Chapter 10 Part 2.
Author: Suziefox
POV: Legolas
Disclaimer: Well, there once was an elf from Nantucket. Who enjoyed eating fried lembas in a bucket. Till along came a hobbit who ate all the bread, and the elf shrugged and said oh well…oh, right, I was supposed to um, do a disclaimer eh? Alrighty. I'm part of the Tolkein estate, and I have rights to LOTR. Pamela Anderson's breasts were real on Baywatch. Cher's nose, hell face, is original equipment. Orlando Bloom is ugly and Elton John is straight. What do these comments all have in common? They are NOT true. Ok. Ya. Bye.
A/N: I am SO sorry this took so long. . . We were almost done with it when Mandy submitted her part, but I had to polish a few things, and then, of course, I had a HUGE blackout…then our poor beta had an engagement, so suffice to say, it was a mess. LOL. I guess it would have been easier were it not for the fact that I live in the US, Andariel in the UK, and the beta in Australia. LOL. Anyhow, I hope you guys enjoy. Oh, and make sure you check out our other joint project written under Andy's ID: Andariel666. It's called You Can't Hold onto a Memory. It has both our favorite elves in it…eventually. ^.^
If there is one memory that shall forever be burned in my mind, it shall be the day I met her. Despite the fact that it has been a millennia since said occasion, I remember it quite clearly, especially on days like this when I am wallowing in a foul mood. The day was fair for me, time spent with Ada was usually the source of a warm memory, for though he was overbearing at times, he loved me as best he could, given the circumstances. Naneth suggested we leave for the day, to show me to hunt, as I was entering adulthood, and would need to hone my skills as a warrior and huntsmen. When I was roused that morn, before the stars had faded from the sky, I grumbled about the cold, and wailed like an elfling about my hunger and discomfort on the horse.
Ada said nothing.
When the sun rose, I embraced the warmth, but was still hungry, and mentioned this discomfort to Ada, who in turn, handed me a packet of lembas, and smiled softly. I took the lembas, and was silenced by the site before me. A fawn was grazing in a lovely clearing, and overhead I could hear the birds begin their song. I soon grew restless, and eager for the hunting to begin, but still he sat in a thoughtful silence. For many hours we sat in silence, simply watching the animals. At length, he drew his bow, spied a healthy stag, and slew him. I watched in horror as the proud animal fell onto the ground, and the blood poured from his wound, the wound my Adar inflicted.
Still Ada said nothing.
Without thinking, I ran over to the slain beast, and placed a trembling hand on him. Though his spirit had left from the world already, I wept, miserable as a mixture of shame, and grief washed over me. I felt foolish, too big to be weeping as I was, and feeling silly for being shocked at the sight of the animal falling. We had come to hunt, and that was what we were doing, so why then was I so hurt?
"My heart weeps every time son."
Ada placed a large hand over my frail shoulder kindly.
"Every time Ada?"
"Every time."
He embraced me roughly, patted my back, and within moments we were heading back towards the palace and the bustle. He did not prod me for conversation, and I was glad, for I was certain that day was the first time I felt the stirrings of adulthood, and I was not sure I was looking forward to the grief, responsibility, and heartache that came with being the heir to Mirkwood.
I slid tiredly off my horse, Arod's great-great-great grandsire, and prepared myself for a hot bath and a nap to sleep off the misery I felt. I bleakly wondered if there would ever be something about being an adult that would make the pain worthwhile, and my thoughts were interrupted by a sharp hiss of a stable woman.
"Kalia! Kalia! Ai Elbereth, where has that girl gone off to!"
Slight movement caught my eye, and when I turned I saw a young elleth, about my age, tuck a wrapped package into a pile of hay, then dash over to her supervisor.
It was love at first sight.
She was in truth, a bit gangly, and her hair was a mess of golden curls that didn't seem to know which direction they wanted to grow in. Her servant's gown was smudged and dirty, but it was her eyes that struck me; Small intelligent eyes, which were the colors of the forest, framed in dark long lashes. She murmured something softly to her master, and the stable maiden was, in truth, not really angry. The stable maid replied something quietly, and this in turn made Kalia laugh merrily, and it was like Yule bells to my ears. Her smile lit up her round face like a thousand candles. How long I stood there, gaping at her, I do not know.
A firm hand and a soft voice pulled me from my reverie.
"Come along son."
I looked up into his warm eyes, and he flashed a knowing soft smile, before firmly ushering me away from the stables and into the castle to be with the other royal children. I stole one last glance before leaving, and our eyes met for one sweet moment.
"Legolas? Where you listening to a word I said?"
I felt the heat rush to my cheeks.
"Well, no, in all honesty I was not."
She laughed sweetly, and I felt my insides churn; it wasn't the same as Kalia's.
"Well then I shan't reward you by telling you then, I'll just make the decision for you."
And with that, she pulled me from my chair and into a lively dance. Kalia was a master at the violin, and with a pang, I wondered how I had not noticed this talent of hers. Too long had I been pouring myself into my duties as a Prince, out of a cowardly attempt to drive her from my mind.
Several years later, and I was still failing miserably. I allowed a soft sigh.
"Your mind is leagues away Legolas." Nessa crooned.
"Aye, I have been discovered." She smiled at what she perceived was her own cunning and once again I felt my stomach churn. Surely Ada could not intend for me to spend eternity with this elleth?
"Are you concerned about the March Warden and that rowdy servant? Tyrael? I wouldn't worry if I were you. Haldir is more than capable of putting her in her proper place. You are too kind to even concern yourself with people so beneath your station Legolas. That is why so many of the servants love you." Involuntarily her eyes darted over to said couple.
It was a talent of mine, to give the impression I was concerned with one issue, when in reality I was thinking of someone else entirely. Call it a royal's gift if you will. While my mind was truly on Kalia and the mournful song she had played, I was coherent enough to give Haldir a pointed look. The words from our conversation still stung, and I had every intention of holding him to his end of the agreement.
Now if only I could find the nerve again to hold onto mine.
In my defense I had tried valiantly to show Kalia how I felt, on more than one occasion, yet it would seem bad luck followed me around of late. Earlier I had been so close to telling her how I felt, baring my soul to her. Yet even then fate would spite me. When I whispered my love to her, she did not hear it. When I looked down at her to gage her reaction, I found she was all but asleep on her feet. Before I could finish my sentence, Tyrael interrupted us, and the moment was gone. Later, as I was dressing for the ball, I reflected on how tired she must have been, and was overcome with dark feelings as I realized she must have allowed me to draw her close out of fatigue.
If only we could stop misunderstanding each other.
It was only when I felt eyes upon me that I was pulled from my reverie once again. It was Kalia. In that moment it seemed the other noises of the ball melted away, and all I could see was her eyes, shining with a myriad of unsaid emotions. Still, I could scarcely trust myself when it came to Kalia. While I chided her for wearing her heart on her sleeve, in truth, I was not as adept at reading her as her own March Warden was. If ever I was accurate at reading her emotions, it was usually due to a lucky guess. Yet now, as I found myself being pulled into the swirling green, orange, and honey-brown, I began to see just one emotion laid before me…
Love.
Before she could scurry away to hide, before anyone could interrupt me, I began to make my way over to her. I could see my father chatting with her then she slipped off to take a drink. I was close…
"Legolas m'boy, how are you doing? It's been so long, too long indeed. You remember my girl Miranda? She's the little bird about to sing for us now. Lovely isn't she?"
I looked at my uncle Aldarion, and smiled stiffly. Oh no, he would keep me here for hours if I didn't escape soon.
"Aye, uncle, she is a vision."
"Shame she is so young, and such a close relative. She would make a fine wife."
"Aye, she will make a fine wife one day." I nodded eagerly, hoping to satisfy him.
