A/N: C'mon reviewers! Let's try for 40 reviews!!!! I read through all the reviews for the previous chapters, and I tried to put as much of all the stuff you guys love into this chapter. I hope it works out OK. Unfortunately, although tremendously popular in its debut in Chapter Eight, The Jingle for Goldfish is not going to be in this chapter because... well, it just doesn't go well. Maybe the next chapter, I'll see. Oh, and while on the topic of songs, can you think of any good traveling songs for Nicole to sing? Put them in your review, PLEASE!!!!! Thanks! *smiles sweetly* ~MoI~
Disclaimer: read previous chapter disclaimers because I am simply too lazy to write another one. sorry.
Home Sweet Home
Chapter Eighteen ~ Nine Dancers to Rule the Ball
*One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two, thrEEEEOWW!*
Nicole winced and hastily apologized for the umpteenth time in the past hour. She had stepped on Tarcalen's toes again. He stood on one leg, rubbing his fingers on his injured foot and trying not to glare at the girl.
*I think it be wisest if we stopped now,* the older Elf muttered and sank onto the edge of the bed as there were no chairs remaining in the room.
*NO!* The abrupt cry made Tarcalen jump back up from his seat, Nicole look up in surprise, and the dressmaker poke herself with a needle. The latter glared at the intrusive noise and went back to work.
Ella had rushed back into the room just in time to hear Tarcalen's words and a look of pure panic was currently expressed in her features. *You can't stop! Keep going, go, learn!* she cried, hastily shoving Tarcalen at Nicole again. *It's tonight, do you understand that? Tonight!* Having finished her raving, she ran back out of the room to go attend to the other preparations.
Nicole couldn't help raising an eyebrow. *And you people think that I'm the crazy one?*
*Let's just get back to work,* sighed Tarcalen, taking Nicole's hand and putting one hand on her waist. They were in the midst of a rather painful attempt at teaching Nicole how to dance. So far, all they had to show for it was a very clumsy Elf-version of a waltz and Tarcalen's slight limp. As well as one very annoyed girl wearing a purple frock (forced on her by Ella) and a dressmaker with several more yards of fabric to deal with and not a lot of time.
Tarcalen began the count again and Nicole tried to follow the steps. How many times has an Elven voice been described as musical? A gazillion? Maybe more? But it isn't. Well, it is, but it isn't musical enough. How am I supposed to dance without music? I tell you: it isn't possible. Why, oh why, have I been chosen to be subjected to this pain? What did I do? I promise, I'll be a good girl from now on, Nicole pleaded with some unknown higher power. The Valar, she guessed, in this world. I'll stop playing tricks on everybody. I'll try to stop stepping all over Tarcalen. I'll be civil to Legolas and not cut his hair off. I'll even endure Pippin's staring again! JUST MAKE IT STOP!!!!
Surprisingly, her mental outburst produced a palpable result. Tarcalen abruptly stopped dancing, and Nicole snapped out of her thoughts and back into reality. Tarcalen had an expression on his face as though somebody had just told him he had won the lottery. Actually, they probably don't have a lottery in Middle-Earth, do they? Besides, with all the little symbols they would have to use as numbers in all the different alphabets, the little lottery balls would be covered in writing. And that's just not the way a lottery is supposed to be. No, Nicky, STOP. Think about normal things. Get back to reality. It took great effort, but finally Nicole managed to ask Tarcalen what was making him so happy.
He looked at her with a gaze of absolute joy and wonder. *You did it,* he breathed.
*Did what?* asked the girl.
*You did it without stepping on my feet!* he exclaimed. Nicole noted with some surprise that it was true, this last time she had danced without injuring anybody. *Oh, thank the Valar! I can rest!* Tarcalen promptly plopped on the bed, proving that Elven patience and endurance was not infinite. He waved a hand to indicate Nicole. *She's all yours now,* he told the dressmaker. *Enjoy.*
As Nicole switched Elves, she also had to switch dresses. The dressmaker, now found to be not nameless but named Rahiolae (yet another Elven name that left Nicole's tongue in knots), forced Nicole to stand absolutely still while she adjusted the hem of the dress. The skirt was nearly finished, the top part was done, but for now it was sleeveless. As Nicole struggled with staying still she pondered how this sea of material could be turned into something that she wouldn't mind wearing and something different than all the other dresses she had seen. A design came to mind, and, hazarding a guess that talking was not considered movement, asked for some paper and a pen from Tarcalen, who was still enjoying doing nothing.
*Paper is surely not a problem. But what, pray tell Lady Nicole, is a 'pen'?* he asked.
*Oh,* Nicole replied intelligently and frowned as she tried to think of what pens were called way back in the days before technology. *A...quill? That's what it is, right? Could I have a quill?*
Finally understanding the request, Tarcalen left the room and promptly returned with the items, handing them to Nicole. This did not go over well with Rahiolae.
*You are not planning to write now?* she asked incredulously.
*Sure, why?*
*You might ruin the fabric! And it will disrupt the sewing of the hem!* protested Rahiolae.
Rolling her eyes Nicole replied, *Chill out, it's a plan for the dress.*
Giving her the all-too-familiar angry glare, the Elf allowed her to sit and write, but only after covering her lap with another cloth. Nicole awkwardly handled the quill, but managed to make a rough sketch of what she had wanted the dress' sleeves to look like. The neckline formed a sort of 'v' shape, and the sleeves were tied at intervals, but there was extra fabric at the back of the neck, making a semi-hood. The sketch was proudly shown to Rahiolae, who snatched the paper away, scribbled on it for a few minutes and handed it back. The seamstress had improved the drawing considerably. The design was still the same but more detailed and laid out so that it looked better.
*Excellent! Can you make it?* Nicole asked.
There's that haughty Elf look again. *I can sew anything,* Rahiolae replied. The Elf immediately went to work, forcing Nicole to stand still again. She warned that it might take a while, so Tarcalen decided to leave and avoid the risk of helping Nicole with anything else.
*May your preparations be successful, Lady Nicole. I hope that you will remember the dance,* were his parting words.
Nicole rolled her eyes and stood silently and patiently as Rahiolae did what she did best. That worked for a total of five minutes.
*So what's a party like?* began Nicole.
*The affairs are usually grand, especially for such an occasion as this,* the seamstress muttered distractedly.
*That explains why I need to be all proper, doesn't it? Who's coming, do you know?*
*Considering the purpose, I suppose the people you arrived with shall attend, as well as the Lord and Lady and their closest staff.*
Nicole's brain slammed into overdrive. The Fellowship is going to be there? EXCELLENT!!! Alright, now, what I need to do is plan some really good pranks... Nobody noticed that Nicole became unusually silent and had a strange gleam in her eyes. There's just one more thing I need to make my plan work, Nicole thought once she had finished making her plans. Coincidentally, Galadriel entered the room at the same time, to see if Nicole was ready to go.
*I'm almost ready,* replied Nicole as she was finally released from Rahiolae's clutches. Her hands went to her hair, trying to put it into her favorite style: french braid. Galadriel frowned at the hair-dressing attempt.
*Is there anything else that you require?* the Lady asked.
