosen well."

"It seems the musicians are taking a well deserved break," observed Legolas.

"What a shame, I have really enjoyed our dance, but I suppose I should return to my guests," said Arwen tilting her chin slightly giving permission for him to lightly brush his lips against hers in his usual display of affection.

"Thank you for the dance, mellon nin," he whispered, as they embraced.

"You are most welcome," she replied, the smile on her face turning to a frown as she looked around and realised that Aragorn was nowhere to be seen. "Did you happen to see where Aragorn went?" she asked.

"No, I did not," he answered honestly.

"How dare he leave our guests!" she whispered angrily, not wishing to be heard by anyone except Legolas. "I must find him at once." Neither noticed the murmurs of surprise and disquiet as the obviously furious Queen pulled herself free of Legolas' hold and stormed from the dance floor. There were many concerned looks as the guests assumed the Elf had upset the Queen with an unwanted advance, and as he made to follow Arwen, he found himself held firmly in the grip of Eldarion and Joseth who unceremoniously marched him back to his seat. Legolas did not bother to try and escape, even though he was certain he could, for he did not wish to make a bad situation worse.

"Joseth, please go and find Father," commanded Eldarion sternly as Ellraen and Kerwyn followed Arwen to see if she needed comforting. Legolas was not certain as to the cause of his predicament until the Crown Prince spoke.

"How dare you betray Father's trust!" he hissed, his eyes flashing with barely controlled rage.