In the corner of my eye I saw Nessa pluck the harp strings clumsily. Tyrael was locked in a one-sided conversation with Rumil, not far from Kalia. Good then, no one who could interrupt.
"Listen Uncle, I hear Mithrandir desired council with you. Ada said as much in his last post. Perhaps you could catch him before his display?"
"Is that so? Well then, by your leave?"
"Certainly."
As soon as he left to bombard the wizard, I turned to face my quarry. It would seem Eru had other plans, as I found Tyrael was slipping from Elrohir's arms and approaching Kalia. Goodness, that elleth moved fast when she set her mind to it. I flashed the March Warden a hostile frown, but his mind was on Tyrael, as usual, and he did not appear inclined to approach her, as usual. I sighed, if the March Warden was content to sit and allow our opportunity to slip through his fingers, so be it, I was weary of waiting. I strode purposefully over to the pair, allowing a small smile to touch my lips as I saw how Tyrael was struggling to stay on her toes.
"One two three turn, one two three-"
I took in the sight of my Kalia, swaying in the lantern light, and wondered for a moment if I could capture her like she was forever. She truly was the fairest maiden in the room, in all of Middle-Earth even, in my eyes. Her deep purple gown loved her well, holding onto her slight form for dear life, and flowing gently behind her like a royal garment. Her skin shone a lovely gold, and in certain light I swore she shimmered. For a wild moment I had visions of leaning down to kiss the delicate space where her neck met her shoulder again, but I shoved those thoughts away viciously.
I was not sure I would be able to walk away from her again.
I struggled to find my voice, and was pleased at how calm I sounded.
"May I cut in?"
Her lovely eyes shone up at mine, and I glanced at Tyrael for a moment, hoping she would sense my intentions. Praise the Valor she did, and chose to ignore the slightly flustered stare Kalia gave her as she pulled away. I silently thanked her with my eyes, my chest filling with warm emotions towards my ward.
"Certainly."
For how long she stood there in shock, her eyes calling to her friend as if she was an anchor, I do not know, yet I felt my heart sinking. Did I really intimidate her so?
"Kalia."
"Legolas." Her voice was laced with a cheeky edge.
I felt an easy smile curl my lips and I pulled her close, eager to relive the precious dance from the afternoon. It felt sublime to have her in my arms again, though I did not dare to hold her as intimately as I had in Tyrael's room. My arms ached with longing. She still seemed wary of having me close to her, and I wondered if it was my presence or another matter that worried her so.
Her mournful song came to mind again, and I found my manners and complimented her.
"Your song was beautiful" You are beautiful, I wanted to say, yet somehow, in front of everyone, that did not seem proper.
I hoped she could see the compliment in my eyes. But she didn't look up from her reverie.
"That was a standard, not my own." She shook her head, and I missed her hair. Her long curls would have bobbed prettily when she shook her head. I added that travesty to the many wrongs of Legolas Greenleaf, and stored it away for later. As if to once again soothe the hurt I had caused her, I elaborated.
"Nay, that song you played in the beginning. I could see the story your music told." I leaned down close enough to smell her, and nearly swooned. She smelt like springtime, dewy, sweet, and clear. I could not get enough of it.
Her forest colored eyes found mine, and she appeared a bit shocked at my revelation.
"And what did you see?"
I contemplated telling her what I wanted to see. Shall I tell you I saw the day I met you? Shall I tell you how I was drawn in by your whimsical laugh and amazing eyes and have spent over a thousand years trying to recapture my dreams and forget your voice? Should I mention that you are the smartest elleth I have met, and you have made the suitable prospects of marriage seem inferior and drab. Shall I tell you that you broke my heart when you left me atop the waterfall, lusty and giddy at the prospect of loving you until the sun came up? I settled for a more neutral reply.
"Mirkwood, a young maiden in the forest, her hair trailing behind her, a mothers kiss, and a barrage of moments snatched from childhood." Perhaps I had read her correctly this time, as she seemed satisfied with my response.
"Aye, but it was not always thus the maiden has endured dark times." She remarked dryly, and I felt my heart clench.
Dark times indeed; forced to deal with an insufferable lout who was too cowardly to proclaim his love for you in the first place, and is now forced to do so in a grand sweeping gesture in front of most of the known elven royalty.
My self-loathing would have been worthwhile, were it not for the fact that she was more concerned with the fate of Haldir and Tyrael, then with our conversation. The child's voice rang in my ears, the mournful song ringing like an accusation.
"Alas my love that you should own, a heart of wanton vanity, so I must laddie think alone upon your insincerity."
I glanced down at her, and she seemed oblivious, her gaze still fixed on the interaction between the March Warden and Tyrael. I didn't bother to look, choosing to try to draw her gaze up at mine so she might fully understand me.
Did Kalia think I was insincere? And what in the name of Eru was so damned fascinating about Tyrael and Haldir, when I was once again attempting to bare my soul before her? I began to think fate surely must have been jesting with me.
Perhaps if I was more overt.
"The maiden shall see happier times, I am sure of it Kalia." I hoped she understood my comment.
Once again, the statement flew over her head. Perhaps if she wasn't so damned short. I scowled at Haldir and his Tyrael. Jealousy never suited a Prince, yet here it was, tap dancing plain as day on my chest. Aye, I was jealous, jealous of anything that captured her attention whilst I attempted to explain my intentions for the evening, for the rest of our lives.
"I am not so certain." She sighed softly, and for a brief moment my anger was softened by the way her full lips pouted when Haldir's brother Orophin sidled up to Tyrael and Haldir, and took chance to dance with Tyrael. I nearly smirked. Haldir would lose her if he didn't find his nerve and I would have thought he would be weary of others taking his missed opportunities.
Not that I was much better.
As if to punctuate this thought, Nessa strode over, looking a bit miffed at the site of the Prince dancing with a servant. In fact, most of the royal family seemed uncomfortable with my choice of a dance partner, and I was sure my father was offering perfectly logical reasons why the heir to the throne was even talking to a servant, much less pulling her close and gazing at her as if she was the very air he breathed.
"Kalai? They need you back there." I bristled at the butchery of her name, but Kalia seemed resigned and pulled away from me as if she was eager for an excuse to leave me.
I felt my spirits fall. As if to step on my already bruised nerves, she murmured something softly, and walked away towards the musicians, without bothering to look at me. I felt as if I had been slapped.
For the first time all night, I worried that I was wrong in my assessment of her feelings. She strummed up a lively song, and I felt my blood run cold as Nessa placed her arms on my shoulders and began a rather lively dance, a broad smile on her face. The merry melody seemed to be a jarring taunt against my worried nerves and bruised feelings. Before I left the floor to collect myself, I would correct Nessa's little slip with Kalia's name.
"Kalia."
Nessa looked up at me, a bit confused, as she was concentrating on the dance and had not been listening to me.
"I beg your pardon?"
"Her. Name. Is. Ka-li-ah." I punctuated every word succinctly, and felt my eyebrows furrow.
"What does it matter?" She replied crossly, and I felt myself bristle.
"It matters." I snapped, and illogically, felt myself pull away from her.
I looked for a way to cover my irate behavior, but finding none, decided she would have to make do with a low murmur about needed ale, and a hasty apology. She stood on the dance floor, bewildered for a moment, but I didn't bother to look back.
This evening was going to be the death of me.
I left the bustle of the dance floor and found myself in the nearest garden. The night air was cool, and while the noises from the banquet were still audible, it was not as overwhelming from this distance. I wondered why adulthood had to be so complicated, and why, at my age, I was wound into an adolescent conflict revolving around whether or not an elleth I desired wanted to be with me.
The evening had been a series of emotional peaks and valleys, and now I simply felt dizzy and dejected. Somewhere along the line I had lost my way with Kalia, and I was desperate to get it back.
