Chapter 10 - A Love Song If You Please, Lord Goldilocks!
Laerlend watched as Glorfindel's slender hands removed the elegant black cover; the golden embroidery glinted in the summer sun, not unlike the way the light seemed to play across his own lustrous hair. She was not going to be able to prevent him from singing, and a small, weary sigh escaped her lips. She glanced over at her three friends who were setting out the tea things. Their eyes were carefully averted, but she could see the amused expressions on their faces. It seemed that everyone had deserted her. She knew that her rudeness would not go unchecked for long, though no one had as yet said anything to her. . . not directly. The princess turned her head ever so slightly so she could see her father out of the corner of her eye.
Thranduil was reclining comfortably on the cool grass, his long legs stretched out before him, ankles crossed, his handsome face lit with pleasure as he listened to some small adventure that Aralas was relating. Tanglinna's foster son's golden green eyes were bright, his fair features animated with excitement, and excitement at the pleasure of being home once more. Laerlend allowed a smile when she caught the word "trees." Aralas was ever taken with his trees, and could talk endlessly about them and the things the trees had told him. She knew that it was his dearest wish to travel to Fangorn, though she doubted that her father would allow it anytime soon. She knew that it hurt Thranduil greatly to know that Legolas had felt the Call of the Sea, and several of his people had already traveled west on that last journey through Ennor. Thranduil wanted his children ever about him now, knowing that one day he would lose one of them to that siren call. She knew that her father considered Aralas as nearly one of his own. He had taken Aralas' under his wing after Tanglinna's death, showering all the love and friendship he had felt for the Master Archer on his foster child. Her eyes moved away from them to the trees surrounding them, their bark so silvery and smooth. She wondered what her father and Aralas were saying now.
~A new topic of conversation might be amusing, ~ she thought, as her eyes moved to the stands of flowers across from where she sat.
Laerlend's mother had loved this garden, and tended it with her own hands; each plant had been specifically chosen by her, whether for the beauty of its smell, or that it was fair when looked upon. The roses and honeysuckle were blooming in profusion, filling the air with their warm heady scent; tall spikes of dark purple irises stood amidst the blue forget- me-nots; rounded clusters of bright scarlet bee-balm added their crisp minty smell to the perfume of Brenillass' garden; lilies of white, orange, pink, and rich yellow added color for the eyes to feast upon. Bleeding hearts hid their drooping heads of red and white shyly between the trees and beneath the protective stands of holly. Bushy herbs for both medicinal and culinary purposes stood in bushy clumps, adding their scent and richness to the scene. The purple blossoms of the Spiderwort plants were seen scattered about the garden as well. Brenillass had been amused by the name of that particular plant, and felt it fit perfectly in her garden.
Seated beside some of these very plants, Glorfindel ran his hand down the pillar of his small harp, his fingers tracing the delicate carvings of small flowers painted in gold entwined in green leafy vines. Loriollam (Voice of the Golden Flower) was a beautiful instrument, specifically crafted in Gondolin for him by Lindelor of the House of the Harp. One slender, sensitive finger circled over a small flaw in the lower corner: one small, bright petal was missing, the only testament to the perilous journey it had survived when the Gondothlim had fled their fallen city. Lindelor, a cousin of Salgant the Lord of the House, had been a great friend of Glorfindel's, as well as his instructor of the harp. The picture that came to the Elf-lord's mind was of Lindelor sitting in a shaft of sunlight where he perched upon a window seat, his curtain of dark hair spilling to one side as he sat with head atilt, his own harp Melyanna (Dear Gift) cradled against him, making the most glorious music ever heard. It had been a joy and a delight to the people of Gondolin to hear Lindelor playing his harp in accompaniment to the singing of the Ecthelion, Lord of the House of the Fountain.
~I fear I cannot do justice to either of you, my teachers, and this audience will be more exacting than most, ~ Glorfindel thought with a wry smile, as his fingers moved lightly over the strings, his eyes touching briefly on Laerlend. As he tuned his beloved instrument, his eyes slid to where the three of Laerlend's friends had seated themselves a little apart from the others. They made a charming picture, dressed in bright summer colors with flowers twined in flowing locks that fell over shoulders bared to the sun's kiss. He smiled over at them, and felt a measure of satisfaction when they twittered and blushed in such a becoming manner. He was aware of Laerlend's frown of disapproval at her friends' behavior, and his smile widened. Why would she react that way if she had no regard for him? He decided to pursue this amusement a bit further. He glanced over at Thranduil, and cleared his throat.
"I do not believe that I have been introduced to our new guests," he began, hearing the quick intake of breath from one that had been staring at him unabashedly, her blush complimented by her spill of rich dark-blonde hair.
Thranduil turned slightly to look at them. He nodded and introduced the three, also quite well aware of how they were reacting to all the attention suddenly heaped upon them.
~Why can't Laerlend react this way? This is the way maidens are supposed to act, isn't it? All silly and giggly? Is it perhaps because she was raised in a household of males? Is that why her behavior is so unfeminine? She hasn't always been thus. No, she used to be something of a flirt. When did that stop? ~ He couldn't recall, and he shook his head, hoping that the slight pressure in his temples was not signaling an oncoming headache.
"Gwirith, Duilinn, and Milui," Glorfindel repeated the maidens' names accompanied by a cascade of notes on his harp. "What beautiful names for such beautiful ladies; a butterfly, a swallow, and one who is friendly, loving, and kind. You seem to be true to your names, O Fael Minrim (O Fair Ones)."
Giggling twitters rewarded him, reminding him of happy little birds, and he smiled once more. He was aware of Laerlend's frown as she turned to glare at the three. The boldest of them merely shrugged and leaned forward even more, her eyes glued to the golden Elf-lord. Glorfindel smiled at her, exuding all the charm he possessed, and it was considerable. The maiden's eyes widened in surprised delight, and a fair blush rose to her cheeks.
Mirithil turned to look at her husband, and Celebross shrugged and grinned.
"Turn about is fair play, meleth-nin (my love)," he answered quietly, his hand gently massaging her swollen belly. "Perhaps this will rouse her own jealousy, and make her look more kindly on him."
"Perhaps," she murmured, bending forward to kiss him on the cheek. "This will be a most interesting day. I only hope that our dear Adar can survive it." Her eyes moved to where Thranduil sat, his face lit with pleasure once more over the quiet comments of Aralas, but she could see the annoyed alertness lurking behind his blue eyes. She sighed softly. "It would be so much easier for them both if she would just stop being so very stubborn! But," her full lips curved into a smile as her eyes met her husband's, "it seems to be a family trait."
Celebross looked at her with an expression of mock hurt on his fair face, his hand pressed to his heart.
"You wound me to the quick, malthen-rhosg feredir (golden-brown hunter)," he murmured using his old nickname for her, as he tugged gently at one trailing golden brown lock of her hair. She had indeed hunted him, and he had been gladly caught.
Mirithil smiled again, her fingers caressing his cheek.
"I would have it no other way, nin celeb caun (my silver prince)." Her fingers twined in his silver locks, their eyes locking in one fierce glance of love and desire.
