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Chapter six: An Escape into Memories

Cali awoke to someone calling her name and gently shaking her shoulder. She opened her eyes to see Nadia standing over her. "Milady, it is time to wake and start the new day." The she-Elf then walked to the door and opened it to allow other servants in, all of whom were carrying jars of hot water like the day before. Cali slowly sat up, then realized she still had her headphones on. She quickly took them off, hoping Nadia hadn't noticed them yet. Slipping her cd player under the pillow, Cali stood and bent over to stretch her legs.

When she straightened she asked, "Nadia, what time is it?"

"It is mid-morning. Now go wash; I've already laid out your clothing. You need to hurry, Déorwin will be here in a bit to take you to the dinning hall." Nadia motioned to the washroom and looked at Cali expectantly. Taking the hint, Cali scampered off so she could avoid another debate with the female Elf.

After washing, Cali looked at the clothing Nadia laid out for her. It was a light, purple dress along with white, short boots and a dreaded corset. Though this time, Cali was determined to wear something of her own choosing. She wrapped the white towel firmly around her and peered out the door into her room. It was deserted. Cali quickly rushed to the armoire and grabbed her bags, taking them back to the bathroom with her. After sifting through them, Cali decided on a pair of loose, white pants and a white peasant shirt; she also placed on the white boots that were with the dress. She then gathered her bags and walked out of the small room. As she placed the bags back where she got them, she briefly wondered if she should bother putting her things away in the various drawers and on the hangers. Cali decided against it since she did not know for how much longer she would be there. She then sat at what she figured was the vanity table and began to slowly brush her hair till it was somewhat dry. Placing the brush back on the table, Cali gazed at her reflection. Her hair was curling slightly from being wet, and framed her face. She reached for her small makeup bag and pulled out a white eyeliner. She outlined her eyes lightly, then deemed herself done.

But as Cali sat waiting for Déorwin to come for her, the more she wanted to be alone. It wasn't that she didn't like being around these people, they had been kind to her, and Cali just felt she needed some time to herself. She wanted to explore the grounds by herself, without someone watching over her. Cali stood and walked past her bed to the balcony. She looked out the grounds below her. No one was out yet. Her eyes then traveled to the arena. She thought of Astalder; he needed some attention. Suddenly there a knock on the door.

"Uh, come in!" Cali called, walking away from the balcony and to meet whoever knocked. The door opened and Nadia, followed by Déorwin, walked in. Nadia took one look at Cali's clothing and opened her mouth to protest.

"Lady Cali! You should not be wearing such attire!"

Cali stared at her. "There is no way I am wearing a corset ever again. It was painful to wear, not to mention a pain to take off. And I can't forget the fact that I really do hate wearing dresses." Nadia's eyes widened. It wasn't that she was surprised at what Cali said, but that Cali said it in front of Déorwin.

Déorwin raised a hand. "It is quite alright, Nadia. Lady Cali looks fine." He turned and held out his arm to Cali. "Now, shall we head down to the Dinning Hall to break our fast?"

Cali looked at him and backed a step. She sighed and said uncertainly, "Um, do you think I could possibly just eat in here, alone? I sort of want to be on my own today. If that's okay."

Déorwin lowered his arm and studied the younger girl's face. He understood. She was in a strange land she did not know and away from people she knew. He nodded and said softly, "I will have some food sent to your room. Farewell, milady. May our paths cross again today." Cali nodded her thanks and watched as the Elf left the room, disappearing down the hall. She then raised a hand in Nadia's direction, silencing her before she could speak.

"Please, Nadia, don't say anything. I know what you want to say, but I'm not in the mood for a lecture." Nadia once again tried to speak but Cali silenced her. "Nadia, I'm not trying to be disrespectful. These people have been very generous toward me since I arrived here and I am truly grateful. I just need some time to myself, okay?" Slightly taken aback, Nadia curtsied and left the room. Cali sighed and looked after the female Elf. She shook her head. Turning, Cali walked back to the balcony. She didn't want to wait around for the food to come; she needed to get out. In truth Cali was hungry, and should have gone with Déorwin to breakfast, but she severely needed to sort some things out in her head. And to do this, Cali would need to find a way to the stables without running into one of the others. She leaned over the railing to see how far it was from the ground.

