Chapter 8 - Time for Tea
King Thranduil of Mirkwood stared in stunned silence at his daughter. What was she doing? He had seen the quick look of surprise and hurt on Glorfindel's face, and Elrond looked positively flummoxed. The Elf King's face was suffused with color and he cleared his throat perhaps a bit too loudly as several of the people in the room started slightly.
Laerlend knew her father was displeased with her behavior, and she knew she would have to endure a long and rather loud lecture because of it. But she also knew that he would not reprimand her in front of the guests. She gave Elrond one last coquettish glance and turned to her father. She smiled at him, her hazel eyes filled with girlish innocence.
"Shall I pour the tea for you?" she asked sweetly.
Legolas' eyes widened in sudden apprehension, and he darted a glance at the teapots. What had she done now? He looked down at Gimli, who had pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes, a look of suspicion on his features.
Thranduil hesitated only a moment before gesturing for them to be seated. Surely she would not have put something into the tea.
Laerlend's eyes sparkled with mischief as she moved gracefully to take up the first pot of steaming tea. Amazingly, she filled a cup and placed it in front of Lord Glorfindel. She smiled charmingly at him.
~She has! ~ Thranduil thought with a start. What was he to do now? What were they going to think? How was he going to prevent them from drinking the tea without making a scene of some sort?
"I hope you like the tea, Lord Glorfindel," Laerlend said smoothly, waiting for him to raise it to his lips.
"Thank you, Princess Laerlend," he said, smiling hesitantly and picking up the cup. Perhaps he had misjudged her a moment ago. She was being very kind to him now. She must be at least as nervous as he was. Yes, that would explain her rather unexpected behavior earlier.
"Lord Glorfindel!" Legolas interjected hastily. All eyes turned to him, and Glorfindel nearly spilled the cup of tea.
"Yes, Prince Legolas?" he said, holding the cup in his hand untasted.
Laerlend frowned, and turned to look at her brother as well.
Legolas looked from one to the other. What had he been going to say?
"Um, I was . . . just wondering . . . that is Gimli and I were wondering . . ."
The Dwarf glanced up at him, shaggy brows knit.
"We were?" he asked quietly.
"Yes, Gimli we were," Legolas said pointedly.
Gloin's son stared at him, then blinked.
"Oh! Oh, yes, we were. Yes, we were indeed. We were wondering . . . we were wondering . . . we were wondering . . .what were we wondering, Legolas?"
Thranduil suppressed a moan, and shook his head in dismay.
~Leave it to my children to make such a wonderful impression, ~ he thought bleakly. At least Glorfindel hadn't tasted the tea yet.
"We were wondering," Legolas continued slowly as his mind sought to think of something to say. His eyes slid to his father who looked at him and raised his brows. Legolas grinned weakly. "We were wondering . . .what . . ."Suddenly he gasped. "Yes! We were wondering what Asfaloth thought of father!" He breathed a sigh of relief and looked over at Gimli. ~How embarrassing! ~ he thought. He hadn't acted this foolishly in years, and he didn't appreciate being forced to do so now in front of the guests merely to cover up for his sister's irritating pranks.
The Dwarf had one brow raised, and a puzzled look on his face.
"Asfaloth?" he murmured.
Legolas raised his brows at his friend who then nodded quickly, his face brightening.
"Oh, yes. Asfaloth. The horse. Of course." He cleared his throat. "And what did your horse think of King Thranduil, Lord Glorfindel?" he finished in a serious voice.
Glorfindel turned to look at Elrond who shrugged, and shook his head. He was just as confused as his friend.
Elladan and Elrohir knew that something was amiss, but they weren't certain just what. They had identical bemused expressions on their faces, and couldn't wait to see what would unfold.
"You want to know what Asfaloth thought of King Thranduil?" Glorfindel repeated slowly, looking at Mirkwood's prince and the Dwarf, placing the teacup on the table.
They both nodded and smiled at him.
Glorfindel frowned, his gaze sliding back to Elrond's.
Laerlend lifted her head and moved to pour a cup of tea for Imladris' lord. Elrond thanked her, but as he lifted his cup he saw the look of apprehension on Thranduil's face. He stared at the cup and frowned. Suddenly his eyes widened with surprise, setting it down in a hurry. Thranduil smiled at him and shrugged, looking anything but happy. Elrond shook his head and turned to Legolas.
"Prince Legolas," he began. "Did you by any chance make this tea?"
Legolas stared over at him in confusion.
"Did I make the tea? Nay, I did not. Why?"
Elrond raised one eyebrow in doubt. The younger Elf's blue eyes were full of innocence, but Elrond's gaze did not waver.
Suddenly it dawned on Legolas just what the Elf-lord was implying.