"Oh no," Aralith sighed with an amused grin. "They are playing with each other's hair again."
Legolas choked back a laugh, glancing at Gimli who smiled.
"'Tis a strange thing, the relationship you Elves have with your hair," he said, stroking his beard as he watched the two Elves kiss tenderly before they smiled over at the others.
"Yes, not unlike the one you Dwarves have with your beards. Your women have them too, yes?" Legolas asked, with raised brows.
"Hmph. Beards are very becoming, and it is a pity that you hairless- chinned Elves can't see that."
"I see it," Milui said quietly, with a smile for Gloin's son.
Gimli's cheeks flared crimson, and his gaze dropped to the ground as he muttered gruffly about silly Elven maidens, but Legolas knew that he was secretly pleased by all the attention the girl lavished upon him.
~How very odd, ~ he thought, with a shake of his head. Then he recalled Gloin's own "love sickness" over another Elven "maiden." ~Or perhaps not. ~
"Ah," Elladan sighed, looking at the sky with eyes filled with tenderness. " Love is in the air, eh, Elrohir? Can't you just feel it? It makes one feel all warm and fuzzy inside, doesn't it?"
"Oh, yes, Elladan," Elrohir said, grabbing his brother's arm. "I love you so, nin mell gwador (my dear brother)!"
"And I you, nin lend gwador (my sweet brother)!" Elladan chirped, gazing into his brother's eyes.
Elrond scowled and turned to them. Honestly, he should have known that the good behavior wouldn't last long.
"What did I tell you, nin ionnath (my sons)?" he said in a low voice, his brows lowered in annoyance.
"I know we promised to behave for one entire day, Adar. Do you mean to say that it isn't tomorrow already? Surely we have sat here in this beautiful Greenwood grass for *at least* a day, waiting on Lord Glorfindel to sing a song," Elladan said with dark blue eyes so filled with innocent mischief that Elrond felt a wayward smile tugging at his lips.
"Surely it is at least *two* days since we arrived here," Elrohir said, his gaze moving to his teacher, who had finished tuning the harp and was watching them with amused eyes. "Will you sing, please, Lord Glorfindel?"
"I will, young one. I merely need the right song. Do you have any suggestions? Or perhaps one of the lovely ladies does." He smiled at the three maidens once more, and Gwirith fairly quivered with excitement.
"A love song!" all three females gasped out in high, fair voices, echoed by Elladan and Elrohir in even higher, somewhat less fair voices.
Duilinn's eyes touched the golden Elf-lord's, then slid to Legolas whose own eyes widened, and he flushed slightly as he looked away. Aralith laughed at him, and plucked a small flower from the ground and threw it at him. Milui was staring unabashedly at "her Dwarf," who began muttering under his breath once more in Khuzdul, his cheeks and eyes shining.
"Oh, very well," he said suddenly. Then his deep voice raised several octaves as he chirped, "A love song if you please, Lord Goldilocks."
Laughter filled the clearing as all enjoyed the light mood, all except Laerlend. She scowled, and turned to glare at Gwirith, Duilinn, and Milui who had started this nonsense. Her arm slid through Elrond's, causing the Lord of Imladris to start, take her hand, pat it in a fatherly manner, and then deposit it onto her own lap.
"Love songs are always appropriate when in mixed company," Glorfindel said, smiling at the three once again. "Perhaps you will enjoy this one." And Lord Goldilocks' filled the air with one of the purest voices that had ever existed on Ennor.
Laerlend would have stopped her ears with her hands if she hadn't known that retribution for that act would be swift and highly unpleasant. She turned the force of her gaze onto Lord Elrond, who began to inch slowly away from her. This caused Thranduil to scowl fiercely at her, his golden brows rising in the familiar gesture termed "the wigglies" by Laerlend so many years ago. Her mouth turned down, her lips thrusting out in a pout that would have been becoming if her eyes weren't so full of frustrated anger at this uncomfortable situation over which she had no control. Even as she made an effort to "not hear" the song he sang, she was captured once more by his voice. She lifted her gaze slightly to observe the singer from beneath her lashes, and she instantly regretted it. Glorfindel's blue eyes had been on the three girls who were twittering quite happily, Gwirith's eyes glued on him, as the other two were admiring the objects of their own affections. As Laerlend's eyes rose to him, he seemed to sense her as if touched, and his gaze was immediately upon her, so blue and so. . . intense that she gasped slightly, Laerlend's eyes widening in surprise at the force of this most unfamiliar sensation. Then his mouth quirked in a satisfied smile, and his eyes moved once more to Gwirith. Laerlend ground her teeth, and nearly muttered aloud, her eyes narrowing dangerously.
~No, ~ she thought, feeling very furious with herself and "Lord Goldilocks." ~I am NOT jealous at all! This burning is NOT jealousy! It is. . . it is. . .I know not what it is, nor do I care! ~
A small growl did escape her throat, and several pairs of bright Elvish eyes turned to look at her. Her face reddened uncomfortably, and she refused to acknowledge any of them.
Glorfindel finished the song, ending it with a flourish on his harp that would have made Lindelor quite proud of his former student had he heard it. Applause and words of appreciation followed and he tipped his head graciously. His eyes slid over Laerlend, and he was gratified to see the angry, confused look on her fair face. It pleased him, but he felt wearied by this already. He much preferred outright and honest confrontations, not this playing of games that he was being forced to participate in. But so be it. He smiled at them, and began another song.
Elu sat watching the various faces about him. A slightly confused look graced the Orc's own face. Legolas, the twins, Curon, Tellenlagor, Prince Aralith, Aralas, and the mil-aewen (love birds) as he called Celebross and Mirithil all looked highly amused by the proceedings. King Thranduil looked slightly angry, and that was *not* a good thing. Laerlend's friends looked positively giddy with delight, and Gimli's face looked as though he was highly amused and slightly embarrassed at the same time.
And Lord Elrond. . . he looked very. . . Elu could think of no other word for it but uncomfortable. In all his time studying the healing medicine with the Elven lord, he had never seen him look uncomfortable, not this sort of discomfort anyway. He suspected that it had something to do with the princess' behavior. He didn't understand Laerlend's flirtatious attitude when it came to the looks she occasionally threw Lord Elrond's way. He of course understood how she might find him admirable, he found his former teacher quite an admirable person himself, but this was entirely different.
He recalled that Legolas had joked about the golden flower necklace that Laerlend had requested from Nodfang, a Dwarf that had visited one spring. Supposedly she had flirted with him as well, but she had been naught but a child, so that was perhaps understandable. She had been enamored of Lord Glorfindel then too, so why this seeming reluctance now that what had once been her dream was coming true? And why did she look as though she wanted to marry Lord Elrond instead? He still didn't entirely understand the workings of the Elvish mind, and he doubted that he ever would. After the song, his thoughts still twisting about all he knew, or thought he knew, he frowned and turned to address her.
"Princess? Whatever became of the golden flower necklace the Dwarf made for you? It would have been an appropriate adornment for today."