*Well, now that you mention it...* Nicole hesitated since this was a question that was risky. It might be ridiculous or it might be too much. *Is it possible to make me look... different?* The Lady raised a graceful eyebrow at the question, not understanding. *I mean, different so that I can't be recognized. Maybe wearing a mask or... I don't know.*
*You wish to be concealed. Why?*
The girl averted her eyes and tried to look innocent. *No reason...* In the next instant, she felt light-headed and felt her mind being sorted through to find something. A split second later the feeling was gone but Nicole glared accusingly at Galadriel.
*I see,* remarked the Lady. *Might I suggest simply telling Gimli that you appreciate his teaching skills, rather than throwing a 'large bowl of ale-flavored Jell-O' over his head?*
The girl pursed her lips in thought finally shaking her head. *No, that won't work. It has to be random or else they'll recognize me.*
*And if I were to help you in disguising yourself, you would use a less catastrophic method of delivering your messages?*
Her shoulders slumped. Face it Nicole, this is the only way you will ever get to say what you want to say without being recognized for it. Take it or leave it, it ain't coming again. *Alright. I promise I won't do anything ridiculous or harmful or Nicole-ish. Just make me different, please,* she asked of Galadriel.
The lady swept a hand at the stool that the seamstress had been using. *Take a seat,* Galadriel commanded and began her work.
As far as Nicole knew, all that the Lady of the Golden Wood did that afternoon was braid Nicole's hair, arrange a hair piece, put a necklace around her neck, and remind her to behave like a lady. She never figured out how it had happened, but when she next looked into a mirror, she was nearly unrecognizable.
Before showing her the result in a mirror, Galadriel bid Nicole to rise and looked at her in silence for a moment. Gently cupping Nicole's cheek in one hand, Galadriel spoke softly. *We are proud of you. It has been some time since the Elves of Lorien have had cause for laughter or one so young as yourself amongst us. You have progressed so much, but you retain your fierce spirit. Grown so mature, and still a child.* The last statement seemed said more to herself than the girl.
Nicole stared at the Lady. It was the nicest thing anyone had ever said to her. Or at the very least, it was the nicest thing she could have imagined to hear from an Elf. The girl turned woman abruptly noticed that she hadn't reacted yet. Stupid thing. Nicole, think of all the nice things that these Elves have done for you and all the things you put them through. Don't just stand there! Show some gratitude! Taking her own advice, and acting on impulse, Nicole hugged Galadriel.
The Lady was surprised by the action and pleased too. She gently held the girl and listened to her quiet whispers.
*I know I've been such a pain,* Nicole whispered. *Thank you for putting up with me, you've given me more than I could ask for. I'm not sure of what will happen once I leave these woods, and I'm scared a little too, but everything about this place will always be dear to me. I would return here if I may, and if not then all my memories of this time will be in my heart.* She couldn't think of any thing more to say or how to better express her thoughts in words.
Galadriel softly pushed the girl back so that she could look at her again and smiled. *Have hope. Have faith,* were the enigmatic words she offered as advice.
Nicole frowned. *Hope? Faith? In what?* she couldn't help asking. It was simple enough, but where to place her hope and faith? Frodo already had enough weight on his shoulders, she didn't want to add to it.
Galadriel laughed: a light sound, like that of clear bells. *In yourself,* replied Galadriel, smiling once more and leaving Nicole to wait for her escort...
~*The Ball*~
"Oh-OH! We're halfway there! OH-OH! LIVIN' ON BREAD!!!!!!!!!!" Nicole had been left alone in her room for around two hours, it was now dark outside, and nobody had come for her yet. Since she didn't know where the part-ay was she couldn't get there on her own. And, being the insane creature that she is, Nicole was forced to amuse herself as best as she could. Hence the scene: Nicole, jumping up and down on her bed doing her best rock star impersonation, yelling out random lines from rock songs at the top of her lungs.
"Singing I LOVE ROCK AND ROLL, so put another dime in the jukebox baby, I LOVE ROCK AND ROLL, so come and take the time and DANCE WITH ME!!!" Nicole jumped off the bed, trying to pretend that she was crowd-surfing. Landing with a thump she began flipping her hair around doing an air guitar solo. It never occurred to her that somebody could walk in at any moment. She started on her next song. "WE WILL, WE WILL ROCK YOU!!! ROCK YOU!!!!!!!!!" More wild dance moves and hair flipping accompanied her words.
A soft clearing of the throat finally alerted her to another person's presence. Poking her fingers through the curtain of hair that had covered her face in mid-flip, Nicole peered out towards the door. Oh damn, it's Haldir. *mental shrug* It could be worse. It could've been Galadriel or Celeborn. She let her hair cover her face again and conceal the mad blush that spread across her cheeks like wildfire.
*Tarcalen has failed after all,* Haldir said with a sigh. The shadow of a smile tugged at his lips and Nicole realized that he wasn't serious.
The girl burst out laughing still hiding behind her hair. *Just give me a sec, Haldir,* she said and rushed over to her mirror. It temporarily obscured Haldir's view of her, and Nicole fixed her hair and the disarranged dress sleeves. She smirked at her reflection. To any casual observer, she could be mistaken for an Elven princess. Whatever Galadriel had done, Nicole now looked at least 1000 years old and very Elf-y. Note to self: NEVER look this Elf-y again. She wrinkled her nose again at the Elf staring back at her and went back to where Haldir was waiting for her.
The Captain stepped forward to offer his hand but paused when the girl appeared again. He was not even certain that it was the same person. True, she was wearing the same dress, but the young Elf maiden looked elegant and graceful and nothing like the spunky crazy girl that he had helped train. For the first time since first meeting her, the girl truly looked like the Elf that she was.
*Lady Nicole?* asked Haldir with a tone of slight uncertainty.
*The one and only! Let's go, I've been dying of boredom!* she replied breezing past him and out the door. Haldir stared in shock for a moment and saw the sharp contrast of her appearance and her personality. *C'mon! And drop the 'Lady', it's annoying!*
~*~*~*~*~*~The REAL Ball~*~*~*~*~*~
Nicole gazed in wonder at the hall that they were entering. The great wooden structure had a large dancing floor and plenty of laughing and chatting Elves all over the place. The traditional soft glowing globes of light of LothLorien hung in strings from the leafy branches overhead. To see so many Elves at once and all so dressed up was overwhelming. Nicole noticed that she was one of very few people here that had dark hair and it made her stand out. As she and Haldir entered, Nicole gripping his arm tightly, the attention of quite a large number of the assembled crowd was drawn to them. Even the Elves who had been practicing alongside her for the past few weeks did not know who Haldir had come with. Nicole allowed herself a smile. Excellent... now not even the Fellowship will recognize me. That's just what I need. They went out into the room and walked amidst their kin.
"I can't believe I'm doing this. I can't believe I'm dressed like this," Nicole muttered in Common to avoid any Elves overhearing.
"You look beautiful," Haldir replied, startlingly her. Oh yeah... he speaks Common. Damn him.
"Thanks, oh untruthful one," she said with a smirk. Haldir laughed. Nicole was surprised, but happy, to see that the people that she thought were so serious could laugh freely now.