"I did not make the tea, Lord Elrond," he said in a dignified voice. "And if I had I certainly would never have . . ."
Elladan and Elrohir grinned at one another and reached for a teapot. They took the lid off one and looked inside at the contents.
"What did you put in here, Legolas?" They asked in unison. "Morn Nen water? Or too much Vandal Root?"
Glorfindel stared at his own cup, remembering just how close he had come to drinking it. He shoved the cup away from him and leaned back in his chair, his eyes on Thranduil's youngest son, one golden brow raised.
Legolas stared at them with disbelief.
"I did not make the tea," he repeated earnestly. He knew why they regarded him with such suspicion, but he had not done anything . . . this time. Surely they knew he had outgrown such ridiculous pranks.
Laerlend sighed heavily and shook her head.
"I made the tea," she said in a voice filled with annoyance. "Truly! I have never seen such behavior as this in my life. I am highly insulted that none of you wanted to even taste it." With that she poured another cup and sipped it delicately. "It is quite good you know. A recipe of my grandmother's, I believe."
Thranduil stared up at her, watching as she took another sip. He ground his teeth together to keep from saying anything. Just then the door opened and Celebross' wife Mirithil entered, followed closely by Milui and Duilinn who were bearing wooden trays on which more pots of fresh tea rested.
"Ah, I am not too late I see," Mirithil said happily, her clear green eyes bright and cheerful. She moved gracefully across the room considering that she was in the late stages of pregnancy, and bent to kiss Thranduil's cheek before he could rise. He smiled gratefully at her as she winked at him.
Celebross stood, as did the others, and moved to kiss his wife.
"Thank you, meleth-nin {my love}," he whispered into her ear. Mirithil gazed at her silver haired husband and smiled. She was a beautiful Silvan Elf with long flowing rich brown hair, the golden highlights glistening in the light of the torches and candles. She was tall and carried herself well. She laid one hand over her protruding belly and smiled at them all. Celebross moved to take the tray from Milui, who was staring unabashedly at Gimli.
Legolas was certain that the Dwarf was blushing, but he said nothing, for Duilinn's gaze was upon him. He smiled over at his sister-in-law who was efficiently switching the old teapots for the fresh ones. Mirithil had a perfect sense of timing.
"These must surely be cold by now," she said with a light laugh. "Tea cools rather quickly you know."
Laerlend watched them, her lips pouting. She had put nothing in the tea, so her little joke had worked to some extent, but she was not pleased to have it interrupted. She swallowed the last of the tea in her cup and helped Mirithil load the unused pots onto the trays.
Duilinn and Milui left quietly, but the sound of their hurried voices reached those seated about the table before the door could shut behind them.
"Didn't Gimli look very handsome with that green bow in his hair?"
"Didn't Legolas look magnificent? And didn't I tell you that Lord Glorfindel was beautiful?"
The door finally swung shut, cutting off the sound of their girlish chatter. Gimli and Legolas exchanged embarrassed glances, as Elladan and Elrohir burst into laughter. Tellenlagor and Curon both managed to control their own mirth by looking steadily at their own empty teacups.
~This day has been entirely too long already, ~ Thranduil thought, resisting the urge to bury his face in his hands. Oddly enough, he noted that Elrond looked to be thinking the same thing.
Mirithil sat beside her husband as Laerlend poured out the tea.
"The little one is finally asleep," she said with a sigh. "He always fights it when it is time for a nap."
"How old is little Galadh now?" Elrond asked politely, glad for a new topic of conversation. He still wasn't certain what had just happened, but he was certain that he did not want to know.
As Mirithil began to speak of their son, Laerlend seated herself between her father and Lord Glorfindel. Now that she was no longer the object of their attentions, she sat fuming quietly.
How could a group of grown males listen with such intensity and delight about the antics of a baby? Yes, little Galadh was very cute and a great deal of fun, but really!
She turned slightly in her seat so she could see Glorfindel out of the corner of her eye, feeling very resentful toward him at this moment. He was entirely too beautiful. She should have expected that, but it had still caught her off guard, and she had been hard pressed to keep her composure when she had first glimpsed him. Now Laerlend found herself wanting to gaze at him in admiration, but she held herself stiffly allowing no more than what she could see sitting as she was. Thranduil's daughter could tell that he was smiling at her sister-in-law, his glorious face rapt with attention.
~I wish he would smile at me like that, ~ she thought enviously, and then she narrowed her eyes in disgust at such a thought.
Then Glorfindel's eyes did move to her, and she found herself turning to look at him. He smiled gently at her, hoping to salvage something after the rather awkward start of their relationship. Her lips parted slightly as she gazed at him. His eyes were so very blue, his face so lovely, and the way the light played upon the long golden locks . . . . He looked as young as Legolas, which was unexpected: young and very fair to behold. . . She shook her head, and abruptly shifted her gaze Elrond.