"Dang. It's too far," she muttered. There was a tree nearby but she could never jump that far without the possibility of getting hurt. Along the palace walls near the balcony, there were some vines climbing up them, but they would never hold her weight; the vines were too thin and weak. What she needed was a rope; then she could escape the old fashioned way. Cali wondered if bed sheets really worked. She gazed back at the bed, then at the balcony. It would have to work. There was no other way she knew to get to the ground and not run into any of the Elves. Walking quickly to the bed, Cali stripped off the sheets and proceeded to tie knots every two or so feet. Once she was satisfied it was sufficient, Cali tied one end to the balcony railing and tossed the rest over the edge. It of course didn't reach the ground, but it was far enough to get down safely. Cali then swung her leg over the balcony rail and hoisted herself over the edge. She slowly lowered her body till she could firmly grasp the bed sheet in her hands. When she had a good grip, Cali climbed down as quickly as she could. The knotted sheet stopped about midway between the balcony and the ground. Cali looked down, decided it was a safe enough distance and let go of the sheet, allowing herself to fall to the ground. She landed on her feet, bending her knees to help absorb the force of the impact. Cali stood and ran to the stables.

Once there, she slid to a stop in front of Astalder's stall. Cali reached up and stroked his neck while she looked around. Where could they have put her things? Suddenly, a younger looking Elf walked into the stable. He stopped at the sight of Cali. Cali looked at him and asked, "You there. Were you here when they brought this horse in yesterday?"

"Y-yes, I was. Are you the Lady the Prince and Lord Déorwin found in the forest?"

Cali smiled lightly. "Good. Do you know where they put the things which were with this horse? There should also be a sword, bow, arrows, and two long knives as well."

The Elf nodded and motioned Cali to follow him. "Yes, they were placed in an empty tack room, my Lady. Please, follow me." The young male Elf the led Cali down one of the alleyways and into a room. There, she found her saddle mounted on a type of saddle rack and her bridle hanging on one of the various hooks. Then on a table against the wall, were her weapons. She let loose the breath she didn't know she was holding.

Cali turned to the Elf and smiled. "Thank you. What is your name?"

The young Elf smiled in return and bowed. "My name is Adonas, my Lady."

"And I am Calithradë. Thank you again for showing me my things." Adonas bowed again and left Cali with her equipment. Looking at her saddle, she decided it would take too long to saddle Astalder, so she opted for riding bareback. Before leaving though, Cali grabbed the two long knives and strapped them to her back. Remembering her encounter with the orc, Cali knew she should be armed and ready in case a situation like before arose again. Grabbing the bridle, Cali rushed out of the room and to Astalder's stall. When she got to her horse's stall, she opened the stall door and threw the bridle on him. She led him out, down the alleyway, and outside. Cali then reached, grabbed part of Astalder's mane, and using most of her upper body strength, hoisted herself onto his back. She took hold of the reins and nudged Astalder with her heels, urging him into a canter. As they moved across the grounds, Cali tried to remember how to get out of the city. She recalled from the day before seeing a large archway in one part of the city, leading into the forest. There was also a path; she remembered Legolas saying that if one followed the path, it would lead the person out of Mirkwood. She knew that was where she needed to go. As Cali looked back at the palace, she regretted leaving; she knew they would become upset when they discovered she was gone. Not to mention all her things were still in her room. She shook her head and focused on finding her way through the city. She would be seen of course, but at the moment she didn't care. Cali just needed to get out of there.

Cali soon became less nervous about being seen as she entered the courtyard. Several of the servants and guards jumped out of the way as she moved through. One or two guards ran inside the palace, no doubt to inform Thranduil of her flight. As soon as they cleared the courtyard, Cali urged Astalder into a gallop and they went swiftly into the city. After trying to doge the people and jumping over other various objects, Cali could soon see the archway and the path. She smiled as they passed under the arch and into the forest. Cali made it, but she would have to continue going as fast as possible to stay ahead of the others in case they followed her.