Laerlend's eyes flew open and she turned to stare at him in shock, her cheeks flaming a becoming rose color.
Legolas felt surprised laughter bubble in his chest as he turned to look at the Orc. No one else would have mentioned the necklace, or at least not in front of Glorfindel on the day of his arrival. Or in front of Laerlend for that matter, for fear of her rending their head from their shoulders with her bare hands. The twins stared at him, their eyes full of questions. Elrond raised one brow, and turned to look fully upon the girl seated at his side. Aralith did laugh, and this caused Aralas to giggle slightly.
"I had forgotten that necklace," he murmured quietly.
"Dwarf necklace?" Gimli said, sitting straighter and staring at her with interest. "You have a Dwarf crafted necklace, Princess Laerlend? I would love to see it. It must be a beautiful piece of work indeed."
Thranduil smiled, quite pleased with this turn of events. He couldn't have planned it better himself. He must remember to thank Elu later. The Orc was the only one of them that could have brought up the subject of the Golden Flower necklace and escaped unscathed. He gazed serenely over at his daughter.
"That is right, Laerlend. The beautiful golden necklace shaped like the one you thought Lord Glorfindel might have. Nodfang made it for you, did he not? It was quite a beautiful piece of work. Elu is correct. It would have been most appropriate to don it this day."
Laerlend thought it impossible for her face to feel any hotter or become any redder than it already was, but she soon found this was not the case. She stared at her father in disbelieving embarrassment. She knew that she would pay for her rudeness in some way, but this was not the way it was to be! That silly necklace was to be her undoing! What had she been thinking when she asked that Dwarf to make "a necklace of golden flowers like the one Glorfindel has?"
"I. . . I lost that many years ago. I really haven't thought of it in some time!" she protested with a shake of her head, her fingers knotting on her gown. She was glad that her face was already scarlet as it helped to cover the slight falsity of her statement. She was infinitely glad that no one had seen her the night before, standing before her mirror, the necklace held to her throat.
At that moment Sellond, Laerlend's childhood nurse, came into the garden. She smiled when they acknowledged her presence, and moved forward, eyes bright with happiness.
"I have finished polishing this, Princess, just as ordered." She held up a gleaming golden necklace shaped liked linked golden flowers copied by a Dwarven craftsman to resemble the ones on the banner of Los'Loriol, the House of the Golden Flower.
Glorfindel raised his golden brows in surprise, his blue eyes going from the necklace in Sellond's hands to Laerlend. Faint hope stirred in his heart. Perhaps there was hope for this after all.
Celebross turned to look at Mirithil, expecting her to be as pleasantly amazed as he was by this turn of events. But his beloved merely looked very, well, self-satisfied. He stared at her for a moment, and then bent to whisper in her ear.
"You did this, didn't you?" he chuckled, his eyes returning to his sister who sat fuming in uncomfortable silence. "You little minx! I knew there was a reason I loved you!"
She turned to look up at him.
"Just one, meleth-nin (my love)?" she murmured with a smile.
"Nay," he amended. "I meant to say one *more*."
*TBC*
Author's Notes
Lord Ecthelion of the House of the Fountain and Lord Salgant of the House of the Harp belong to Master Tolkien and can be found in "The Book of Lost Tales 2." Lindelor is a creation of my own.
HUGE thank you to al, my beta! Okay, so the chapter in "Elrond" was a fluke. :( I think all the commas stayed over there. I am so sorry!!
Responses to Reviewers
Jessica - I hope you have not despaired of me again. Two months now on this story! Argh! I won't get you started on Laerlend, as I want to strangle her at times myself. :) I am glad you liked the return of Elu. It has been too long since I wrote anything about him, and he finally came out of his corner and told me to let him be in this one, so I obliged him. :) So you think Glorfindel is yours, do you?? Hmm. I don't think so. And Daeron, too? He is another fave of mine. But what no Voronwe? I like him too! You sound like your hands are full, so I will just keep Glorfindel. ;)
JastaElf - Well, I love Thranduil as you know, and Elrond, and Legolas, and the list is actually quite endless, but I will keep Glorfindel, and leave the wonderful king to you. And the others to who ever wants to fight over them, and some major fights there would be! ;) Elu is a darling, but "cute and cuddly?" O.O Okay. . . . . . I would love to hear the rest of that joke, and am waiting for Katharine to write it!
addicted - Well, it is finally here! I know I promised it as the first update and it is the third! That is the way all my promises seem to work, so I should know better. I won't promise how quickly the next chapter will come out, since it would probably be 4 months instead of 2 if I did say that! So I will keep quiet! ;)
StrWrsGrl9 - Don't worry! I would NEVER forget Glorfindel! LOL So wicked Laerlend must die? Well, I don't think I will kill her. Just torment her slightly. She is being ultra-stupid and stubborn, but what can I say? It sounds like you are counting in Elf years, only in reverse. I know I must be about 15 or so, but I'm nearly 40. g See what I mean?
Daphne - I am glad you like the "Orc thing." I am rather fond of him. . . if one can be fond of an Orc that is. ;) Well, Brethil has been with me since nearly the beginning of my venture into fanfics. Niphredil just popped up in my universe last chapter. I don't know if she will resurface or not. If my Orc can come back then she might, too.
annakas - You don't know how I fretted over bringing Elu back into my stories, but it is reviews like yours that make me glad I did. Don't hate Laerlend just yet.
gershwin - Laerlend is definitely not happy about this turn of events, and who deserves to be discomfited more than she? I don't think I will kill off any of my OC's right now. I am still kicking myself on occasion over the ones I did kill. I love your idea about the Vandal Root tea. ;) We shall what we can do about it.
Lakergurl13 - Well, you will be in shock over this update too. It took even longer if that is possible! :( Yep, new baby coming some time soon for Lindir and Meneliell. And I am thrilled to see Elu's fans haven't deserted him. :) Why do you still want Gimli to go away? "Die heroically." Come on! He is the best Dwarf around! Give him a chance! Please!
Miss V-KC - I was LOL over your knowledge knots that Laerlend would soon wear on her head thanks to your trust rubber mallet! She will squirm quite a bit, as her past is starting to catch up to her. Poor thing! *snicker* She will be so sorry before this is all over.
morchaint - Sorry for the very long wait. I hope this will satisfy for a time. The best-laid plans. . . g We'll see what will work and what will not.
BeeJang - LOL It amuses me how angry everyone is with Laerlend. I admit to hot flushes of embarrassment as I write about her, and have to stifle thoughts about strangulation. She is naughty, and that is being nice! g
Anita - I think several of us have the hots for Glorfindel. LOL Thanks for shoving her off the dike. I hope she hit her head hard enough to knock some sense into it! Love it!!