"We all hope to be hearing news soon about a new grandchild for you, Lord Elrond. Though someone as youthful looking as yourself could hardly have grandchildren. You seem more of a brother to Elladan and Elrohir than a father."
Elladan and Elrohir glanced at one another, and quickly stifled their laughter as Elrond gaped at Thranduil's daughter. Aralith gazed at his sister in amazement. She was more audacious than he or his brothers had ever dared to be. He darted a glance at his father, and was not surprised to note the heightened color once more gracing his sire's face.
~Well, for once it is not Legolas getting into trouble, ~ Aralith thought ruefully.
Mirithil, watched her sister-in-law flirt boldly with Imladris Lord, while entirely ignoring her intended. Mirithil, who had been involved in a long enlightening conversation with Laerlend's three friends, allowed herself a small smile, one hand massaging her belly as the child kicked and moved inside her.
~Little imp! ~ she thought. ~You have chosen poor Lord Elrond because he is safe! He is still married to Celebrian even though she has crossed the Sea. He will always love her, and not be unfaithful to her. Little minx! Instead of choosing one of the twins, who might lead to trouble, you choose the father. ~ She shook her head in amazement and amusement. But when she looked to Lord Glorfindel, her merriment vanished.
The Elf-Lord's blue eyes were filled with hurt, hurt that had been deliberately inflicted by Laerlend's careless behavior. He slowly raised his cup of tea to his lips, his eyes fixed on nothing as he tried to ignore what was happening before him. Mirithil suddenly smiled at him, one hand moving to rest on Celebross' knee.
"I understand you sing very well, Lord Glorfindel," she said. "This babe of mine is very restless. Perhaps you might grace us with a song and soothe it back to sleep."
He looked over at her and smiled graciously. Relief was written plainly on his fair features as he turned to get King Thranduil's permission to sing.
"That would be very pleasant indeed," Mirkwood's ruler said hastily, also trying to ignore his daughter's rudeness. "Your voice is said to be very fair and even rival that of the great minstrel Daeron's."
Laerlend stiffened and blinked. No, she could not let him sing! It would be her undoing. She raised her head haughtily, hating what she was about to say, but knew she must say it or be lost.
"Then pray, Lord Glorfindel, do not sing a song about the glories of Gondolin. For we have heard nothing of late but songs of that "fair" city and its many heroes."
Glorfindel turned to look at her, the pain flaring in his eyes once more at the sarcastic tone in her voice. Then they hardened in annoyance as he inclined his head toward her.
"I would not presume to sing of myself, my lady. If that is what you mean."
Laerlend felt the color flare in her cheeks, but she held her head high and regarded him with cool eyes.
Thranduil's mouth opened in shock and Elrond blinked several times. The two powerful Elves stared at one another wondering how this situation had disintegrated so quickly.
Thranduil sighed and looked across the table at Legolas.
"Where are your black squirrels when we need them, Little Greenleaf?" he asked wearily, wishing that the little beasts had invaded the room to wreck havoc and save them this embarrassment.
"Or your spiders," Elrond said with a sigh.
Suddenly Mirithil stood.
"It is so warm in here, perhaps we should go outside. Lying in the cool grass beneath the trees sounds very wonderful to me right now."
Celebross rose hastily as did the others.
Mirithil smiled gratefully at them and lead them from the room, her arm entwined with her husband's, her head resting on his shoulder.
Legolas turned to see Laerlend refuse Lord Glorfindel's proffered arm as she turned and marched smartly after her sister-in-law. He shook his head.
"Perhaps we should ask the twins to join us on a hunt," he murmured to Gimli as they filed from the room.
"A hunt? What sort of hunt?" the Dwarf asked.
"For black squirrels of course."
"Or spiders!" Elrohir chimed in with a grin, and clapped them on the back.
Thanks to al for beta-ing this, filling it with green corrections. Green is such a good color! Yet I fear the commas will NEVER be right!
Response to Reviewers
gershwin - You are very right in saying that if Laerlend insists on being stubborn and senseless there are many waiting in line to take her place! She is rather pigheaded!
Angaloth - It was very mean and very funny of her to flirt with Elrond. But as Mirithil figured out, he is very safe to flirt with!
