~~~~~~~~~~A/N: I'm sorry I haven't updated for so long, and since you guys
have all been so patient *Ducks to avoid the tomatoes*, I've given you a
DOUBLE chapter! Yay! *Stands up again as tomato-throwing stops, only to be
hit by an orange*
Well: ENJOY and don't kill me if it's not what you expected.
~*~
"I do not think Orodreth likes me much at all." Celeborn stated, a smile tugging at his lips.
"Why do you find that amusing?" Artanis asked curiously.
"Well, he certainly knows how to make someone feel unwanted and nervous. Yet your description of him says the opposite." Celeborn replied.
"Has he made you feel unwanted and nervous?" She enquired.
"Well, yes. A few times." Celeborn admitted. Artanis smiled. It was just like her brother to act that way. "So, why did you want to speak to me?" Celeborn continued, changing the subject. Artanis was stuck. What should she tell him? She could think of no excuses. Celeborn looked at her and sensed her discomfort, although he could not understand why. Finally she spoke.
"I like your company." She said simply. Celeborn suspected there was more to it. "Is that all?" He asked, looking at her. She looked back. She studied his face. He has beautiful features. Does Orodreth think that I am in love with him? That would be right for him to assume such things. But is he only assuming, or is there truth in it? I think I do love him. She was puzzled. She had met many other elf-lads, and she had not been interested in any of them. So why Celeborn?
"Artanis, is that all?" Celeborn repeated. Artanis pondered whether to answer him or not.
"No," She finally answered. "I like your company, I feel as though I can tell you anything and everything, you let me be me. And-" She paused, "-I feel safe with you. I can not explain it." Celeborn blinked. He had not expected this. Rather than replying, he looked up at the trees around them.
"These trees are beautiful." Artanis narrowed her eyes.
"You are changing the subject again, Celeborn." Nevertheless, she was pleased that she had caught him off his guard. Celeborn frowned.
"What else is there to say?" He replied. Artanis sighed.
"Nothing, I suppose." She gazed ahead. "What is beyond those trees?" She asked. Celeborn followed her gaze.
"The Lake of Doriath. Would you like to visit it?" It was as though the Sindar prince had read the Lady's mind.
"Yes please!" She exclaimed. He took hold of her hand and they ran towards the lake.
"It is beautiful." Artanis observed breathlessly. Celeborn smiled.
"I have not been here for quite a while. I would come here almost every day when I was younger." He said, just as breathlessly. Artanis took off towards the water.
"Is it safe?" She called back.
"Well, no, not really." He replied. She took a step away. "But if you can swim, it is absolutely fine!" He added. She rolled her eyes before running in, without a care for her dress. He carefully took off his robe and followed in his tunic. He jumped in. He swam forward with sure strokes. He opened his eyes.
The lake of Doriath was crystal clear, and a stunning blue-green, yet it still had a mysterious grey misty look to it. He swam to the bottom of the lake and did a few flips. Artanis swam forward and grabbed his ankle. He kicked her playfully. He motioned upward and she nodded her reply. They both surfaced at around the same time, laughing. Celeborn reached forward and tucked a stray strand of her golden hair behind her perfectly shaped ear. For a moment they looked into each other's eyes. He broke the stare and, grabbing her hand, pulled her under again. They swam together for a while. Artanis spied a sort of cave. She tapped Celeborn, who shrugged. They swam forward. Entering the cave, Celeborn noticed that there was a surface to this water as well. He swam up, and Artanis followed. He came up, and sucked in a breath. He looked around, stunned. They were in a sort of cavern, with the water reflecting off the walls. He got out of the water.
"I have never been here before! It is..like a..how to say..secret place....it's breathtaking!" Artanis nodded in agreement. Celeborn looked at her, and realised what a beautiful figure she had. Her dress clung to her body, showing off her body structure. She giggled as he gaped at her.
"Did my face suddenly turn green or something?" He rolled his eyes and gave her a shove. She laughed, lost her balance and fell back into the water. He dived in after her. He caught her outstretched hand and pulled her to the surface. Treading the water, he looked at her pale face. The colour drained from his face too. He shook her gently, yet she stayed the same.