"You will do very well tonight, Lady Nicole," he told her. Raising a hand to silence Nicole's protest that she wasn't a lady, he continued. "You are a lady, and a warrior as well. But for tonight, you can just be a normal Elf enjoying herself at a ball."
She smiled her thanks at him and they chatted about less important matters, occasionally joining in conversations with other Elves. Nicole was very pleased to find that she was unrecognizable. In the middle of a rousing talk about proper bow maintenance (Rousing? she thought, more like sleep-inducing), Nicole turned at the light touch of a hand on her shoulder and smiled at Lord Celeborn.
*I wonder if I may have a dance with you, Lady Nicole?* he asked politely and lowering his voice when saying her name.
As she was led out to the dance floor, Nicole stared at Celeborn. *How did you know it was me?* she whispered when they began dancing.
The Elf Lord chuckled softly. *There are many things that my wife can do, but very few which can fool me. Although I would be intrigued about the reason of all this.*
Trying to keep her mind on the movements of the dance and her thoughts at the same time, Nicole managed to answer. *I don't know if I'll ever have a chance to speak with them again without being judged for it later,* replied the girl, implying the Fellowship. *There are things I want to say to them but not be recognized.* Nicole avoided the Elf's gaze, knowing that her actions weren't likely something befitting of an Elf.
They danced in silence for a few more moments. *That can be understood,* Celeborn said at length. *I only hope that your messages will not be so heavy that the evening will be deprived of its levity.*
What? Did that sentence make any sense? Nicole wondered until her brain caught up with the words. OH, I can't say anything bad that will make them sad. Ha, that rhymed! She snapped out of her thoughts to find Celeborn waiting for some kind of answer. Oops... what was he talking about? Going for the easiest way out, she smiled and nodded. That's the best slogan for life. Smile, nod, and everything will be OK.
Celeborn laughed again, knowing that the girl hadn't been listening. *You are so young, my dear girl, and I hope that you may visit us again.*
Ok, Nicky, this is part one of many. Go! She drew a deep breath and began, *Lord Celeborn, there are no words that I can find to express my gratitude for being so accepted in your home. I bid you find a way for me to repay the favor. Such a gift as you have given must be repaid with equal generosity.* I sounded so smart! Yay! Thought it up all by myself, I did. Except that was the only speech I have. So for the rest I'm basically in trouble. The song ended just as Nicole finished speaking, and she bowed slightly to the elder Elf.
He took her hands and smiled. *There is no need for repayment, save perhaps a return visit. Your stay has brought me much amusement, especially the story I heard from Lathanir a few days ago. Something about a fight with a prince.* Nicole's eyes widened and the Lord laughed merrily. *Worry not! It is not a story that will travel far, I assure you. Now go, enjoy your evening, and deliver your messages!*
Nicole left the Lord of LothLorien in high spirits and began the search for her first victim. Dun dun.... dun dun.... dundun dundun dundun DUNNN!!!! Nicole silently played the Jaws theme song in her head as she approached the person she was looking for. Aha! Yes, I see it is my first victim! Muahahahaha! Composing her "evil" thoughts, Nicole tapped the small person on the shoulder.
"Good evening, Master Meriadoc of the Shire," Nicole said, allowing her voice to become melodious and said her words almost as though they were a song. She bowed slightly, sweeping out right arm in a gesture of welcome. The hobbit, dressed in the clothes the likes of an Elven princeling's, stared in shock at the Elf before him. Nicole smiled warmly. The hobbits are so cute when they're clueless! "I wonder if I might dance with such an admirable Hobbit before he departs?"
Merry, the poor guy, was still in a bit of shock, so Nicole took his arm by force to guide him towards the music. "Pardon my asking, Lady, but how do you know me?" the hobbit questioned.
"It is a widely known thing, especially at such an occasion as this," she explained as they danced. It was a bit awkward dancing with someone that was several feet shorter than her, but Nicole got used to it somehow. "Such a journey must certainly be daunting, despite the courage you possess."
Merry glanced away. "It ain't easy being so far from the lands I know. Seeing as this will be taking some time, I hope it will be the same when I get back," he mused.
"Bravery like yours is not often come by, because you were willing to accept the journey," responded Nicole. "Now that you are on the journey and have already seen some troubles, you must not forget that there is light yet in the world and in the heart that has hope."
The hobbit looked at her not understanding her words. "I don't get your meaning," apologized Merry.
Nicole laughed happily. This is working so well! Not recognized yet, speaking so well, and being enigmatic and saying riddles, just like any proper Elf! Returning to the present, Nicole explained. "Though the path is not as straight as you may like, remember your light-heartedness. Laugh when you can, make the best of your situation. I have never known hobbits to be sad creatures. The mood you are in is too serious for my liking. Rather that such young people should enjoy themselves when they can!"
Understanding most of what was said to him Merry obliged and grinned at the Elf. "I'm sure I won't understand all of what you said until later, but I'm glad for the words." The music quieted and the dancers switched on and off the floor as they pleased. "Would you like to join me?" he invited, with a mischievous glint in his bright eyes. He's probably already planning some plot to get Pippin involved in and cause a disaster.
"Thank you kindly for the offer, Master Hobbit, but I'm afraid I still have things to tend to," Nicole said as they parted. Happy with her first message delivery, the hunt began again. Oh hobbit? Here little hobbitsy! Where are you??? Nicole wove through the crowd of merry-makers, waving once at Ella who she saw talking with a male Elf of about the same age. She grinned, thankful for the one Elf who wasn't so uptight. When in doubt, always ask: What would Ella do? The top of a curly light brown head could just be seen if Nicole stood on her tiptoes. This hobbit was found speaking, or trying to speak, with one of the Elves who had an interest in horticulture. The hobbit didn't known Elvish and the Elf didn't know Common, so they were having some difficulty.
*Dunilon!* called Nicole, remembering the Elf's name from an early introduction at the party. Reaching the two gardeners she chuckled at their predicament. *It would appear that you have some trouble with the Westron tongue. Although I hear that a love of plants can transcend the need for words.*
*Indeed, it is a daunting challenge to speak with the Halfling, but I would love to learn of the plants of his lands,* the Elf admitted.
*And I promise that you will be able to do just that, but I wonder if I could borrow our little friend for a dance?* she questioned.
*As you wish!* Dunilon replied, allowing Nicole to turn her attention to Sam. The hobbit was, similar to Merry, staring at her.
"Master Samwise! I would be much obliged if I could have just a dance," Nicole asked.
Sam blushed horribly. "I'm not much of a dancer," he mumbled.
Nicole beamed at him. "Neither am I!" she exclaimed and dragged the hobbit out into the dancing. Sam wasn't lying, Nicole had to be extra careful not to step on his toes and avoid his misplaced footsteps.
"It is a sad thought, is it not?" she said by way of conversation.
"What do you mean?"
Nicole had to bite her lip. How many times am I going to be asked that? Maybe dropping the whole riddly thing would be better. "That you and your companions must travel in so much difficulty."
Sam shrugged which oddly messed up his dancing. "It isn't so bad as I'd thought. At least it isn't a travel alone, that'd be terrible," he explained.
"I would think such a journey would bring you all close together," she commented.
"I don't know that it would," said Sam. "Being so close as we are might drive us all mad."