JastaElf - She does need to be spanked! LOL Maybe someone should mention that to Glorfindel. *smirk* It appears that Legolas is asserting himself someone what in this chapter, and I know what that means: more of him in future. I know you have a soft spot for "that old Elf", though I wouldn't call him old to his face. Many of us do!
morchaint - I am glad to find another Glorfindel fan out there. He deserves more attention than he gets. Yes, to your question. Erestor and the rest of Elrond's household will be making appearances in this story.as will some members of Thranduil's household, even one I have not written in months.
annakas - Poor Glorfindel (c. annakas) you grabbed it first! I am glad you find this "funny", I knew I couldn't keep it entirely serious.
BeeJang - Laerlend is being wicked and Glorfindel does deserve our sympathy. But do not worry, he will be able to handle her!
Seaweed - Want some more sugar? LOL Your review was definitely hyped up! Gimli was "da bomb"! He is too cool! Glad you liked his green ribbon. I thought you would. If Legolas is somewhere in this story rest assured that Gimli would be too! Every time I write him I think of you - his #1 fan!
snicklepop - I like to do some rather unexpected things from time to time!
Lakergurl13 - Cliffhangers aren't bad! Glad you can do the breathe in, breathe out thing to help your through them! LOL - Okay, what is it with the bush?! You and al both mentioned that bush! I happen to like that bush! LOL Sorry, but it was rather funny. Also I am glad you can be nice to Gimli! Seaweed thanks you, too!
Furius - Thank you again for the great idea. Elrond is the perfect choice! ;) We shall see if she is just playing games or if her childhood crush has carried over into adulthood! You don't feel sorry for Glorfindel? Well, I do just a little. It is too fun!
Starbrat - I love cliffhangers, so expect them from time to time. She will be causing much trouble before this is over!
serpent - I am glad you like Laerlend! I do too! Who would you like her to flirt with if not Elrond?? I thought he was a pretty good choice myself.
ccg - Laerlend did not melt into a puddle(which the rest of us definitely would have!!) because she is an Elf and is surrounded by beautiful male Elves every day all day! Lucky her! Elrond is married and therefore SAFE! You were right about the tea, but then again you weren't. She is very tricky indeed! It would be nice to see Elladan and Elrohir in the movies. Maybe they will show up when Glorfindel does. Btw Rambling doesn't bother me!
AlexisRayette - She won't be too immature for too long. Even princesses have to grow up sometime. Never fear.
Anita - I admit I was ROFL when I read your review! I never expected such a violent response! That was wonderful! People have mentioned spanking and kicking her in the butt, but you are the only one ready to push her off a cliff! Love it!
Jessica - It IS Glorfindel for goodness sake! LOL Another irate reviewer. Love it! Legolas, Gimli, the twins and at least one other will be up to some trickery never fear! We need something to break the tension created by "that snotty child"!
Artanis - I am glad you liked the Balrog thingy! You had better marry him just to save him from her! So. . . why wasn't she betrothed to one of the twins instead?? Hmmm?? :)
Sake - Laerlend isn't exactly "evil", but close to it. I would not want to be in her shoes when Ada Thranduil gets her alone!
LOTR lover - You can kick her in the butt and let Anita push her off a cliff! That ought to take care of it!
t- another vote for a spanking, huh? LOL
Mercredi - I am glad you like this story. Romance is something new to me, writing it anyway! Laerlend is brash and bold, but then considering her ancestry. . . ;) She is very strong willed. Also thank you for enjoying the back references. I have enjoyed writing them!
PuterPatty - The style and tone of this story are somewhat different, but this last chapter seems to harkens back to the silly ones slightly. The twins are definitely in this one, and will be in it more! I like them too! Poor spiders?? My goodness gracious! You want the spiders back?? Well. . . Legolas will be in this more than he has been as well. (and Gimli, too) I am going to throw someone else into the mix in one of the next chapters. Should be interesting. Duilinn is a lot like you! I think of you when I write her! LOL on being out of character if you didn't mention the sexy naked Elves! I am glad you have come to see "Glory's glory". Your certificate of membership is in the mail!
Karina - Another fan of the twins I see! They are twice the fun, eh??!! I am glad you thought that Elrond giving Glorfindel away was funny. I thought so too. You stick your tongue out?! AT your age!? *looks around guiltily* You think someone should match make for Duilinn and Legolas?? Another one who misses the spiders! Egad! What have I done!? Elladan and Elrohir behaving is an oxymoron. Getting all mushy on me are you?? Mushy romances?? Ewww!
al - Gimli cleans up very nicely in his "Armani Elf Dwarf" outfit. Green Cowardly Lion Ribbon and all! Ahem about the bush! You and Lakergurl13 just do not understand! *Pout* That bush may become very important later on. In fact I know it will! Thank you for telling me about the "dot theory". I know who you would pick quite well, mellon-nin. Quite well. . .
() - Laerlend is a lot like Legolas in my other fics. . .only she is slightly more mean spirited in her pranks!