"Oh no!" He moaned. "Artanis?" He tilted her head up. A smile appeared on her face. Her eyes flew open. She laughed gleefully. He joined in, and let go of her. She ducked underwater and out of sight. He put his head under as well. He caught the tail of her dress and pulled her to him, without realising what he was doing. She put her arms around his neck and pressed herself against him. He held her by the waist and looked into her eyes, and long golden hair floating behind her. He considered what his heart was telling him to do. He kissed her quickly, and still grasping her, took her to the surface. They both took a deep breath. Artanis ducked underwater again, still clinging to him, so he had no choice but follow. She looked at him, and he stared back. She seized his lips in a long kiss. He closed his eyes and enjoyed the feeling. He had been wrong; he did fall in love with Artanis, at the very moment he saw her walk into the hall. She felt him relax and return the kiss. He broke off, grinned widely and swam to the surface. She rolled her eyes again and smiled, but followed.
When she got to the top, Celeborn was out of the little pool, and sitting against the wall. She walked towards him and knelt before him. He looked at her over the top of his knees.
"Oh, hello Milady." He said, pretending to be surprised. Artanis reached forward, took hold of his face and pulled his lips to hers. He pulled away and grinned again. Artanis narrowed her eyes again.
"Are you teasing me, Celeborn?" She said suspiciously. Celeborn laughed and stood up, pulling Artanis up with him. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her for what seemed like hours. When it ended, Celeborn looked into Artanis' eyes.
"Yes, I was teasing you. And it worked. When I kissed you, I felt you melt into me!" Artanis laughed and took hold of a fraction of his hair, braiding it with ease. She did two plaits before he caught her hand.
"I think we should go back, don't you?" He said gently. Artanis pouted.
"No, I do not think so!" She said matter-of-factly. Celeborn burst out laughing.
"You have no idea how much you reminded me of Luthien just then!" He turned serious. "But if we do not go back, imagine what will be said! And Thingol, Melian, Luthien and your brothers in particular will be worried." He continued.
"We will go back. Just not yet, besides, many will have drunk too much to notice we are gone." She argued.
"Not the ones I mentioned." He reminded her. Her eyes pleaded with him. "Fine," He sighed. "We will stay, but I need to go and fetch my robe. I can not leave it out there all night." Artanis grinned. "I do not think you are used to being argued with." They laughed together.
"No, I am not used to it. Since you agreed to stay, I will bring your robe back here. See you soon." She kissed his cheek before diving neatly into the cool water.
~*~
Celeborn sighed and opened his eyes. Artanis was sleeping next to him, with her head and arm across his chest. He kissed the top of her head and she stirred, but did not wake. He wondered how long they had been sleeping, but he closed his eyes and drifted off.
When he next awoke, Artanis was standing on the edge of the stone floor. If she were to take another step, she would fall into the water. He rose quietly and made his way behind her. He put his hands on her hips, pulled her close to him and kissed her neck. She closed her eyes and leaned her head against him.
"I love you, Celeborn." She said softly.
"And I love you, Artanis. You know, if I could rename you, I would call you Galadriel. It suits you so much better than Artanis." Artanis smiled to herself and turned around.
"Then I will be Galadriel to all. I cannot think of anything for you. You are definitely a Celeborn." Celeborn sighed and wrapped his arms around the beautiful woman standing before him.
"You shall be Galadriel, and I shall remain Celeborn." His voice dropped to a whisper. "What do you say we head back to the palace?"
"I say alright." She whispered back, running her fingers through his silky, silvery sheet of hair. He bent his head a little and kissed her bare shoulder, letting his lips linger ever so slightly. He reluctantly released her to pick up his robe which Galadriel had brought back the night before. He heard her release a soft sigh. She didn't want to leave; it was so peaceful in the cavern. She wanted him to hold and kiss her forever. She knew she was being silly and perhaps a little selfish. After all, there would be plenty of time for showing affection later on.
Celeborn held out his hand to Galadriel. She took it, and they slipped into the water together.
"Ah, here he is. Cele, where in the name of the Valar have you been?" King Thingol asked. He had been looking for his nephew all morning.
"Er- I was swimming in the Lake of Doriath and I spent the night there." Celeborn replied.
"I see." Thingol raised an eyebrow before continuing. "And was the Lady Artanis with you?" Celeborn only nodded, because he didn't trust himself to speak.
"Wonderful!" The Elven King exclaimed. Celeborn was puzzled. "You two are going to be good friends, I can feel it." Celeborn chuckled softly. His uncle continued, oblivious. "Melian would like to talk to you. She asked me to send you along once I found you. And also, Luthien will not be having lessons today." Celeborn nodded his understanding and bowed before heading to the Queen's chambers.
