Twilight and Greenleaves
Disclaimer: No own
A/N: More revisions. I hope you are all enjoying this!
Chapter 2
Adúriel pulled at her gown in irritation, glancing at Elen in the mirror. Why did you get me this one? she demanded of her younger sister, one delicate eyebrow raised questioningly.
What's wrong with it? Elen inquired as she slipped off the bed, coming closer. Her clear gray eyes were bright with curiosity as she fingered the sleeve of her sister's dress. It's looks just like the ones Atara wears. Adúriel replied, turning back to her reflection. But it feels awkward. Why did I let you pick my gown for tonight?
It was a midnight blue silk gown, embroidered with threads of silver, complementing Adùriel's dark hair and star bright eyes perfectly. Yet it was a slightly different style than she was accustomed to, a slightly lower wider neckline, making her feel a bit awkward.
The younger Princess shrugged her small shoulders, a tiny grin on her lips. Because you hate worrying about such things? she suggested. Elen began to giggle uncontrollably. And because you were too busy spying on someone in the garden to worry about what you were going to wear. Adúriel cried in shock. I was not!
Though she would not admit it to her sister, that was exactly what she had been doing. She didn't understand it herself, but she found that she was intensely interested in Prince Legolas Greenleaf from Mirkwood. Though Adúriel had only caught his eyes for a moment in the gardens the day he had arrived, she had felt something strange pass between them, something she could not name.
Curiosity had driven her to go looking for him again, but she had not discovered him anywhere inside the great palace walls. Therefore the young Princess of Gondor had sought for the visiting Elf in her mother's gardens. She had found Legolas there indeed, seated on a bench beneath one of the great trees from the land of her great grandmother.
Well concealed behind a hedge, Adúriel had watched him curiously. Though she had met her Father's dearest friend before when she was a child, she had not seen him for many years and her image of him from then had faded.
Though her mother was a full-blooded Elf, the young maiden had met very few of her kind and was eager to know what others were like. Legolas was fair, in the manner of all Elves, slender, yet strongly built at the same time. She looked on as he rose, watching in fascination as he climbed one of the trees. The sunlight glittered in his gold hair as he ascended into the branches and vanished from her sight.
Elen had folded her arms, her young face skeptical as she stared at her sister. You were too spying. On Ada's friend, that Elf Legolas.I don't know what you're talking about, Adúriel retorted as she brushed her long dark hair, a slight blush staining her pale cheeks.
Oh yes you do, Elen retorted, rifling through her sister's jewelry box. You fancy him. I may be only fourteen, but I see that you like him.Don't be silly. I don't even know him.
There came a faint knock on the door, and Elen hurried to answer it. Arwen entered, her footsteps silent, the only thing to alert one to her coming the soft rustling of her cranberry colored gown.
Adúriel, my tinu(daughter), are your ready? Arwen paused, and her gray eyes lit upon her daughter, a soft smile creeping over her face. Elen chose well, she stated softly, stepping close to embrace Adúriel. You are beautiful.
She blushed again, pulling back slightly. Thank you Atara.
Arwen moved to the jewelry box, lifting out a silver circlet, delicately crafted in slender interwoven strands. She placed it about her daughter's brow. You are most welcome. Now you are ready.
Elen watched them wistfully, her gray eyes sorrowful. Have a good time Adúriel.Don't be sad, the Queen told her, bending down to hug her other daughter. You will be able to go to another time.
Elen nodded, her expression brightening slightly, watching as her mother and sister swept from the room. As Adúriel followed her mother, she felt slightly apprehensive, wondering what tonight would hold for her.
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Pausing momentarily in the entranceway to the great hall, Legolas sighed, wondering what he had been thinking to allow Aragorn to talk him into this. His normally tranquil sapphire eyes were narrowed, mouth set in a grim line as he smoothed his silver colored tunic again, suppressing a frustrated sigh. Composing his fair features once more, the Elf stepped forward into the Great Hall of Gondor.
Legolas hesitated yet again as his keen Elven eyes swept the crowd, taking in the sight of the nobility of Gondor. The majority of the guests were Men, clad in varying shades of blue and gray, the royal colors of the city. Their clothing was all of the finest quality; he, however, hated the required outfit for such formal events. With the fine clothing in addition to the thin silver circlet, no one could mistake him for anything but for what he was, an Elven Prince.