King Thranduil of Mirkwood stared in stunned silence at his daughter. What was she doing? He had seen the quick look of surprise and hurt on Glorfindel's face, and Elrond looked positively flummoxed. The Elf King's face was suffused with color and he cleared his throat perhaps a bit too loudly as several of the people in the room started slightly.
Laerlend knew her father was displeased with her behavior, and she knew she would have to endure a long and rather loud lecture because of it. But she also knew that he would not reprimand her in front of the guests. She gave Elrond one last coquettish glance and turned to her father. She smiled at him, her hazel eyes filled with girlish innocence.
"Shall I pour the tea for you?" she asked sweetly.
Legolas' eyes widened in sudden apprehension, and he darted a glance at the teapots. What had she done now? He looked down at Gimli, who had pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes, a look of suspicion on his features.
Thranduil hesitated only a moment before gesturing for them to be seated. Surely she would not have put something into the tea.
Laerlend's eyes sparkled with mischief as she moved gracefully to take up the first pot of steaming tea. Amazingly, she filled a cup and placed it in front of Lord Glorfindel. She smiled charmingly at him.
~She has! ~ Thranduil thought with a start. What was he to do now? What were they going to think? How was he going to prevent them from drinking the tea without making a scene of some sort?
"I hope you like the tea, Lord Glorfindel," Laerlend said smoothly, waiting for him to raise it to his lips.
"Thank you, Princess Laerlend," he said, smiling hesitantly and picking up the cup. Perhaps he had misjudged her a moment ago. She was being very kind to him now. She must be at least as nervous as he was. Yes, that would explain her rather unexpected behavior earlier.
"Lord Glorfindel!" Legolas interjected hastily. All eyes turned to him, and Glorfindel nearly spilled the cup of tea.
"Yes, Prince Legolas?" he said, holding the cup in his hand untasted.
Laerlend frowned, and turned to look at her brother as well.
Legolas looked from one to the other. What had he been going to say?
"Um, I was . . . just wondering . . . that is Gimli and I were wondering . . ."
The Dwarf glanced up at him, shaggy brows knit.
"We were?" he asked quietly.
"Yes, Gimli we were," Legolas said pointedly.
Gloin's son stared at him, then blinked.
"Oh! Oh, yes, we were. Yes, we were indeed. We were wondering . . . we were wondering . . . we were wondering . . .what were we wondering, Legolas?"
Thranduil suppressed a moan, and shook his head in dismay.
~Leave it to my children to make such a wonderful impression, ~ he thought bleakly. At least Glorfindel hadn't tasted the tea yet.
"We were wondering," Legolas continued slowly as his mind sought to think of something to say. His eyes slid to his father who looked at him and raised his brows. Legolas grinned weakly. "We were wondering . . .what . . ."Suddenly he gasped. "Yes! We were wondering what Asfaloth thought of father!" He breathed a sigh of relief and looked over at Gimli. ~How embarrassing! ~ he thought. He hadn't acted this foolishly in years, and he didn't appreciate being forced to do so now in front of the guests merely to cover up for his sister's irritating pranks.
The Dwarf had one brow raised, and a puzzled look on his face.
"Asfaloth?" he murmured.
Legolas raised his brows at his friend who then nodded quickly, his face brightening.
"Oh, yes. Asfaloth. The horse. Of course." He cleared his throat. "And what did your horse think of King Thranduil, Lord Glorfindel?" he finished in a serious voice.
Glorfindel turned to look at Elrond who shrugged, and shook his head. He was just as confused as his friend.
Elladan and Elrohir knew that something was amiss, but they weren't certain just what. They had identical bemused expressions on their faces, and couldn't wait to see what would unfold.
"You want to know what Asfaloth thought of King Thranduil?" Glorfindel repeated slowly, looking at Mirkwood's prince and the Dwarf, placing the teacup on the table.
They both nodded and smiled at him.
Glorfindel frowned, his gaze sliding back to Elrond's.
Laerlend lifted her head and moved to pour a cup of tea for Imladris' lord. Elrond thanked her, but as he lifted his cup he saw the look of apprehension on Thranduil's face. He stared at the cup and frowned. Suddenly his eyes widened with surprise, setting it down in a hurry. Thranduil smiled at him and shrugged, looking anything but happy. Elrond shook his head and turned to Legolas.
"Prince Legolas," he began. "Did you by any chance make this tea?"
Legolas stared over at him in confusion.
"Did I make the tea? Nay, I did not. Why?"
Elrond raised one eyebrow in doubt. The younger Elf's blue eyes were full of innocence, but Elrond's gaze did not waver.
Suddenly it dawned on Legolas just what the Elf-lord was implying.