PuterPatty - So this last update was the week the special edition DVD of FOTR came out?? YIKES!! That was such a long time ago! *looks seriously guilty* At the point I wrote this I had been told NOT to watch it until my hubby could watch it too, and I was feeling very unhappy! I do indeed love all things green. Hence my large wooded yard that looks so very nice, and my unfinished barn house that does not. Some things do take priority. ;) I can't wait to see your "other" story, and I do hope you include Glorfindel in it. I just love him so. . . erm, yes. *shakes her head to get the rather dazed expression off her face* ;) Elu has returned after his long vacation and it is fun to write him again. I am glad you like Aralas. Yes, Brenillass has been dead for quite some time now. :( She died the year after Brethil's ada did. Since Brethil is in the Halls of Mandos :( I needed someone I could project my personality into, so Aralas fits that bill. I know you like the sea longing angst, but there won't be too much in this. I will leave that to those of you who write it so wonderfully. The trek across Caradhras is the story. Legolas and the Fellowship will be in it, just not with them obviously. I have a timeline set for it and now it is waiting in the wings for these stories to be finished. Commas, commas. al actually said my last chapter of "Elrond's bday" was better. Unbelievable! Maybe there is hope!
Laicalasse - Thank you for liking the bush. I am glad someone appreciates it. :) So Laerlend should be pushed into the river? Perhaps into the Enchanted part of it so she will forget that she doesn't love him. . . hmm. . .:)
Jay of Lasgalen - Well, Jay. I have updated "Elrond's Bday." Finally. I am glad you are giving this one a whirl. Legolas is not the central character, but he is in it quite a bit. I can't help myself. ;) Laerlend is worse than he ever was, since she is much brattier than he ever was. Can she redeem herself? We shall see.
Noone - Yes, Elu is back. I missed him too. LOL Missing an Orc. Okay, there must be something seriously wrong with that! ;) Laerlend is lucky that all she was likened to was a Balrog!!
Seaweed - I noticed that you liked the parts with Gimmikins the best. Needless to say his part was expanded on your behalf. Since you are Milui, of course he is falling in love! ;) Elu is glad to be back, and thrilled that everyone seemed to miss him so. I had to laugh when I read the last part of your review. No, Legolas is NOT married. Lindir is, and it is his Lindir-let that is going to be named Brethilmist after the dearly departed. LOL I don't know how I confused you so much! Btw - I miss Brethil too. :(
Nancing Elf - Yes, I think the last chapter was the reunion of the Age chapter. Had to throw everything in there. Laerlend will wake up and smell the niphredil soon . . . I hope. Otherwise she may just have to go away! I am glad you are first in the long Legolas' line. I'll stick with Glory. Hi, Gwibess Jr!
Shalemni - I am glad you are enjoying this naughty princess' antics. She is quite spoiled and very stubborn, so she will not go down without a fight, and things are just starting to heat up in the garden. Looks like she didn't come up with anything this chapter, and will have to redeem herself in the next chapter if she wants to keep her status as the most irritating, rude, and stubborn royal in Mirkwood.
Lady of Legolas - More flirting coming your way soon! :)
Lady Sinclair - Wow! Thank you for such a nice review. I also mourn the fact the Glorfindel is often overlooked, and certainly does not get the attention that he deserves, even from Laerlend! LOL Laerlend is being a bit of a shrew, isn't she? She definitely needs some taming, and if Glorfindel can't do it, then no one - Man or Elf - can.
Pasta Head - LOL You wish you knew how my mind works? *I* wish I knew how my mind works! If it didn't twist and turn everything so this story might actually be finished by now!
ccg - Well, she listened. She had no choice, but as you see it was NOT jealousy that plagues her. ;) She is a Balrog! Didn't you know? ;) Laerlend definitely is on the field by herself, as they have all flocked to Glorfindel's team. We'll see what becomes of it.
Phoenix Flight - A Balrog would be easier to overcome. Sorry if the prologue confused you. It does take place one year later than what has followed thus far. The prologue takes place on the eve of the wedding, and then we jump in Chapter 1 to just before their betrothal. It is confusing, isn't it!
Zanna - I am glad to see someone else who was shocked and dismayed over the axing of our beloved Glorfindel in the movies. Yes, Asfaloth made it in, but not Glory. I SO wanted to see him come to the Hobbits' and Aragorn's rescue, and chase the Nazgul into the Ford! GRRRRRR!!!! *sigh* Oh, well. LOL As anyone will tell you I don't mind babbling at all. I see that you do understand some of what she is feeling, by placing all her resentment onto Glorfindel. Of course, he is Glorfindel, and I don't think I would be THAT resistant to marriage if he was going to be the one I was married to! :)
() - Yikes. I didn't continue soon. I apologize for that. I will sincerely try to do better with my postings!
Cattaria - Well, I think we all break down into two categories: Those who love Orlando Bloom and through him Legolas; or the rest of us who loved Legolas in the books before Orlando Bloom. I am glad you are of the second category, as am I. I am glad that Glorfindel is growing on you. He is a wonderful character, though much overlooked. Don't worry. Laerlend won't loose her edge just yet, and after the events in this chapter it will be sharper than ever! The time frame is working up to the prologue, so hopefully we will come full circle soon.
al - Is Gimli in love with Milui? ;) We shall see. Well, I am glad Elu's audience didn't leave him, but I chickened out on writing a song for Glorfindel to sing. :( Legolas is grown up, quite a bit more than in my other stories. Life will do that. But none of us grows up entirely. ;)
Roxanne the Dark Elf - LOL I am glad that you are enjoying the silly moments of this romance. I can't write a straight out and out romance, so humor will be injected from time to time.
Anya - Ring of Sarcasm - I smiled when I read your reviews. So your stand on The Glorfindel Issue is that they are two different Glorfindels. That is one side of the argument. I , on the other hand, believe that he is the SAME Glorfindel, released from the Halls of Mandos. I gather from what I have read in HoME 12 - The Peoples of Middle Earth that Tolkien himself meant for Glorfindel to be one and the same. He wrote some snippets about Glorfindel and would have written a story about him, if he hadn't died. Wouldn't that have been just marvelous?! I am glad you are enjoying this story even if you don't think he is the same one!
Karina - I am quite overwhelmed by the response to Elu's return to fanfic. I was worried about it, but I am glad I included him in it. It is a shame what happened on that night in June 3018, but . . . *sigh* Aralas is not exactly like Legolas, but I like him anyway and I hope you will. I was LOL over reading how Glorfindel's children would be different from Elladan and Elrohir. . . calmer. Yes, I suppose that would be true. I wish they had invited the Hobbits. I need to study my timeline very carefully right now to see what I can see. I can't wait to see your upcoming fics! They sound very fun! Laerlend was actually thinking of Bastryn at the time, since he is now in Imladris I can say that. I was very nostalgic when I wrote this and I guess that was all too obvious. It was Homecoming week in Mirkwood. I do think about my old stuff on occasion, and well, it got the better of me I guess! Memories are good! ;)
Sake - Well, I took your hint, mellon-nin, and that is what kicked my muse into gear and allowed me to get this chapter finished. So thank you muchly for that! Yes, new word: muchly. ;)
HOSHI - I am glad that you read this story not too long ago, so my update won't seem quite so delayed. :) Thank you so much for telling me how much you like my stories! That makes me want to write more! I do actually know the end of this one. As to when it will actually arrive. . . well, only Iluvatar knows that.