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Déorwin frowned to himself as he made his way back to the dinning hall. That girl was strange. She seemed to enjoy their company when she first arrived, but now, she did not want to be around anyone. He did have sympathy for her though; he only wished there was something he could do to help. As Déorwin drew closer to the dinning hall, he began to become more worried about how the others would react to him arriving without Lady Cali. He knew the Queen had taken a liking to Lady Cali, King Thranduil as well. He didn't know about the Prince though. Legolas has never been so distracted by a female before, especially during a sparring match. A horde a gorgeous she-Elves could be surrounding him, trying to gain his attention, and Legolas would act like they didn't even exist. Now, one glimpse of Lady Cali and he freezes. Déorwin smiled; Legolas obviously liked her, he just wouldn't admit it. So how was he supposed to explain Lady Cali wouldn't join them?

Upon entering the dinning hall, Déorwin heard chairs scrape back as the men stood. He gazed up to see everyone looking at him expectantly. The hall was silent, until King Thranduil turned to him and spoke.

"Where is Lady Cali, Déorwin?" he asked.

Déorwin swallowed audibly and took a deep breath. "Um . Lady Cali . she . wanted to be alone. I was going to have some food sent up to her."

Still standing, Thranduil walked up to Déorwin. "Is something wrong with her?"

"I-" started Déorwin but he was interrupted when two guards ran into the hall.

"Your Highness, Lady Cali, she has." one of the guards paused.

Thranduil looked at them, eyes narrowing and suspicion lacing his voice. "What about Lady Cali?"

The guard who spoke looked at his companion, then back to their King. "She has . I don't think 'escaped' is the right word. Just minutes ago she was seen riding through the city. She was heading for the Aisir. We believe she is trying to get out of Mirkwood."

"By the Valar," Thranduil whispered under his breath. "Gather others and search the woods surrounding the city. Legolas," Thranduil said turning to where his son sat, only to find the chair empty. Quickly turning to Déorwin he said, "Go with Legolas. I want you two to follow the main path. With luck, you may catch up with her. Asca (hurry)." Déorwin nodded and ran to the stables where he knew the Prince was headed.

Déorwin arrived to find Legolas swiftly saddling his horse. The dark haired Elf said nothing as he as well began to ready his own horse. Within minutes they were leading their horses out of the stable. Before mounting the Elf said, "Don't worry Legolas. We'll find her." Legolas looked at his friend and nodded. They mounted and galloped away from the palace grounds, through the city, and into the woods. They followed the path for over an hour but with no sign of Cali. The two Elven warriors were fast becoming frustrated. Upon finding a stream which crossed the path, the Elves dismounted and allowed their horses to rest and drink the water.

Allowing his horse's reins to fall to the ground, Legolas jumped over the stream to study the dirt path. He could see another horse's hoof prints, but the earth was churned like the animal had become confused and tried to escape from something. Legolas closely followed the prints to see where they lead. The prints soon ran off the path to the right and into the woods. Something glittering in the dirt suddenly caught his eye. Legolas picked the object up and brushed the dirt off. It was the bracelet he and Déorwin bought Lady Cali the day before. 'She must have come this way,' he thought to himself. He stood and looked in the direction the prints headed. Then Déorwin called to him.

"Hey Legolas! You'd better come look at this!" Legolas turned and jogged back to the stream. Déorwin was holding a piece of parchment and a dagger. "I found this on one of the trees. Whoever wrote it, is either after or already has Lady Cali." He handed the note to the Elf Prince. Legolas's eyes narrowed as he read it.

~Now it begins. She has been chosen.~

"What do you think it means, 'Now it begins'? What is beginning?" Legolas shook his head.