"I did not make the tea, Lord Elrond," he said in a dignified voice. "And if I had I certainly would never have . . ."
Elladan and Elrohir grinned at one another and reached for a teapot. They took the lid off one and looked inside at the contents.
"What did you put in here, Legolas?" They asked in unison. "Morn Nen water? Or too much Vandal Root?"
Glorfindel stared at his own cup, remembering just how close he had come to drinking it. He shoved the cup away from him and leaned back in his chair, his eyes on Thranduil's youngest son, one golden brow raised.
Legolas stared at them with disbelief.
"I did not make the tea," he repeated earnestly. He knew why they regarded him with such suspicion, but he had not done anything . . . this time. Surely they knew he had outgrown such ridiculous pranks.
Laerlend sighed heavily and shook her head.
"I made the tea," she said in a voice filled with annoyance. "Truly! I have never seen such behavior as this in my life. I am highly insulted that none of you wanted to even taste it." With that she poured another cup and sipped it delicately. "It is quite good you know. A recipe of my grandmother's, I believe."
Thranduil stared up at her, watching as she took another sip. He ground his teeth together to keep from saying anything. Just then the door opened and Celebross' wife Mirithil entered, followed closely by Milui and Duilinn who were bearing wooden trays on which more pots of fresh tea rested.
"Ah, I am not too late I see," Mirithil said happily, her clear green eyes bright and cheerful. She moved gracefully across the room considering that she was in the late stages of pregnancy, and bent to kiss Thranduil's cheek before he could rise. He smiled gratefully at her as she winked at him.
Celebross stood, as did the others, and moved to kiss his wife.
"Thank you, meleth-nin {my love}," he whispered into her ear. Mirithil gazed at her silver haired husband and smiled. She was a beautiful Silvan Elf with long flowing rich brown hair, the golden highlights glistening in the light of the torches and candles. She was tall and carried herself well. She laid one hand over her protruding belly and smiled at them all. Celebross moved to take the tray from Milui, who was staring unabashedly at Gimli.
Legolas was certain that the Dwarf was blushing, but he said nothing, for Duilinn's gaze was upon him. He smiled over at his sister-in-law who was efficiently switching the old teapots for the fresh ones. Mirithil had a perfect sense of timing.
"These must surely be cold by now," she said with a light laugh. "Tea cools rather quickly you know."
Laerlend watched them, her lips pouting. She had put nothing in the tea, so her little joke had worked to some extent, but she was not pleased to have it interrupted. She swallowed the last of the tea in her cup and helped Mirithil load the unused pots onto the trays.
Duilinn and Milui left quietly, but the sound of their hurried voices reached those seated about the table before the door could shut behind them.
"Didn't Gimli look very handsome with that green bow in his hair?"
"Didn't Legolas look magnificent? And didn't I tell you that Lord Glorfindel was beautiful?"
The door finally swung shut, cutting off the sound of their girlish chatter. Gimli and Legolas exchanged embarrassed glances, as Elladan and Elrohir burst into laughter. Tellenlagor and Curon both managed to control their own mirth by looking steadily at their own empty teacups.
~This day has been entirely too long already, ~ Thranduil thought, resisting the urge to bury his face in his hands. Oddly enough, he noted that Elrond looked to be thinking the same thing.
Mirithil sat beside her husband as Laerlend poured out the tea.
"The little one is finally asleep," she said with a sigh. "He always fights it when it is time for a nap."
"How old is little Galadh now?" Elrond asked politely, glad for a new topic of conversation. He still wasn't certain what had just happened, but he was certain that he did not want to know.
As Mirithil began to speak of their son, Laerlend seated herself between her father and Lord Glorfindel. Now that she was no longer the object of their attentions, she sat fuming quietly.
How could a group of grown males listen with such intensity and delight about the antics of a baby? Yes, little Galadh was very cute and a great deal of fun, but really!
She turned slightly in her seat so she could see Glorfindel out of the corner of her eye, feeling very resentful toward him at this moment. He was entirely too beautiful. She should have expected that, but it had still caught her off guard, and she had been hard pressed to keep her composure when she had first glimpsed him. Now Laerlend found herself wanting to gaze at him in admiration, but she held herself stiffly allowing no more than what she could see sitting as she was. Thranduil's daughter could tell that he was smiling at her sister-in-law, his glorious face rapt with attention.
~I wish he would smile at me like that, ~ she thought enviously, and then she narrowed her eyes in disgust at such a thought.
Then Glorfindel's eyes did move to her, and she found herself turning to look at him. He smiled gently at her, hoping to salvage something after the rather awkward start of their relationship. Her lips parted slightly as she gazed at him. His eyes were so very blue, his face so lovely, and the way the light played upon the long golden locks . . . . He looked as young as Legolas, which was unexpected: young and very fair to behold. . . She shook her head, and abruptly shifted her gaze Elrond.
