Precious Stones and Petty Gems

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Disclaimer: The characters belong to the Professor and I claim no ownership. Except for Rubi who is my OC.

A/N: Takes place in Doriath shortly before the slaining of Thingol. And no, this has NOT been beta since
I have problems finding someone who was familiar enough with Thingol AND was interested enough in
Thranduil to know what I'm writing about. *pout*

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Prologue

Thranduil tried to concentrate, the Valar knew he truly tried but repeatedly found his concentration returning to the plate of honey cakes on the side-table to his mentor's left.

Queen Melian smiled and tried desperately not to laugh as she followed the direction of her student's gaze. The idea to use treats as motivational tools for the young elflings in her singing class was working like a charm; Most of them performed with an enthusiasm never seen in their previous lessons. Unfortunately it was also proving to be a major distraction to her youngest and normally most earnest student. The way Thranduil was distractedly singing the 'Ode to Varda' as he eyed the plate with fervour, Melian wondered if the song name should have been changed to 'Ode to Honey cakes' instead. The fact that the elfling's height was such the cakes were in direct sight of him didn't help matters.

Finally, deciding she had tormented the elfling long enough, Melian signalled the servants to hand out the treats. Her smile grew wider when she saw Thranduil's growing dismay at the sight of the rapidly diminishing pile as he anxiously waited his turn. Usually, Oropher's son would linger by her side to enquire how he performed in the day's lesson so that he might report his accomplishments to his father when Oropher returned with his patrol that evening. Today however, Thranduil was proving Melian's theory that honey cakes were the highlights of an elfling's day especially one as young as Thranduil who was the equivalent of a human child three summers old.

A sound of shuffling feet and Melian looked about. Spying the youth at the open doorway, Melian beckoned for him to enter. "Yes Rubi? What is it?"

The elven page bowed low to his Queen before delivering his message. "The king sends word that he would not be joining my lady for the evening meal."

At those words, Melian felt her spirits dampened. Ever since the departure of their daughter Luthien with the mortal Beren, Thingol has locked himself away in his treasury with the Silmaril, forsaking all company, even hers.

Blinking away tears, Melian forced a smile. "I see, very well. Go bide Celeborn that he'll have to host the head table again tonight. And have Oropher and his wife lead the dancers."

The servant nodded uneasily. Turning, Rubi fled as swiftly as possible to avoid the disappointment he saw swimming in the Queen's eyes. Melian watched him go sadly, not noticing a pair of young azure eyes watching her in turn.