Seeing her walk away from me, without a glance or remark stung, and I knew I was to blame. I wished, for the hundredth time perhaps, that I was not the prince, that I was just a lad, for then I could have been with her, and we could be out tonight, dancing to our hearts content, and she would be certain I loved her, and only her. If I was just a peasant we could marry without much ado, and no one would object or be scandalized by our union.
Still, wishing would get me no-where fast, and I was not interested in visiting again. I leaned against a stone wall and felt my shoulders sag.
"Fix your posture. You look shabby when you slouch."
I allowed myself to smile.
"Naneth, Ada did not tell me you were here."
She smiled up at me warmly, and strode over to embrace me.
"Naneth?" She raised her eyebrow in a way that reminded me of Kalia and I felt my stomach lurch again.
"I'm sorry Nana. I have been distracted of late."
"So I saw, it is not everyday my son leaves a maiden in the middle of a dance floor without a formal apology, only to sulk in the shadows." I felt my cheeks heat and I looked down, suddenly supremely interested in a small ladybug that was crawling on the ground.
"When did you arrive?"
She seemed unfazed by my change of subject but I knew her better than to believe she was going to let my rudeness remain unchecked.
"Within the hour. Your father did not know I was coming." I looked up in shock, and found her violet eyes shining mischievously.
"Aye?"
"Aye, he seemed to find it just to force his son, my only son, into marriage, then not tell his wife of his actions. He seemed to believe I would allow my baby to choose a wife without me having been properly introduced to her, or speaking with you about the matter."
"So then you have come to demand that he delay my decision?" I felt my heart swell with hope.
"Nay, I did not say that. An announcement has been made to every noble family in the known world Legolas; it would be embarrassing to do so now."
My high spirits flew away like a butterfly.
"I see."
"But, I did come to give my son sage advice, and to have a discussion with Thranduil about his tact." She leaned against the wall with me, and placed a gentle hand on my own.
"What advice do you have?" I looked into her eyes, eager to have her sort everything out. I prayed she would have the solution.
"Follow your heart Legolas."
I snorted in a most undignified manner. Aye, that was sage advice. Follow your heart Legolas, and then have your parents disown you, your friends ostracize you, and even worse, have the elleth who held your heart in her little hands, squeeze it like a sponge and toss it aside, because she did not believe you were sincere in your affections towards her.
"I should return to the party. I owe Nessa an apology."
"You do." She smiled, and kissed my cheek softly.
As we walked back to the festivities, I replayed our conversation in my mind. Her words rung in my ears, firm yet loving: He seemed to believe I would allow my baby to choose a wife without me having been properly introduced to her, or speaking with you about the matter.
"Without me having been properly introduced to her..."
Wait a second. Mother had met Nessa before. Several times, in fact. I looked down at her, surprised to find her face drawn in a knowing smile. I could scarcely hide my surprise.
"Amin mela lle, Nana."I love you, mom.I murmured softly, while kissing her brow.
She simply smiled and remained in the shadows, eager to sit back and watch the affair. Elrond soon noticed her, and came to greet her. I parted with her before I could hear their greetings.
It would seem I arrived just in time. Kalia's gaze was fixed on a conflict that was erupting between Haldir and Rathborn, the swanky fellow Tyrael seemed cozy with. Before I could ascertain what was being said between the hostile pair, Haldir's fist connected soundly with Rathborn's face, and he landed with an audible thud. Kalia's violin squeaked, and I felt my jaw drop, in shock.
That's not to say I did not enjoy seeing Haldir strike him. I was sure he deserved it, as he was a barrier between Haldir and Tyrael, and I was sure Haldir was more suitable for my maid than that scoundrel. She deserved far better than him.
Still, this was to be a dignified occasion. As if to belie that statement, Rathborn scrambled up from the ground and attempted to claw his way onto Haldir with a counterattack. I had sparred with the March Warden on more than one occasion, and I was certainly not concerned for his safety.
Now Rathborn, on the other hand, should have been afraid.
Still, Eru watches over fools and dwarves, and when Rathborn attacked, Haldir simply tossed him into a stone lattice neatly. The commotion attracted the attention of the entire party, and under the pressure of hundreds of pairs of eyes on her, Tyrael scurried away, embarrassment written across her face.
My legs soon awakened, and I joined Haldir, who cast me a mournful gaze. Kalia called a break, and I felt rather than saw her pass us to find her friend and soothe her. When she glanced at me before leaving, her eyes were painfully blank.
I shook away my disappointment and addressed Haldir.
"What happened, Haldir?" I tried to sound as soft and unassuming as possible.
He seemed terribly weary, and rubbed his temples while he answered, "He was disrespecting her, Legolas. He called her a…a whore."
I felt my jaw tighten in response. Sure, Tyrael was lewd and bawdy yet she had a good heart, and as her superior, I knew of her comings and goings, and in truth, Tyrael had been rather prude all summer long, and I was sure her chastity had much to do with her affections towards Haldir.
Her only mistake had been in turning to Rathborn in the first place, and she had not touched him since. I glared at the unconscious elf tangled in the bushes.
Haldir was just in clobbering him.
"Indeed. Do not fear, Haldir. You did a noble thing. She should be pleased."
And if she wasn't at least flattered that this elf, a pinnacle of control and honor, would allow himself to be so moved that he attacked another without direct provocation, I was going to box her ears.
"But she is not." He replied, his voice taking on a desperate edge. I frowned at him in confusion.
"You did not see her expression, Legolas. She was…horrified. She probably feels that I think her a whore as well."
I sucked in air, irritated. Why did elleths seem to confuse our intentions so dismally?
"Then you must correct her. Allow Kalia to speak to her, before correcting the situation."
Kalia would make things right again for Tyrael, she always did. Then, when she was calm, Haldir could perhaps finish what we started earlier. He could finally make how he felt for her known.
"Aye, I shall." He declared, before approaching his Lady to offer an apology and explanation.
Within moments, the livery recovered from their shock, and Rathborn was hauled away to his room to rest. It would seem he had consumed too much spirits, and that perhaps motivated his cruel behavior. I wasn't so sure myself.
Still the party continued, and my mother was announced to the crowd. She slipped onto a chair and studied the guests, perhaps looking for the mystery maiden that held my heart.
I was coerced into a few dances with maidens, while Nessa once again tried to capture the attentions of the guests with her own skills on the violin. While she played, I found myself lingering near the table, trying to covertly take in the conversation my mother and father were having. It would seem that Ada as was usual when he and Nana quarreled, was being kindly but firmly informed that he was sleeping in his own quarters for one hundred years.
I grimaced; he would be cross for a very long time indeed.
"She's no Kalia is she?" I jumped slightly, and turned to face the bright grey eyes of Elladan. He gestured rudely to Nessa, who was still playing for everyone.
"Nay, she is not." I remarked before taking a sip of my wine.
"Then why are you even considering marry her?"
"Shh." I hissed; he had a tendency to be loud when he was in his cups.
"I simply want to know. She is a lovely girl Legolas, and it has been done before you know. You are not the first to fall in love with a baseborn."
I flinched at his choice of words.
"Elladan-"
"You will turn around Legolas Greenleaf, and she will be gone. Out of your life forever and you will never forgive yourself for not claiming her sooner. You will regret not making her your wife, to hell with whatever anyone else thinks. Don't-"
"This isn't the same Elladan!" I snapped.
"Don't become like me." He replied quietly, his voice pained.
I ran a hand over my forehead, and sighed. When I looked up, he was already across the room, engaged in a conversation with Arwen. I bit my lip, and shook myself internally. I had to take control of this evening, quickly.
As if hearing my thoughts, Ada came over to me, his face taunt with anger at the knowledge that he would be celibate for a century.