"Cele!" Melian embraced her nephew as he appeared in her doorway. "I assume you were with the Lady? Yes, you two did quite the disappearing act. I wanted to make sure you returned." She smiled and her eyes sparkled. Celeborn smiled back somewhat sheepishly.
"I am sorry. I didn't think you would be so worried. How is Luthien?" He asked. Melian thought for a little before replying.
"I talked to her last night, and she is a little better." Celeborn nodded. He couldn't think of much more to say.
"Well, I had best go and see her now then, unless there is anything else?" He looked at his Aunt questioningly.
"No..I do not think there is..Oh, wait." Celeborn stopped and turned back.
"Yes?"
"Lord Orodreth wishes to see you." Suddenly, Celeborn wished he hadn't asked.
~*~
"You wished to speak with me, Milord." Celeborn said bluntly.
"Yes, I did. Celeborn. I want you to know, that anything that is going on between you and my sister is to end immediately. You are not suited to her." Orodreth glared coldly at the younger Elf. Celeborn was shocked.
"But, Milord, surely, be reasonable-" He began.
"You will not argue with me!" Orodreth interrupted. "I know my sister and I also know that she will not find happiness with you. Now go, leave me. If I find you with my sister again, you shall find yourself back here, and it will not be a pretty sight." Orodreth's voice had raised considerably, so Celeborn walked out of the room obediently, shaken and more than a little angry.
That night at dinner, he did not see Galadriel anywhere, or Artanis as all still knew her. But he did see a familiar face which he was more than happy to see.
"Luthien! Come here, you. I am sorry that I have not talked to you for so long!" Celeborn's face split into a huge smile as Luthien ran towards him and leapt into his open arms.
"Cele! I have missed you so much! Why did you turn away when I waved to you last night?" She asked, planting a childish kiss on his cheek before wriggling out of his grasp. He knelt down on the floor next to her.
"Well, do you honestly think I would ignore such a gesture from my favourite little cousin?" Luthien started to talk, but Celeborn stopped her. "I will answer it for you instead, alright?" Luthien nodded. "Well, I would never even consider for a moment ignoring you. If I do, I am either out of my mind, or I did not see you. Now give me a hug, cousin!" He said, and before she could reply, he had grabbed her, hugged her, but then tickled her. No one but the guests took notice of Luthien's giggles and shrieks. It was considered normal to see Celeborn "torturing" his pupil/cousin. Finrod and his two brothers laughed heartily. Orodreth hid his amusement. Thingol walked over to the pair and grabbed Luthien around her middle and swung her around, adding to her laughter and screams. Then, very suddenly, he set her on her feet. She stumbled a little before finally regaining her balance, causing much amusement for the audience.
"Come on, my little flower, you need to get some sleep. No arguments." He added quickly as the princess opened her mouth to protest. Celeborn tousled her already-messy hair before giving her a little poke in the sides. Celeborn took a short walk around the palace, hoping to catch a glimpse of Galadriel, but he saw no sign of her. He did not dare to ask anyone, as Orodreth would know about it straight away. Could she possibly be avoiding him?
"Your attention please!" The crowd looked up at their Queen. "Does anyone know the whereabouts of the Lady Artanis?" She asked. A murmur passed through the Elves, and many heads turned to look around the room. No one spoke.
"I thought as much. Her clothes are all gone, yet some of her belongings still remain behind in her room. I was looking for her, and no one I asked could give me an answer as to where she was. I went to her room, and it was practically bare. A search party will be sent out tomorrow at dawn. Sorry to interrupt your dinner." Melian glanced at Celeborn for half a second before sitting down. And Lord Orodreth happened to be seated right next to her.
Celeborn was stunned. He made his way to his room. He wanted Galadriel with him. He wanted to be in the search party. He wanted to find her and make sure she was safe. He wanted Galadriel to be walking next to him that very moment. No, he wanted Galadriel full-stop. In every way possible. He loved her. He wanted her to be his wife. But none of that could happen now. All because of an over-protective brother. Orodreth. Suddenly, Celeborn was visited by an idea. He got into his bed and grinned to himself. He would talk to Melian the next day.
The next morning, Celeborn sat at his window and watched the search party set off in search of the Lady Artanis. They were carrying bows and arrows, and swords. Even if Artanis had set off with no protection, it was highly unlikely that she would be hurt. But still, he worried. With a sigh, he climbed back into his bed and tried to fall asleep.
~*~
"Melian? May I have a word?" Melian looked up from her book and smiled warmly.
