"Well, these are your quarters. Come and find someone if you require anything."

I nodded shyly and walked into the room. The maid smiled and curtseyed, and hurried down the hallway.

The rooms were lovely. They were round floor and looking out on a courtyard. The many windows were only a few feet off the ground.

"Come on, M'dear. The banquet starts in a few minutes. You are expected to be there on time." Valiane led me over to a short stool in front of a polished silver mirror.

"What am I wearing tonight?"

"Your mother's old dress." She rummaged in one of my trunks and took out a petal pink, silk dress with pearl embroidery.

It was truly beautiful. I didn't even mind wearing it, even though it was a dress.

Valiane left my hair down. I only wore a simple pearl set in a thin gold chain as jewelry.

I glided through the door of the ballroom with Valiane at my heels.

Legolas's blue eyes widened as he took in my appearance. I smiled smugly and sat in my appointed place next to him.

The meal went quickly. The Elves of Mirkwood were much rowdier and less sober than the Elves of Rivendell.

"Remember, as soon as we've completed dinner, you've got to get up and start the dancing." Valiane whispered in my ear. I nodded silently.

I finished my strawberries and stood as Legolas took my elbow.

"Ouch!" I said as Legolas stepped on my foot and I twisted my ankle.

"Shut up! My best friend is watching me and laughing!" He replied frantically.

"Ow! Legolas, you do that again and I'll make myself faint!"

"You won't."

"Oh, just watch me." And with that, I rolled my eyes upward and collapsed.