Chapter Four
Yippee!! She has finally updated!! LOL. Sorry folks. It has been so hectic here. Plus, we now have to do these stupid OGT tests at school that don't even count against us sophomores.....Plus, I've been busy working on a project for my church....lol. Sometimes, my stories don't sound like I'm a church-going person, but believe me that I am....I can just get a little bit lost sometimes....this chapter kind of tells that.
Jack-Sparrow-Lover-- Is Mirkwood seriously underground?? Whoa...that was a HUGE oops on my part....well, I've got a couple chapters written out already with the kingdom being above ground....so, guys, please just overlook this huge oops that I made. I am a total dope! Thanks for being so kind to point that out! I promise to try not to make big mistakes like that anymor! Please just overlook it this time!!
Anyway, just had to thank you for that!!
WARNING: As I mentioned above, this is one of those chapters where you can tell that I'm a lost. It's a little...uh...sexual reference-y. I just wanted to warn you.
Dedication: Jason, you've been a huge help! Thanks for talking with me about everything! You are such an awesome youth pastor! Beth, you're going on tour pretty soon. Love ya girl! Ashley, tomorrow would be your sweet sixteen...I just hope that you are having a huge party up in Heaven with God....I miss ya, girlie!!
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Chapter Four
"Legolas, I've never done this."
Legolas smiled at Kimberly. They stood in the shooting range, Kimberly akwardly holding a bow. It had been a day since they had shared their first kiss, and since then, Legolas couldn't bear a moment away from her. He had tracked her down this morning, finding her, once again, in the gardens. He had brought her to the shooting range, intent on teaching her to manage a bow.
"That is why you are here," he said. "Today, you learn." She wrinkled her nose at him, obviously displeased of the prospect of "learning" anything. Legolas laughed at her facial expression, then leaned in for a quick kiss. As he pulled away, he admired her beauty. The bruises and cuts were now gone from her face, save fora slight red mark above her eyebrow. However, it was now fading as well. Jeera's healing techniques had worked well. Though her ribs weren't completely healed, her wrist had mended very well, and now only a light wrap was wrapped around it. Legolas thought she was now more beautiful than the day before. She smiled at him and turned her attention back to the bow.
Legolas grinned and pulled an arrow out of the quiver that leaned against a tree. He handed it to her and chuckled at her look of bewilderment. He turned her around and pointed to the target, a bulls-eye painted in its center. "Aim for the center." She glanced at him. "With this arrow? And you expect me to hit it? You're a crazier elf than I thought." Legolas smiled behind her. "It's not as hard as you may think. Now, string your arrow." Kimberly sighed in mock-irritation and pulled the arrow back like he had taught her earlier. She pointed the arrow at the target and, after a moment, released it. The arrow flew over the target and embedded itself in a tree ten yards past it. Kimberly turned around and smirked at him. "See?" Legolas smiled. "Were you even trying?" She glared at him. The elf laughed and came toward her. He took the bow from her and strung an arrow. He glanced at her. "Watch," he instructed, and released the arrow.
It hit the target, dead center.
He smiled as he turned around to face Kimberly, only to see her glaring at him. "Cheater," she muttered. Legolas laughed and held out his hand to her. "Come, we shall try again." She shook her head. "Nu-uh. Not after seeing you shoot. I quit." Legolas' smile grew as he took her hand and pulled her to him. "No, you don't. We don't quit until I see that you can shoot the target." Kimberly groaned as he shoved the bow into her hands. She sighed in defeat and strung the arrow he handed her. "Stubborn elf," he heard her mutter. Legolas chuckled as he came up behind her. "There's your problem," he said. "You're holding it wrong." As he moved to help, Kimberly smirked. "How am I supposed to know how to hold this thing?," she asked.
Legolas ignored her as his hands covered hers, moving them to the correct position. He used his foot to kick her feet apart and he rested his head near her shoulder, his mouth right next to her ear. He pulled his hands away and brought them to rest on her slender hips. "Now, just relax," he said softly into her ear. Kimberly felt her heart race as he said it, well aware of how close he was. *Easier said than done,* she thought. "Pull back the arrow slowly. No, don't close one eye. Keep them both open. Yes, like that. Now, concentrate on the target...take your time, and when you're ready, release the arrow." He watched as she kept her eyes on the target, then released the arrow. It landed directly in the center, right next to his.
He smiled as he heard her laugh. "I did it!," she said happily. She lowered the bow and looked victoriously at the target. "I knew I could do it." Legolas chuckled, then turned his head and placed a light kiss on her cheek. "I congratulate you," he said, his arms encircling her waist. Kimberly turned her head and smiled at him. "I had a good teacher." He smiled and kissed her then, her hand coming up to caress his cheek. Legolas deepened the kiss, his arms tightening their hold on her waist. Kimberly dropped the bow to the ground and her other hand now rested on one of his. *Can things possibly be more perfect?,* she thought.
Someone behind them cleared their throat, and the two jumped apart. Legolas kept one arm around Kimberly's waist as they turned around. Gandalf stood behind them, a small smile playing across his bearded face. "Taking a few early morning arrow lessons, I see," the old wizard said, a knowing look in his eye. Legolas nodded. "Aye. I thought Kimberly should learn to fire an arrow." Gandalf nodded. "Yes, that is a good idea." He looked at the young girl. "And have you learned, young Kimberly?" The brunette avoided his gaze and nodded. Gandalf smiled and chuckled. "I just wanted to remind the two of you that we depart for Rivendell tomorrow morning." He smiled. "I would suggest that you both rest easy today. We will need to be rested for our journey." They both nodded and Gandalf chuckled and shook his head before he departed. *Young love,* he thought.