"You mean that too much of the same would be bad? I can't say I disagree. But the friendships you have will serve you well." Nicole paused, wondering how much she should say. I have to say more... just look at those little hobbit eyes. I feel bad for Sam. He's gonna have hard times ahead. That's it, I'm saying something. "Be true to your friends. The bond strongest after family is the bond of friendship. Remember that as you go on. It is advice that has served me well many times." No it hasn't, Nicole. Are you making all of this up? Nicole silenced the sane voice in her brain. So what if I am? At least I'm helping. And I've been true to my friends... maybe. Alright fine, so I don't know what it means. Just shut up, you stupid brain! By the time that Nicole got her thoughts under control, the dance stopped and she left Sam with Dunilon after the hobbit had thanked her for the strange advice.
The young Elf wandered through the party trying to find somebody to bother now. That talk with Sam hadn't gone very well. Stupid brain keeps interrupting me... I ought to make it shut up. If only it had a mouth I could sew up. Getting rather depressed because of her stupid brain Nicole wanted to find a person that would distract her. Just the guy I'm looking for! Gimli sat at a nearby table, looking very uncomfortable due to the numerous Elves. Nicole, forgetting for a moment her purpose at the event and her Elfness, approached the Dwarf, who was otherwise being avoided by the Elves.
"Am I ever glad I found you," Nicole muttered, but over the din created by the party and because of Gimli's "excellent" hearing, the words never reached the Dwarf's ears.
"Aye?" Gimli asked, regarding Nicole with suspicion.
Remembering what she looked like and what she should do, Nicole sighed to herself and reassumed her role. "Gimli son of Gloin, might I ask a dance with the only Dwarf in the hall?" she asked with a smile.
Gimli grumbled something into his beard. Speaking up, he said, "I don't dance. I can't." He blushed with this confession but his beard concealed most of it.
"Might I then enjoy your company for a while, even without dancing? Perhaps some ale?" Nicole asked knowing that Gimli would be tempted by the drink, if not by talking with an Elf.
"Aye, that you may," he replied and before his sentence was done, the girl had whirled on her heel and disappeared into the crowd. "Well that wasn't very nice."
Gimli's words were heard by Nicole's Elven ears and as she returned, seconds later with two mugs of ale, she tossed back a comment. "I would think it very nice, considering that now we needn't move anywhere, since I brought the ale to us." Gimli reluctantly agreed. Handing him a mug, and taking a seat across from him, Nicole glanced at the contents of the mug before deciding not to drink it after all. Elven food and drinks are great. But ale is equal to beer, and beer is equal to disgusting, so me is equal to not drinking ale. Haha, I love my equation!
"So what shall we discuss?" asked Nicole. She could think of a million things to talk about with Gimli when she was just herself, but as an Elf, there was precious little that could be said without ending in an argument.
Gimli chugged down the entire mug before taking a moment to think of a reply to the question.
Laughing, Nicole offered an alternative. "Someone once said that the most to be said is spoken without words." Or something like that. Stupid brain probably got messed up again.
Gimli grunted his agreement and accepted Nicole's mug when she explained that she wasn't going to drink it. The ale was gone in minutes. Giggling once more, Nicole enjoyed simply being with the Dwarf. Gimli himself didn't mind this Elf that much. She looked as much a royal as Gimli had ever seen in an Elf, but her attitude clearly showed that she hardly cared whether she sat with a Dwarf or an Elf. It occurred to him that she had known him but he did not know her. "You knew my name, Lady Elf, but I don't know yours. It seems unfair," he scolded.
"Many things in this world are unfair, Master Gimli, and a name should be the least of our troubles," she answered.
"I was unaware that we had troubles, milady," he said with suspicion creeping back into his voice.
Nicole froze. She had forgotten again that she wasn't supposed to be Nicole now. Her mind raced to make the statement more general. "Do we not all have troubles? Especially with the shadows that grow. Our troubles are the reason we are assembled tonight. We wish to forget for a while." She breathed a sigh of relief. That had sounded nearly believable.
The two sank back into a silence. It was not a comfortable silence that Nicole would have had with Gimli, but this was an awkwardness that spread between the Elf and the Dwarf like a tangible wall. If this is what it's going to be like when-- IF Gimli finds out I'm an Elf, then I'd rather just be plain old me again. I never asked for this. Hold the phone... didn't I come over here to cheer up? So much for that brilliant plan. In a few days I can be normal again, but for now, it's time for my escape. She stood from the table and stretched her arms.
"Alas, my good Master Dwarf, sitting and contemplation are well enough, but I am in need of movement. I ask again, will you dance with me?" she said, hoping that this would be a plausible excuse for an exit.
"I decline your invitation, but I am thankful for both the drinks and the company," rejected the Dwarf.
"Then I shall depart. May it go well for you, Gimli Gloin's son," she said in leaving.
"May your search bode well!" he answered in return.
That's it, I NEED to get cheered up. Somebody bring out the margarita's and the conga music. Nothing says cheerful like a fiesta! Much to her chagrin, Nicole's search for happy thoughts ended in the discovery of Frodo sitting by himself in a corner looking very desolate. I see that there is no rest for the weary. Gee, why don't I go cheer somebody up and get myself more grumpier while I'm at it? Her sarcastic thought annoyed her even more and she forced herself to become composed before she approached the hobbit.
"What is the cause for such sadness at a festivity like this?" she asked softly, bringing Frodo out of his thoughts. Her musical voice reflected her Elfness and for once Nicole was happy that the race of Elves brought a gentleness and kindness with it.
His blue eyes turned on her. "Thoughts of the journey behind me, the losses... and thoughts of the journey before me, plague my mind," he whispered, wondering what had made him confide in this Elf woman so easily. Her presence was comforting, familiar, and understanding, but he could not figure out why. "Have we met before?"
"I would surely remember it if it had been so," Nicole answered. "This is our first meeting, although your story has preceded you and I know the task that you face. It is important, that much is true. And yet it appears that you forget something."
Frodo tilted his head slightly in question. "There is not much to forget. It is a mission to complete. What more must I know?"
The Elf sighed. "I wish that it were not so simple to you, although some would argue that is the best way." She paused, and Frodo thought that she must be thinking. Nicole was thinking, and now the pause for dramatic effect! She resumed speaking. "You forget that which matters more to the people that journey with you. The quest is not their worry. Remember that they hold fear in their hearts for you as well. Do you not believe that your life is more treasured?"
The Ringbearer thought this over. It had not been something that had occurred to him previously.
"If there is something that you must remember and hold true, it is the value of yourself." At this point Nicole ran out of steam. The whole serious thinking thing that her mind was going through right now was getting her confused. Let's move on, shall we, Nicole? She mentally answered in the affirmative. Nicole danced with the hobbit and talked about happier things for a while, asking random questions about the Shire, but she quickly excused herself once the song was over.
Nicole flopped into a huge flumpy chair in a secluded corner, getting worn out from all the talking. Yes, stupid brain, I do realize that flumpy is not a word, but it is NOW! Muahahahaha! Ick, stop, evil laughing takes too much energy. Glad for the numerous distractions of the party to keep curious eyes from her, Nicole let herself slump down and rested her head against her arms which were on the arm of the chair, which made her sit sideways, which is really an awkward position and which hurts quite a lot when sitting like that AND wearing a dress. (A/N: run-on sentences are fun!).