"Legolas, we shall announce your decision in 1 hour." He remarked gruffly, his flinty grey eyes blazing, as he looked over towards Nessa meaningfully, and then left to speak with her father.
I had died, surely, and the Hall of Mandos had morphed into Mordor.
Nessa finished her song, and the crowd applauded her warmly, though, not as passionately as they had with Kalia. She was skilled, but her heart was not in what she played, and it showed. I felt I should apologize, as she was gazing at me like a kicked puppy.
"My apologies arwenamin." I leaned down and kissed her hand. She seemed to glow with pleasure.
"Not necessary milord. I am sure much is on your mind, you have an important decision to make this evening."
I nodded silently, and found myself being sucked into idle conversation with a small crowd of noblewomen that approached. Nessa seemed to dislike their company even more than I, and openly frowned at their intrusion.
Before they could become wrapped up in a verbal brawl that would have rivaled the infamous kitchen incident between Kalia and Tyrael, Arwen came to save the day.
"May I have this dance?"
They looked up at the elleth, and fell silent. Arwen gave them a bemused smile, before pulling me from the table and over to the dance floor. I knew they would have been scandalized at her forward behavior, were she any other elleth, yet they knew that Arwen and I had been close since childhood, and she was a formidable woman to cross.
"Once again you have saved the day Lady." I smiled down at her, and felt happy for the first time all night.
"I know. It warms my heart to see you smile, genuinely smile, Legolas. What has your heart so troubled?" She looked up at me, her clear eyes shining with concern.
"Nothing that I can elaborate on at the moment. But I shall remedy the problem before the night is over."
"I do not approve of her, you know." I felt the hair on the back of my neck rise.
"Of whom?"
"Nessa, she is not suitable for you Legolas." She remarked as if talking to a small child.
I did not need her to tell me this.
"Arwen-"
"I think you should choose someone else. Someone with more substance in her head." She sighed, "Oh, drat, I'll come out and say it, you should choose Kalia."
I felt my jaw drop. Did the entire family know of my affections towards her, and if so, why didn't she know?
"Elrohir told me, but neither Ada, nor anyone else knows. I've kept my secrets in the past."
"Aye and I've kept yours." I smiled, still wondering how Elrohir knew.
Thus far, I had only named her to one person, and I knew Haldir wouldn't betray a confidence. It did not matter; it would not matter, in a few moments.
A servant approached, reminding me that I had to collect the royal circlet that my bride to be would wear as a sign of distinction on our wedding day, and I parted with Arwen to retrieve it. I would be presenting it to her as part of the proposal. As I returned from my quarters, I looked down at the simple mithril band, wondering how it would appear against her skin, and it glinted in the moonlight.
Once closer to the tents, I covered it up again, and gave it to my mother, without word. She simply smiled at me, before continuing her conversation with a distant Aunt I had not seen in two hundred years.
Kalia had returned, presumably from piecing Tyrael together, and settled back on her chair with the young noble musicians. I grimaced at the memory of the hateful violin lessons Ada subjected me to, until he discovered the only strings I should be plucking were that of a bow. The noise of my practicing drove my grandmother to deafness some say.
Father passed me briefly, softly prodding me to dance with Nessa again, who was apparently his favorite among the ladies, and I obliged. If I was nothing else, I could be accommodating… for now.
True to form, she smiled and blushed prettily when I kissed her hand and swung her into a romantic dance, her shimmering skirts swaying behind her as we danced. She leaned her head against my shoulder, and I silently noticed that she was a head taller than Kalia; therefore her face was not nestled in the same place as when Kalia danced with me. It was an uncomfortable observation.
As the song finished, Haldir re-appeared, his face glowing. I groaned. That was the face of a satisfied elf, and it was simply unfair. He nodded at me pointedly, and I met him near an unoccupied corner of the tent, close to another garden. I found I was growing weary of gardens, overly concerned relatives, and family friends.
"I see you have situated things with Tyrael then." I was not so cross as to not tease the March Warden. He ran his hand through his hair, and a wistful smile crossed his face.
"I have."
"So, why then did you summons me here?"
"To make sure you do the same." He remarked.
"Haldir-"
"You have no other option Legolas."
Why was everyone interrogating me tonight? I was a Prince, surely that meant something to someone.
"You will break her heart."
"Haldir, listen to me. I do not need you to rally for her cause."
He looked at me, a bit confused.
"I have made my decision."
"Sire, the king is calling for you." We turned and I nodded to the servant.
"Then I hope you have made the right decision." He snapped, as Tyrael approached us.
"Your majesty." She bowed slightly, and I raised a hand to stop her.
"Please Tyrael, it isn't necessary." Despite my cross mood, I was pleased to see the light in her eyes. She usually only looked that content when she was with Kalia. I was glad someone could be happy and relaxed this evening.
"Ladies and Gentleman. Can I have your attention please?" My father's voice boomed, and the crowd fell silent. Haldir, Tyrael, and I began to walk closer towards the King.
"The time has come for my son to announce his bride. Long have my halls yearned for the pitter-patter of my grandchildren's feet, and at length, my son has agreed to indulge me."
The soft laughter of the crowd scraped against my raw nerves again, and I had to will myself not to scowl. I knew they had visions of a union with Nessa, and in turn, were imagining children with her, and the thought did not suit me at all.
"Legolas?" My father's voice drew me from my dark thoughts. His eyes still shone with his blatant desires. He wanted me to choose the noblewoman, and please him. I turned to said Lady, and steeled myself.
"I have made my decision."
I had, and in that moment I felt truly sorry for Nessa. Her hopes were riding on my choosing her, and I was sure she would be sore from this blow for a very long time. Yet, I could not commit myself to a marriage based on a lie, for my heart would never warm for her, it had been captured before I was even old enough to fully understand.
"Son?"
I looked around for Kalia; hoping to see her face, look into those eyes for support.
"I am in love with Kalia Ada."
The worlds flew from my mouth and I felt a massive weight lift from my shoulders. Many of the nobles gasped in surprise, yet my father's eyes were unfazed.
"Yes, I know, but who have you chosen as your bride? You have said your goodbye, now you must make a decision son." His jaw was set, and he looked pointedly at Nessa, who too was not surprised by my admission. Perhaps I was not clever at hiding my affections.
I turned to face Nessa who was pale with worry. This was probably the first time all night that she was uncertain of her future position in Mirkwood. Kalia had disappeared into the crowd and had now reappeared.
I hesitated, knowing I was sure to cause uproar. I looked down at her drawn face, and announced my decision.
"I have chosen Kalia as my bride, if she will have me."
Kalia stood, her lips parted in shock, and I stepped down from the table to her. I saw tears glitter in her eyes, and I tilted her head up to look at me.
"Kalia?" I whispered her name like a benediction, my ears deaf to the outraged din that was erupting around us.
I could hear my father's disembodied voice as he soothed and apologized to Nessa and her family. Someone shouted that Aunt Ida fainted, and Tyrael's laughter nearly drowned all other noises out.
"Legolas?" Her eyes searched mine for sincerity, and I smiled softly. Even now, she doubted herself.
"Uma?"
"Say it again." She smiled, and I brushed the side of her face tenderly.
"I love you Kalia. I've loved you from the moment I saw you, in the stables so many years ago. I am sorry I took so long to muster the courage to tell you." My throat grew dry, and I knew this was the moment in which we would kiss, for the first time. My lips burned in anticipation, and I leaned down.
Once again, Tyrael's timing was impeccable.
"Kalia," she grinned. "I have never seen your mouth open so wide before. I could swear I saw what you ate this morn."
Her large arm curled around Kalia's small neck and she let out a small indignant squeak.
"My mouth was open to welcome a kiss, before we were so rudely interrupted. Mayhap I can convince Legolas to punish you for bothering us." Kalia looked up at me fondly, and I circled my arms around her waist.