"Anytime, Celeborn. How may I help you?" She said.
"Well. I was wondering, er- if this search for the Lady Gal- I mean, Artanis were to fail..d'you....do you think I could try to find her?" He asked, feeling colour rising to his cheeks. Melian laughed.
"I am sure you could.but I am not sure Lord Orodreth would be too happy." She winked. "But I will have a word with him and try to convince him. Who knows, perhaps if he lets you search, and you are successful, maybe he will let you take his baby sister." Celeborn choked on a piece of Lembas that he still had in his mouth from breakfast.
"You know? How?" Melian put on a mysterious face.
"I have my ways. I will talk to Orodreth. I must say that I believe you would have more of a chance of finding her than anyone else. When I get an answer, I will find you and tell you." Celeborn nodded.
"Thank you, Milady." Celeborn bowed and retreated out the door, still pondering how she could have found out.
After a week of lessons from Celeborn, and waiting anxiously for the return of the search party, Luthien was starting to get very worried about Artanis. And from the way Celeborn was acting, she had a feeling that he was more concerned than anyone else. Finally, in the middle of a particularly boring lesson on a particularly cloudy day, Luthien and Celeborn sat up and listened as they heard a horn. The search party was back! Celeborn told Luthien that she was free for the rest of the day, and together, they raced to the gates.
To everyone's disappointment, Artanis was not with them; after eight days of searching, there was no trace. But Celeborn was summoned to the Queen's chambers. He made his way quickly to her area and knocked on the large wooden door.
"Come in." He heard her call. He entered. "Celeborn. I am sorry that the Lady was not found. I have talked to Lord Orodreth about your request, and after much persuasion, he decided that he would consider it." Celeborn's stomach sank. Consider? He'll never decide! "But bear in mind that this was a little less than a week ago that I talked to him. And he has decided." She continued, as though reading his mind. "But he wants to tell you personally. He mentioned something about a deal. So go, Cele dear. Once you have his answer, please come back here and tell me." She smiled, and he practically ran out of the room.
"Ah, Celeborn." Orodreth did not look so coldly upon the Sindar Prince. "As you know," He continued, "The search for the Lady Artanis was not successful. Melian spoke to me about you requesting for you to try and find her. Am I correct so far?" Celeborn nodded, and Orodreth continued. "I have spent a while thinking about it. And I have decided that perhaps there is a little more than friendship between you and my sister. I will be honest; I am still not entirely satisfied with her choice. But then again, I do not really know you, do I? Now, I will make you a deal. Are you ready?" Once again, Celeborn gave a short nod.
"Yes Milord, I am listening." Orodreth grunted.
"If you can find her, bring her before me and my brothers. Then you two will tell us your side of the story and why you think that you belong together. We will decide together. Fair?"
"Yes, thank you Milord." Agreed Celeborn, even though he didn't think it was fair for Galadriel's brothers to decide about their relationship.
"Now go. But remember; don't get your hopes up too high." Celeborn (feeling a little daft) nodded yet again, and turned to report this decision to Queen Melian.
When Melian heard, she clapped her hands together and told him to get a good night's sleep, and that he could set off the next morning.
"But before you go Celeborn, I would like to give you some things. First of all, this." She handed him a sort of cloak. "It is not exactly a cloak to wear. It is something to wrap food, drink and your robes in, in case you need to swim. It is waterproof. And also, take some Lembas, I can think of only them that will fill you up and not go bad over time. Oh. I was saving this for your birthday, but I will just give it to you now, in case you need protection." She handed him a bow and quiver full of arrows. Each arrow had three feathers and the bow was travel-size.
"Good luck Cele. Go find her. You need not come and say goodbye tomorrow." She kissed his forehead and sensed that Lady Artanis' lips had previously come into contact with her Nephew's lips and cheeks. He smiled at her, and gave her a wave and bow before exiting the room.
Melian sighed. They were meant to be. Why didn't Orodreth see it? They were deeply in love. Anyone could tell. Well, those who knew Celeborn, anyway. And that was basically only the King, Queen and Princess.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~A/N: Well? What did you think? Good? Crummy? Bad? Really Bad? Really, Really Bad? Really, Really - Erm, actually, I think you get the point. Sorry if you aren't satisfied or if you think the plot is just stupid...but give me some time! :D:D I WILL improve a little bit in my writing! And romances aren't really the sort of genres I'm good at! In fact..I'm not sure what I'm good at! Please review..And I hope you enjoyed that chapter at least a little bit.
