Disclaimer: I do not own any of the Lotr charcters, nor poems, nor songs.
**************************** **************************
'cause every time that you're next to me,
There's no doubt in my mind,
That you're right where you should be,
And if you'd just hold me,
I'd never be lonely again,
You're my every wish,
My dream come true,
My everything,
If only you knew.'
(Song by Kristine W- If only)
Chapter 8: Unexpected visitors
There in the hallway stood the Lady of the golden wood, all eyes in the room were turned towards her.
Slowly Lady Galadriel walked into the room and all were mesmerized by her grace and beauty.
"Mea Govannen, arwenamin Altariel, creoso a Mirkwood, Well met, Lady Galadriel, welcome to Mirkwood," king Thranduil greeted her from upon his throne.
"Nae saian luume' aran Thranduil, it has been to long, king," lady Galadriel replied politely.
She stopped in front of Aerin. Aerin made a slight curtsy before her, she didn't have the nerve to look lady Galadriel in the eye, afraid of what she might see.
It didn't matter for the voice of the lady was already inside her head, speaking words to her only she could hear.
"Do not be afraid, my child, although you revealed your gift, you did it for the right reason," the words echoed through Aerin's mind.
She looked up in relief and immediately her eyes were locked with those of her aunt. A gentle smile crept at the corners of lady Galadriel's mouth when she saw the expression on her niece's face, then she turned her attention towards king Thranduil.
"My lord, my coming is of an urgent matter, I wish to discus with you in private."
King Thranduil immediately stood up from his throne and approached the lady.
"We shall go to my private quarters, if you would follow me, my lady."
He held out his arm, which she took, and together they left the room.
Aerin sighed and looked at Haldir. "What would be so urgent that the lady would come here herself and not send a messenger?" Aerin asked Haldir, curiously.
"I wish I knew, but it must be very important," Haldir's eyebrows were knitted together, he seemed to be in deep thought.
It was only then that Aerin noticed a girl standing in the corner of the room.
"Aranwe!" she cried out in delight and swiftly walked up to the girl.
The girl looked up in her direction and a big, warm smile appeared on her face.
"Aerin, mellonamin. Cormamin lindua ele lle, my friend. My heart sings to see thee."
They gave each other a warm embrace.
"How are you, my friend?" Aerin asked, overjoyed to see her best friend.
"I am just fine, but tell me how you are?" she gave her friend a meaningful look.
"A lot has happened since I have left fair Lorien," Aerin replied as her face saddened a bit.
"I understand you must miss the golden forest, but Mirkwood is a wonderful place as well," Aranwe tried to cheer her up.
"Yes, quite wonderful," Aerin unconsciously glanced at Legolas, whom was talking to Haldir and Alderon.
"Who might he be, dear friend?" Aranwe asked ginning, following her friends gaze.
"Prince Legolas of Mirkwood, Alderon's older brother," Aerin explained to her friend.
"Well?" Aranwe looked expectantly at her best friend.
"Well what?" Aerin asked, not comprehending.
"Will you not introduce me to them or are you going to stand her all day googly eying at that fair prince," Aranwe smiled mischievously at her.
"I do not know what you are talking about," Aerin blushed slightly.
Legolas saw Aerin approaching them, a girl he'd never seen before walked by her side.
"Aerin, Melamin, Oio naa elealla alasse', my love, ever is thy sight a joy," Alderon greeted her; he took her hand in his and kissed the palm of her hand.
"And who might this be?" he asked her, looking at Aranwe.
"This, my prince, is Aranwe Goldwing of Lorien, my best friend," Aerin told him proudly.
"Well, Aranwe. I am prince Alderon and this is my brother prince Legolas, we welcome you to Mirkwood," Alderon smiled at her.
"It is a pleasure to meet you." Aranwe replied. Making a small curtsy.
"We were just talking about lady Galadriel's visit," Haldir informed them.
"Do you know anything about it, Aranwe?" Haldir asked her, they had all turned their attention towards her.
"I do not know. I only know that the day before our departure, the lady had looked into her mirror," she told them, shrugging her shoulders.
"Well, what ever it is, be it good or ill news, I hope it does not interfere with the upcoming ball and off course our wedding," Alderon looked lovingly into Aerin's eyes as he spoke those last words.
Aerin averted her eyes, the wedding, still so many mixed feelings. Ever since the day she healed Legolas, she had known for certain she loved him and him alone, but she wasn't so certain about his feelings for her.