In the background, I could see various people lined up to offer congratulations, or a left-handed compliment. I suddenly felt very protective of Kalia, and was glad she had at least one formidable friend to offer support.
As if to punctuate this thought, Tyrael pulled Kalia closer, and ruffled her hair.
"Tyrael! What has gotten into you?" Kalia grumbled then groaned, as she knew this was an open invitation for more lewdness.
"Hmm, three guesses?" Tyrael giggled, and I chuckled softly as Kalia was turning a deeper shade of red than I thought possible, yet she was saved by her March Warden.
"Please excuse us, we have unfinished business we must attend to..." Haldir replied, and firmly pulled Tyrael away.
I looked down into Kalia's eyes, a foolish grin plastered across my face. Her lips were moist and shiny in the lantern light, and I longed to kiss her, just once. I felt myself pulling her close, but before we could connect again, my father rushed over to us, his face beet red.
"Son, I will speak with you later regarding this matter." He didn't even bother to glance at Kalia, and before I could reply, he strode off with Elrond, who was speaking to him in hushed tones.
I sighed, and found Kalia was regarding him thoughtfully. I looked down into her eyes and found them blazing with worry. I felt my insides squirm nervously. It was then that I realized she had not accepted my proposal, nor returned my declaration of love.
"Legolas, I cannot accept your proposal. He will never accept me, and I will cause strife between you two."
"Kalia-"
"I love you Legolas." She smiled wistfully, and I could see her mind wander as she murmured this, "I have from the moment I laid eyes on you, and it is because of this-"
"It is because of this, that you will marry my son."
I looked up to find my mother approaching us.
"My lady." Kalia bowed low.
"Rise my child, there is no need for such formality. We are going to be family soon." Naneth placed a strong hand over Kalia's and drew her up.
"Your majesty, I did not mean any disrespect, I had no idea the Prince returned my feelings, and I know the King does not approve. I fear he will retaliate."
"He will do no such thing Kalia. His son is grown, and has made his decision, and he shall have to accept it. Now, I do believe my son owes me a proper introduction." She turned to face me, and I found my manners.
"Mother, I-you know her name, but, this is Kalia, I love her, and I wish to marry her." I looked down into Kalia's eyes as I said this, to remind her that I was still waiting for an answer.
"Pleasure to meet you m'dear." Mother embraced her warmly, and my heart sang to see genuine liking in my mother's eyes.
Kalia's eyes met mine, and I could see the debate she was having within herself. I wished for privacy, so that I might be able to show her, that it mattered not what the King wanted, I had made my decision.
"Kalia, I have something for you." Mother pulled out the mithril circlet, and Kalia gasped in response.
"Oh by the Valar, I cannot accept this."
"Why not? Do you refuse my son's proposal?" Her violet eyes met Kalia's searching for any hint of denial. Kalia met her gaze, then looked down, resigned.
"No, I accept his proposal, though it pains me to know his father disapproves." She laced her fingers with mine, and I smiled.
"Good then worry not about my husband. I assure you, he will come around." To punctuate this, mother placed the band upon Kalia's head, and kissed her cheek.
"Thank-you your majesty." Kalia bowed again, and mother placed a hand on her cheek before excusing herself.
"I must go to the king, and I am sure there are others who wish to offer their congratulations."
"Thank you Nana." I kissed her round cheek, and she left for my father's quarters.
Several moments passed, each bringing a new relative, or family friend to offer their support and congratulations. Many came to be introduced, and my Kalia maneuvered the interactions like a master. I was beaming with pride. She was a true princess at heart.
At length, Gandalf announced he would begin his fireworks display, and many left us in peace to talk, as they clambered from the tent to get a better view. With a shy smile, I took Kalia's hand in mine, and escorted her from the tent. As we left, Elladan clapped me on the shoulder roughly, and winked.
"I knew you would choose wisely!" Elladan remarked, and Elrohir simply clasped Kalia on the hand warmly, and offered a warm salutation.
Once outside, Kalia seemed to relax a bit, perhaps due to the cool shadows the great trees offered. Gandalf had placed a great cart of his rockets at the base of the waterfalls where Kalia had lured me, and we both looked at each other and grinned upon realizing this. Children were running merrily, and their laughter danced in the night air like fireflies. Couples began to stroll under the stars, and settle at the base of large trees, to snuggle and watch the show. Tyrael and Haldir emerged from the shadows again, their cheeks once again flushed in the night air.
"They are like rabbits." Kalia remarked.
"Jealous melamin?" I leaned down close to her ear, and felt my lips tickle her sensitive tip.
"Aye." She grinned, as she looked up at me, desire blazing in her eyes.
I gulped audibly.
"Kalia," I began, looking around nervously," I do believe I am going to kiss you now, before anyone else decides to converse with us."
"Ahh, you mean interrupt us?" She murmured, as she tilted her head back, to welcome my kiss.
"Exactly." I replied, before drawing her close, and claiming her lips.
To kiss her was beyond anything I had ever imagined, and I was dimly aware of the sounds the back of my throat made as we deepened the kiss. Her body was flush against my own, and her arms snaked around my neck, her fingers tangled in my hair. I hesitantly pressed my tongue against her small teeth, and she hungrily accepted, which in turn, drew a growl from deep in my throat. We both had waited too long for this moment, and as if to punctuate this assessment, Gandalf released a rocket, which sailed into the sky, then burst high above Rivendell. As the sparks flew, they floated down towards the upturned faces of the children, and fluttered like sweet smelling butterflies.
At length, the need for air tore us apart, and I drank in the sight of her lusty gaze, and bruised lips.
"Aiya." Oh She remarked, and we chuckled softly.
I laced an arm around her waist, and we finished watching the wizard set off more fireworks. Moments later, a servant from Mirkwood coughed softly to announce his presence.
"Your majesties? The king desires your company."
I felt Kalia stiffen against me.
"Thank you." I replied, and looked down at her.
"Legolas-"
"Kalia, we have settled this. He shan't bully his way out of this. He shall have to accept that I love you, or he will lose a son, and this is by no means your fault. You cannot be blamed for the station you were born to, and it should not matter to him, as it does not matter to me." She bit her lip worriedly, and I brushed my lips against her own.
"Now come, he will not be cruel to you. It is I that should be worried." She nodded, and I drew her away from the crowd.
******************************************************
"This marriage cannot take place Legolas." My father paced the floor, his footfalls louder than a dwarf.
"It will father, or you will loose a son." I set my jaw, and met his cold grey eyes. Distantly, the faint sounds of rockets soaring towards the sky could be heard.
"A baseborn? A servant girl! Could you not have had your way with her to get her out of your system then settled on a nice noblewoman? This is a phase Legolas, you will get over her!" I felt hot rage boil in my stomach, and in the background I heard Tyrael make a noise of disagreement. I assumed Haldir silenced her.
"I will not ever stop loving her father, despite what you may believe. You have known perhaps before even I knew that I loved her." He set his jaw angrily, and I was cruelly reminded of the resemblance between the two of us.
"Nay, I knew you were fascinated with her. I had hoped you had claimed her during your adolescent years, perhaps as a plaything, I did not know you pined for her. It is disgraceful, and it cannot be! You must marry a noblewoman, it is the law!"
"Thranduil, it is not unheard of for a noble to love someone beneath their station. Love knows no boundaries." Galadriel's voice soothed, yet her face was hauntingly blank.
"Please my Lady, do not try to force your traditions upon me. Just because you allow your March Warden to carry on with a servant does not mean I shall allow my son, a Prince, to marry his servant."
The Lady of the Wood's eyes glinted, as a rather noisy red rocket exploded in the night sky, and cast an eerie red glow onto her pale face.
"Tyrael is a Lady, and more than worthy of my March Warden, yet it is not her lineage that is in question here."
