Ice
Chapter Two

Fin found the twins in the armory as their father had said. Elrohir was fletching arrows and Ellandan was applying a whetstone to several elven blades. They both looked up as she entered.

Elrohir thought Fin was an extremely attractive elf. Of the two brothers, Elrohir was more likely to be found eyeing the she-elves, a fact that often brought a tremendous amount of teasing from his twin. He did not mind, being so good-natured. He smiled at her as he let his gazed drift appreciatively over her. Her hair was pulled back and tied simply at the nape of her neck. She wore leggings and tunic in a soft blue that complemented her eyes. She smiled at him, and it seemed as if her entire face lit from within.

"Your father has informed me that you plan to go hunting tomorrow. I would very much like to accompany you."

The twins looked at each other and then back at Fin.

"It would be our pleasure to have you along, my lady."

She released a breath she did not realize she had been holding. She enjoyed the twins company very much.

"I have heard much of your hunting prowess. Tan has told me of your ability to fish, and I know that you once managed to catch a very large ranger from the river!" Elrohir laughed aloud at the look of surprise on her face, and even Elladan had to chuckle at the double meaning.

"Father says that we will have snow tonight, so it will be quite easy to track prey tomorrow. North of here there is a small lake which many animals use as a source of drinking water. It is but half a days ride. Do you think you are comfortable enough to handle your own mount?"

"Aye, as long as you pick out a gentle one for me."

"Befitting a lady, I assure you!" Elrohir could be such a flirt at times.

"Would you like to choose a bow, or will you be using your own?"

"My own bow should be adequate, although I do not have a quiver or arrows."

The three spent the rest of the evening in pleasant conversation as they worked on their weapons. She learned much of fletching arrows from Ellandan, and she showed them both the bow she had crafted from ash several months ago. They commented on the fine workmanship, although both noticed how it lacked the carving or decoration that their own bows had.

This she-elf intrigued them both and they found they enjoyed her company very much. There was so much she needed to learn and they were more than willing to teach her. She was an eager pupil who asked many questions. They knew that if they taught her something, she would practice until she had perfected it. She was quick and bright.

She seemed to know so much of some things, but very little of others. She picked up the healing knowledge that their father taught her quite easily, even teaching him a few things, yet she struggled to learn to read. Her survival skills were impressive, yet she never learned the simplest of songs and knew no stories, both of which were usually an integral part of elven life. She knew little of luxury having lived on less than basic necessity her entire life.

The evening grew late and she was weary from a long day. The three elves had completed their preparations for the next day, and walked silently toward the stairs that led to the living quarters. The hall was lit by low burning lamps that cast a warm glow.

At the top of the stairs, before she headed in the direction of her own room, she turned and said, "Thank you for allowing me to go with you tomorrow." Then she shyly kissed each of them on the cheek and headed down the hall.

"Good night", they both called at the same time.

She entered her small room. The lamp had been lit and a fire was burning on the hearth. She changed into a sleep shirt and washed her hands and face. She climbed into the bed and allowed her body to sink into its warmth. She thought of Estel and Legolas, as she did each night, and sent a silent prayer out that they were safe, and than she would see them soon.