~*~ Thankies! *Waves Buh-bye!*
Well: ENJOY and don't kill me if it's not what you expected.
~*~
"I do not think Orodreth likes me much at all." Celeborn stated, a smile tugging at his lips.
"Why do you find that amusing?" Artanis asked curiously.
"Well, he certainly knows how to make someone feel unwanted and nervous. Yet your description of him says the opposite." Celeborn replied.
"Has he made you feel unwanted and nervous?" She enquired.
"Well, yes. A few times." Celeborn admitted. Artanis smiled. It was just like her brother to act that way. "So, why did you want to speak to me?" Celeborn continued, changing the subject. Artanis was stuck. What should she tell him? She could think of no excuses. Celeborn looked at her and sensed her discomfort, although he could not understand why. Finally she spoke.
"I like your company." She said simply. Celeborn suspected there was more to it. "Is that all?" He asked, looking at her. She looked back. She studied his face. He has beautiful features. Does Orodreth think that I am in love with him? That would be right for him to assume such things. But is he only assuming, or is there truth in it? I think I do love him. She was puzzled. She had met many other elf-lads, and she had not been interested in any of them. So why Celeborn?
"Artanis, is that all?" Celeborn repeated. Artanis pondered whether to answer him or not.
"No," She finally answered. "I like your company, I feel as though I can tell you anything and everything, you let me be me. And-" She paused, "-I feel safe with you. I can not explain it." Celeborn blinked. He had not expected this. Rather than replying, he looked up at the trees around them.
"These trees are beautiful." Artanis narrowed her eyes.
"You are changing the subject again, Celeborn." Nevertheless, she was pleased that she had caught him off his guard. Celeborn frowned.
"What else is there to say?" He replied. Artanis sighed.
"Nothing, I suppose." She gazed ahead. "What is beyond those trees?" She asked. Celeborn followed her gaze.
"The Lake of Doriath. Would you like to visit it?" It was as though the Sindar prince had read the Lady's mind.
"Yes please!" She exclaimed. He took hold of her hand and they ran towards the lake.
"It is beautiful." Artanis observed breathlessly. Celeborn smiled.
"I have not been here for quite a while. I would come here almost every day when I was younger." He said, just as breathlessly. Artanis took off towards the water.
"Is it safe?" She called back.
"Well, no, not really." He replied. She took a step away. "But if you can swim, it is absolutely fine!" He added. She rolled her eyes before running in, without a care for her dress. He carefully took off his robe and followed in his tunic. He jumped in. He swam forward with sure strokes. He opened his eyes.
The lake of Doriath was crystal clear, and a stunning blue-green, yet it still had a mysterious grey misty look to it. He swam to the bottom of the lake and did a few flips. Artanis swam forward and grabbed his ankle. He kicked her playfully. He motioned upward and she nodded her reply. They both surfaced at around the same time, laughing. Celeborn reached forward and tucked a stray strand of her golden hair behind her perfectly shaped ear. For a moment they looked into each other's eyes. He broke the stare and, grabbing her hand, pulled her under again. They swam together for a while. Artanis spied a sort of cave. She tapped Celeborn, who shrugged. They swam forward. Entering the cave, Celeborn noticed that there was a surface to this water as well. He swam up, and Artanis followed. He came up, and sucked in a breath. He looked around, stunned. They were in a sort of cavern, with the water reflecting off the walls. He got out of the water.
"I have never been here before! It is..like a..how to say..secret place....it's breathtaking!" Artanis nodded in agreement. Celeborn looked at her, and realised what a beautiful figure she had. Her dress clung to her body, showing off her body structure. She giggled as he gaped at her.
"Did my face suddenly turn green or something?" He rolled his eyes and gave her a shove. She laughed, lost her balance and fell back into the water. He dived in after her. He caught her outstretched hand and pulled her to the surface. Treading the water, he looked at her pale face. The colour drained from his face too. He shook her gently, yet she stayed the same.