Kimberly sighed after Gandalf left adn turned to the elf who stood next to her. "Caught in the act," she said. "That was kind of embarassing." Legolas grinned. "Gandalf appeared to enjoy your embarassment." She glared at him and he laughed before placing a quick kiss on her lips. She looked up at him. "So from your lack of embarassment, I guess that this isn't the first time you've been caught in a situation like that." Sensing what she was hinting at, Legolas looked into her eyes. "Kimberly, I won't deny that I have known many elf maidens in my life, for indeed, I have. But do not allow that to plague your thoughts. I only have eyes for you." Kimberly searched his face and smiled softly.
Her smile then fell when she realized that they would soon be leaving for Rivendell...soon be leaving to meet her real family. "Legolas, what if they don't believe who I am?" Legolas frowned. "There could be no mistake in your origin, Kimberly. One has to merely glance at you to see that you are of Elrond's line." She nodded. "Yeah, so I've been told. But, it's probably been really hard for them. What if they're in denial? They might think I'm an imposter; a fake....then they'll have me flogged, beheaded, and my head placed on a pike as a warning to everybody else." Legolas merely stared at her, his eyebrows raised. A small smile graced his face. "Where on Middle-Earth did you get an idea like that?" She shrugged. Legolas shook his head and laughed. "That will not be your fate, trust me."
Kimberly wasn't finished, however. "Well, okay, but what if they don't like me? I mean, maybe they will think I'm too wierd. After all, I was raised in an entirely different world. Or, it'll be really akward and uncomfortable." Legolas grasped her shoulders to calm her down. "Kimberly, you worry too much," he said. "I can tell you that it may be akward at first. You have been gone quite awhile. But, I do not think it will be uncomfortable. I also have no doubt that they will like you...you are one of their own. They will love you, as they have from the beginning." Kimberly stared at him as he spoke. She sighed. "I'm just nervous, I guess...and kind of scared."
Legolas trailed a finger down her cheek. "There is no need to be...everything will turn out alright." Kimberly looked at him, her eyes searching his flawless face. "You promise?" He smiled. "I promise." Kimberly smiled then, standing on her tiptoes to kiss him. They pulled apart and Legolas smiled again. "Come, we should return," he said, extending his arm. Kimberly took it and they walked together towards the palace. "Are you prepared for tonight?," Legolas asked. The brunette looked at him. "What's tonight?" He winced, remembering that he had forgotten to tell her about the dinner party tonight. "I forgot to tell you apparently. How easy it is for me to forget things when I am near you."
She smiled. "What's tonight?" Legolas looked at her. "My father has arranged a dinner for my homecoming...as well as my departure." Kimberly frowned. "But didn't Gandalf just say that we should rest?" Legolas grinned at her. "I believe that he was referring to something else, Kimberly." She looked at him a moment before she realized what Gandalf had been "referring" to, and she blushed. "Oh." Legolas smiled, loving the way her cheeks darkened when she was embarassed. "So, it's a party?" He nodded. "And we have to be there?" He nodded again and looked at her. "Do you not wish to attend?" She looked at him. "What? No, no, I want to go...but, I mean, if it's anything like the parties back where I came from, there'll be dancing, right?" Legolas nodded. "So, there's the problem." He frowned. "What?" She looked at him. "I can't dance."
He looked at her. "You can't?" She shook her head. Legolas smiled. "Well, that will have to be remedied, won't it?" Kimberly smiled and shook her head, wondering what her big mouth had just gotten herself into.
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Belemithial stood behind Kimberly, lacing up the back of her dress while the young brunette looked in the mirror. "Elvish dresses are really pretty," she said, smoothing her hands over the dark green fabric. Belelmithial finished the laces and began working on the young girl's hair. "Never prettier than the elf who wears them." Kimberly laughed softly and stood still as the maid worked her hair into a bun, then wrapped a braid around it. She pinned it there with two bobby pins and stepped back, admiring her handywork. "There now....by the Valar, you look so much like Arwen, it's uncanny." Kimberly smiled. "Do you know her well?" The elf smiled. "I was her maid when she and her father stayed here. She's a kind one, Lady Arwen is. Much like yourself." She looked to the door when she heard a knock. "Ah, that will be Prince Legolas now. Hurry, hurry, don't keep him waiting." She pushed Kimberly to do the door and pulled it open, revealing a very dashing Legolas. The elf wore a white tunic over black leggings, and his hair was held with two small braids at the sides. His mouth dropped open when he saw her.
"Kimberly....you look beautiful." The brunette blushed. "Thanks...you're not so bad yourself." He smiled and leaned down, placing a kiss on her lips. A sigh from behind them made them turn, and Belelmithial stood behind them, a slightly dreamy expression on her face. She smiled as they looked at her. "Oh, pardon me, your highness. Didn't mean to intrude." Kimberly giggled while Legolas smiled. "There was no intrusion," he said. "But, if you'll excuse us, we must be going." She nodded. "Of course. Please, enjoy your night." He nodded to her and, smiling, held out his arm to Kimberly. She took it, and they started down the hallway, leaving behind a very dreamy eyed elf servant.