Lutris - Thanks so much for that really nice review! I am glad you "luv it." :)
Laerlend watched as Glorfindel's slender hands removed the elegant black cover; the golden embroidery glinted in the summer sun, not unlike the way the light seemed to play across his own lustrous hair. She was not going to be able to prevent him from singing, and a small, weary sigh escaped her lips. She glanced over at her three friends who were setting out the tea things. Their eyes were carefully averted, but she could see the amused expressions on their faces. It seemed that everyone had deserted her. She knew that her rudeness would not go unchecked for long, though no one had as yet said anything to her. . . not directly. The princess turned her head ever so slightly so she could see her father out of the corner of her eye.
Thranduil was reclining comfortably on the cool grass, his long legs stretched out before him, ankles crossed, his handsome face lit with pleasure as he listened to some small adventure that Aralas was relating. Tanglinna's foster son's golden green eyes were bright, his fair features animated with excitement, and excitement at the pleasure of being home once more. Laerlend allowed a smile when she caught the word "trees." Aralas was ever taken with his trees, and could talk endlessly about them and the things the trees had told him. She knew that it was his dearest wish to travel to Fangorn, though she doubted that her father would allow it anytime soon. She knew that it hurt Thranduil greatly to know that Legolas had felt the Call of the Sea, and several of his people had already traveled west on that last journey through Ennor. Thranduil wanted his children ever about him now, knowing that one day he would lose one of them to that siren call. She knew that her father considered Aralas as nearly one of his own. He had taken Aralas' under his wing after Tanglinna's death, showering all the love and friendship he had felt for the Master Archer on his foster child. Her eyes moved away from them to the trees surrounding them, their bark so silvery and smooth. She wondered what her father and Aralas were saying now.
~A new topic of conversation might be amusing, ~ she thought, as her eyes moved to the stands of flowers across from where she sat.
Laerlend's mother had loved this garden, and tended it with her own hands; each plant had been specifically chosen by her, whether for the beauty of its smell, or that it was fair when looked upon. The roses and honeysuckle were blooming in profusion, filling the air with their warm heady scent; tall spikes of dark purple irises stood amidst the blue forget- me-nots; rounded clusters of bright scarlet bee-balm added their crisp minty smell to the perfume of Brenillass' garden; lilies of white, orange, pink, and rich yellow added color for the eyes to feast upon. Bleeding hearts hid their drooping heads of red and white shyly between the trees and beneath the protective stands of holly. Bushy herbs for both medicinal and culinary purposes stood in bushy clumps, adding their scent and richness to the scene. The purple blossoms of the Spiderwort plants were seen scattered about the garden as well. Brenillass had been amused by the name of that particular plant, and felt it fit perfectly in her garden.
Seated beside some of these very plants, Glorfindel ran his hand down the pillar of his small harp, his fingers tracing the delicate carvings of small flowers painted in gold entwined in green leafy vines. Loriollam (Voice of the Golden Flower) was a beautiful instrument, specifically crafted in Gondolin for him by Lindelor of the House of the Harp. One slender, sensitive finger circled over a small flaw in the lower corner: one small, bright petal was missing, the only testament to the perilous journey it had survived when the Gondothlim had fled their fallen city. Lindelor, a cousin of Salgant the Lord of the House, had been a great friend of Glorfindel's, as well as his instructor of the harp. The picture that came to the Elf-lord's mind was of Lindelor sitting in a shaft of sunlight where he perched upon a window seat, his curtain of dark hair spilling to one side as he sat with head atilt, his own harp Melyanna (Dear Gift) cradled against him, making the most glorious music ever heard. It had been a joy and a delight to the people of Gondolin to hear Lindelor playing his harp in accompaniment to the singing of the Ecthelion, Lord of the House of the Fountain.
~I fear I cannot do justice to either of you, my teachers, and this audience will be more exacting than most, ~ Glorfindel thought with a wry smile, as his fingers moved lightly over the strings, his eyes touching briefly on Laerlend. As he tuned his beloved instrument, his eyes slid to where the three of Laerlend's friends had seated themselves a little apart from the others. They made a charming picture, dressed in bright summer colors with flowers twined in flowing locks that fell over shoulders bared to the sun's kiss. He smiled over at them, and felt a measure of satisfaction when they twittered and blushed in such a becoming manner. He was aware of Laerlend's frown of disapproval at her friends' behavior, and his smile widened. Why would she react that way if she had no regard for him? He decided to pursue this amusement a bit further. He glanced over at Thranduil, and cleared his throat.
"I do not believe that I have been introduced to our new guests," he began, hearing the quick intake of breath from one that had been staring at him unabashedly, her blush complimented by her spill of rich dark-blonde hair.
Thranduil turned slightly to look at them. He nodded and introduced the three, also quite well aware of how they were reacting to all the attention suddenly heaped upon them.
~Why can't Laerlend react this way? This is the way maidens are supposed to act, isn't it? All silly and giggly? Is it perhaps because she was raised in a household of males? Is that why her behavior is so unfeminine? She hasn't always been thus. No, she used to be something of a flirt. When did that stop? ~ He couldn't recall, and he shook his head, hoping that the slight pressure in his temples was not signaling an oncoming headache.
"Gwirith, Duilinn, and Milui," Glorfindel repeated the maidens' names accompanied by a cascade of notes on his harp. "What beautiful names for such beautiful ladies; a butterfly, a swallow, and one who is friendly, loving, and kind. You seem to be true to your names, O Fael Minrim (O Fair Ones)."
Giggling twitters rewarded him, reminding him of happy little birds, and he smiled once more. He was aware of Laerlend's frown as she turned to glare at the three. The boldest of them merely shrugged and leaned forward even more, her eyes glued to the golden Elf-lord. Glorfindel smiled at her, exuding all the charm he possessed, and it was considerable. The maiden's eyes widened in surprised delight, and a fair blush rose to her cheeks.
Mirithil turned to look at her husband, and Celebross shrugged and grinned.
"Turn about is fair play, meleth-nin (my love)," he answered quietly, his hand gently massaging her swollen belly. "Perhaps this will rouse her own jealousy, and make her look more kindly on him."
"Perhaps," she murmured, bending forward to kiss him on the cheek. "This will be a most interesting day. I only hope that our dear Adar can survive it." Her eyes moved to where Thranduil sat, his face lit with pleasure once more over the quiet comments of Aralas, but she could see the annoyed alertness lurking behind his blue eyes. She sighed softly. "It would be so much easier for them both if she would just stop being so very stubborn! But," her full lips curved into a smile as her eyes met her husband's, "it seems to be a family trait."
Celebross looked at her with an expression of mock hurt on his fair face, his hand pressed to his heart.
"You wound me to the quick, malthen-rhosg feredir (golden-brown hunter)," he murmured using his old nickname for her, as he tugged gently at one trailing golden brown lock of her hair. She had indeed hunted him, and he had been gladly caught.
Mirithil smiled again, her fingers caressing his cheek.
"I would have it no other way, nin celeb caun (my silver prince)." Her fingers twined in his silver locks, their eyes locking in one fierce glance of love and desire.