"I don't know, but look what I found." He held out his hand, revealing the bracelet to his companion. "The hoof prints which surrounded the bracelet were heading off in that direction." Legolas pointed in the direction he came from. He picked up his horses reins and said, "Come, we must hurry. Darkness still lurks in these woods. Who knows what will cross Lady Cali's path." The two Elves mounted their horses and rode off the path in the direction Legolas had pointed.

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The quick beats of Astalder's hooves thundered soundlessly in Cali's ears as they fled down the forest path. Cali had been riding for a few hours and she knew her horse - not to mention herself - needed a rest, but she didn't want Legolas or one of the others to catch up with them. It they caught her, another escape like this one would be impossible. Sighing in frustration, Cali looked up and saw a stream flowing near the path; she smiled. Thinking it would only take a few minutes to rest and refresh themselves, Cali halted Astalder and dismounted. She led him over to the water and allowed him to drink. Cali knelt and drank some of the water herself. As she brought a cupped hand of the cool water to her mouth, an arrow flew over her head, embedding itself in a tree. She looked up to see several more arrows fly through the air followed by cries and shrieks. Within seconds over a dozen creatures similar to the one that attacked her the day before - what did Legolas call them? Orcs? - stormed onto the path. They surrounded her and Astalder. Cali's horse tossed his head and attempted to storm past the creatures but they drew their swords and forced him back. Cali ran to him and grabbed his reins, trying to calm him down. She looked around at the screaming Orcs immediately deciding that the only way past these things would be to run over them.

As she tossed the reins over Astalder's neck and prepared to mount him, some of the Orcs suddenly parted to allow a clocked person the enter the circle. The stranger raised an arm and the creatures quickly quieted. He stepped up to Cali and she backed away, tightening her hold of Astalder's reins. She glared at the stranger and reached behind her to grab one of her knives.

"Do not be so quick to defend yourself young Calithradë. I will not harm you," the person said. It was a man. His voice was deep and raspy. He raised a large hand and lowered the hood of his cloak. The man's skin was fairly tan and he had both dark hair and eyes.

Cali's hand hovered above the handle of one of the knives. She continued to stare at the man, her eyes narrowed to slits. He smiled and took a step toward her. Cali quickly unsheathed the long blade, holding it in front of her. The man chuckled as he proceeded to make his way closer to her. She raised the knife higher and demanded, "Who are you? And how do you know my name?"

The man ceased laughing and stopped a few feet in front of Cali. He bowed. "My name is Alden. How I know your name does not matter. It is time to learn of you place beside my lord's side." The stranger named Alden took another step closer and using the palm of his calloused hand, pushed Cali's blade to the side. "Although, I didn't expect you to be here so soon But you being here alone has just made my job so much easier. Thank you."

Thoroughly ticked off and a bit scared Cali swung her knife up to Alden's neck, the tip resting against the base of his throat. "Leave," she growled. "Or I won't hesitate to run this through your neck. And believe me when I say at the moment I have no qualms about killing you." Alden's smile faded and he frowned. He grabbed the hand that held the knife and forced it away form him. As he did so, she became dizzy a light flashed before her eyes.

~Flashback~

Cali crouched on a wooden platform high in the trees. She leaned over the edge and smiled when she spotted one of her brothers and some of the younger warriors standing below her. It seemed as if it was her brother's turn to train the younger members of the Guard. An older Elf stood to the side of the others. 'Oh hey! It's Lord Gil-galad! I wonder why he's here? Well, this is going to make things even more entertaining.' Cali reached to her side and grasped one of the water pouches. She had to peel apart several water-skins to make these. The thin skin was transparent and somewhat delicate. Perfect for throwing at people. Cali had filled many of these thin skins with water. She proudly called them 'water balls'.

Holding a water ball over the edge of the platform Cali aimed, and released it. She watched with glee as the ball fell through the air heading for one of the warriors' heads. She frowned when it landed between two of them, but smiled when the water soaked their legs. Oh well; at least she got them partly wet. Besides, she had many more where that came from. She snatched another water ball and aimed when her brother's voice rang through the air.

"CALI!!!!!" she heard him yell. "I know you're up there. Get down here right now!"