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Kimberly sat next to Gandalf at the dining table, desperatley trying to follow all the conversations that were going on, but being unable to. She didn't know what most of them were discussing, so she settled for just sitting there and pretending that she did. She and Legolas had arrived at the party, only to be herded to the table by Thranduil. The King had proudly announced that his son had returned for the War of the Ring, but unfortunatley had to depart for Rivendell to escort her. Thranduil had affectionately introduced Kimberly as their guest, a young elf from Rivendell who has not been back for many years. *Which is technically true...I guess this way just saves a lot of questions from being asked,* she thought, as she took a sip of her wine. She'd never had wine before, but she enjoyed it's taste.
She looked across the table at Legolas, who was laughing with his father and another elf. Looking over at her, he caught her gaze and winked. The gesture sent shivers down Kimberly's spine and she smiled at him. He returned it and reluctantly turned his attention to the elf who was speaking to him. Beside her, Gandalf tore his attention away from the discussions and leaned towards her. "How are we faring, my dear?," he asked. She looked at him. "Faring alright. I have no idea what everybody is talking about, but I'm okay." The wizard smiled. "I don't think it bothers anyone that you aren't joining in. They seem satisfied enough bombarding Legolas with questions." She laughed and nodded. The wizard smiled and affectionatley patted her hand. He turned back to the conversation and Kimberly took another sip of wine.
Dancing was announced a short time later, and Kimberly rose from her seat, only to be led to the dance floor by Legolas. "What are you doing?," she asked as he enfolded her in his arms. The prince smiled down at her. "I told you that we would remedy your inability to dance." She smiled. "Yeah, well, I'll embarass you if you try." Legolas smiled and brought his face close to hers. "For you, milady, I would suffer anything." Kimberly smiled and allowed the handesome elf to lead her into a waltz.
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From their place across the room, three elf maidens watched the young elf and the prince dance. "Well, well, Janelle...it seems that you have just lost your precious bed partner," one of them said. The blonde elf in the center glared at her. "Don't be ridiculous," she said. "You think this is the first time he's ever danced with a pretty elf? Please, there have been several....he's even taken most of them to bed....but he always returns to me." The other elf shrugged. "I don't know, Janelle. He appears to be quite taken with her. Not like with the others." Janelle glared at her companions, then turned her attention back to the dancing couple. "Just watch," she said. "Before this night is over, I will be in Legolas Greenleaf's bed once more."
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"I don't see why you said you couldn't dance," Legolas said as the waltz came to an end. "You seemed quite capable to me." Kimberly smiled at him. "I had a good teacher." He laughed and kissed her hand. "As much as I would love to remain here with you, A'mealamin, I fear that I must return to my father's side." Kimberly smiled. "I understand...Perhaps Gandalf would like to dance." Legolas grinned at her. "To that, I may have to disagree." She laughed and watched as he walked off, glancing back at her. She sighed contendly and turned around, making her way to the open balcony.
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Legolas was making his way towards his father when he was confronted by an elf maiden. His face fell when he saw who it was. "Janelle," he said in greeting. The blonde elf smiled up at him seductively. "Hello, Legolas. It's been quite some time. How are you?" Legolas looked at her. "In a bit of a hurry, so if you'll excuse me." He began to walk past her, but she reached out and grabbed his arm, stopping him. "What? No hello kiss?" Legolas sighed and looked down at her. "Janelle, I really don't have time right now." The blonde cocked an eyebrow. "YOu always used to have time for me at night," she said.
Legolas looked at her. "That was quite some time ago, Janelle," he said. "Things have changed." Janelle smirked. "You mean that little tart of an elf you were dancing with a moment ago? Come now, Legolas, you've done this before." Legolas glared at her. "Do not speak of her in that way." Janelle smiled. "What way? Calling her a 'tart'? I'm probably off...I wouldn't doubt if she was still a virgin. Come now, she couldn't please you like I can." She trailed her hand along his chest. "I know how you like it." She pressed her body up against his and licked her red lips suggestively. "And how long it's been...I remember when we would make love for hours at a time...screaming each other's names in ecstacy...me wrapping my legs around you as you're plunging into me as fast and as hard as you can...Just give me a few hours, Legolas...and we can renew that."
Legolas leaned down close to her face and trailed his hand down her neck. Janelle closed her jade eyes and moaned softly, feeling victorious. "One thing you should know, Janelle," Legolas said softly. She opened her eyes and looked up at him lustfully. "That's in the past. We never had anything to begin with. So just leave it be." With that, he pulled away and walked off, leaving behind a fuming Janelle. "Fine, your highness...you want to forget what we had? Fine....but I'll make it so you don't get to have your little scrumpet either." With a plan in mind and a devious smile on her face, she headed towards the balcony.
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Kimberly leaned against the railing of the balcony, closing her eyes as a light breeze blew across her face.
"Beautiful, isn't it?"
Kimberly looked over to see a beautiful blond elf smiling at her. Kimberly returned it. "Yes, it is," she said. The elf smiled. "Mirkwood always is....you're a guest of King Thranduil, yes? From Rivendell?" Kimberly nodded. "Why haven't you been home in so long?" Kimberly hesistated a moment before answering. "It's a long a complicated story...I just had to...find myself." The elf nodded and extended her perfectly manicured hand. "I'm Janelle." Kimberly took it and smiled. "Kimberly." Janelle smiled. "Pleasure....so I saw that you were dancing with Prince Legolas." Kimberly nodded. "Yeah." Janelle laughed. "He's a fine one....very gifted in looks...as well as other things." Kimberly nodded again. "Yeah, he sure can shoot an arrow." Janelle glanced at her. "That's true, but that's not what I meant." The brunette frowned. "What did you mean?" Janelle faigned shock. "You mean...you don't know?" Kimberly's brow furrowed. "Know what?" Janelle looked at her. "About his reputation." Kimberly shook her head. Janelle sighed. "A looker he is, but I've lost count of how many elf maidens he's taken to bed....he's a player, that one."