"Oh no!" He moaned. "Artanis?" He tilted her head up. A smile appeared on her face. Her eyes flew open. She laughed gleefully. He joined in, and let go of her. She ducked underwater and out of sight. He put his head under as well. He caught the tail of her dress and pulled her to him, without realising what he was doing. She put her arms around his neck and pressed herself against him. He held her by the waist and looked into her eyes, and long golden hair floating behind her. He considered what his heart was telling him to do. He kissed her quickly, and still grasping her, took her to the surface. They both took a deep breath. Artanis ducked underwater again, still clinging to him, so he had no choice but follow. She looked at him, and he stared back. She seized his lips in a long kiss. He closed his eyes and enjoyed the feeling. He had been wrong; he did fall in love with Artanis, at the very moment he saw her walk into the hall. She felt him relax and return the kiss. He broke off, grinned widely and swam to the surface. She rolled her eyes again and smiled, but followed.
When she got to the top, Celeborn was out of the little pool, and sitting against the wall. She walked towards him and knelt before him. He looked at her over the top of his knees.
"Oh, hello Milady." He said, pretending to be surprised. Artanis reached forward, took hold of his face and pulled his lips to hers. He pulled away and grinned again. Artanis narrowed her eyes again.
"Are you teasing me, Celeborn?" She said suspiciously. Celeborn laughed and stood up, pulling Artanis up with him. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her for what seemed like hours. When it ended, Celeborn looked into Artanis' eyes.
"Yes, I was teasing you. And it worked. When I kissed you, I felt you melt into me!" Artanis laughed and took hold of a fraction of his hair, braiding it with ease. She did two plaits before he caught her hand.
"I think we should go back, don't you?" He said gently. Artanis pouted.
"No, I do not think so!" She said matter-of-factly. Celeborn burst out laughing.
"You have no idea how much you reminded me of Luthien just then!" He turned serious. "But if we do not go back, imagine what will be said! And Thingol, Melian, Luthien and your brothers in particular will be worried." He continued.
"We will go back. Just not yet, besides, many will have drunk too much to notice we are gone." She argued.
"Not the ones I mentioned." He reminded her. Her eyes pleaded with him. "Fine," He sighed. "We will stay, but I need to go and fetch my robe. I can not leave it out there all night." Artanis grinned. "I do not think you are used to being argued with." They laughed together.
"No, I am not used to it. Since you agreed to stay, I will bring your robe back here. See you soon." She kissed his cheek before diving neatly into the cool water.
~*~
Celeborn sighed and opened his eyes. Artanis was sleeping next to him, with her head and arm across his chest. He kissed the top of her head and she stirred, but did not wake. He wondered how long they had been sleeping, but he closed his eyes and drifted off.
When he next awoke, Artanis was standing on the edge of the stone floor. If she were to take another step, she would fall into the water. He rose quietly and made his way behind her. He put his hands on her hips, pulled her close to him and kissed her neck. She closed her eyes and leaned her head against him.
"I love you, Celeborn." She said softly.
"And I love you, Artanis. You know, if I could rename you, I would call you Galadriel. It suits you so much better than Artanis." Artanis smiled to herself and turned around.
"Then I will be Galadriel to all. I cannot think of anything for you. You are definitely a Celeborn." Celeborn sighed and wrapped his arms around the beautiful woman standing before him.
"You shall be Galadriel, and I shall remain Celeborn." His voice dropped to a whisper. "What do you say we head back to the palace?"
"I say alright." She whispered back, running her fingers through his silky, silvery sheet of hair. He bent his head a little and kissed her bare shoulder, letting his lips linger ever so slightly. He reluctantly released her to pick up his robe which Galadriel had brought back the night before. He heard her release a soft sigh. She didn't want to leave; it was so peaceful in the cavern. She wanted him to hold and kiss her forever. She knew she was being silly and perhaps a little selfish. After all, there would be plenty of time for showing affection later on.
Celeborn held out his hand to Galadriel. She took it, and they slipped into the water together.
"Ah, here he is. Cele, where in the name of the Valar have you been?" King Thingol asked. He had been looking for his nephew all morning.
"Er- I was swimming in the Lake of Doriath and I spent the night there." Celeborn replied.
"I see." Thingol raised an eyebrow before continuing. "And was the Lady Artanis with you?" Celeborn only nodded, because he didn't trust himself to speak.
"Wonderful!" The Elven King exclaimed. Celeborn was puzzled. "You two are going to be good friends, I can feel it." Celeborn chuckled softly. His uncle continued, oblivious. "Melian would like to talk to you. She asked me to send you along once I found you. And also, Luthien will not be having lessons today." Celeborn nodded his understanding and bowed before heading to the Queen's chambers.
"Cele!" Melian embraced her nephew as he appeared in her doorway. "I assume you were with the Lady? Yes, you two did quite the disappearing act. I wanted to make sure you returned." She smiled and her eyes sparkled. Celeborn smiled back somewhat sheepishly.