Her temporary reprieve was temporary. The whispers of quiet voices nearby were picked up by her sensitive ears and were succeeded by mischievous and restrained laughter. Huh, that's odd, thought Nicole. It sounds a lot like that time when Merry and Pippin were stealing those fireworks, and then later when they were cooking on Weathertop. Hold on just a hobbity second! ... ok, new rule: no more use of the word hobbity, it is just too strange. Let's try that again, Nicky. Hold on just a second! (much better) That IS Merry and Pippin! Quick, to your horses, oh chivalrous Elves! Save your party from the fiendish hobbits! The lifeless girl realized that none of the Elves had realized because they were too busy laughing, talking, and enjoying themselves. Grumbling, she got off her chair and went in search of the voices. Stupid Elves can't deal with the little hobbitses. Fine, make ME do the work. She discovered the hobbits only a couple of tables away, plotting of a way to get high enough to be able to dump a bowl of the Elven version of fruit punch on Aragorn's head.
Resisting her urge to join in their mischief-making, Nicole reassumed her Elven persona. Gliding silently up to the two hobbits, she leaned down and stuck her head right between the two of theirs.
"I do not think that he will appreciate your prank-plotting efforts," she said in a stern voice and grinned as both of them nearly jumped out of their skins. I see now that there ARE some perks to being an Elf. Merry began stuttering and trying to explain while Pippin just mumbled incoherently. Nicole silenced them both by raising her hand and laughing. "Peace, my little friends. I will say nothing of your plan, if you agree not to carry it out."
They nodded humbly, but shared a glance that clearly implied they were going to do it anyways. With a mental sigh, Nicole noted I'm going to have to keep an eye on Aragorn, and keep him away from fruit punch.
"I came to ask, if I might have a dance with your friend, Meriadoc," Nicole addressed to Merry. "Perhaps he is as fine a dancer as yourself." Merry blushed, but Pippin promptly made up his mind.
"That's very nice of you, but no thank you," he replied. Merry stared in shock and elbowed Pippin.
Nicole raised an eyebrow and asked, "Why is that, my good sir?"
"I... well you see..." and some blushing was the answer.
Merry helped out his fellow hobbit. "There is another lady he is interested in."
"Really? Understandable, I suppose. But how could just one dance hurt?" Nicole pressed.
"He can't think of anyone else, not even of dancing. He's completely obsessed!" Merry explained.
Nicole smiled sympathetically. "It must be difficult for you to do anything at all without thinking of her," said Nicole to Pippin. She was extremely happy to find out that Pippin had gotten himself interested in somebody else, even if it was hopeless because it must be an Elf since they were in Lothlorien. Or maybe it was some old friend from the Shire that he was recently remembering. Either of the options suited Nicole perfectly, as long as it wasn't her. "So who is the lucky girl?" she asked.
Pippin readily replied when asked about his object of affection. "She the most beautiful person in all of Middle Earth. Her hair is perfect, her skin is perfect, her eyes are perfect, and she is the kindest person I know." Nicole breathed a sigh of relief: she was by no means perfect or kind, so it definitely wasn't her. "She is an angel..."
The way Pippin said those words nearly made Nicole fall over. It was the same way he had said it when they were on top of Caradhras. As it was, Nicole had to try to smile politely, not hearing the rest of Pippin's words, just trying to get her heart rate back under control. Oh great, what am I going to do with him? He must be crazy! What else could explain it? When Pippin had finished his description of Nicole, she gave him a tentative pat on the shoulder.
"Good luck with that," she told him.
Merry grinned as she began to back away. "Don't worry about him, at least he won't ever bother you." Merry couldn't have known how false his words were. "He always gets a bit strange when we're at a party or when there's ale."
"I understand completely," Nicole nodded and hastily backed away from Pippin who was gazing into the air. Turning back to Merry she smiled. "Have fun, Master Meriadoc. Don't let him get too serious!" she said with a wave.
Nicole grinned, her spirits much higher as she left the company of the hobbits. Gotta love those little people. If only THEY had been the ones to make prophecies... Year.. four-hundred and fifty one of the First and A Half Age: Upon the leaving of an orange sunrise and the coming of a purple twilight, people shall gather from distant corners and there will be much ALE, PARTIES AND FUN!!!! That's the spirit!
Weaving amongst the cheerful party-goers, the girl spotting a familiar face out of the corner of her eye. Turning around to see more clearly, she noted that the face was the only familiar thing. Aragorn was completely done over, a lot like her own experience with the Elves. He wore a tunic of light silver-grey and darker grey pants. His hair was *BRUSHED* (this, by far, the most shocking thing to Nicole), but he still had stubble on his chin. She smirked. Just goes to show that you can take the Ranger out of the Wilds, but you can't take the Ranger out of the man. Or king... same difference. OOH! That's what I should talk about with him! His kingliness! Moving towards her next dancing partner, Nicole hoped that her talking wouldn't be so serious that it short-circuited her brain. I'm going to need a LOT of sugar and insanity to take this smart-ness out of me... tomorrow, I am doing NOTHING except for doing nothing. Wow... that really made sense, she thought sarcastically.
She opened her mouth to ask for a dance with Aragorn, having reached him at last.
*Milady, would you accept the offer of a dance?*
Hang on... did I just refer to Aragorn as 'milady'??? What is WRONG with me? Then she realized that Aragorn had spoken, addressing her, not the other way around. Nicole smiled and took the proffered arm. As they began a slightly fast-paced dance (not slow enough to be a waltz or a ballet, but not fast enough to be a jig), Nicole tried to find a good sentence to begin her next tirade of advice.
*Lothlorien and the company of Elves has done much for you, Lady Nicole,* her dancing partner said to her in a conspiratorial whisper.
*Please, stop it with the 'Lady'--* she cut off her sentence, and realized that she had been found out. Her eyes widened and her voice dropped to a whisper. *How did you know? Nobody else has seen me this entire time!*
Aragorn seemed hesitant to answer but decided it wouldn't be a problem, really. *I was informed,* he began.
*Informed? What? By who?* interrupted Nicole.
Aragorn finished his sentence, *By Legolas.*
The girl's calm Elven composure was threatened by her severe anger and annoyance. Aragorn could feel her tense as they danced and saw her eyes flickering quickly, trying to find the Elven prince. *I take it you are still unhappy about the fight a few days ago,* the ranger guessed.
Nicole pinned him with an accusing glare. *You know about that too?* Is it just me, or is my training a popular topic for gossip around here? *Damn Lathanir... should've fought him instead...* she muttered under her breath. Although aware that Elves loved telling or singing stories, Nicole had never known them to be gossiping people.
He spoke again. *What are you thinking?* he asked. Forcing her to meet his steel grey eyes, Nicole know she couldn't answer truthfully. She had been plotting schemes to get revenge on both Legolas and her trainer but now knew that Aragorn wouldn't let her do anything. Just like a strict king... or a father.