Kimberly frowned and felt her heart sink. "What do you mean?" Janelle looked over at him. "The gifts I speak of is his gift in bed....now THAT'S a talent, I'll tell you." Kimberly nodded slowly. "So....you speak from experience?" Janelle laughed. "Experience? Yes, you could say that....quite a lot of experience with Prince Legolas, at that....I must say...the things that man can do to make a woman scream...." She trailed off, but Kimberly didn't hear her at all. She stood there, her breath coming out in shallow puffs, at what the elf was saying to her. *Is he just playing me along?,* she thought. She looked up as the other elf spoke to her. "I hope this doesn't offend you, my dear....but he always comes back to me...these little flings he has never last past the night that he brings them to his bed...I just wanted to to warn you before you get hurt." Kimberly stared at her a moment, feeling the tears welling up in her eyes, but refusing to cry in front of this gloating elf. She swallowed hard and nodded."Thank you....uh...please, excuse me." She batted the tears away as she rushed from the balcony. Janelle simply smiled and laughed. *I love being a bitch.*
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Legolas' mind wasn't on the conversation his father was having with the other elves. He was too distracted about his earlier confrontation with Janelle. He didn't deny that she was still as attractive as she was when he had left--at least physically so....but in every other aspect, he couldn't bear to look at her. Her eyes were cold and her face was much too painted up....*Not like Kimberly's.* At the thought of the raven haired beauty, Legolas smiled. Already he missed her...Perhaps he could quietly sneak away while his father was deep in discussion....
He jerked his attention to a flash of green he saw from the corner of his eye. He turned his head in time to see Kimberly rushing from the ballroom, angrilly wiping away tears. *Why is she crying?,* he asked, worried. He began to follow her path, but stopped when he saw Janelle emerge from the balcony that Kimberly had just been at. The blonde elf was running a strand of hair through her fingers, a victorious smile on her face. He felt the rage flare up even as he made his way towards her. The elf's jade eyes didn't even flinch as he approached her. "Ah, did we have a change of heart, my love?," she asked. Legolas grabbed her arm and pulled her to an isolated corner. "What did you say to her?," he demanded angrilly. Janelle grinned. "Only the truth...what else? She has a right to know." Legolas glared down at her, anger blazing in his blue eyes. "What did you tell her?" She returned his glare. "Just what I've become accustomed to....that fact that you take several elf maidens to your bed, but always end up coming back to me....that's true, is it not?" He glared at her. "Not anymore."
Janelle pulled her arm out of his grasp. "What? You go off for a few years and suddenly come back a changed man? It doesn't happen with things like this, Legolas. You still want me. You can't deny that." He stared hard at her, taking her image in. Now that he really looked at her, he didn't know what he had seen in her. Just a pretty face, apparently. Everything else about her was cruel. "You know nothing about what I do and don't deny, Janelle. But know that I do deny you." The blonde stared at him. "I want you to leave now. Leave and don't show your face in my presence again. I won't warn you again." Before she could reply, Legolas rushed off, pushing his way through the crowd, making his way to the hallway.
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Kimberly sat at the small vanity table in her room, staring at her tear streaked face in the mirror. *How can I be so stupid?,* she thought. *A great guy like Legolas being interested in a loser like me....I'm such a dope.* She angrilly wiped the tears away, then clasped her hands in her lap. *Now what do I do?,* she thought, looking down at her hands. A knock jarred her out of her thoughts and she looked at the door. The knock came once more when she didn't answer. "Kimberly?" She felt her heart stop. *Legolas.* "Kimberly, please....open the door. I need to talk to you." Slowly, after a brief hesitation, Kimberly rose from her seat an walked to the door. She took a deep breath before opening it. Legolas felt his heart break when he saw the tears on her face. *Janelle...what damage have you done?* He swallowed and looked at her. "May I come in?" Kimberly snifflied and nodded, stepping back to allow him entrance. She shut the door behind him and turned to face him.
"Kimberly.....what Janelle told you....," he trailed off, unsure of how to explain. She looked up at him. "Is it true? I mean....do you really do that?" He sighed and avoided her gaze, suddenly ashamed. "Once, a long time ago, yes...before I left for the War of the Ring." She nodded and looked at the floor. "Kimberly..." She looked back up. "Were you planning on doing that to me?" Legolas jerked his gaze to her face. "What? No...no, I would never do that to you." Kimberly looked at him. "But Janelle said that that's what you do....then you always go back to her." Legolas sighed and came towards her. "Kimberly....that was before I met you....Janelle and I never had anything...it was lust...pure lust...nothing more....Years ago, yes, I perhaps would have thought of charming my way into your bed...no doubt I would have." Kimberly nodded, feeling the tears well up again. "But now....now that I've returned....I have no desire for Janelle at all. No desire for anyone....anyone except you." He reached out and tipped her chin up to him. "You captured my heart the moment I found you lying on the roadside, Kimberly.....I have only eyes for you...no other."
Kimberly smiled soflty and Legolas returned it. He stroked her cheek and leaned his forehead against hers. "I will never desire now that I have found you.....you are the only one." Kimberly smiled and leaned up, bringing their lips together. Legolas wrapped his arms around her, bringing her close, and vowing to never let her be harmed again.
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Yee-haw! It's done! The next chapter!! He he...a little romance there....and, if I get enough reviews....there will be more!! Let me know what you think!! Love ya all!