I felt the room gaze at Galadriel with questioning eyes, yet she did not see it fit to elaborate.
"Aye, it is not her lineage that is in question, it is the girl's, and there is little to investigate. She is a baseborn, born into servitude, and she shall die in servitude."
"Her name is Kalia father, I suggest you use it, and she shall not die a servant as long as I draw breath!" Once again another rocket was cast into the sky, and all I could see was green. The cheers of the guests grew louder, as if in agreement.
"Nor was she born into servitude Thranduil, son of Oropher."
"You speak in riddles Lady, and yet, if my son wishes to marry her, I need answers!"
He turned to face Kalia, who was sitting next to my now vacant chair.
"Who was your mother?"
"Her name was Celairiel sire."
"Who sired her?"
"I do not know sire, she perished when I was very young, but I knew she was from Lothlórien." She looked a bit ashamed, and I felt my anger mount, he had no right to interrogate her in front of everyone.
"She was from Lothlórien, and of a respectable bloodline, as Haldir can attest to." Galadriel remarked, and Haldir gave her a confused look that mirrored everyone else's.
"I beg your pardon milady, but how can I attest to this?"
"Because Haldir, Celairiel was your sister, whom you believed left the world before bearing any children." Another rocket, a silver one, exploded, and caused a series of small noisy crackling sparks to fall.
Haldir inhaled sharply, and Kalia stared deep into his eyes, a soft smile on her lips.
"I thought she perished." He whispered, and kneeled in front of Kalia, "Yet I see now, how you look like your mother. Once again I was blinded by love." He smiled, and to my surprise, tears were pooling in his eyes.
"She perished when I was barely weaned, a toddler at best. They told me she died of a broken heart." Kalia whispered, her eyes also filling with tears. "I was too young to remember my father really, and they believed I had no living relatives, so I was adopted by a family from Lothlórien, who had traveled to Mirkwood to be employed by the palace. I became a servant with my new family."
Haldir's eyes grew cold and angry, and he turned to face the king.
"Her family should have been notified! Someone should have searched for answers so that she might be with her kin."
"She should have, but there is naught that can be done to remedy this Haldir, and, I believe it was for the best that she stayed in Mirkwood in view of the current situation." Galadriel remarked gently.
Haldir nodded then rose from Kalia's side.
"So the girl has kin, she has found her mother, and now an uncle, yet with all due respect, Haldir's family is honorable, but not in a station that would allow her to marry my son. Perhaps you shall pull a father from your magic bag Galadriel?" Father groused, and I glared at him openly.
"Her father was a good man." Celeborn spoke up for the first time, and all eyes turned to face the Lord.
"Celeborn, it is not an issue of character, it is an issue of status-"
"You did not let me finish." Celeborn remarked coolly, and the King sat down, silenced.
"He was from Rivendell I believe, though I never met anyone who recalled him." Haldir murmured.
"That was because his sister, Ava, was better known here. He spent much time in Lothlórien after he met Kalia's mother and married her." Elrond remarked, suddenly remembering the fellow.
"He met her mother here?" I asked, surprised.
"His sister was named Ava?" Tyrael asked at the same time, Celeborn chose to answer my question first.
"Aye, in a story that is rather familiar, he met her during a summer tournament, when he was young, and they married under the mallorn trees in Lothlórien that fall. He never returned to Rivendell, and perished defending Lothlórien borders." Celeborn answered.
"I don't understand." Kalia sighed, frustrated. "Why did his kin not look for me? Did they not know I existed? Were they not at the wedding in Lothlórien?"
I too wondered at this, for it was most unusual for elves to marry without the family arriving to celebrate.
"He had but one sister, a hand maiden to Celebrian, and no other kin." Celeborn replied.
"Then that does not provide a means for Kalia to marry my son. You said so yourself his only kin was a hand maiden."
Elladan made a soft noise at the mention of the hand maiden, as Tyrael frowned and questioned the Lord of Lothlórien.
"My lord, Kalia's father dwelled in Rivendell, but where was he from? You have not said he was of Rivendell, nor have you clarified who his sister was."
Galadriel smiled, and turned to Tyrael.
"His sister was Ava, and who you think she was Tyrael." Tyrael's eyes widened, and she turned to Kalia excitedly.
"Kalia! We are cousins!"
"What?" Kalia gasped.
"Ava was my mother, and your father's sister. You are my cousin!"
"And Haldir's niece!" Elladan reminded excitedly, and I felt myself frozen in shock.
"I cannot believe it, all this time, we were related. We look nothing alike." Kalia murmured.
"Oh, but you certainly have a perchance for mischief that must run in the family." I teased.
"Nay, my mother was lovely, and I have never heard any rumor of her causing trouble."
"And you shan't for she did not grow up here, neither she nor her brother were born in Rivendell. And you two bear a family resemblance that is more overt than a knack for stumbling upon trouble. Tell me, what is a trait that both of you are most complimented on?"
The girls looked at each other and then turned to face Galadriel and replied in unison, "Our eyes."
"Indeed, they do have rather unusual eyes for elves, but that still does not explain-"
"For the love of Elbereth Thranduil, let the woman explain! Can't you see these girls are special?" My mother was roused from her silence, and the king had the decency to look a bit sheepish.
"Your eyes, my girls are a mark of distinction. Your parents, your mother Tyrael, and Kalia's father Eruonen, were not from Mirkwood, Lothlórien, or Rivendell. They were from Ithilien." Galadriel's voice never wavered, and the whole room gasped in shock, partly from her revelation, and partly from the deafening boom of a glittering rocket that had squealed into the sky.
"I had heard rumor of there being a settlement of elves ages ago in the forest to the east, but to my knowledge all the elves had left when a dark power grew in Mordor." I could not hide my confusion.
"They did, yet the territory is still theirs to claim, and Kalia is the rightful heir, as her father before her was the eldest son to the last known Lord of Ithilien." Celeborn allowed a small smile.
It was Kalia's turn to raise questions, and I felt I had to sit down, for the shock of the day was too much.
"Then, I am, a noblewoman?"
"Indeed, and you may lay claim on your forest at any time." Galadriel replied.
Kalia beamed at the Lady, and turned towards my father, expectantly.
"Then my son may marry her, and have my blessing." Ada grumbled, then upon a firm prod from mother, "And my apology for being boorish. I could not have him marry a servant."
"It mattered naught to me, it should not have mattered to you." I remarked, my anger flaring up again.
"Hooo! Ha ha ha ha ha!" Mithrandir's jolly voice carried into the room, splitting the tense silence, and despite myself I chuckled with everyone else.
Kalia chose this moment to address Galadriel again, her voice rising over the contented noises from the twins, Haldir, and Tyrael along with the racket that Gandalf's finale was making.
"And, Tyrael is noble too?"
"Tyrael has noble blood as well from both sides of her family." Galadriel added.
Elladan now rose from his chair, an excited yet curious look playing upon his face.
"Tyrael, who's your Ada?" He placed a hand on her arm, and despite the tense mood only moments before, Tyrael's eyes gleamed, as she replied.
"Now where have I heard that before?" She placed a long finger on her nose, and all eyes shifted toward the March Warden, who was trying to focus all his energy onto his boot.
Tyrael's eyes softened then, and her voice grew quiet.
"I did not know my father. My mother never told me."
"She was a good woman Tyrael." Elladan's voice was just as soft as Tyrael's and he met her eyes.
It was then, that my mind began to piece things together.
"You knew her?" Tyrael asked.
"I loved her, and I shall never take another as my wife. I should have married her when I had the chance, but she would not allow it, believing she was beneath my station. She left with my mother, on a trip to Rivendell and never returned."
"She was wounded, and carried to Lothlórien to heal, but she perished." Tyrael remarked.
"Elladan, she bore more than just a broken heart with her to my woods, she was with child, carrying Tyrael." Galadriel replied.