Nicole tilted her head to the side as she looked at him. *I can't wait to see how you're going to turn out,* she said, avoiding his question. The young Elf could tell that he wanted to ask her something else, but her ears caught the final notes of the song and she smiled. *Sorry, my friend, we're just going to have to finish this conversation another day,* said Nicole with a grin, bowing quickly and leaving Aragorn's company. I should be an escape artist, that was really good! Nice work, Nicole! Her thoughts turned somber again in an instant. And now for the Revenge Plotting and Avenging. Let me see... where can I find a blonde Elf? She was referring to both Lathanir and Legolas, since both were blonde, but her answer was too vague for her liking. All around her, the blonde Elves of Lorien chattered happily.
Beginning a tedious circuit around the hall, Nicole remained polite to the other Elves, absently declining a couple of invitations to dance, sing, or join a conversation. Luckily for her, most of the Elves were too happy or distracted to notice her.
Nicole nearly shouted out loud when she finally found the Prince. He was a hard person to find and it had taken her a while. But finally, the blonde that she had picked out in the crowd was the right one, and was dressed in the deep green colors more common to Mirkwood Elves. She strided up to him confidently, tapping him on the shoulder so that he would turn around. Legolas politely excused himself from the conversation he had been having, and then turned to face the interruption. Nicole noted that his eyebrows were raised when he recognized her.
*I've got a bone to pick with you!* she said, clearly showing her anger through her stance and glare.
The usual blank expression appeared on Legolas' face, which frequently occurred when Nicole used one of her phrases. *Is something wrong?* he asked coolly.
She stared at him in disbelief. *Wrong??? Where have you been? On Mars?* Oh right, Nicole berated herself, this isn't Earth, they don't know about Solar systems and planets and stuff.
*I must say, you have changed quite a bit since I last saw you,* Legolas replied. Nicole got the feeling that he was randomly talking to keep her attention away from her anger.
*No changing the topic! Who gave you the right to tell people about me?* she demanded angrily.
*Perhaps a dance?* Legolas tried again. The girl was clearly getting more and more worked up and he preferred not to attract attention if at all possible. Before Nicole could protest and further question him, he placed a firm hand on her arm and led her into the swirl of dancers just as the musicians began a tune similar to a waltz.
*You're only going to hurt yourself,* Nicole grumbled, aware that this was just the kind of dance that Tarcalen had been having the most trouble teaching her. She obediently placed one hand on his shoulder and the other grasped his hand. Legolas put his free hand on her waist and prayed desperately to the Valar that the girl would get distracted by something, anything.
The Valar must have been busy at the time, because his prayers were not answered. *Did it occur to you that I look completely different tonight for a reason? Maybe I didn't want people to know who I was. But you never thought of that before you went blabbing to Aragorn., did you? I seem to remember, only a few days ago, telling you that not a word was to be said about this. And what did you do? Go to have a chat with your buddy, that's what.* She let out a growl of frustration at this point, before continuing. *You are SO annoying! Always have to have it your way, don't you? You're just a prince, I don't see why you are exempt from some rules!*
The prince arched an eyebrow as they danced through the crowd. *I wasn't aware that there were rules.*
Nicole glared at him, for once at a loss for words. I guess that the concept of keeping secrets hasn't been developed in Mirkwood yet.
*You must have been taught dancing as well,* Legolas noted to fill the silence. Nicole didn't reply. *Perhaps they managed to help you with your singing as well.*
This urged a reply from Nicole. *Ugh, you remember that? That was horrible.* I can't even remember half the words of the song anymore.
Legolas grinned inwardly. This seemed to be a sore subject and he meant to exploit it if possible. *The musicians would be happy to learn a new song. You should teach them the one you sang before Moria.*
Nicole wrinkled her nose. *The Jingle for Goldfish? Oh yea, that's totally Elven.*
*I do not know the name of it, but I would recognize the melody,* he hinted. Nicole reluctantly hummed a few bars, but stopped because Legolas shook his head. *No, not that one. It was slower, sadder. It wasn't a song that you wanted heard...*
Nicole suddenly blushed deeply, remembering that Legolas had heard her singing when she was homesick. "I can't..." she whispered in common. The subject of the place she had left was not something she was comfortable with.
"Maybe you are just scared," suggested the prince, keeping the conversation in common.
Nicole snapped back from her weird reverie mood and remembered the reason for talking to this Elf in the first place. *Damn right, I'm scared! Do you have any idea how Gimli would react if he ever found out about me?* she hissed in a furious whisper.
Legolas frowned. *But he did not recognize you, tonight, did he?*
The response was a roll of her eyes. *I'm not talking about tonight. Haven't you realized that Gimli is a Dwarf?*
*Obviously.*
Nicole stared at Legolas, unbelieving that he still didn't realize it. *Don't you get it? Dwarves don't particularly like Elves, and I don't want to lose his friendship... he's one of the people that I can rely on, he's like a really protective, but still really great, brother to me.* She said it quietly, knowing that if any Elf over heard they would probably stare at her as though she had two heads.
It was still loud enough for Legolas to catch it and his shock upon hearing her words made him miss a step in the dance. Nicole promptly tripped over his foot because it wasn't in the right place and felt herself falling to the ground. Legolas' grip on her waist tightened and he pulled her closer, turning the near fall into an elegant spin. They were silent for a moment, the steps now synchronized once more. Nicole vaguely noted that the music seemed different than before.
*Elves do not give such titles to others lightly,* the prince eventually said quietly.
Nicole realized that he meant her calling Gimli a brother. *I know.*
Her sincere answer startled him. He had thought that she had named the Dwarf in that manner simply because she was angry and desperate to prove her point.
*How long have we been dancing?* Nicole muttered distractedly. I thought that we had started on a different song... maybe my Elf ears are malfunctioning.
*Three songs, this being the third,* the Elf replied.
*Oh.* No wonder the music seemed different. The current song began to wind down and the end of it was approaching. One more thing to say before I go... and this he can pass along to Aragorn. She cleared her throat softly. *I... don't want them to know. About me being an Elf, I mean.* Nicole kept her eyes downcast but the silence was killing her. She hated herself for what she was about to do. Weren't you just complaining about his royalness? And what are you about to do? Practically grovel! Her sarcastic, independent and slightly hot-tempered side was NOT a happy camper. Resigning herself to this, and realizing that it probably placed her in the Elf prince's control, she spoke one final word. *Please.* The song ended and Nicole took her hand off of his shoulder. She blinked and regained her formality.
*It was a pleasure to dance with you, Prince Legolas of Mirkwood,* she said, using his full title for the first time. *May your journey go well for you.* She bowed slightly, whirled on her heel, and left the dance floor.
Nicole was extremely angry with herself, and even more so with Legolas. Now I've given Legolas something to hold against me, and that stupid idiot somehow managed to make me un-angry at him. And I have to be civil to him anyways because of what he knows. But I'll get back at him. One of these days he's going to wake up and be bald. BALD!!! With a new Plan of Revenge forming, Nicole wandered aimlessly through the crowds, looking for someone to talk to.