He despised being judged on his status, preferring to let himself to be judged on his deeds. There were always the knowing looks, the bows, the sort of awed respect that he could not bear, all because he was a Prince. Legolas had always been more comfortable letting his actions speak for him.
Scanning the hall again, he was considerably relieved to find that he was not the only Elf in attendance this night, spying a handful of others in attendance, including Queen Arwen herself. Legolas relaxed, feeling considerably more at ease. It was always rather off-putting to be the only Elf in a room full of Men, and he was once again grateful that the daughter of Elrond was making Elves more common in Gondor.
It was hard to miss Arwen, who stood out brilliantly as a star in the night sky among the other women of Gondor. She wore a bright scarlet gown this night, and she was easily the most stunning person in sight- or she would have been if Legolas had not caught sight of the raven-haired daughter sitting at her mother's side. Adúriel wore a navy blue gown, her dark hair hung loosely down her back, the silver circlet about her brow the only extravagance, besides a plain silver chain around her neck.
He reluctantly drew his eyes away from her and shook the fog from his mind. Stepping gracefully around chattering people, the Elf nodded courteously to those who bowed in greeting to him. Legolas grinned when he suddenly heard a familiar voice roar his name in a hoarse low rumble.
Legolas! The Elf Princeling has returned!
Shouldering his way through the crowed, a familiar short stocky figure appeared at his feet. Legolas smirked as he gazed down at Gimli, whose long brown beard was now streaked with gray. Well, if it isn't the dirty dwarf, he teased in return, taking the other's hand warmly. Well met my friend.
The dwarf snorted, but was still grinning. I'm surprised you remember me, as you have not returned for eleven years! Eleven years Elfling! What could you have possibly been doing for eleven years? You have much explaining to do, but first, come join me and Faramir, Gimli finished.
Turning, the short dwarf began to push back through the crowd, leading the way. Heart considerably lighter, Legolas followed his old friend. A shiver wound down his back as he passed before the royal dais, alerting him to the fact that he was being watched. Yet the feeling was soon forgotten as he stepped forward to greet Faramir who had just risen to welcome him.
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Adúriel was the one who watched the Elven Prince as he followed his friend across the hall, her eyes locked on him every step of the way. She couldn't help but admire how handsome he was, scowling as she realized that Elen hadn't been far from the truth when she had accused Adúriel of spying on him.
She couldn't help it; he was easily the most interesting guest there that night. After all, he was one of the Nine Walkers of the Fellowship, a war hero in his own respect. Her features becoming thoughtful, the young Princess wondered if he remembered her at all. The look he had cast her in the garden said that perhaps he did, but that might not be the best thing. Adúriel had been a mere child when she had last seen him, and he unchanged from then. So engrossed in watching him, she did not hear her mother speak at first, quickly tearing her eyes away from Legolas.
Yes Atara? she inquired, turning to look at her mother.
I was asking if you were having a good time, Arwen repeated, a strange sparkle in her wise star bright eyes. Yet I see that my question was unnecessary. Legolas seems to have dominated your attention.
Adúriel felt her face burn and she cast her eyes downward to avoid her Father's questioning glance over at his daughter and wife. Nonsense Atara. I wasn't watching him. I was simply recalling the last time I saw him as a child. She put a slight emphasis on the last word, as if to prove that there was nothing to her interest in the visiting Elven Prince.
I'm sure you were dear, Arwen replied in a light tone, glancing at her husband. The King and Queen seemed to share a silent exchange, leaving Adúriel feeling awkward.
To dismiss the feeling, she rose, leaving her mother's side for one of her young friends, a noble from the city by the river. She was immediately dragged into a group dance, laughing happily.
How does Eowyn fare? Legolas asked Faramir, taking a sip of wine. I have not seen her since your marriage.
A gentle smile spread across the man's face at the mention of his beloved wife. Well enough, he answered. Though I could not convince her to come tonight. Eowyn no longer enjoys formal events; she had an ill patient who she was not willing to leave. She is a skilled healer and gardener now.