Yippee!! She has finally updated!! LOL. Sorry folks. It has been so hectic here. Plus, we now have to do these stupid OGT tests at school that don't even count against us sophomores.....Plus, I've been busy working on a project for my church....lol. Sometimes, my stories don't sound like I'm a church-going person, but believe me that I am....I can just get a little bit lost sometimes....this chapter kind of tells that.
Jack-Sparrow-Lover-- Is Mirkwood seriously underground?? Whoa...that was a HUGE oops on my part....well, I've got a couple chapters written out already with the kingdom being above ground....so, guys, please just overlook this huge oops that I made. I am a total dope! Thanks for being so kind to point that out! I promise to try not to make big mistakes like that anymor! Please just overlook it this time!!
Anyway, just had to thank you for that!!
WARNING: As I mentioned above, this is one of those chapters where you can tell that I'm a lost. It's a little...uh...sexual reference-y. I just wanted to warn you.
Dedication: Jason, you've been a huge help! Thanks for talking with me about everything! You are such an awesome youth pastor! Beth, you're going on tour pretty soon. Love ya girl! Ashley, tomorrow would be your sweet sixteen...I just hope that you are having a huge party up in Heaven with God....I miss ya, girlie!!
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Chapter Four
"Legolas, I've never done this."
Legolas smiled at Kimberly. They stood in the shooting range, Kimberly akwardly holding a bow. It had been a day since they had shared their first kiss, and since then, Legolas couldn't bear a moment away from her. He had tracked her down this morning, finding her, once again, in the gardens. He had brought her to the shooting range, intent on teaching her to manage a bow.
"That is why you are here," he said. "Today, you learn." She wrinkled her nose at him, obviously displeased of the prospect of "learning" anything. Legolas laughed at her facial expression, then leaned in for a quick kiss. As he pulled away, he admired her beauty. The bruises and cuts were now gone from her face, save fora slight red mark above her eyebrow. However, it was now fading as well. Jeera's healing techniques had worked well. Though her ribs weren't completely healed, her wrist had mended very well, and now only a light wrap was wrapped around it. Legolas thought she was now more beautiful than the day before. She smiled at him and turned her attention back to the bow.
Legolas grinned and pulled an arrow out of the quiver that leaned against a tree. He handed it to her and chuckled at her look of bewilderment. He turned her around and pointed to the target, a bulls-eye painted in its center. "Aim for the center." She glanced at him. "With this arrow? And you expect me to hit it? You're a crazier elf than I thought." Legolas smiled behind her. "It's not as hard as you may think. Now, string your arrow." Kimberly sighed in mock-irritation and pulled the arrow back like he had taught her earlier. She pointed the arrow at the target and, after a moment, released it. The arrow flew over the target and embedded itself in a tree ten yards past it. Kimberly turned around and smirked at him. "See?" Legolas smiled. "Were you even trying?" She glared at him. The elf laughed and came toward her. He took the bow from her and strung an arrow. He glanced at her. "Watch," he instructed, and released the arrow.
It hit the target, dead center.
He smiled as he turned around to face Kimberly, only to see her glaring at him. "Cheater," she muttered. Legolas laughed and held out his hand to her. "Come, we shall try again." She shook her head. "Nu-uh. Not after seeing you shoot. I quit." Legolas' smile grew as he took her hand and pulled her to him. "No, you don't. We don't quit until I see that you can shoot the target." Kimberly groaned as he shoved the bow into her hands. She sighed in defeat and strung the arrow he handed her. "Stubborn elf," he heard her mutter. Legolas chuckled as he came up behind her. "There's your problem," he said. "You're holding it wrong." As he moved to help, Kimberly smirked. "How am I supposed to know how to hold this thing?," she asked.
Legolas ignored her as his hands covered hers, moving them to the correct position. He used his foot to kick her feet apart and he rested his head near her shoulder, his mouth right next to her ear. He pulled his hands away and brought them to rest on her slender hips. "Now, just relax," he said softly into her ear. Kimberly felt her heart race as he said it, well aware of how close he was. *Easier said than done,* she thought. "Pull back the arrow slowly. No, don't close one eye. Keep them both open. Yes, like that. Now, concentrate on the target...take your time, and when you're ready, release the arrow." He watched as she kept her eyes on the target, then released the arrow. It landed directly in the center, right next to his.
He smiled as he heard her laugh. "I did it!," she said happily. She lowered the bow and looked victoriously at the target. "I knew I could do it." Legolas chuckled, then turned his head and placed a light kiss on her cheek. "I congratulate you," he said, his arms encircling her waist. Kimberly turned her head and smiled at him. "I had a good teacher." He smiled and kissed her then, her hand coming up to caress his cheek. Legolas deepened the kiss, his arms tightening their hold on her waist. Kimberly dropped the bow to the ground and her other hand now rested on one of his. *Can things possibly be more perfect?,* she thought.
Someone behind them cleared their throat, and the two jumped apart. Legolas kept one arm around Kimberly's waist as they turned around. Gandalf stood behind them, a small smile playing across his bearded face. "Taking a few early morning arrow lessons, I see," the old wizard said, a knowing look in his eye. Legolas nodded. "Aye. I thought Kimberly should learn to fire an arrow." Gandalf nodded. "Yes, that is a good idea." He looked at the young girl. "And have you learned, young Kimberly?" The brunette avoided his gaze and nodded. Gandalf smiled and chuckled. "I just wanted to remind the two of you that we depart for Rivendell tomorrow morning." He smiled. "I would suggest that you both rest easy today. We will need to be rested for our journey." They both nodded and Gandalf chuckled and shook his head before he departed. *Young love,* he thought.