"I am sorry. I didn't think you would be so worried. How is Luthien?" He asked. Melian thought for a little before replying.
"I talked to her last night, and she is a little better." Celeborn nodded. He couldn't think of much more to say.
"Well, I had best go and see her now then, unless there is anything else?" He looked at his Aunt questioningly.
"No..I do not think there is..Oh, wait." Celeborn stopped and turned back.
"Yes?"
"Lord Orodreth wishes to see you." Suddenly, Celeborn wished he hadn't asked.
~*~
"You wished to speak with me, Milord." Celeborn said bluntly.
"Yes, I did. Celeborn. I want you to know, that anything that is going on between you and my sister is to end immediately. You are not suited to her." Orodreth glared coldly at the younger Elf. Celeborn was shocked.
"But, Milord, surely, be reasonable-" He began.
"You will not argue with me!" Orodreth interrupted. "I know my sister and I also know that she will not find happiness with you. Now go, leave me. If I find you with my sister again, you shall find yourself back here, and it will not be a pretty sight." Orodreth's voice had raised considerably, so Celeborn walked out of the room obediently, shaken and more than a little angry.
That night at dinner, he did not see Galadriel anywhere, or Artanis as all still knew her. But he did see a familiar face which he was more than happy to see.
"Luthien! Come here, you. I am sorry that I have not talked to you for so long!" Celeborn's face split into a huge smile as Luthien ran towards him and leapt into his open arms.
"Cele! I have missed you so much! Why did you turn away when I waved to you last night?" She asked, planting a childish kiss on his cheek before wriggling out of his grasp. He knelt down on the floor next to her.
"Well, do you honestly think I would ignore such a gesture from my favourite little cousin?" Luthien started to talk, but Celeborn stopped her. "I will answer it for you instead, alright?" Luthien nodded. "Well, I would never even consider for a moment ignoring you. If I do, I am either out of my mind, or I did not see you. Now give me a hug, cousin!" He said, and before she could reply, he had grabbed her, hugged her, but then tickled her. No one but the guests took notice of Luthien's giggles and shrieks. It was considered normal to see Celeborn "torturing" his pupil/cousin. Finrod and his two brothers laughed heartily. Orodreth hid his amusement. Thingol walked over to the pair and grabbed Luthien around her middle and swung her around, adding to her laughter and screams. Then, very suddenly, he set her on her feet. She stumbled a little before finally regaining her balance, causing much amusement for the audience.
"Come on, my little flower, you need to get some sleep. No arguments." He added quickly as the princess opened her mouth to protest. Celeborn tousled her already-messy hair before giving her a little poke in the sides. Celeborn took a short walk around the palace, hoping to catch a glimpse of Galadriel, but he saw no sign of her. He did not dare to ask anyone, as Orodreth would know about it straight away. Could she possibly be avoiding him?
"Your attention please!" The crowd looked up at their Queen. "Does anyone know the whereabouts of the Lady Artanis?" She asked. A murmur passed through the Elves, and many heads turned to look around the room. No one spoke.
"I thought as much. Her clothes are all gone, yet some of her belongings still remain behind in her room. I was looking for her, and no one I asked could give me an answer as to where she was. I went to her room, and it was practically bare. A search party will be sent out tomorrow at dawn. Sorry to interrupt your dinner." Melian glanced at Celeborn for half a second before sitting down. And Lord Orodreth happened to be seated right next to her.
Celeborn was stunned. He made his way to his room. He wanted Galadriel with him. He wanted to be in the search party. He wanted to find her and make sure she was safe. He wanted Galadriel to be walking next to him that very moment. No, he wanted Galadriel full-stop. In every way possible. He loved her. He wanted her to be his wife. But none of that could happen now. All because of an over-protective brother. Orodreth. Suddenly, Celeborn was visited by an idea. He got into his bed and grinned to himself. He would talk to Melian the next day.
The next morning, Celeborn sat at his window and watched the search party set off in search of the Lady Artanis. They were carrying bows and arrows, and swords. Even if Artanis had set off with no protection, it was highly unlikely that she would be hurt. But still, he worried. With a sigh, he climbed back into his bed and tried to fall asleep.
~*~
"Melian? May I have a word?" Melian looked up from her book and smiled warmly.
"Anytime, Celeborn. How may I help you?" She said.