Gimli burped richly, setting down his tankard of ale. She's changed much then. Last I saw of her, she was ready to conquer the world with her sword alone.
Legolas had just been thinking the same thing, reflecting on his memory of the fiery young woman clad in chain mail. Eowyn had been as strong as steel and as fierce as her sword. He could scarcely believe that she had had such a change of character. As long as you are both content Faramir, that is what matters.We are both content, Faramir assured him. Yet, all this talk about beautiful ladies and being content makes me wonder about you. His calm eyes were twinkling as he looked pointedly at the Elf.
Yes Elfling, the dwarf chimed in, wiping his mouth with his long beard. Any ladies for you?
Legolas refrained from snorting in disgust, as Elves never did such a dwarf like thing. No. Don't you start on me as well. Ada has taken care of pestering me on that subject very well.I'm certain he has, Gimli returned. We just want to see you happy. No one should be alone Legolas. His dark eyes contemplated his friend across the small table. I don't see why you're having trouble in finding a girl. The lasses just seem to adore your blond locks and blue eyes, he finished in a teasing tone.
As the Elf scowled at the dwarf, Faramir chimed in. Come Legolas. There must be some lass here that you fancy.
Legolas was about to tell him no and be done with the whole ridiculous conversation, but then a flash of dark hair and blue fabric in the crowd of dancers caught his keen eyes. Adúriel was in a circle of other girls her age, pale face flushed, and bright eyes dancing with laughter at something someone had said to her. She looked so young, so beautiful and full of life, that for almost five minutes he could not take his gaze from her, until he realized that his friends were smiling at him.
I should have known it would be Adúriel you'd fancy, Faramir remarked softly. He picked up his goblet and drank deeply before continuing. After all, she is a lovely girl.As beautiful as her lady mother and her grandmother, Gimli put in gruffly. His hand strayed to his chest where a crystal hung. Within the crystal were three shining strands of golden hair, a token from the Lady of the Golden Wood. A very enchanting lass. You choose well Legolas.Don't be ludicrous, the Elf muttered, chastising himself for gazing at the Princess the way he had been. Of course she's beautiful, but that doesn't mean I fancy her.
Faramir leaned back in his chair, scrutinizing the Elven Princess as she danced. All the men agree with you on the account of her beauty. Aragorn has many troubles with suitors interested in marriage. There are men who meet her once and entranced by her beauty and grace beg for her hand. I worry about someone taking advantage of the young girl.What do you mean? Legolas inquired sharply, his eyes taking on a dangerous gleam.
The man looked at him in surprise. She's young and beautiful Legolas. That's enough to tempt any normal man. But along with her title, Adúriel is very tempting for a wife.I don't want to dance with you again or marry you! Adúriel hissed, pulling away from the man who had not left her alone all night. She did not know who he was, but she did not like him. She had agreed to a dance with him, simply to be polite, but he wasn't satisfied with that. He had been persistent, and she was becoming annoyed.
His cold eyes flashed angrily and he grabbed her by the wrist firmly. You are going to dance with me if I have to make you!
Adúriel drew back, growing frightened despite herself. She wanted nothing more to do with him. She glanced frantically over at her Father, silently asking him for his assistance. Aragorn started to rise when he met her gaze, his face growing thunderous. Then suddenly his expression turned to one of surprise, and he stood still.
What are you doing Ada? Adúriel thought fearfully as the man's hold tightened painfully on her slim wrist. Come help me! She saw the man's eyes change as he quickly released her, and a hand lightly touched her shoulder.
Princess Adúriel, I believe you promised me this dance? a clear voice broke in politely.
Relief flooded through Adúriel as she turned to look up at Legolas. Though he appeared perfectly calm and polite, the icy gleam in his eyes was directed at the man. The Elf seemed to be silently saying that if he so much as spoke in protest, that he would not hesitate to kill him.
The man's face paled, and he backed away hastily. Obviously he was not fool enough to start an argument with another man- or Elf for that matter.
Yes, of course Prince Legolas, she responded gratefully, turning from the persistent man who was looking furious.