Yes, he kissed her but he never once told her he loved her.
It didn't matter anyway, she was still destined to marry Alderon.
Ever since the day she had healed Legolas, she had known for certain she loved him and him alone, but she wasn't so certain about his feelings for her.
Yes, he kissed her but he never once told her he loved her.
It didn't matter anyway, she was still destined to marry Alderon.
Aerin unconsciously bit her lower lip.
"Aerin, are you all right?" Alderon asked, examining her.
"Yes, I guess I just need a bit of fresh air, that is all," she murmured softly.
"Shall I accompany you, my dear?" Alderon asked, still concerned.
"No thank you, I just need to be alone," she gently refused his offer.
Aerin walked out of the room, her friends watching her as she left.
"Is she really alright, Haldir?" Aranwe whispered. *********************** *****************************
The fresh air cleared Aerin's mind slightly as she slowly took in deep breaths of air.
She felt a bit guilty leaving Aranwe behind, but she couldn't stand to see the love for her, reflected in Alderon's eyes. A love she could never return to him in that same way.
She had fetched the book, which contained the tale of Beren and Luthien from the library and was searching for the perfect spot to start reading it.
She stopped in front of a big old oak tree and decided that this would be a good spot.
Aerin was so caught up in the story, that she didn't hear the footsteps and didn't notice the person, whom had stopped in front of her.
"I see you are reading the book, which I have recommended to you," an all too familiar voice spoke to her. "Mani uma lle merna, Legolas? what do you want," she asked Legolas, without looking up from her book.
"I wanted to know if you were well, you left without saying a word," he explained, examining her fair face.
Aerin was still staring into her book, unable to read anymore, but she didn't want to look into his eyes, afraid of losing herself into those beautiful blue eyes.
"I am quite well as you can see, I just need to be by myself, so if you would be so kind as to leave me alone," she snapped at him, regretting her words the moment they came out of her mouth.
"Manka lle merna, arwenamin, as you wish, my lady," Legolas felt his heart sadden as she rejected his company.
Aerin cursed herself when she saw the sadness in his eyes, it wasn't her intention to hurt him in any way, but still she had done so. She couldn't explain why she felt irritated by his presence.
Why? She asked herself, but no answer came to mind.
"Wait, please wait, Legolas," she pleaded, almost desperately.
Legolas turned and his face was so full of sorrow that it almost broke her heart.
"Please forgive my harsh words, they were not meant for you. Although I do not deserve your company, I would be very pleased if you would stay here with me," her face clearly showing remorse for her harsh words.
Legolas hope regained at these words and he immediately sat down beside her under the oak tree.
"Amin hiraetha, can you forgive my foolish behaviour? I am sorry," she asked him again.
"How can I not forgive you, Lirimear? lovely one," his eyes shone brightly, like two beautiful sapphires.
"But tell me what it is that worries you, Lothamin? my flower."
"There are so many things that occupy my mind now a days, please, do not ask me to explain them to you," she stammered softly, averting her eyes.
For a moment there was an awkward silence between them.
Legolas wished she would open up to him, giving him the chance to help her or even to reassure her, but she seemed to refuse to let him into her heart.
"So tell me what ball was your brother speaking off?" Aerin asked, hoping that another subject would break the silence between them.
Legolas was not prepared for this sudden change of subject.
"Is this why you wanted my company, to satisfy your own curiosity," he teased her.
"No, I want your company because I enjoy it very much. Now tell me about this ball?" she demanded, laughing.
"The ball is given in honour of my miraculous recovery," he explained to her, amused.
"I still have not thanked you for saving my life," he gazed into her eyes, while his hand slid on hers.
"Who are you going to escort to the ball?" she whispered softly, feeling the fast pounding of her heart.
"I was thinking of you, but I guess that is not an option," a sad gloom appeared in his eyes.
"No, I guess not," she couldn't take the hurt, that was clearly visible on his fair face and before she knew it, she kissed him softly on his lips.
"Promise me you will give me the first dance of the evening," he whispered, encouraged by her sudden kiss.
"I promise," she replied, knowing it was a promise she couldn't keep.
Legolas slowly bowed his head towards her, he wanted to feel her warm, sweet lips upon his again. Aerin automatically cupped her head and waited for his kiss.
The moment was interrupted by several voices calling her name.
Legolas and Aerin recognized the voices and stood up rapidly, both realised that they were almost caught and blushed heavily.