Cali's smile returned and she shook her head. "No way! You'll have to come up here and get me yourself!" She then began throwing her balls at the Elves below her. Cali heard several yells as she continued her barrage. Once her ammunition depleted, Cali ran to the center of the platform and swiftly climbed down a rope ladder. When she reached the ground, the area was deserted. The ground was soaked though so she should have hit someone; she did hear yells. Satisfied she had tormented her brother enough, Cali decided to head back to the city. It was then someone tackled her, causing them both to fall to the muddy ground.

"Thought you could get away with it didn't you?" the person asked, pinning her to the ground. Cali looked up and saw her brother crouching over her, his hands on her shoulders to keep her down.

Cali grinned. "Awe, poor Orophin. Did you get wet?" She didn't need an answer. His blonde hair stuck to his face and his clothing was nicely soaked. Cali turned her head and saw the other warriors standing there; all wet in one way or another.

"Orophin," a deep voice called out. Cali's brother climbed off her and helped her to stand. He then turned and bowed to the very wet, dark-haired Elf who spoke.

"Lord Gil-galad, I apologize for what happened. My sister tends to find amusement in others' misfortunes."

Cali glared at her brother. "Hey! It's not my fault I was bored. It was either torment you, or help Kyna embroider her new dress. And you know very well that I couldn't embroider something to save my life."

At this remark, Orophin laughed. He walked to Cali and hugged her. "Forgive me seler, but you shouldn't take so much joy in tormenting us so. We never know what new act of torment you are creating in that mind of yours." Cali hugged him back and turned to the older Elf.

"Please forgive me my Lord. I could not resist."

Gil-galad smiled and walked up to the two siblings. "It is quite alright Milady. But may I inquire as to what those things were?"

Cali's grin widened. "I proudly call them water balls. Come to our flet and I'll show you." She grabbed the Elf Lord's hand and him in the direction of the city, chatting all the way of her 'inventions'.

~End Flashback~

Cali blinked and shook her head. What was that? It almost seemed like a memory of some kind. But she couldn't dwell on it for long, she needed to get herself out of her present situation. As Cali wretched her arm out of Alden's grip, her bracelet flew off and brought the blade of her knife up toward his face. The edge of the knife sliced smoothly through the side of Alden's face, leaving a long gash. As he clutched his face and cried out in pain, Cali quickly sheathed her knife and heaved herself onto Astalder's back.

She kicked his sides, and her horse leaped forward, running into the creatures which surrounded them. Cali heard them cry out as Astalder trampled some and leapt over others. Once she was clear, Cali nudged her horse off the path and into the trees. She looked behind her and saw a horde of the Orcs chasing after them. In hopes of losing them, Cali began to weave in and out of the trees and moved deeper into the forest. She couldn't believe this was happening to her. Maybe she should have just stayed back at the palace and got lost in one of the gardens or something. Or better yet, she could have stayed home and refuse to go to the fair and have nothing to do with it. Oh well. There might still be a chance of her finding her way out of the forest and getting home.

Suddenly a mass of yells came at her from the front. Cali looked ahead and the color drained from her face. It was a black wall. A moving, yelling, black wall that was running straight toward her! The wall was made up of more of those Orc creatures, only these ones were larger and seemingly more dangerous. Cali turned Astalder sharply to the right. She looked back only to find the larger Orcs and the smaller ones gaining on her. It seemed as though no matter how fast she urged her horse to go, the creatures would continue to gain ground on her. Unexpectedly Astalder slid to a stop and reared up, throwing Cali to the ground. She landed on her back, her breath knocked out of her. Astalder continued to rear and prance around, but didn't bolt away; it was as if something was holding him back.

When Cali caught her breath, she turned her head and saw Alden standing there, a wicked grin set upon his lips. Blood was still pouring from the wound she made on his face. Cali stood and faced him. "I will not run," she told herself. "I will not run. Running is for those who are weak and cowardly. And I will not be chased away by someone who thinks he can tell me what to do!"