Kimberly sighed after Gandalf left adn turned to the elf who stood next to her. "Caught in the act," she said. "That was kind of embarassing." Legolas grinned. "Gandalf appeared to enjoy your embarassment." She glared at him and he laughed before placing a quick kiss on her lips. She looked up at him. "So from your lack of embarassment, I guess that this isn't the first time you've been caught in a situation like that." Sensing what she was hinting at, Legolas looked into her eyes. "Kimberly, I won't deny that I have known many elf maidens in my life, for indeed, I have. But do not allow that to plague your thoughts. I only have eyes for you." Kimberly searched his face and smiled softly.
Her smile then fell when she realized that they would soon be leaving for Rivendell...soon be leaving to meet her real family. "Legolas, what if they don't believe who I am?" Legolas frowned. "There could be no mistake in your origin, Kimberly. One has to merely glance at you to see that you are of Elrond's line." She nodded. "Yeah, so I've been told. But, it's probably been really hard for them. What if they're in denial? They might think I'm an imposter; a fake....then they'll have me flogged, beheaded, and my head placed on a pike as a warning to everybody else." Legolas merely stared at her, his eyebrows raised. A small smile graced his face. "Where on Middle-Earth did you get an idea like that?" She shrugged. Legolas shook his head and laughed. "That will not be your fate, trust me."
Kimberly wasn't finished, however. "Well, okay, but what if they don't like me? I mean, maybe they will think I'm too wierd. After all, I was raised in an entirely different world. Or, it'll be really akward and uncomfortable." Legolas grasped her shoulders to calm her down. "Kimberly, you worry too much," he said. "I can tell you that it may be akward at first. You have been gone quite awhile. But, I do not think it will be uncomfortable. I also have no doubt that they will like you...you are one of their own. They will love you, as they have from the beginning." Kimberly stared at him as he spoke. She sighed. "I'm just nervous, I guess...and kind of scared."
Legolas trailed a finger down her cheek. "There is no need to be...everything will turn out alright." Kimberly looked at him, her eyes searching his flawless face. "You promise?" He smiled. "I promise." Kimberly smiled then, standing on her tiptoes to kiss him. They pulled apart and Legolas smiled again. "Come, we should return," he said, extending his arm. Kimberly took it and they walked together towards the palace. "Are you prepared for tonight?," Legolas asked. The brunette looked at him. "What's tonight?" He winced, remembering that he had forgotten to tell her about the dinner party tonight. "I forgot to tell you apparently. How easy it is for me to forget things when I am near you."
She smiled. "What's tonight?" Legolas looked at her. "My father has arranged a dinner for my homecoming...as well as my departure." Kimberly frowned. "But didn't Gandalf just say that we should rest?" Legolas grinned at her. "I believe that he was referring to something else, Kimberly." She looked at him a moment before she realized what Gandalf had been "referring" to, and she blushed. "Oh." Legolas smiled, loving the way her cheeks darkened when she was embarassed. "So, it's a party?" He nodded. "And we have to be there?" He nodded again and looked at her. "Do you not wish to attend?" She looked at him. "What? No, no, I want to go...but, I mean, if it's anything like the parties back where I came from, there'll be dancing, right?" Legolas nodded. "So, there's the problem." He frowned. "What?" She looked at him. "I can't dance."
He looked at her. "You can't?" She shook her head. Legolas smiled. "Well, that will have to be remedied, won't it?" Kimberly smiled and shook her head, wondering what her big mouth had just gotten herself into.
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Belemithial stood behind Kimberly, lacing up the back of her dress while the young brunette looked in the mirror. "Elvish dresses are really pretty," she said, smoothing her hands over the dark green fabric. Belelmithial finished the laces and began working on the young girl's hair. "Never prettier than the elf who wears them." Kimberly laughed softly and stood still as the maid worked her hair into a bun, then wrapped a braid around it. She pinned it there with two bobby pins and stepped back, admiring her handywork. "There now....by the Valar, you look so much like Arwen, it's uncanny." Kimberly smiled. "Do you know her well?" The elf smiled. "I was her maid when she and her father stayed here. She's a kind one, Lady Arwen is. Much like yourself." She looked to the door when she heard a knock. "Ah, that will be Prince Legolas now. Hurry, hurry, don't keep him waiting." She pushed Kimberly to do the door and pulled it open, revealing a very dashing Legolas. The elf wore a white tunic over black leggings, and his hair was held with two small braids at the sides. His mouth dropped open when he saw her.
"Kimberly....you look beautiful." The brunette blushed. "Thanks...you're not so bad yourself." He smiled and leaned down, placing a kiss on her lips. A sigh from behind them made them turn, and Belelmithial stood behind them, a slightly dreamy expression on her face. She smiled as they looked at her. "Oh, pardon me, your highness. Didn't mean to intrude." Kimberly giggled while Legolas smiled. "There was no intrusion," he said. "But, if you'll excuse us, we must be going." She nodded. "Of course. Please, enjoy your night." He nodded to her and, smiling, held out his arm to Kimberly. She took it, and they started down the hallway, leaving behind a very dreamy eyed elf servant.