"Oh no," Aralith sighed with an amused grin. "They are playing with each other's hair again."
Legolas choked back a laugh, glancing at Gimli who smiled.
"'Tis a strange thing, the relationship you Elves have with your hair," he said, stroking his beard as he watched the two Elves kiss tenderly before they smiled over at the others.
"Yes, not unlike the one you Dwarves have with your beards. Your women have them too, yes?" Legolas asked, with raised brows.
"Hmph. Beards are very becoming, and it is a pity that you hairless- chinned Elves can't see that."
"I see it," Milui said quietly, with a smile for Gloin's son.
Gimli's cheeks flared crimson, and his gaze dropped to the ground as he muttered gruffly about silly Elven maidens, but Legolas knew that he was secretly pleased by all the attention the girl lavished upon him.
~How very odd, ~ he thought, with a shake of his head. Then he recalled Gloin's own "love sickness" over another Elven "maiden." ~Or perhaps not. ~
"Ah," Elladan sighed, looking at the sky with eyes filled with tenderness. " Love is in the air, eh, Elrohir? Can't you just feel it? It makes one feel all warm and fuzzy inside, doesn't it?"
"Oh, yes, Elladan," Elrohir said, grabbing his brother's arm. "I love you so, nin mell gwador (my dear brother)!"
"And I you, nin lend gwador (my sweet brother)!" Elladan chirped, gazing into his brother's eyes.
Elrond scowled and turned to them. Honestly, he should have known that the good behavior wouldn't last long.
"What did I tell you, nin ionnath (my sons)?" he said in a low voice, his brows lowered in annoyance.
"I know we promised to behave for one entire day, Adar. Do you mean to say that it isn't tomorrow already? Surely we have sat here in this beautiful Greenwood grass for *at least* a day, waiting on Lord Glorfindel to sing a song," Elladan said with dark blue eyes so filled with innocent mischief that Elrond felt a wayward smile tugging at his lips.
"Surely it is at least *two* days since we arrived here," Elrohir said, his gaze moving to his teacher, who had finished tuning the harp and was watching them with amused eyes. "Will you sing, please, Lord Glorfindel?"
"I will, young one. I merely need the right song. Do you have any suggestions? Or perhaps one of the lovely ladies does." He smiled at the three maidens once more, and Gwirith fairly quivered with excitement.
"A love song!" all three females gasped out in high, fair voices, echoed by Elladan and Elrohir in even higher, somewhat less fair voices.
Duilinn's eyes touched the golden Elf-lord's, then slid to Legolas whose own eyes widened, and he flushed slightly as he looked away. Aralith laughed at him, and plucked a small flower from the ground and threw it at him. Milui was staring unabashedly at "her Dwarf," who began muttering under his breath once more in Khuzdul, his cheeks and eyes shining.
"Oh, very well," he said suddenly. Then his deep voice raised several octaves as he chirped, "A love song if you please, Lord Goldilocks."
Laughter filled the clearing as all enjoyed the light mood, all except Laerlend. She scowled, and turned to glare at Gwirith, Duilinn, and Milui who had started this nonsense. Her arm slid through Elrond's, causing the Lord of Imladris to start, take her hand, pat it in a fatherly manner, and then deposit it onto her own lap.
"Love songs are always appropriate when in mixed company," Glorfindel said, smiling at the three once again. "Perhaps you will enjoy this one." And Lord Goldilocks' filled the air with one of the purest voices that had ever existed on Ennor.
Laerlend would have stopped her ears with her hands if she hadn't known that retribution for that act would be swift and highly unpleasant. She turned the force of her gaze onto Lord Elrond, who began to inch slowly away from her. This caused Thranduil to scowl fiercely at her, his golden brows rising in the familiar gesture termed "the wigglies" by Laerlend so many years ago. Her mouth turned down, her lips thrusting out in a pout that would have been becoming if her eyes weren't so full of frustrated anger at this uncomfortable situation over which she had no control. Even as she made an effort to "not hear" the song he sang, she was captured once more by his voice. She lifted her gaze slightly to observe the singer from beneath her lashes, and she instantly regretted it. Glorfindel's blue eyes had been on the three girls who were twittering quite happily, Gwirith's eyes glued on him, as the other two were admiring the objects of their own affections. As Laerlend's eyes rose to him, he seemed to sense her as if touched, and his gaze was immediately upon her, so blue and so. . . intense that she gasped slightly, Laerlend's eyes widening in surprise at the force of this most unfamiliar sensation. Then his mouth quirked in a satisfied smile, and his eyes moved once more to Gwirith. Laerlend ground her teeth, and nearly muttered aloud, her eyes narrowing dangerously.
~No, ~ she thought, feeling very furious with herself and "Lord Goldilocks." ~I am NOT jealous at all! This burning is NOT jealousy! It is. . . it is. . .I know not what it is, nor do I care! ~
A small growl did escape her throat, and several pairs of bright Elvish eyes turned to look at her. Her face reddened uncomfortably, and she refused to acknowledge any of them.
Glorfindel finished the song, ending it with a flourish on his harp that would have made Lindelor quite proud of his former student had he heard it. Applause and words of appreciation followed and he tipped his head graciously. His eyes slid over Laerlend, and he was gratified to see the angry, confused look on her fair face. It pleased him, but he felt wearied by this already. He much preferred outright and honest confrontations, not this playing of games that he was being forced to participate in. But so be it. He smiled at them, and began another song.
Elu sat watching the various faces about him. A slightly confused look graced the Orc's own face. Legolas, the twins, Curon, Tellenlagor, Prince Aralith, Aralas, and the mil-aewen (love birds) as he called Celebross and Mirithil all looked highly amused by the proceedings. King Thranduil looked slightly angry, and that was *not* a good thing. Laerlend's friends looked positively giddy with delight, and Gimli's face looked as though he was highly amused and slightly embarrassed at the same time.
And Lord Elrond. . . he looked very. . . Elu could think of no other word for it but uncomfortable. In all his time studying the healing medicine with the Elven lord, he had never seen him look uncomfortable, not this sort of discomfort anyway. He suspected that it had something to do with the princess' behavior. He didn't understand Laerlend's flirtatious attitude when it came to the looks she occasionally threw Lord Elrond's way. He of course understood how she might find him admirable, he found his former teacher quite an admirable person himself, but this was entirely different.
He recalled that Legolas had joked about the golden flower necklace that Laerlend had requested from Nodfang, a Dwarf that had visited one spring. Supposedly she had flirted with him as well, but she had been naught but a child, so that was perhaps understandable. She had been enamored of Lord Glorfindel then too, so why this seeming reluctance now that what had once been her dream was coming true? And why did she look as though she wanted to marry Lord Elrond instead? He still didn't entirely understand the workings of the Elvish mind, and he doubted that he ever would. After the song, his thoughts still twisting about all he knew, or thought he knew, he frowned and turned to address her.
"Princess? Whatever became of the golden flower necklace the Dwarf made for you? It would have been an appropriate adornment for today."
Laerlend's eyes flew open and she turned to stare at him in shock, her cheeks flaming a becoming rose color.