Alden grinned and suddenly disappeared. He reappeared behind her, and wrapping his arms around her, held her in place. Cali thrashed around, trying to make him lose his grip. But his hold on her did not relinquish. "There is no use trying to escape, Calithradë. Your destiny is with my Lord and you will learn your place."

Cali continued to struggle. "Argh! Get off me!" she cried. "I'm not going anywhere with you!" She kicked her legs forward, attempting to throw Alden off balance. Cali thanked whatever Gods were watching over her as Alden stumbled and fell to the side, taking her with him. His hold over her loosened momentarily, but it was long enough for Cali to worm away. She jumped to her feet and quickly put distance between them. Alden stood and glared at her. With a loud cry, he lunged at her. Then suddenly was thrown back. He gripped his shoulder. An arrow was protruding out of it. Cali whirled around to see a tall man with straggly hair. He had a bow in one hand and was currently notching another arrow. The man walked toward Alden, keeping the arrow point at him.

"Leave this place," he said in a low voice. "Or I will not think twice about shooting you again." Anger flaring from his eyes, Alden stood again and fled. The man who saved Cali lowered his bow and smiled gently at her. "Are you alright, my Lady?"

Cali nodded. "Yes, thank you. Now if you will excuse me, I must go." She walked to her horse and stroked his neck, calming him. As Cali prepared to mount him, the man walked to her.

"My Lady, I see that you have no escort. If you would allow me to accompany you to wherever you are going..."

Cali shook her head. "No, that's alright. I'll be fine."

The man shook his head. "Are you sure?" But before Cali could answer, Legolas and Déorwin arrived. They both leaped off their horses and ran to Cali.

Legolas ran up to Cali and placed his hands on her shoulders, giving her a small shake. "What do you think you were doing?! This forest is filled with evil creatures and is too dangerous to travel alone. You could have been hurt, or worse killed!" he cried.

Cali rolled her eyes and turned to the three males in front of her. "Evil creatures. You mean like being chase by a horde of those mutilate goblins? And then being cornered by some guy who wants to drag me off somewhere to marry his Lord?"

"Exactly," said Legolas. Then he looked at her in confusion. "Wait. What Lord?"

Cali shrugged. "No idea. This guy in a cloak kept rambling on how I am destined to be with his Lord. Whoever that is."

"Do you know that this man's name is?" asked the dark-haired man who had saved her earlier.

"Yeah. It was Alden. Do you know him?"

The man shook his head. "No. But I know someone who might."

"Who would that be?" asked Déorwin.

Legolas smiled knowingly. "Gandalf," he said. "Gandalf will be at the festival, won't he Aragorn?"

The stranger, Aragorn, nodded. "Yes. You are coming, right Legolas?"

The Elf Prince smiled. "Of course. I would never miss a chance to see the others again." While the men were talking, Cali decided to take that moment of distraction and slip away without them noticing. She almost succeeded. Déorwin noticed her attempt to leave and before she could mount Astalder, he grabbed her shoulders and steered her back to where the others were. Cali scowled and crossed her arms over her chest. Déorwin laughed. Legolas laughed as well when he saw her expression. "Do not fret, Lady Cali. I'm sure you'll find another chance to escape soon enough. Just know that we'll always be right there behind you."

Cali continued to scowl at them. "Then find a way for me to get home," she mumbled. The two Elves just shook their heads.

Aragorn looked at Cali then at Legolas. "So Legolas. Are you ever going to introduce me to this lovely Lady who seems so intent on escaping our presence?" Cali rolled her eyes.

Legolas placed a hand on Cali shoulder. "Aragorn, this is Lady Calithradë. We found her the day before yesterday alone in the forest. She was about to be attacked by an orc but Déorwin and I killed it before it could do any major damage. Cali, this is Aragorn, the King of Gondor." Cali nodded at him.

Aragorn bowed to her. "It is a pleasure to meet you Lady Calithradë. Though I wish we could have met under better circumstances." Cali just scowled and tried to wiggle out of Déorwin's grasp with no success.