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Kimberly sat next to Gandalf at the dining table, desperatley trying to follow all the conversations that were going on, but being unable to. She didn't know what most of them were discussing, so she settled for just sitting there and pretending that she did. She and Legolas had arrived at the party, only to be herded to the table by Thranduil. The King had proudly announced that his son had returned for the War of the Ring, but unfortunatley had to depart for Rivendell to escort her. Thranduil had affectionately introduced Kimberly as their guest, a young elf from Rivendell who has not been back for many years. *Which is technically true...I guess this way just saves a lot of questions from being asked,* she thought, as she took a sip of her wine. She'd never had wine before, but she enjoyed it's taste.
She looked across the table at Legolas, who was laughing with his father and another elf. Looking over at her, he caught her gaze and winked. The gesture sent shivers down Kimberly's spine and she smiled at him. He returned it and reluctantly turned his attention to the elf who was speaking to him. Beside her, Gandalf tore his attention away from the discussions and leaned towards her. "How are we faring, my dear?," he asked. She looked at him. "Faring alright. I have no idea what everybody is talking about, but I'm okay." The wizard smiled. "I don't think it bothers anyone that you aren't joining in. They seem satisfied enough bombarding Legolas with questions." She laughed and nodded. The wizard smiled and affectionatley patted her hand. He turned back to the conversation and Kimberly took another sip of wine.
Dancing was announced a short time later, and Kimberly rose from her seat, only to be led to the dance floor by Legolas. "What are you doing?," she asked as he enfolded her in his arms. The prince smiled down at her. "I told you that we would remedy your inability to dance." She smiled. "Yeah, well, I'll embarass you if you try." Legolas smiled and brought his face close to hers. "For you, milady, I would suffer anything." Kimberly smiled and allowed the handesome elf to lead her into a waltz.
*********
From their place across the room, three elf maidens watched the young elf and the prince dance. "Well, well, Janelle...it seems that you have just lost your precious bed partner," one of them said. The blonde elf in the center glared at her. "Don't be ridiculous," she said. "You think this is the first time he's ever danced with a pretty elf? Please, there have been several....he's even taken most of them to bed....but he always returns to me." The other elf shrugged. "I don't know, Janelle. He appears to be quite taken with her. Not like with the others." Janelle glared at her companions, then turned her attention back to the dancing couple. "Just watch," she said. "Before this night is over, I will be in Legolas Greenleaf's bed once more."
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"I don't see why you said you couldn't dance," Legolas said as the waltz came to an end. "You seemed quite capable to me." Kimberly smiled at him. "I had a good teacher." He laughed and kissed her hand. "As much as I would love to remain here with you, A'mealamin, I fear that I must return to my father's side." Kimberly smiled. "I understand...Perhaps Gandalf would like to dance." Legolas grinned at her. "To that, I may have to disagree." She laughed and watched as he walked off, glancing back at her. She sighed contendly and turned around, making her way to the open balcony.
**********
Legolas was making his way towards his father when he was confronted by an elf maiden. His face fell when he saw who it was. "Janelle," he said in greeting. The blonde elf smiled up at him seductively. "Hello, Legolas. It's been quite some time. How are you?" Legolas looked at her. "In a bit of a hurry, so if you'll excuse me." He began to walk past her, but she reached out and grabbed his arm, stopping him. "What? No hello kiss?" Legolas sighed and looked down at her. "Janelle, I really don't have time right now." The blonde cocked an eyebrow. "YOu always used to have time for me at night," she said.
Legolas looked at her. "That was quite some time ago, Janelle," he said. "Things have changed." Janelle smirked. "You mean that little tart of an elf you were dancing with a moment ago? Come now, Legolas, you've done this before." Legolas glared at her. "Do not speak of her in that way." Janelle smiled. "What way? Calling her a 'tart'? I'm probably off...I wouldn't doubt if she was still a virgin. Come now, she couldn't please you like I can." She trailed her hand along his chest. "I know how you like it." She pressed her body up against his and licked her red lips suggestively. "And how long it's been...I remember when we would make love for hours at a time...screaming each other's names in ecstacy...me wrapping my legs around you as you're plunging into me as fast and as hard as you can...Just give me a few hours, Legolas...and we can renew that."
Legolas leaned down close to her face and trailed his hand down her neck. Janelle closed her jade eyes and moaned softly, feeling victorious. "One thing you should know, Janelle," Legolas said softly. She opened her eyes and looked up at him lustfully. "That's in the past. We never had anything to begin with. So just leave it be." With that, he pulled away and walked off, leaving behind a fuming Janelle. "Fine, your highness...you want to forget what we had? Fine....but I'll make it so you don't get to have your little scrumpet either." With a plan in mind and a devious smile on her face, she headed towards the balcony.
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Kimberly leaned against the railing of the balcony, closing her eyes as a light breeze blew across her face.
"Beautiful, isn't it?"
Kimberly looked over to see a beautiful blond elf smiling at her. Kimberly returned it. "Yes, it is," she said. The elf smiled. "Mirkwood always is....you're a guest of King Thranduil, yes? From Rivendell?" Kimberly nodded. "Why haven't you been home in so long?" Kimberly hesistated a moment before answering. "It's a long a complicated story...I just had to...find myself." The elf nodded and extended her perfectly manicured hand. "I'm Janelle." Kimberly took it and smiled. "Kimberly." Janelle smiled. "Pleasure....so I saw that you were dancing with Prince Legolas." Kimberly nodded. "Yeah." Janelle laughed. "He's a fine one....very gifted in looks...as well as other things." Kimberly nodded again. "Yeah, he sure can shoot an arrow." Janelle glanced at her. "That's true, but that's not what I meant." The brunette frowned. "What did you mean?" Janelle faigned shock. "You mean...you don't know?" Kimberly's brow furrowed. "Know what?" Janelle looked at her. "About his reputation." Kimberly shook her head. Janelle sighed. "A looker he is, but I've lost count of how many elf maidens he's taken to bed....he's a player, that one."