She got a lot of offers to dance and join the company of Elves, but she refused them, wanting to either find somebody to direct all her anger at or somebody who will distract her. Nicole politely smiled at some vaguely recognized faces, her eyes not really focusing. What was that plan for cheering up that I came up with a while ago? Oh yeah... margarita's and conga lines. That's what this party really needs. To amuse herself, Nicole tried to imagine the Elves with flower-print, neon, and tie-dyed clothes. She shuddered at the image. That is just wrong in so many ways. Interrupting her rather lame attempt at entertaining herself, somebody spoke.
*A dance, fair maiden?* asked a voice, directed towards her.
*Nay, thank you, but perhaps later,* was the response Nicole had been dispensing automatically from her lips for the past few prospective dancers. This time her reply was not met with the usual nod, smile, or well-mannered answer.
*No, truly, I insist,* the stubborn Elf replied, catching Nicole's arm.
She spun around, wrenching her arm out of his grasp, about to loudly shout "Get your hands off me!", but the words never formed. *Oops,* she said, realizing her mistake and her face changed back into friendliness from the anger previously presented.
Haldir lectured her. *As your escort, I do expect at the very least, one dance with my charge.*
Smiling apologetically, Nicole set out for the dance floor once more, and this time when Haldir took her by the arm, she didn't protest.
*I heard something about a plot you were making against one of our visitors,* the Lothlorian-soldier said.
*Thank you, Haldir, for proving to me, yet again, that I should never again speak in LothLorien,* Nicole replied. Haldir's questioning gaze promoted further explanations. *All this night people have been gossiping about me.*
*And it is no wonder. You are unrecognizable to their eyes,* Haldir reasoned.
*Not about me, but about ME, and knowing ME.* Nicole was frustrated. She wasn't supposed to look so Nicole-like.
*And thus the plot for revenge against Legolas was created. Am I correct?*
Nicole refused to look at him. It was the same as with Aragorn, she couldn't lie to Haldir. The Elf's laugh caused her to look back at him sharply.
*I wish you luck in your endeavor, though I do not wish to be present when you are found out,* he said with a chuckle.
Nicole dismissed the thought with a shake of her head. *I'm planning, that much is true. But I can't actually do anything, or else they'll find out about me. Besides, I already tried and failed miserably.*
*Sounds like an interesting story. Would you like to tell me about it?*
Nicole gave Haldir a suspicious glance. *I don't think so... stories and talking are what got this all messed up in the first place. But thanks for the offer.*
*As you wish,* Haldir replied and stayed silent for a while. It looked like he wanted to say something but wasn't sure how to say it.
*What?* Nicole asked finally, sick of waiting for the Elf to speak.
Haldir looked at her kindly. *If there is one thing I want you to know before you leave once more, it is this,* he began to explain, as though to a child. *You are an Elf now, whether you wish it or not. And even though I realize that there has been some... disagreements between you and one of your traveling companions, I also see that you are both Elves. Try to remember that, please Nicole, and try to act accordingly.*
Nicole half-smiled. *I don't know how you managed it, but you sounded like you were scolding me and giving me advice at the same time.*
He laughed merrily. *I was! I am glad that you could see the wisdom in my words. And I must say something more, if you will allow it.* Nicole nodded and he continued. *When you leave Lothlorien, I will worry about you. I know that you have been trained, but even the best warrior can be beaten. And I will await your return.*
Nicole was sad to hear his words because it reminded her that she was leaving soon, and had to go back out into the world. She would have to leave the Elves that had become a family for her. The musicians' instruments slowed and stopped, but Haldir didn't let go of Nicole. They looked at each other for a moment, simply smiling and remembering the other's face. Nicole abruptly crushed him in a hug and mumbled into the fabric of his tunic. *I will come back, I promise. And I never break a promise to a brother,* she said softly, happy to feel Haldir hugging her back and acknowledging her words.
*I wish you strength in your voyages, little one. May the Valar watch over you,* Haldir whispered by her ear. His words made it clear that he also thought of her as a sister.
Nicole felt like crying. She still had a day left in Lothlorien, but she didn't want to say goodbye. The young Elf broke the contact and smiled up again. *Thanks. Your moral support is admirable,* she told him. They shared another smile and went their ways, Haldir being called away by Celeborn to discuss something, and Nicole going off in search of Boromir, whom she had glimpsed a while ago.
Boromir... here Borry... c'mon, where did you get to? Nicole scanned the hall for the Gondorian. Suddenly a tingling sensation hit her senses and she felt like she was being watched. Turning slowly but casually, Nicole looked around behind her, trying to find the person staring at her. A second later, she spotted Boromir leaning against a pillar of grey wood, dropping his gaze immediately and turning away. Happy to find him, but this time when she approached a member of the Fellowship, she remembered who she was and avoided acting the same way that she normally would.
"I hope that you are enjoying yourself in the house of the Lord and Lady," Nicole said, coming up beside Boromir and surprising him. His slightly shifty gaze made her laugh. "Perhaps it is that a Man amongst so many Elves is not an appealing thought for you."
He bowed and apologized. "Forgive me, milady, I was wrapped in my thoughts for a moment." Boromir looked carefully at her for a moment. "I was not aware that there were any Rivendell Elves visiting."
Nicole simply smiled, but inside she was panicking. I'm not a Rivendell Elf! I'm an Elf from... oh geez, I don't even have a home in Middle-Earth! Well, Lothlorien is pretty close, but I'm obviously not one of these Elves. What do I say? Think think THINK Nicole, use that brain! She finally answered after a second of thought. "There not many visitors to Lothlorien in these times, but the Elves of different realms still keep contact with each other," she replied. It seemed plausible enough. "Shall we dance?"
Boromir obliged and offered her his arm and Nicole headed for the dancing guests yet again. Thankfully, the musicians had abandoned the waltz theme and had taken up a more lively piece. Whirling around with many other laughing dancers, Nicole was supremely happy not to think about anything at all. She spotted Ella among the crowd and met her eyes, smiling. Thank the Valar that some Elves can have fun! Nicole's thoughts turned pensive. It was the first time she had named the Valar in the place of ruling over Arda. She smiled again, thinking that she was finally beginning to completely accept that this was her home.
Throughout the dance, Boromir had been studying the Elf-maiden with much curiosity. Her laugh, and seeing how carefree she was at the moment seemed incredibly familiar to him. If he could just remember why...
"Is there something the matter, Master Boromir?" Nicole asked while keeping up the light steps of the fast dance. Boromir was having more trouble with it than she was, so she kept them at a slightly slower pace than everyone else. Thankfully, he didn't notice that she had known and used his name. Or maybe he was simply the first to figure out that their purpose in Lothlorien was no secret.
"You greatly resemble someone that I know, milady, I simply cannot remember who it was," he mused.
Nicole began panicking again. Her brain was faster with coming up with an excuse this time. "Perhaps you have seen me here, but simply not noticed," she suggested.
"No," Boromir frowned, the memory almost surfacing, but not quite. "It is older than these past few days. It may be that I met you in Rivendell."
Nicole smiled innocently. "It is possible." No, it's not. Never been to Rivendell. But it would have been so cool to be at the Council. To meet all those people. To see those amazing houses. But no. Had to get stranded on a rock instead. Although I have to say, that this way I never had a problem with becoming a member of the Fellowship. I just added myself on.