"My child." Elladan whispered, and a huge grin then lit up his face. "You are my daughter! I'm your Adar!"
Tyrael looked at him in shock, and it was then that the resemblance was noticeable. She certainly had his coloring, yet most would have written that off as due to her Rivendell lineage, but now that she was face to face with her father, the family resemblance was clear as day. Her eyes were the same shape as her father's and she had his smile.
Tyrael's face lit up and she found herself being drawn into a massive hug. Elrond rose from his chair, his jaw slack, and Elrohir laughed.
"Where have you been all these years?" Tyrael replied, breathless.
"Next door, in the house of Elrond." Elladan deadpanned, and the whole room laughed at his humor.
Elrond turned to face Galadriel.
"All these years you knew she was my granddaughter, why did you not tell me? I would have never allowed her to be a servant in my own home."
"Fancy that." Elrohir remarked, and his father gave him a warning glare.
"I had hoped that when she returned, she or her father would have noticed the similarities and guessed. I also believed she was in capable hands, and that if nothing else, Orevon would disclose to Elladan that he sired her."
"But Orevon perished before that information could be disclosed, and I never looked for my father. I didn't need one, for Orevon was a fine replacement while he was alive." Tyrael looked down shyly then looked up at Elladan.
"I am sorry, I meant no disrespect."
Elladan shook his head, and with sad eyes he remarked, "I cannot fault you Tyrael."
Elrond then turned to Haldir, who, like I, had been rather quiet throughout the discussion.
"If you wish to court my granddaughter-"
"You call that courting?" Elrohir mumbled.
Elrond shot him another dark look, and the twin closed his mouth.
"Then you shall have to behave in a more dignified manner." He finished, looking at both Tyrael and Haldir reproachfully.
"That means no more of this business in the kitchens." He finished, and Tyrael gave him a startled look.
"How did you-"
"I have eyes everywhere." He remarked, and with that he rose from his chair, and sighed.
"This evening has been too long, and I feel it is time for me to retire. I am glad the conflict is over." He stretched his back, and left the King's quarters silently.
"Mother, Father, I shall see you at breakfast. I think Kalia and I should retire now." I placed a firm hand on the small of her back, and she looked up at me, a hungry grin on her face.
"She shall retire, to her room, until accommodations that are appropriate for her station can be prepared." I turned to my mother in shock.
"Nana?"
"She shall retire, and sleep, alone Legolas."
Kalia blushed furiously, and I felt my mouth open and close like a fish. I turned to my father and found he wore a smug grin.
"All royal engagements are marked with a period of celibacy prior to the wedding. It allows the couple to be certain that they wish to spend eternity together."
"How long does this period last?" I felt my throat run dry.
"As long as it takes to prepare for the wedding, which, in this case, given your station, should take a year." Mother's eyes lit up with what I knew was the joy of having a year to deliberate over fabrics, dishes, and a sizable guest list.
"A year." My voice squeaked, and I felt my shoulders sag.
"A year, and don't slouch son, it's most unbecoming, now go on, this is a most inappropriate conversation for me to be having with you." She clucked, and shoved me from the room.
"Sleep well son." My father clapped a large hand on my shoulder, and for the first time all evening, I felt a great surge of sympathy towards him, and saw the same emotion mirrored in his eyes.
Moments later, we were in the halls, heading towards the garden courtyard that connected my wing and Haldir's. We all paused for a moment, digesting what we had learned.
"A whole year. I've waited a thousand years, now this!" I sighed, and sat on the bench, pulling Kalia onto my lap absentmindedly.
I needed to touch her as much as possible, since I knew mother was not jesting when she said I was not to sleep with her. Oh, how I had dreams of loving her that evening, until the sun rose, and I could see her eyes light up with pleasure, and hear her soft cries as I found her most sensitive spots.
"Legolas, stop that." She looked up at me, and I coughed a bit embarrassed, as I realized my body was stirring. I shifted to allow a position in which she would not be accosted.
"I have eyes, everywhere, indeed. I hope he does not have eyes in the courtyard near the archery ranges." Tyrael mumbled.
"Or on the trees that line the western most part of the field where Gandalf was displaying his fireworks." Haldir added softly.
"Or behind the north side of the party tent." Tyrael added with a sigh.
"Or against the wall in the hall leading to the music room." Haldir added, his eyes glinting with a familiar fire.
"Or beside the fountains in the rose garden." Tyrael added her mouth curling as she turned to face Haldir.
"Or in my quarters." He scrambled to his feet.
"Or in my quarters." She leapt onto her feet.
"Enough already! Just, rub it in why don't you!" Kalia snapped, and they paused, and looked at the ground sheepishly.
"Sorry Kalia, Legolas. We were being inconsiderate." Haldir mumbled.
"Right, sorry and all that." Tyrael added hastily, yet I still heard her motioning to leave.
"Not so fast little girl." Elladan approached us, his eyes dark with a mixture of protectiveness and mischief.
"Yes Ada?"
"Don't you yes Ada me. Haldir and I shall have a little chit-chat before he retires tonight. I need to know of his intentions. You should retire."
"He has known he is my father for one hour, and already I am being sent to bed." Tyrael grumbled, as she pulled away from Haldir with a pout. She knew from Elladan's eyes, that he was just as serious as he was playful.
"I'm going to rest too, I am exhausted, it seems like the tournament this morning was an age ago." Kalia blinked her eyes sleepily, and faced me.
"Goodnight love. I shall collect you in the morning. There shall be no more chores for the future Princess of Mirkwood, nor the Lady of Ithilien." I kissed her forehead softly.
"It shall be so strange to wake up after the sun has risen, and not have to fret over Haldir's laundry." She grinned, and Haldir reached over and tugged a strand of her hair playfully.
"At least your master wears clothes to sleep," Tyrael retorted. "I have a whole new perspective on the term Great Greenwood."
I gave her a mock glare.
"Lucky bastard." Kalia grumbled.
"Look who's talking." Tyrael giggled, and Kalia joined in.
"Goodnight cousin. Uncle, when you retire I would like a word with you, wake me even if I am sleep please." Haldir started a bit at the term uncle, but nodded after a brief pause.
"Goodnight cousin, Elladan, Elrohir." Kalia roused herself from my legs and I rose with her. She gave me a questioning look.
"I decided I wish to walk you to your room." She considered this for a moment then nodded.
Too soon for my liking, we arrived at her room, and she opened the door shyly. She stepped into the doorway, and turned around, her face a mixture of sleepiness and slight embarrassment.
"Goodnight Legolas-again." She replied wryly, and I smiled, feigning innocence.
"Goodnight, Kalia." I murmured, before leaning down to kiss her again.
As if they possessed a mind of their own, my hands found her waist again, and soon she was pressed against me, while our tongues battled for dominance. I placed wet kisses on her exposed neck, and once again, my teeth grazed her ear tips. She shuddered in response, and a groan erupted from the back of my throat.
"Legolas," I kissed her chin, as she continued, "I have to sleep love."
I kissed the side of her mouth then nipped the space where her collarbone connected with her neck, and she hissed in response. Encouraged, I felt my legs backing her into the room.
"You shall sleep," I remarked, my voice unchecked and raw with desire, while I captured her mouth again.
"Valar this is difficult Legolas! Too long, too long." She murmured, as her hands tangled in my hair, and her legs parted against me.
Instinctively, I lifted her up, and her legs wrapped around my waist, as I crossed the threshold into her room.
"Yes," I remarked with gritted teeth, as her body trembled against mine. "Too long"
I placed her down onto the bed, and before I could look down upon her, her small hands clasped my tunic and pulled me atop her. I let out a small cry, before lifting myself up on my elbows and kissing her again. My hands gathered her skirts underneath us, while my lips and teeth nipped the exposed part of her cleavage. She leaned her head back with a soft moan as I kissed the very spot I had just nipped, then she froze suddenly.