Alderon and Aranwe came into sight.
"There you are, I have been looking all over for you," she told her friend, smiling.
"Mani nae lle umien? what have you been doing?" Aranwe asked Aerin as she eyed Legolas.
"Yes, what were you two doing?" Alderon repeated, glaring suspicious at his brother.
"Legolas bumped into me while I was reading a book," Aerin explained to Alderon, pointing at the book, which was lying in the grass.
Alderon still looked a little suspicious, but nevertheless gave her a loving smile and ignored his brother.
"Why were you looking for me, my prince?" Aerin asked him curiously.
"To tell you that a council will be held in de morrow by the request of the lady Galadriel," he informed her.
"Do you know why?" Legolas asked his brother.
Alderon did not answer his question and still ignored him. Aranwe, whom was oblivious to the fact that Alderon was deliberately not answering his brother's question, decided to answer it.
"We do not know, Haldir is with her as we speak."
"Then let us go back to the palace and prepare for the council. Are you hungry, Melamin? my love," Alderon said and held his arm out for Aerin.
Aerin nodded and smiled at Alderon, then she turned her head and looked at Legolas.
"Are you coming with us?"
Legolas looked at her and then at his brothers' face. Alderon was giving him an angry look.
"No, my stomach has to wait until tonight, I am afraid, I still have some unfinished business to take care off, so if you would excuse me."
He bowed his head and disappeared behind the trees.
Legolas felt his brother's distrust towards him growing and couldn't blame him for feeling the way he did.
He loved his brother dearly, but he also knew he couldn't change his feelings for Aerin. He loved her and knew that living without her would be the death of him. ********************************* ********************
Disclaimer: Re-writing this is difficult. I don't want to change too much. I hope it is still to your liking! I am proud of this chapter! Aranwe is going to be an important character in my story, besides Aerin needs a female friend in this story!
Until the next chapter!
Lady of Legolas: Surprise! It's Lady Galadriel! I really thought you would've guessed!
John loves you: Thank you for reviewing!
Aramis1: Thank you so much for your review and again I apologize for any spelling mistakes.
Elvish-lilypad: Keep reading and I'll keep writing!
Sweetodkgirl: Thank you..Thank you. Thank you.
'cause every time that you're next to me,
There's no doubt in my mind,
That you're right where you should be,
And if you'd just hold me,
I'd never be lonely again,
You're my every wish,
My dream come true,
My everything,
If only you knew.'
(Song by Kristine W- If only)
Chapter 8: Unexpected visitors
There in the hallway stood the Lady of the golden wood, all eyes in the room were turned towards her.
Slowly Lady Galadriel walked into the room and all were mesmerized by her grace and beauty.
"Mea Govannen, arwenamin Altariel, creoso a Mirkwood, Well met, Lady Galadriel, welcome to Mirkwood," king Thranduil greeted her from upon his throne.
"Nae saian luume' aran Thranduil, it has been to long, king," lady Galadriel replied politely.
She stopped in front of Aerin. Aerin made a slight curtsy before her, she didn't have the nerve to look lady Galadriel in the eye, afraid of what she might see.
It didn't matter for the voice of the lady was already inside her head, speaking words to her only she could hear.
"Do not be afraid, my child, although you revealed your gift, you did it for the right reason," the words echoed through Aerin's mind.
She looked up in relief and immediately her eyes were locked with those of her aunt. A gentle smile crept at the corners of lady Galadriel's mouth when she saw the expression on her niece's face, then she turned her attention towards king Thranduil.
"My lord, my coming is of an urgent matter, I wish to discus with you in private."
King Thranduil immediately stood up from his throne and approached the lady.
"We shall go to my private quarters, if you would follow me, my lady."
He held out his arm, which she took, and together they left the room.
Aerin sighed and looked at Haldir. "What would be so urgent that the lady would come here herself and not send a messenger?" Aerin asked Haldir, curiously.
"I wish I knew, but it must be very important," Haldir's eyebrows were knitted together, he seemed to be in deep thought.
It was only then that Aerin noticed a girl standing in the corner of the room.
"Aranwe!" she cried out in delight and swiftly walked up to the girl.
The girl looked up in her direction and a big, warm smile appeared on her face.
"Aerin, mellonamin. Cormamin lindua ele lle, my friend. My heart sings to see thee."
They gave each other a warm embrace.