"We all hope to be hearing news soon about a new grandchild for you, Lord Elrond. Though someone as youthful looking as yourself could hardly have grandchildren. You seem more of a brother to Elladan and Elrohir than a father."
Elladan and Elrohir glanced at one another, and quickly stifled their laughter as Elrond gaped at Thranduil's daughter. Aralith gazed at his sister in amazement. She was more audacious than he or his brothers had ever dared to be. He darted a glance at his father, and was not surprised to note the heightened color once more gracing his sire's face.
~Well, for once it is not Legolas getting into trouble, ~ Aralith thought ruefully.
Mirithil, watched her sister-in-law flirt boldly with Imladris Lord, while entirely ignoring her intended. Mirithil, who had been involved in a long enlightening conversation with Laerlend's three friends, allowed herself a small smile, one hand massaging her belly as the child kicked and moved inside her.
~Little imp! ~ she thought. ~You have chosen poor Lord Elrond because he is safe! He is still married to Celebrian even though she has crossed the Sea. He will always love her, and not be unfaithful to her. Little minx! Instead of choosing one of the twins, who might lead to trouble, you choose the father. ~ She shook her head in amazement and amusement. But when she looked to Lord Glorfindel, her merriment vanished.
The Elf-Lord's blue eyes were filled with hurt, hurt that had been deliberately inflicted by Laerlend's careless behavior. He slowly raised his cup of tea to his lips, his eyes fixed on nothing as he tried to ignore what was happening before him. Mirithil suddenly smiled at him, one hand moving to rest on Celebross' knee.
"I understand you sing very well, Lord Glorfindel," she said. "This babe of mine is very restless. Perhaps you might grace us with a song and soothe it back to sleep."
He looked over at her and smiled graciously. Relief was written plainly on his fair features as he turned to get King Thranduil's permission to sing.
"That would be very pleasant indeed," Mirkwood's ruler said hastily, also trying to ignore his daughter's rudeness. "Your voice is said to be very fair and even rival that of the great minstrel Daeron's."
Laerlend stiffened and blinked. No, she could not let him sing! It would be her undoing. She raised her head haughtily, hating what she was about to say, but knew she must say it or be lost.
"Then pray, Lord Glorfindel, do not sing a song about the glories of Gondolin. For we have heard nothing of late but songs of that "fair" city and its many heroes."
Glorfindel turned to look at her, the pain flaring in his eyes once more at the sarcastic tone in her voice. Then they hardened in annoyance as he inclined his head toward her.
"I would not presume to sing of myself, my lady. If that is what you mean."
Laerlend felt the color flare in her cheeks, but she held her head high and regarded him with cool eyes.
Thranduil's mouth opened in shock and Elrond blinked several times. The two powerful Elves stared at one another wondering how this situation had disintegrated so quickly.
Thranduil sighed and looked across the table at Legolas.
"Where are your black squirrels when we need them, Little Greenleaf?" he asked wearily, wishing that the little beasts had invaded the room to wreck havoc and save them this embarrassment.
"Or your spiders," Elrond said with a sigh.
Suddenly Mirithil stood.
"It is so warm in here, perhaps we should go outside. Lying in the cool grass beneath the trees sounds very wonderful to me right now."
Celebross rose hastily as did the others.
Mirithil smiled gratefully at them and lead them from the room, her arm entwined with her husband's, her head resting on his shoulder.
Legolas turned to see Laerlend refuse Lord Glorfindel's proffered arm as she turned and marched smartly after her sister-in-law. He shook his head.
"Perhaps we should ask the twins to join us on a hunt," he murmured to Gimli as they filed from the room.
"A hunt? What sort of hunt?" the Dwarf asked.
"For black squirrels of course."
"Or spiders!" Elrohir chimed in with a grin, and clapped them on the back.
Thanks to al for beta-ing this, filling it with green corrections. Green is such a good color! Yet I fear the commas will NEVER be right!
Response to Reviewers
gershwin - You are very right in saying that if Laerlend insists on being stubborn and senseless there are many waiting in line to take her place! She is rather pigheaded!
Angaloth - It was very mean and very funny of her to flirt with Elrond. But as Mirithil figured out, he is very safe to flirt with!