"Well. I was wondering, er- if this search for the Lady Gal- I mean, Artanis were to fail..d'you....do you think I could try to find her?" He asked, feeling colour rising to his cheeks. Melian laughed.
"I am sure you could.but I am not sure Lord Orodreth would be too happy." She winked. "But I will have a word with him and try to convince him. Who knows, perhaps if he lets you search, and you are successful, maybe he will let you take his baby sister." Celeborn choked on a piece of Lembas that he still had in his mouth from breakfast.
"You know? How?" Melian put on a mysterious face.
"I have my ways. I will talk to Orodreth. I must say that I believe you would have more of a chance of finding her than anyone else. When I get an answer, I will find you and tell you." Celeborn nodded.
"Thank you, Milady." Celeborn bowed and retreated out the door, still pondering how she could have found out.
After a week of lessons from Celeborn, and waiting anxiously for the return of the search party, Luthien was starting to get very worried about Artanis. And from the way Celeborn was acting, she had a feeling that he was more concerned than anyone else. Finally, in the middle of a particularly boring lesson on a particularly cloudy day, Luthien and Celeborn sat up and listened as they heard a horn. The search party was back! Celeborn told Luthien that she was free for the rest of the day, and together, they raced to the gates.
To everyone's disappointment, Artanis was not with them; after eight days of searching, there was no trace. But Celeborn was summoned to the Queen's chambers. He made his way quickly to her area and knocked on the large wooden door.
"Come in." He heard her call. He entered. "Celeborn. I am sorry that the Lady was not found. I have talked to Lord Orodreth about your request, and after much persuasion, he decided that he would consider it." Celeborn's stomach sank. Consider? He'll never decide! "But bear in mind that this was a little less than a week ago that I talked to him. And he has decided." She continued, as though reading his mind. "But he wants to tell you personally. He mentioned something about a deal. So go, Cele dear. Once you have his answer, please come back here and tell me." She smiled, and he practically ran out of the room.
"Ah, Celeborn." Orodreth did not look so coldly upon the Sindar Prince. "As you know," He continued, "The search for the Lady Artanis was not successful. Melian spoke to me about you requesting for you to try and find her. Am I correct so far?" Celeborn nodded, and Orodreth continued. "I have spent a while thinking about it. And I have decided that perhaps there is a little more than friendship between you and my sister. I will be honest; I am still not entirely satisfied with her choice. But then again, I do not really know you, do I? Now, I will make you a deal. Are you ready?" Once again, Celeborn gave a short nod.
"Yes Milord, I am listening." Orodreth grunted.
"If you can find her, bring her before me and my brothers. Then you two will tell us your side of the story and why you think that you belong together. We will decide together. Fair?"
"Yes, thank you Milord." Agreed Celeborn, even though he didn't think it was fair for Galadriel's brothers to decide about their relationship.
"Now go. But remember; don't get your hopes up too high." Celeborn (feeling a little daft) nodded yet again, and turned to report this decision to Queen Melian.
When Melian heard, she clapped her hands together and told him to get a good night's sleep, and that he could set off the next morning.
"But before you go Celeborn, I would like to give you some things. First of all, this." She handed him a sort of cloak. "It is not exactly a cloak to wear. It is something to wrap food, drink and your robes in, in case you need to swim. It is waterproof. And also, take some Lembas, I can think of only them that will fill you up and not go bad over time. Oh. I was saving this for your birthday, but I will just give it to you now, in case you need protection." She handed him a bow and quiver full of arrows. Each arrow had three feathers and the bow was travel-size.
"Good luck Cele. Go find her. You need not come and say goodbye tomorrow." She kissed his forehead and sensed that Lady Artanis' lips had previously come into contact with her Nephew's lips and cheeks. He smiled at her, and gave her a wave and bow before exiting the room.
Melian sighed. They were meant to be. Why didn't Orodreth see it? They were deeply in love. Anyone could tell. Well, those who knew Celeborn, anyway. And that was basically only the King, Queen and Princess.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~A/N: Well? What did you think? Good? Crummy? Bad? Really Bad? Really, Really Bad? Really, Really - Erm, actually, I think you get the point. Sorry if you aren't satisfied or if you think the plot is just stupid...but give me some time! :D:D I WILL improve a little bit in my writing! And romances aren't really the sort of genres I'm good at! In fact..I'm not sure what I'm good at! Please review..And I hope you enjoyed that chapter at least a little bit.
~*~ Thankies! *Waves Buh-bye!*