The Elf did not appear concerned, taking her hand as he led her further into the crowd. He paused, slipping an arm around her waist and taking her hand as he led her into the dance. Adúriel was so relieved that she had escaped that whole unpleasant scene that she could not find words at first to express her gratitude.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart, Prince Legolas, she finally managed to whisper, lifting her face to meet his tranquil azure gaze.
It was not a problem, he assured her courteously, holding her close. I was more than happy to help. But please, he added, don't call me Prince.
Of course, Legolas, if you will do me the same courtesy. Adúriel smiled slowly up at him, feeling herself blush when he returned it.
Stop it! She told herself firmly. I'm acting like a foolish little girl. I am nothing but his friend's daughter; I must control myself! Yet despite her inward conversation, Adúriel relaxed in his arms, allowing him to draw her slightly closer.
As the song came to an end, the Princess was fully prepared to smile politely, thank Legolas and return to her friends. Then she caught a glimpse of the same man who had been bothering her before lurking nearby, and she instantly felt sick. Legolas followed her gaze, and realized the predicament almost immediately. He did not release her, leading her into another dance as the music began again.
Once again all I can do is thank you, Adúriel told him ruefully. I'm afraid I've become a dreadful nuisance to you, consuming your evening this way.
He looked rather amused by her comment. I suppose I'm becoming accustomed to being thanked. A small grin spread across his fair face. I do not believe that any man or Elf could ever consider you a nuisance Adúriel.
Her cheeks turned scarlet instantly, to her horror. It was very un-princess like. The young girl could think of nothing to say to that, remaining silent for a long moment. Are you enjoying the celebrations? she found herself asking.
It's well enough, Legolas responded. Many of my friends here I have not seen for a long time. It has been good to catch up with them. What about you?It has been enjoyable, she answered. Many of my friends too have come. The only thing that hasn't been pleasant was that man.Have you met him before? the Elf inquired.
Adúriel shook her dark head. No, I have not. He simply took to following me around, insisting that I marry him. She wrinkled her nose in disgust. I do not understand how he can ask me such a thing when he does not even know anything about me.
Legolas looked down at her innocent face, his heart thudding strangely. He could only see how beautiful you are, and couldn't think of anything past that. The Elf hesitated before continuing. I do not know you well Adúriel, but I know that you have a strong spirit, and that there is more to you than just how lovely you are.Thank you, she murmured softly, blinking at him before ducking her head shyly. After some moments, without even thinking, Adúriel rested her head against his chest, allowing her eyes to flutter closed.
The Elf was slightly startled, but did not show it. Sensing that she was in need of comfort and reassurance he tightened his hold on the slender girl, resting his golden head against her dark one. He found that he did not mind in the least that the night was slipping away, nor even that he hadn't gotten to spend more time with Gimli and Faramir. Adúriel had a delightful way of making him forget everything.
She for her part couldn't think, nor did she really want to. The feel of his arms around her made her feel giddy and she wished she could stay like this all night. Adúriel was shocked and saddened to find that the evening was nearly spent. She straightened in Legolas' embrace reluctantly, sighing gently.
Thank you for spending this night with me, she offered quietly.
It was my pleasure, Legolas answered courteously.
Yet he hadn't let go of her, both of his hands resting lightly on her waist. Adúriel felt a shiver go through her as her eyes locked with his. She stared up at him, silently questioning him, half wanting to run away and half wanting to stay like this forever. The moment was broken, however, by the arrival of Arwen.
She came forward with a smile, nodding to Legolas who had just released the young Princess. Adúriel, it's time for you to retire. Legolas, it is good to see you here. I see Aragorn convinced you to come after all.Yes, he did, the Elf replied with a smile. He glanced over at Adúriel, then back to Arwen. I would like to talk with you sometime soon, if you wish.Of course, Arwen returned graciously, touching her daughter's arm. Well, quel du(good night). Come along Adúriel.
She nodded and was about to come with her mother when Legolas caught her hand. A bit taken aback, she looked up at him questioningly.
It was wonderful spending time with you tonight Adúriel. He raised her hand to his lips, brushing a light kiss to the back of it. Quel du. With a smile, the Elf was gone, vanishing back into the crowd.