JastaElf - She does need to be spanked! LOL Maybe someone should mention that to Glorfindel. *smirk* It appears that Legolas is asserting himself someone what in this chapter, and I know what that means: more of him in future. I know you have a soft spot for "that old Elf", though I wouldn't call him old to his face. Many of us do!
morchaint - I am glad to find another Glorfindel fan out there. He deserves more attention than he gets. Yes, to your question. Erestor and the rest of Elrond's household will be making appearances in this story.as will some members of Thranduil's household, even one I have not written in months.
annakas - Poor Glorfindel (c. annakas) you grabbed it first! I am glad you find this "funny", I knew I couldn't keep it entirely serious.
BeeJang - Laerlend is being wicked and Glorfindel does deserve our sympathy. But do not worry, he will be able to handle her!
Seaweed - Want some more sugar? LOL Your review was definitely hyped up! Gimli was "da bomb"! He is too cool! Glad you liked his green ribbon. I thought you would. If Legolas is somewhere in this story rest assured that Gimli would be too! Every time I write him I think of you - his #1 fan!
snicklepop - I like to do some rather unexpected things from time to time!
Lakergurl13 - Cliffhangers aren't bad! Glad you can do the breathe in, breathe out thing to help your through them! LOL - Okay, what is it with the bush?! You and al both mentioned that bush! I happen to like that bush! LOL Sorry, but it was rather funny. Also I am glad you can be nice to Gimli! Seaweed thanks you, too!
Furius - Thank you again for the great idea. Elrond is the perfect choice! ;) We shall see if she is just playing games or if her childhood crush has carried over into adulthood! You don't feel sorry for Glorfindel? Well, I do just a little. It is too fun!
Starbrat - I love cliffhangers, so expect them from time to time. She will be causing much trouble before this is over!
serpent - I am glad you like Laerlend! I do too! Who would you like her to flirt with if not Elrond?? I thought he was a pretty good choice myself.
ccg - Laerlend did not melt into a puddle(which the rest of us definitely would have!!) because she is an Elf and is surrounded by beautiful male Elves every day all day! Lucky her! Elrond is married and therefore SAFE! You were right about the tea, but then again you weren't. She is very tricky indeed! It would be nice to see Elladan and Elrohir in the movies. Maybe they will show up when Glorfindel does. Btw Rambling doesn't bother me!
AlexisRayette - She won't be too immature for too long. Even princesses have to grow up sometime. Never fear.
Anita - I admit I was ROFL when I read your review! I never expected such a violent response! That was wonderful! People have mentioned spanking and kicking her in the butt, but you are the only one ready to push her off a cliff! Love it!
Jessica - It IS Glorfindel for goodness sake! LOL Another irate reviewer. Love it! Legolas, Gimli, the twins and at least one other will be up to some trickery never fear! We need something to break the tension created by "that snotty child"!
Artanis - I am glad you liked the Balrog thingy! You had better marry him just to save him from her! So. . . why wasn't she betrothed to one of the twins instead?? Hmmm?? :)
Sake - Laerlend isn't exactly "evil", but close to it. I would not want to be in her shoes when Ada Thranduil gets her alone!
LOTR lover - You can kick her in the butt and let Anita push her off a cliff! That ought to take care of it!
t- another vote for a spanking, huh? LOL
Mercredi - I am glad you like this story. Romance is something new to me, writing it anyway! Laerlend is brash and bold, but then considering her ancestry. . . ;) She is very strong willed. Also thank you for enjoying the back references. I have enjoyed writing them!
PuterPatty - The style and tone of this story are somewhat different, but this last chapter seems to harkens back to the silly ones slightly. The twins are definitely in this one, and will be in it more! I like them too! Poor spiders?? My goodness gracious! You want the spiders back?? Well. . . Legolas will be in this more than he has been as well. (and Gimli, too) I am going to throw someone else into the mix in one of the next chapters. Should be interesting. Duilinn is a lot like you! I think of you when I write her! LOL on being out of character if you didn't mention the sexy naked Elves! I am glad you have come to see "Glory's glory". Your certificate of membership is in the mail!
Karina - Another fan of the twins I see! They are twice the fun, eh??!! I am glad you thought that Elrond giving Glorfindel away was funny. I thought so too. You stick your tongue out?! AT your age!? *looks around guiltily* You think someone should match make for Duilinn and Legolas?? Another one who misses the spiders! Egad! What have I done!? Elladan and Elrohir behaving is an oxymoron. Getting all mushy on me are you?? Mushy romances?? Ewww!
al - Gimli cleans up very nicely in his "Armani Elf Dwarf" outfit. Green Cowardly Lion Ribbon and all! Ahem about the bush! You and Lakergurl13 just do not understand! *Pout* That bush may become very important later on. In fact I know it will! Thank you for telling me about the "dot theory". I know who you would pick quite well, mellon-nin. Quite well. . .
() - Laerlend is a lot like Legolas in my other fics. . .only she is slightly more mean spirited in her pranks!