Legolas felt surprised laughter bubble in his chest as he turned to look at the Orc. No one else would have mentioned the necklace, or at least not in front of Glorfindel on the day of his arrival. Or in front of Laerlend for that matter, for fear of her rending their head from their shoulders with her bare hands. The twins stared at him, their eyes full of questions. Elrond raised one brow, and turned to look fully upon the girl seated at his side. Aralith did laugh, and this caused Aralas to giggle slightly.
"I had forgotten that necklace," he murmured quietly.
"Dwarf necklace?" Gimli said, sitting straighter and staring at her with interest. "You have a Dwarf crafted necklace, Princess Laerlend? I would love to see it. It must be a beautiful piece of work indeed."
Thranduil smiled, quite pleased with this turn of events. He couldn't have planned it better himself. He must remember to thank Elu later. The Orc was the only one of them that could have brought up the subject of the Golden Flower necklace and escaped unscathed. He gazed serenely over at his daughter.
"That is right, Laerlend. The beautiful golden necklace shaped like the one you thought Lord Glorfindel might have. Nodfang made it for you, did he not? It was quite a beautiful piece of work. Elu is correct. It would have been most appropriate to don it this day."
Laerlend thought it impossible for her face to feel any hotter or become any redder than it already was, but she soon found this was not the case. She stared at her father in disbelieving embarrassment. She knew that she would pay for her rudeness in some way, but this was not the way it was to be! That silly necklace was to be her undoing! What had she been thinking when she asked that Dwarf to make "a necklace of golden flowers like the one Glorfindel has?"
"I. . . I lost that many years ago. I really haven't thought of it in some time!" she protested with a shake of her head, her fingers knotting on her gown. She was glad that her face was already scarlet as it helped to cover the slight falsity of her statement. She was infinitely glad that no one had seen her the night before, standing before her mirror, the necklace held to her throat.
At that moment Sellond, Laerlend's childhood nurse, came into the garden. She smiled when they acknowledged her presence, and moved forward, eyes bright with happiness.
"I have finished polishing this, Princess, just as ordered." She held up a gleaming golden necklace shaped liked linked golden flowers copied by a Dwarven craftsman to resemble the ones on the banner of Los'Loriol, the House of the Golden Flower.
Glorfindel raised his golden brows in surprise, his blue eyes going from the necklace in Sellond's hands to Laerlend. Faint hope stirred in his heart. Perhaps there was hope for this after all.
Celebross turned to look at Mirithil, expecting her to be as pleasantly amazed as he was by this turn of events. But his beloved merely looked very, well, self-satisfied. He stared at her for a moment, and then bent to whisper in her ear.
"You did this, didn't you?" he chuckled, his eyes returning to his sister who sat fuming in uncomfortable silence. "You little minx! I knew there was a reason I loved you!"
She turned to look up at him.
"Just one, meleth-nin (my love)?" she murmured with a smile.
"Nay," he amended. "I meant to say one *more*."
*TBC*
Author's Notes
Lord Ecthelion of the House of the Fountain and Lord Salgant of the House of the Harp belong to Master Tolkien and can be found in "The Book of Lost Tales 2." Lindelor is a creation of my own.
HUGE thank you to al, my beta! Okay, so the chapter in "Elrond" was a fluke. :( I think all the commas stayed over there. I am so sorry!!
Responses to Reviewers
Jessica - I hope you have not despaired of me again. Two months now on this story! Argh! I won't get you started on Laerlend, as I want to strangle her at times myself. :) I am glad you liked the return of Elu. It has been too long since I wrote anything about him, and he finally came out of his corner and told me to let him be in this one, so I obliged him. :) So you think Glorfindel is yours, do you?? Hmm. I don't think so. And Daeron, too? He is another fave of mine. But what no Voronwe? I like him too! You sound like your hands are full, so I will just keep Glorfindel. ;)
JastaElf - Well, I love Thranduil as you know, and Elrond, and Legolas, and the list is actually quite endless, but I will keep Glorfindel, and leave the wonderful king to you. And the others to who ever wants to fight over them, and some major fights there would be! ;) Elu is a darling, but "cute and cuddly?" O.O Okay. . . . . . I would love to hear the rest of that joke, and am waiting for Katharine to write it!
addicted - Well, it is finally here! I know I promised it as the first update and it is the third! That is the way all my promises seem to work, so I should know better. I won't promise how quickly the next chapter will come out, since it would probably be 4 months instead of 2 if I did say that! So I will keep quiet! ;)
StrWrsGrl9 - Don't worry! I would NEVER forget Glorfindel! LOL So wicked Laerlend must die? Well, I don't think I will kill her. Just torment her slightly. She is being ultra-stupid and stubborn, but what can I say? It sounds like you are counting in Elf years, only in reverse. I know I must be about 15 or so, but I'm nearly 40. g See what I mean?
Daphne - I am glad you like the "Orc thing." I am rather fond of him. . . if one can be fond of an Orc that is. ;) Well, Brethil has been with me since nearly the beginning of my venture into fanfics. Niphredil just popped up in my universe last chapter. I don't know if she will resurface or not. If my Orc can come back then she might, too.
annakas - You don't know how I fretted over bringing Elu back into my stories, but it is reviews like yours that make me glad I did. Don't hate Laerlend just yet.
gershwin - Laerlend is definitely not happy about this turn of events, and who deserves to be discomfited more than she? I don't think I will kill off any of my OC's right now. I am still kicking myself on occasion over the ones I did kill. I love your idea about the Vandal Root tea. ;) We shall what we can do about it.
Lakergurl13 - Well, you will be in shock over this update too. It took even longer if that is possible! :( Yep, new baby coming some time soon for Lindir and Meneliell. And I am thrilled to see Elu's fans haven't deserted him. :) Why do you still want Gimli to go away? "Die heroically." Come on! He is the best Dwarf around! Give him a chance! Please!
Miss V-KC - I was LOL over your knowledge knots that Laerlend would soon wear on her head thanks to your trust rubber mallet! She will squirm quite a bit, as her past is starting to catch up to her. Poor thing! *snicker* She will be so sorry before this is all over.
morchaint - Sorry for the very long wait. I hope this will satisfy for a time. The best-laid plans. . . g We'll see what will work and what will not.
BeeJang - LOL It amuses me how angry everyone is with Laerlend. I admit to hot flushes of embarrassment as I write about her, and have to stifle thoughts about strangulation. She is naughty, and that is being nice! g
Anita - I think several of us have the hots for Glorfindel. LOL Thanks for shoving her off the dike. I hope she hit her head hard enough to knock some sense into it! Love it!!