Adúriel was left standing there, her hand still outstretched. For some reason, her body felt strangely warm and quivery, though she could not explain why. Suddenly aware that her mother was still waiting for her, the young Princess came to herself.
I'm sure Elen is still awake, and she'll want to hear everything, Adúriel remarked lightly to her mother, trying to cover up her emotions.
Of course she will, Arwen agreed, and mother and daughter left the great hall.
Aragorn caught up with them at the door to Adùriel's rooms, taking Arwen aside momentarily after wishing his daughter good night. Sensing her parents had something to discuss, the young Princess quickly entered her chambers, where sure enough, Elen still waited for her.
Tell me everything! she demanded, bouncing on the bed excitedly.
Adúriel laughed at her sister's antics. Help me out of this dress, and I'll tell you everything, she assured.
Elen grinned, hopping off the bed to assist her. As soon as Adúriel was in her white nightgown, the two sisters sat together in the middle of the canopy bed. She related as much as she could recall, what others had worn, and who had attended.
Did you dance with anyone? Elen inquired, gray eyes mischievous.
Several group dances with my friends, Adúriel replied as she plucked lightly at her bedspread.
That's not what I meant! Elen exclaimed, shaking her dark brown hair. Did you dance with any men?One who wouldn't leave me alone, the girl said with a scowl, her brow furrowing. Her expression softened though as she continued. And then after that I only danced with one other person.What? Why? the fourteen year old demanded. You could have-Because I spent the rest of the time with him, Adúriel cut in hurriedly, before Elen could finish. Immediately after she wished she hadn't said anything, as Elen's eyes grew as round as marbles.
she squealed in delight. That's wonderful! Who? Tell me, tell me!
Adúriel blushed furiously as she hugged her pillow tightly. It was Legolas, she murmured under her breath.
I knew it!!!! Elen screeched excitedly. You fancy him and he you! I knew it, I just knew it!!Stop that Elen, Adúriel cried as she turned a brighter crimson. He was just being polite and helping me avoid a awful situation. He doesn't fancy' me as anything except a friend, and nothing more.
For a moment the younger girl stared at her, beginning to grin wider. You didn't deny fancying him, she teased merrily.
Oh you!
Without warning, Adúriel hit Elen over the head with her downy pillow, causing the younger Princess to laugh hysterically. Elen then pounced on Adúriel, tickling her. Both sisters were laughing so hard that their sides ached.
Arwen came in then, looking slightly worried and graver than she normally did, but chuckled softly at the sight of her daughters in a heap on the bed.
You two never change, she stated quietly, though her smile didn't quite reach her eyes.
Atara, what's wrong? Adúriel inquired, disentangling herself from Elen.
Nothing to be terribly concerned about, the Queen assured them as she seated herself elegantly at the foot of the bed. Your Father just wanted to tell me about some attacks on Elves that have been occurring near Mirkwood.Is Ada going to have to go to war? Elen inquired worriedly. I don't want him and Eldarion going!It isn't quite that serious yet, Arwen replied firmly. The King of Mirkwood can take care of things for the moment. There may not be a need for them to go to war at all. It isn't anything that can't be defeated. She placed a gentle kiss on Elen's brow. I just wanted to let you girls know what is going on so you don't have to wonder. Now, you best get to bed Elen.
The girl nodded, slipping off the bed and leaving the room as quickly as she had come. Arwen and Adúriel were left alone, the young Princess's eyes filled with concern as they turned on her mother.
Is Legolas going to return to Mirkwood then?I am not certain, Arwen answered with a sigh. There may not be enough of a threat for him to go back. But he is extremely concerned, as am I.Whatever is killing the Elves is something that bears them great hatred, isn't it? Adúriel inquired in a soft tone.
The Queen did not answer right away, her gray eyes darkening slightly. My foresight is clouded to the identity of the enemy; I cannot see who-or what- it might be. But yes, I do believe that it is an enemy of my kindred.Why do you tell me this? Adúriel asked hesitantly.
Because I felt that this would be important for you to know, though I cannot say why, Arwen replied quietly. But do not worry about it; there is nothing to fear, for the Dark Lord is gone and shall come no more. Nothing could be as threatening as he, so sleep peacefully my sweet.