"What is it?" I looked down at her, confused. Had I hurt her?
"Oh no! Someone is coming!" In a move that would have done Haldir proud, she kicked me off the bed, and I landed with a thud onto the floor. With lightening quick reflexes she leapt off the bed, and smoothed her hair down. I was just getting to my feet when the door swung open.
"Have you seen my son?"
Kalia's eyes widened, and for the first time in a century, I cursed her inability to hide her emotions.
"He erm, well-"
"I am here father, I was saying goodnight." I cleared my throat, and smoothed my hair down, before stepping into view.
"Ah, there you are, come along son." His eyes glinted wickedly, and I groaned inwardly. He would make sure I suffered in celibacy along with him.
"Goodnight Legolas." Kalia replied softly, and kissed my cheek chastely.
"Goodnight Kalia, I love you." I replied, and kissed her forehead.
Reluctantly, I stepped away from her, following my father who had left us for a moment of privacy. I pulled the door closed, and just before it was closed completely, I heard Kalia's soft cry.
"Legolas?"
"Uma?" I opened the door slightly again.
"I love you too." She answered her voice a bit shy. I smiled broadly at her, and closed the door.
I followed Ada through the corridors, and when we parted ways, I waited until he was out of sight, before silently slipping back to her quarters. I knocked on the door softly, and after a few moments she opened the door, now changed into a sheer nightgown.
I gulped.
"Legolas, what are you doing here?" She hissed.
I laughed softly at my adolescent behavior.
"I wanted to see you one more time." I murmured softly, as I leaned down for a kiss again.
Once again her lips were mine, and I lapped up the taste of her as if my life depended on it. Once again her body was pressed against mine, and it was only when I began to stir that she eased herself away from me, her eyes gazing down at my problem…area like a mother would look at a soiled diaper.
For the first time in my life, I cursed an elf's libido.
"You have seen me, good night." She replied, as she moved me away from her, out of her room then shut the door firmly. I let out an indignant squawk before leaning against the door in defeat. This elleth would be the death of me!
Just then, the door flew open, and I fell onto my back onto the floor with a yelp. Kalia looked down upon me, startled, then began to laugh furiously.
"Fool! Curse your lust riddled brain!" She could barely breathe through her giggles.
"Laugh if you must." I replied with a sniff as I pulled myself up from the floor.
"Awww." She crooned, and stood on her tiptoes to kiss me softly. As my hands reached out to cling to her, her own small hands captured my wrists, and gently but firmly shoved me out of the room.
"Goodnight Legolas." She repeated, firmly, with a definitive "snick" of the door closing. I made my way back to my quarters, my ass still sore from falling, and a foolish smile on my lips.
Sleep would not come easily for me that night, as I was wrapped in the memory of her soft body beneath me well into the night. Eventually, I did drift off, but only when I convinced myself that I needed rest, as I had an early morning ahead of me, for I intended to be the first person she saw when she opened her eyes in the morning.
Alrighty, now for me review replies, I decided to put them on the end cause I am pleased to say, we got 23 reviews for chapter 10, and 18 for 11 part on at the time I wrote this message! So, here goes:
Chapter 11 comments:
Crystal Snowflakes: LOL Glad you thought the little erm love confession was amusing.
Jamie: You just liked the idea of a semi-nekked Haldir. *winks*
Ebony: Thanks for the compliment.
Silverdracowolf: Well, I think me chappie answers that.
Pixie: LOL@ You girls. Well yes, there are two Cinderellaesque stories in here, it's a Val-u-package. LOL. And erm, well my chappie answered speculation bout Legolas, now you will have to speculate on other things.
P3gurl: Well thanks again, and erm, I've been told I'm ok at helping with smut, though, in all seriousness, you should only do what your comfortable with. Tha only reason I helped Andy is cause well, she had me by the hair, and because it was necessary for the story, as you shall see in later chapters….
Tamara: Will do.
Elisabeth: Er, kinda redundant but you have read it by now, but ta for the review. J
Goddess(elf, green eyed) lol: LOL@ U squealing. Good. :D
Sokochan: Ya, you and half the ppl that read this.
Mel: I'm sorry! See above for explaination! L
Vendea: Glad you liked it! Can't comment of Lego's state of dress… ;)
Potterluva: It's here! Thanks for the review!
Mary-clare: Will do! Glad you likes it.
Knowinsight: We will continue…
Dakota: Thanks for the glowing review! Hope you continue reading!
Chapter 10 comments:
Silverdracowolf: You made me nearly pee my pants laughing at your twitching eye. I'm sorry we left a cliffy, but it gets better with this chapter. *grin*
Jamie: Well, you are a but, but I loves ya for reviewing and being an awesome beta. Now do your homework!
Crystal Snowflakes: I'm glad you likes me fic, I was so tickled when you begged for more, imagine, Miss "Elves are not Perfect." Authoress wanting me fic. *sigh* Sorry about the erm, lemonade, but you can just scroll past that part, cause I swear at the heart of this is a good romance. Well, I hope it will be a good romance. ;).
Sokochan: Well one person that was certain that Mr. Leaf will pick Kalia eh? *smiles* Oh, and lemmie 'plain the whole noble kids playin in the band. I wanted it to be more like a recital of sorts, a chance for the nobles to show off their skills to their parents. Not like they were hired help. Make a lil sense? Ok. Good.
Tamara: Well, I think the next chappie, well part two, clears that up.
Gypsy: Ta, for callin it a brilliant chappie. *sigh*
Ebony: Yes, yes I'm evil. But it hurts so good. *grins evilly*
Draekon: Well, of all the reviews I got, this one touched me the most. That's the nicest thing anyone has ever told me except my English teach years ago, who told me I was a Maya Angelou in the making. LOL Then again, *cocks her eyebrow* I think she was teasing…anyhow. I am aware that my characters(I write Lego and Kalia's) view things a bit differently, because perception is relative. In fact, that is the whole point really, it's a motivational element that leads to more conflict for them in the future. However, I try not to dwell too hard on how Legolas perceives it vs Kalia, or even Kalia vs Tyrael, because it should feel natural. And thanks again for the lovely compliment on my visual of the Homely House. I sometimes worry I wax poetic too much.
Pixie an Candyfloss: Well, thank you for making us a popular writer in (UK?) your class. Perhaps if enough underage teens that aren't supposed to read stuff Rated R get a hold of it, I can publish it and live in infamy forever. *giggles* J/K Its cool to know some many of your class likes it, but erm, ya might wanna wait till lunch break or somfin to read it, lest you get kicked out, especially considering the chapters we have written, hee hee and the chapters we are writing. *grins*
Elisabeth: Ya, well, Part two kinda fixes that…
Honolulu: See above comment LOL.
AragornsFavorite: Ya, you can play wit him, we share our toys. ;)
Green Eyed Elf Goddess: Sorry we kept you up, but I hope you likes.
Vendea: LOL Don't tell ppl you went to a backstreet boys concert. LMAO jk. Well good I'm glad you liked Kalia's groove.
P3Gurl: Well, I'm sorry *hands you a lolly*.
Mirlomien1: Interesting..lol
Clumseysweetpea: I'm assuming you are part of the pixe/candy clan? LOL Glad you like it?
Ittybittykitty: LOL Yes, Kalia's hair was cut in retaliation to her little waterful adventure.
Rori: Can do!
Marsipan: Thank you so much for the glowing compliment!
Ravaran: LOL@ your review. Thanks for liking/caring hon.
@@@@@@@@*****Well, that's all for now, what did you think of this chappie?? Please develop a nervous tick that requires you click on that pretty grey button down low and type some stuff mmmkay?? Good! ********@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@