"How are you, my friend?" Aerin asked, overjoyed to see her best friend.
"I am just fine, but tell me how you are?" she gave her friend a meaningful look.
"A lot has happened since I have left fair Lorien," Aerin replied as her face saddened a bit.
"I understand you must miss the golden forest, but Mirkwood is a wonderful place as well," Aranwe tried to cheer her up.
"Yes, quite wonderful," Aerin unconsciously glanced at Legolas, whom was talking to Haldir and Alderon.
"Who might he be, dear friend?" Aranwe asked ginning, following her friends gaze.
"Prince Legolas of Mirkwood, Alderon's older brother," Aerin explained to her friend.
"Well?" Aranwe looked expectantly at her best friend.
"Well what?" Aerin asked, not comprehending.
"Will you not introduce me to them or are you going to stand her all day googly eying at that fair prince," Aranwe smiled mischievously at her.
"I do not know what you are talking about," Aerin blushed slightly.
Legolas saw Aerin approaching them, a girl he'd never seen before walked by her side.
"Aerin, Melamin, Oio naa elealla alasse', my love, ever is thy sight a joy," Alderon greeted her; he took her hand in his and kissed the palm of her hand.
"And who might this be?" he asked her, looking at Aranwe.
"This, my prince, is Aranwe Goldwing of Lorien, my best friend," Aerin told him proudly.
"Well, Aranwe. I am prince Alderon and this is my brother prince Legolas, we welcome you to Mirkwood," Alderon smiled at her.
"It is a pleasure to meet you." Aranwe replied. Making a small curtsy.
"We were just talking about lady Galadriel's visit," Haldir informed them.
"Do you know anything about it, Aranwe?" Haldir asked her, they had all turned their attention towards her.
"I do not know. I only know that the day before our departure, the lady had looked into her mirror," she told them, shrugging her shoulders.
"Well, what ever it is, be it good or ill news, I hope it does not interfere with the upcoming ball and off course our wedding," Alderon looked lovingly into Aerin's eyes as he spoke those last words.
Aerin averted her eyes, the wedding, still so many mixed feelings. Ever since the day she healed Legolas, she had known for certain she loved him and him alone, but she wasn't so certain about his feelings for her.
Yes, he kissed her but he never once told her he loved her.
It didn't matter anyway, she was still destined to marry Alderon.
Ever since the day she had healed Legolas, she had known for certain she loved him and him alone, but she wasn't so certain about his feelings for her.
Yes, he kissed her but he never once told her he loved her.
It didn't matter anyway, she was still destined to marry Alderon.
Aerin unconsciously bit her lower lip.
"Aerin, are you all right?" Alderon asked, examining her.
"Yes, I guess I just need a bit of fresh air, that is all," she murmured softly.
"Shall I accompany you, my dear?" Alderon asked, still concerned.
"No thank you, I just need to be alone," she gently refused his offer.
Aerin walked out of the room, her friends watching her as she left.
"Is she really alright, Haldir?" Aranwe whispered. *********************** *****************************
The fresh air cleared Aerin's mind slightly as she slowly took in deep breaths of air.
She felt a bit guilty leaving Aranwe behind, but she couldn't stand to see the love for her, reflected in Alderon's eyes. A love she could never return to him in that same way.
She had fetched the book, which contained the tale of Beren and Luthien from the library and was searching for the perfect spot to start reading it.
She stopped in front of a big old oak tree and decided that this would be a good spot.
Aerin was so caught up in the story, that she didn't hear the footsteps and didn't notice the person, whom had stopped in front of her.
"I see you are reading the book, which I have recommended to you," an all too familiar voice spoke to her. "Mani uma lle merna, Legolas? what do you want," she asked Legolas, without looking up from her book.
"I wanted to know if you were well, you left without saying a word," he explained, examining her fair face.
Aerin was still staring into her book, unable to read anymore, but she didn't want to look into his eyes, afraid of losing herself into those beautiful blue eyes.
"I am quite well as you can see, I just need to be by myself, so if you would be so kind as to leave me alone," she snapped at him, regretting her words the moment they came out of her mouth.
"Manka lle merna, arwenamin, as you wish, my lady," Legolas felt his heart sadden as she rejected his company.
Aerin cursed herself when she saw the sadness in his eyes, it wasn't her intention to hurt him in any way, but still she had done so. She couldn't explain why she felt irritated by his presence.
Why? She asked herself, but no answer came to mind.