Her thoughts dispersed and she focused on the dance again, doing her best to ignore Boromir's constant staring. When the song ended she thanked him for the dance. To her surprise, he took her hand and kissed it.
"It was an honour to dance with such an honourable Elf, milady," he said, bowing.
"Er...yes. Enjoy yourself at the party!" Nicole said and dashed off into the crowd. Once out of his sight, she wiped her hand on her dress. Ick! he must've mistaken me for Arwen or something. Why else would he kiss my hand? Who invented that custom anyways? Obviously a guy. Women are not respected here... well, maybe they are, but they aren't equals. I am never wearing a dress again. Finished with making sure that her hand was back to normal, Nicole looked around her for a new source of entertainment. It quickly found her.
A hand came to rest on her shoulder and a voice spoke up from behind her.
*I see that your messages were delivered by ordinary methods,* said a familiar voice, the smile evident in the tone.
Nicole turned to see Celeborn and Galadriel, the first being the one with a hand on her shoulder and the second being the speaker. *Somehow I managed, for all the good that it did them,* she replied with a sigh. Her advice had been kind of clumsy and she doubted that any of the Fellowship would remember her words come morning.
*They are cheered, and ready to face the journey again,* Celeborn assured her. *You did very well.*
*Thanks,* Nicole mumbled as she blushed madly.
*And what do you think of it?* he questioned. He explained, *The journey that you insist on taking.*
*I don't know, I haven't really thought about it,* she admitted. She didn't want to think about the battles and the losses that were ahead of her.
*The training, both in combat and in etiquette, was very helpful to you. We are confident that you will do perfectly well outside these woods,* Galadriel told the girl.
Nicole stared at the two Elves. Just like when she had first met them, they seemed to glow more than usual and were definitively distinguished and impressive to see. They fell quiet, giving Nicole a chance to ask any questions or say anything that she wanted. Personally, Nicole had always wondered about the glow that surrounded all Elves naturally. For some it was strong, on others, less noticeable, but maybe it was controlled by them all the time. She opened her mouth to ask, but the couple smiled simultaneously, somehow knowing her thoughts.
*That is an answer unique to every Elf,* Galadriel began.
*Though all reasons link back to the same thing,* Celeborn took over the sentence, but Galadriel finished it for him.
*We are with light because we seek the light and want life,* she finished.
*But to the rest of your question--*
*We must reply that it is possible--*
*And many Elves choose to do so, and to control the light which they emit.*
*Some may lower it to merely a shimmer and--*
*Others can make it extremely radiant.*
Nicole's head was slightly spinning. I hate it when they do that! Why can't one of them pick to do the whole speech by themselves??? She cleared her head. *Thanks, I wasn't quite positive on that,* she replied. The probably explained why it was always really bright when she had trained into the night hours.
*Perhaps you have not noticed, but you have the light as well,* informed Celeborn.
*I do? Why?* Nicole asked dumbly.
Galadriel laughed. *You are an Elf, are you not?*
Nicole had to admit that the Lady had a point. She lifted her hand in front of her eyes, but saw very little except for a faint paleness that seemed to expand beyond her skin. *That's not a glow, that's being ghastly white,* she said sarcastically.
*At the moment it is weak, but it radiated strongly earlier when you were dancing. Extreme emotions also increase it, although with time all Elves learn to control it,* they explained.
*Huh,* mumbled the Elf, still examining her arm. *That's new.*
The two High Elves watched with amusement. The girl who appeared so mature was behaving like the youngest Elves, always curious about why Elves look one way, but everything else is different. They were both proud of her, but not completely sure why, because having stayed for such a short time it was hard to believe that the girl had found her way into their hearts and become a regular part of their lives. And only in a month... a month was a very short time for an Elf.
*May you travel far and safe on your journey,* Galadriel began.
*But always return to Lothlorien, where you will always have a place,* concluded Celeborn.
Nicole grinned happily and awkwardly hugged them both at the same time. She understood that even though she wasn't leaving right at this moment, it was better to get used to the idea of leaving now, and have the next day to feel it, so that when they leave she wouldn't break down in tears.
There was no more need for words, Nicole's gratitude easily read in actions and face (and glow) by the pair. They parted ways and Nicole took in her surroundings again. The grand hall was slowly clearing out, she could see some members of the Fellowship heading out the main entrance. She wondered if they would remember what she had told them. She hoped that Legolas would keep her secret. And right now, she also desperately hoped she could find someone who could tell her which way her room was.
Ella appeared as if she had been summoned by thought. Nicole grinned at her and they wearily linked arms, facing the main doors.
*Ready to go?* Ella asked, tiredness apparent in her voice. It had been a long night, but a lot of fun.
*Yeah. Let's bust this joint,* Nicole said, not quite sure is she had used the words correctly. (A/N: I think I heard that in a move once, but if it's wrong, PLEASE don't kill me????) She thought that the night had been worth the tiresome and annoying preparations, and voiced her opinion.
Ella chuckled. *I wouldn't make you get dressed up like this for nothing. You didn't seem to like it very much.*
Nicole agreed and looked at the main entrance again, at the far end of the hall. *Time for our big exit.* The girls had planned this out the night of the day when Nicole had first begun lady-training. It would be just like the two spontaneous Elves to go out with a bang. *Ready?* Their eyes met and they both nodded simultaneously.
*Ready,* Ella answered with a nervous giggle. Turning straight towards the doors in unison, Nicole counted them down softly under her breath.
*Three... two... one!*
In extremely high and way off key voices, the two girls sashayed down the length of the hall with arms linked, singing at the top of their lungs.
*WE'RE OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD, THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ! THE BESTEST WIZ IN ALL OF THE BIZ IF EVER A WIZ THERE WAS! OH, WE'RE OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD, THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ! BECAUSE BECAUSE BECAUSE BECAUSE BECAUSE...*
At this point they were at the doors and all the people still assembled in the hall were staring at them. They did an about face, turning back to their audience.
*BECAUSE OF THE WONDERFUL THINGS HE DOES!* they yelled out in their squeaky voices, and fled through the door way, their raucous laughter echoing through the forest.
A/N: The songs Nicole was screaming out at the top of her lungs while dancing like a fool in her room are not mine. They're just random rock songs that I don't know the names of or the artists. The song at the end is "We're Off To See The Wizard" from The Wizard of Oz. I don't know why I put that in, but it was the first song that popped into my head and all the other ones didn't seem to fit as well. Also, I'm not quite sure if there WERE nine dancers... seems like a bit more to me, but that's alright. I was playing on words: get it? Nine of the Fellowship ended up in LothLorien (including Nicole), and it was "One ring to rule them all"... all rhymes with ball.... *throws hands up in frustration* I KNOW that my humor makes no sense, but I was bored, alright???
Considering that this chapter took me nearly a month to write *breaks down in tears: I'm such a pathetic excuse of a writer! sobs*, I would really appreciate a review (or more than one, if you like) for this chapter. Sorry about the length, but I couldn't make it shorter without taking out stuff that I felt was 'necessary to plot development'. Actually, I just liked it. :P And I feel I should let you all know that this chapter is MORE THAN 10,000 WORDS LONG!!!! YAY ME!
Alright, enough of me praising myself. Give me some criticism to take me off my soapbox. Review!