Kimberly frowned and felt her heart sink. "What do you mean?" Janelle looked over at him. "The gifts I speak of is his gift in bed....now THAT'S a talent, I'll tell you." Kimberly nodded slowly. "So....you speak from experience?" Janelle laughed. "Experience? Yes, you could say that....quite a lot of experience with Prince Legolas, at that....I must say...the things that man can do to make a woman scream...." She trailed off, but Kimberly didn't hear her at all. She stood there, her breath coming out in shallow puffs, at what the elf was saying to her. *Is he just playing me along?,* she thought. She looked up as the other elf spoke to her. "I hope this doesn't offend you, my dear....but he always comes back to me...these little flings he has never last past the night that he brings them to his bed...I just wanted to to warn you before you get hurt." Kimberly stared at her a moment, feeling the tears welling up in her eyes, but refusing to cry in front of this gloating elf. She swallowed hard and nodded."Thank you....uh...please, excuse me." She batted the tears away as she rushed from the balcony. Janelle simply smiled and laughed. *I love being a bitch.*
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Legolas' mind wasn't on the conversation his father was having with the other elves. He was too distracted about his earlier confrontation with Janelle. He didn't deny that she was still as attractive as she was when he had left--at least physically so....but in every other aspect, he couldn't bear to look at her. Her eyes were cold and her face was much too painted up....*Not like Kimberly's.* At the thought of the raven haired beauty, Legolas smiled. Already he missed her...Perhaps he could quietly sneak away while his father was deep in discussion....
He jerked his attention to a flash of green he saw from the corner of his eye. He turned his head in time to see Kimberly rushing from the ballroom, angrilly wiping away tears. *Why is she crying?,* he asked, worried. He began to follow her path, but stopped when he saw Janelle emerge from the balcony that Kimberly had just been at. The blonde elf was running a strand of hair through her fingers, a victorious smile on her face. He felt the rage flare up even as he made his way towards her. The elf's jade eyes didn't even flinch as he approached her. "Ah, did we have a change of heart, my love?," she asked. Legolas grabbed her arm and pulled her to an isolated corner. "What did you say to her?," he demanded angrilly. Janelle grinned. "Only the truth...what else? She has a right to know." Legolas glared down at her, anger blazing in his blue eyes. "What did you tell her?" She returned his glare. "Just what I've become accustomed to....that fact that you take several elf maidens to your bed, but always end up coming back to me....that's true, is it not?" He glared at her. "Not anymore."
Janelle pulled her arm out of his grasp. "What? You go off for a few years and suddenly come back a changed man? It doesn't happen with things like this, Legolas. You still want me. You can't deny that." He stared hard at her, taking her image in. Now that he really looked at her, he didn't know what he had seen in her. Just a pretty face, apparently. Everything else about her was cruel. "You know nothing about what I do and don't deny, Janelle. But know that I do deny you." The blonde stared at him. "I want you to leave now. Leave and don't show your face in my presence again. I won't warn you again." Before she could reply, Legolas rushed off, pushing his way through the crowd, making his way to the hallway.
***********
Kimberly sat at the small vanity table in her room, staring at her tear streaked face in the mirror. *How can I be so stupid?,* she thought. *A great guy like Legolas being interested in a loser like me....I'm such a dope.* She angrilly wiped the tears away, then clasped her hands in her lap. *Now what do I do?,* she thought, looking down at her hands. A knock jarred her out of her thoughts and she looked at the door. The knock came once more when she didn't answer. "Kimberly?" She felt her heart stop. *Legolas.* "Kimberly, please....open the door. I need to talk to you." Slowly, after a brief hesitation, Kimberly rose from her seat an walked to the door. She took a deep breath before opening it. Legolas felt his heart break when he saw the tears on her face. *Janelle...what damage have you done?* He swallowed and looked at her. "May I come in?" Kimberly snifflied and nodded, stepping back to allow him entrance. She shut the door behind him and turned to face him.
"Kimberly.....what Janelle told you....," he trailed off, unsure of how to explain. She looked up at him. "Is it true? I mean....do you really do that?" He sighed and avoided her gaze, suddenly ashamed. "Once, a long time ago, yes...before I left for the War of the Ring." She nodded and looked at the floor. "Kimberly..." She looked back up. "Were you planning on doing that to me?" Legolas jerked his gaze to her face. "What? No...no, I would never do that to you." Kimberly looked at him. "But Janelle said that that's what you do....then you always go back to her." Legolas sighed and came towards her. "Kimberly....that was before I met you....Janelle and I never had anything...it was lust...pure lust...nothing more....Years ago, yes, I perhaps would have thought of charming my way into your bed...no doubt I would have." Kimberly nodded, feeling the tears well up again. "But now....now that I've returned....I have no desire for Janelle at all. No desire for anyone....anyone except you." He reached out and tipped her chin up to him. "You captured my heart the moment I found you lying on the roadside, Kimberly.....I have only eyes for you...no other."
Kimberly smiled soflty and Legolas returned it. He stroked her cheek and leaned his forehead against hers. "I will never desire now that I have found you.....you are the only one." Kimberly smiled and leaned up, bringing their lips together. Legolas wrapped his arms around her, bringing her close, and vowing to never let her be harmed again.
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Yee-haw! It's done! The next chapter!! He he...a little romance there....and, if I get enough reviews....there will be more!! Let me know what you think!! Love ya all!