"Wait, please wait, Legolas," she pleaded, almost desperately.
Legolas turned and his face was so full of sorrow that it almost broke her heart.
"Please forgive my harsh words, they were not meant for you. Although I do not deserve your company, I would be very pleased if you would stay here with me," her face clearly showing remorse for her harsh words.
Legolas hope regained at these words and he immediately sat down beside her under the oak tree.
"Amin hiraetha, can you forgive my foolish behaviour? I am sorry," she asked him again.
"How can I not forgive you, Lirimear? lovely one," his eyes shone brightly, like two beautiful sapphires.
"But tell me what it is that worries you, Lothamin? my flower."
"There are so many things that occupy my mind now a days, please, do not ask me to explain them to you," she stammered softly, averting her eyes.
For a moment there was an awkward silence between them.
Legolas wished she would open up to him, giving him the chance to help her or even to reassure her, but she seemed to refuse to let him into her heart.
"So tell me what ball was your brother speaking off?" Aerin asked, hoping that another subject would break the silence between them.
Legolas was not prepared for this sudden change of subject.
"Is this why you wanted my company, to satisfy your own curiosity," he teased her.
"No, I want your company because I enjoy it very much. Now tell me about this ball?" she demanded, laughing.
"The ball is given in honour of my miraculous recovery," he explained to her, amused.
"I still have not thanked you for saving my life," he gazed into her eyes, while his hand slid on hers.
"Who are you going to escort to the ball?" she whispered softly, feeling the fast pounding of her heart.
"I was thinking of you, but I guess that is not an option," a sad gloom appeared in his eyes.
"No, I guess not," she couldn't take the hurt, that was clearly visible on his fair face and before she knew it, she kissed him softly on his lips.
"Promise me you will give me the first dance of the evening," he whispered, encouraged by her sudden kiss.
"I promise," she replied, knowing it was a promise she couldn't keep.
Legolas slowly bowed his head towards her, he wanted to feel her warm, sweet lips upon his again. Aerin automatically cupped her head and waited for his kiss.
The moment was interrupted by several voices calling her name.
Legolas and Aerin recognized the voices and stood up rapidly, both realised that they were almost caught and blushed heavily.
Alderon and Aranwe came into sight.
"There you are, I have been looking all over for you," she told her friend, smiling.
"Mani nae lle umien? what have you been doing?" Aranwe asked Aerin as she eyed Legolas.
"Yes, what were you two doing?" Alderon repeated, glaring suspicious at his brother.
"Legolas bumped into me while I was reading a book," Aerin explained to Alderon, pointing at the book, which was lying in the grass.
Alderon still looked a little suspicious, but nevertheless gave her a loving smile and ignored his brother.
"Why were you looking for me, my prince?" Aerin asked him curiously.
"To tell you that a council will be held in de morrow by the request of the lady Galadriel," he informed her.
"Do you know why?" Legolas asked his brother.
Alderon did not answer his question and still ignored him. Aranwe, whom was oblivious to the fact that Alderon was deliberately not answering his brother's question, decided to answer it.
"We do not know, Haldir is with her as we speak."
"Then let us go back to the palace and prepare for the council. Are you hungry, Melamin? my love," Alderon said and held his arm out for Aerin.
Aerin nodded and smiled at Alderon, then she turned her head and looked at Legolas.
"Are you coming with us?"
Legolas looked at her and then at his brothers' face. Alderon was giving him an angry look.
"No, my stomach has to wait until tonight, I am afraid, I still have some unfinished business to take care off, so if you would excuse me."
He bowed his head and disappeared behind the trees.
Legolas felt his brother's distrust towards him growing and couldn't blame him for feeling the way he did.
He loved his brother dearly, but he also knew he couldn't change his feelings for Aerin. He loved her and knew that living without her would be the death of him. ********************************* ********************
Disclaimer: Re-writing this is difficult. I don't want to change too much. I hope it is still to your liking! I am proud of this chapter! Aranwe is going to be an important character in my story, besides Aerin needs a female friend in this story!
Until the next chapter!
Lady of Legolas: Surprise! It's Lady Galadriel! I really thought you would've guessed!
John loves you: Thank you for reviewing!
Aramis1: Thank you so much for your review and again I apologize for any spelling mistakes.
Elvish-lilypad: Keep reading and I'll keep writing!
Sweetodkgirl: Thank you..Thank you. Thank you.