PuterPatty - So this last update was the week the special edition DVD of FOTR came out?? YIKES!! That was such a long time ago! *looks seriously guilty* At the point I wrote this I had been told NOT to watch it until my hubby could watch it too, and I was feeling very unhappy! I do indeed love all things green. Hence my large wooded yard that looks so very nice, and my unfinished barn house that does not. Some things do take priority. ;) I can't wait to see your "other" story, and I do hope you include Glorfindel in it. I just love him so. . . erm, yes. *shakes her head to get the rather dazed expression off her face* ;) Elu has returned after his long vacation and it is fun to write him again. I am glad you like Aralas. Yes, Brenillass has been dead for quite some time now. :( She died the year after Brethil's ada did. Since Brethil is in the Halls of Mandos :( I needed someone I could project my personality into, so Aralas fits that bill. I know you like the sea longing angst, but there won't be too much in this. I will leave that to those of you who write it so wonderfully. The trek across Caradhras is the story. Legolas and the Fellowship will be in it, just not with them obviously. I have a timeline set for it and now it is waiting in the wings for these stories to be finished. Commas, commas. al actually said my last chapter of "Elrond's bday" was better. Unbelievable! Maybe there is hope!
Laicalasse - Thank you for liking the bush. I am glad someone appreciates it. :) So Laerlend should be pushed into the river? Perhaps into the Enchanted part of it so she will forget that she doesn't love him. . . hmm. . .:)
Jay of Lasgalen - Well, Jay. I have updated "Elrond's Bday." Finally. I am glad you are giving this one a whirl. Legolas is not the central character, but he is in it quite a bit. I can't help myself. ;) Laerlend is worse than he ever was, since she is much brattier than he ever was. Can she redeem herself? We shall see.
Noone - Yes, Elu is back. I missed him too. LOL Missing an Orc. Okay, there must be something seriously wrong with that! ;) Laerlend is lucky that all she was likened to was a Balrog!!
Seaweed - I noticed that you liked the parts with Gimmikins the best. Needless to say his part was expanded on your behalf. Since you are Milui, of course he is falling in love! ;) Elu is glad to be back, and thrilled that everyone seemed to miss him so. I had to laugh when I read the last part of your review. No, Legolas is NOT married. Lindir is, and it is his Lindir-let that is going to be named Brethilmist after the dearly departed. LOL I don't know how I confused you so much! Btw - I miss Brethil too. :(
Nancing Elf - Yes, I think the last chapter was the reunion of the Age chapter. Had to throw everything in there. Laerlend will wake up and smell the niphredil soon . . . I hope. Otherwise she may just have to go away! I am glad you are first in the long Legolas' line. I'll stick with Glory. Hi, Gwibess Jr!
Shalemni - I am glad you are enjoying this naughty princess' antics. She is quite spoiled and very stubborn, so she will not go down without a fight, and things are just starting to heat up in the garden. Looks like she didn't come up with anything this chapter, and will have to redeem herself in the next chapter if she wants to keep her status as the most irritating, rude, and stubborn royal in Mirkwood.
Lady of Legolas - More flirting coming your way soon! :)
Lady Sinclair - Wow! Thank you for such a nice review. I also mourn the fact the Glorfindel is often overlooked, and certainly does not get the attention that he deserves, even from Laerlend! LOL Laerlend is being a bit of a shrew, isn't she? She definitely needs some taming, and if Glorfindel can't do it, then no one - Man or Elf - can.
Pasta Head - LOL You wish you knew how my mind works? *I* wish I knew how my mind works! If it didn't twist and turn everything so this story might actually be finished by now!
ccg - Well, she listened. She had no choice, but as you see it was NOT jealousy that plagues her. ;) She is a Balrog! Didn't you know? ;) Laerlend definitely is on the field by herself, as they have all flocked to Glorfindel's team. We'll see what becomes of it.
Phoenix Flight - A Balrog would be easier to overcome. Sorry if the prologue confused you. It does take place one year later than what has followed thus far. The prologue takes place on the eve of the wedding, and then we jump in Chapter 1 to just before their betrothal. It is confusing, isn't it!
Zanna - I am glad to see someone else who was shocked and dismayed over the axing of our beloved Glorfindel in the movies. Yes, Asfaloth made it in, but not Glory. I SO wanted to see him come to the Hobbits' and Aragorn's rescue, and chase the Nazgul into the Ford! GRRRRRR!!!! *sigh* Oh, well. LOL As anyone will tell you I don't mind babbling at all. I see that you do understand some of what she is feeling, by placing all her resentment onto Glorfindel. Of course, he is Glorfindel, and I don't think I would be THAT resistant to marriage if he was going to be the one I was married to! :)
() - Yikes. I didn't continue soon. I apologize for that. I will sincerely try to do better with my postings!
Cattaria - Well, I think we all break down into two categories: Those who love Orlando Bloom and through him Legolas; or the rest of us who loved Legolas in the books before Orlando Bloom. I am glad you are of the second category, as am I. I am glad that Glorfindel is growing on you. He is a wonderful character, though much overlooked. Don't worry. Laerlend won't loose her edge just yet, and after the events in this chapter it will be sharper than ever! The time frame is working up to the prologue, so hopefully we will come full circle soon.
al - Is Gimli in love with Milui? ;) We shall see. Well, I am glad Elu's audience didn't leave him, but I chickened out on writing a song for Glorfindel to sing. :( Legolas is grown up, quite a bit more than in my other stories. Life will do that. But none of us grows up entirely. ;)
Roxanne the Dark Elf - LOL I am glad that you are enjoying the silly moments of this romance. I can't write a straight out and out romance, so humor will be injected from time to time.
Anya - Ring of Sarcasm - I smiled when I read your reviews. So your stand on The Glorfindel Issue is that they are two different Glorfindels. That is one side of the argument. I , on the other hand, believe that he is the SAME Glorfindel, released from the Halls of Mandos. I gather from what I have read in HoME 12 - The Peoples of Middle Earth that Tolkien himself meant for Glorfindel to be one and the same. He wrote some snippets about Glorfindel and would have written a story about him, if he hadn't died. Wouldn't that have been just marvelous?! I am glad you are enjoying this story even if you don't think he is the same one!
Karina - I am quite overwhelmed by the response to Elu's return to fanfic. I was worried about it, but I am glad I included him in it. It is a shame what happened on that night in June 3018, but . . . *sigh* Aralas is not exactly like Legolas, but I like him anyway and I hope you will. I was LOL over reading how Glorfindel's children would be different from Elladan and Elrohir. . . calmer. Yes, I suppose that would be true. I wish they had invited the Hobbits. I need to study my timeline very carefully right now to see what I can see. I can't wait to see your upcoming fics! They sound very fun! Laerlend was actually thinking of Bastryn at the time, since he is now in Imladris I can say that. I was very nostalgic when I wrote this and I guess that was all too obvious. It was Homecoming week in Mirkwood. I do think about my old stuff on occasion, and well, it got the better of me I guess! Memories are good! ;)
Sake - Well, I took your hint, mellon-nin, and that is what kicked my muse into gear and allowed me to get this chapter finished. So thank you muchly for that! Yes, new word: muchly. ;)
HOSHI - I am glad that you read this story not too long ago, so my update won't seem quite so delayed. :) Thank you so much for telling me how much you like my stories! That makes me want to write more! I do actually know the end of this one. As to when it will actually arrive. . . well, only Iluvatar knows that.
Lutris - Thanks so much for that really nice review! I am glad you "luv it." :)