"I believe it is time we return to the palace," said Déorwin. "I do not know about you two, but I do not want to be here when one of the spiders sees us and decides to make us its next meal."

"I agree," said Legolas. "Aragorn, I do not suppose you have a horse with you, do you?" Aragorn nodded and whistled; moments later a tall brown horse with a black mane trotted into the clearing. "Ah, Brégo. Will he follow us?"

Aragorn nodded again. "Yes, he will."

"Good, then would you mind riding Lady Calithradë's horse? She will be riding with me on the return to the palace."

Cali bristled as Déorwin handed her off to Legolas. "Hey! I don't know what you're thinking, but I can ride very well on my own thank you very much. I - "

Legolas placed his hand on her lips, stopping her from talking. "I would let you Milady, but after your little stunt today there is not much that will let you out of mine or anyone else's sight. Besides, how do I know that you won't ride off on us?" Cali huffed as he led her toward his horse but refused to let him help her mount. He deftly climbed up behind her and waited for the others. Cali looked back to see Déorwin already mounted and Aragorn speaking softly to her horse, Astalder before he lifted himself onto the horse's back. As Aragorn rode up next to Legolas and Cali, Astalder nickered to his mistress and nudged her leg. She smiled softly and rubbed his nose. Legolas then slipped his arm around Cali's waist and they began their journey back to the palace. The moment his arms touched her, Cali felt the familiar dizziness she felt with the first flashback and the light once more flashed before her eyes.

~Flashback~

A young Calithradë frowned as her mother smoothed out non-existent wrinkles in her gown. She pushed her mother's hands away. "Stop it, I look fine."

Her mother smiled and said, "Now Calithradë. I expect you to be on your best behavior. I would hate to have you embarrass our family in front of King Thranduil and his family. Now be good." With that said, Calithradë's mother lead her to where her brothers and father were waiting and they all entered the dining hall. Cali stared at the Mirkwood royal family as her family walked in. King Thranduil was as tall as her father. He had blonde hair hanging down the side of his face, like Lord Celeborn wore his, and had blue eyes. His wife, Lisandrei, had blonde hair as well. The King and Queen's children carried the same fashion of blonde hair and blue eyes. There were three of them, though she could not remember their names. She sighed as she sat between one of her brothers and the youngest Mirkwood Prince. Not wanting to be there she set her forehead on the table in front of her only to receive a sharp jab in her side from her brother.

"Cali! Sit up!" he hissed under his breath. "And please try and refrain from doing something to embarrass mother and father."

Calithradë glared at him but obliged and sat up. She glanced over at the Prince sitting beside her. He looked almost as bored as she did.

"I take it you do not want to be here either," she heard him mutter to her. Calithradë shook her head. The young Elf nodded. "The feeling is mutual," he said.

Calithradë sighed. She looked around to see her mother chatting with the Queen and her father discussing something with the King. She slumped in her chair not caring if someone saw her. This was going to be a long two weeks.

~End Flashback~

When Cali's mind came back to the present, she looked around her and realized they were already back in the palace courtyard. Several of the guards were there, as well as were Legolas's parents. Queen Lisandrei's face was covered in worry and King Thranduil just looked at her with a grim face. When the three riders stopped , Cali wriggled in Legolas's grasp wanting to get down. He dismounted and held out his hand to help her down as well.

As Cali reluctantly allowed the Elf Prince to help her offer the horse, Lisandrei hurried over to them. "What happened?" she asked. "Are you alright Lady Cali? Leoglas, what happened?"

Legolas sighed as he wrapped an arm around Cali's waist, holding her to him. She tried to remove it, but his arm stayed without moving. "Stay still," he quietly ordered her.

Cali rolled her eyes. "Sure. But would you kindly remove your arm first?" she asked with annoyance.

"No," he said simply and strained a smile at his mother. "Lady Cali is fine mother. No one was harmed."

"Unless you call being hunted down fine and make an exception for the nice new gash on that guy's face," Cali muttered.

"What does she mean, Leoglas?" asked Legolas's mother.

At this Aragorn stepped up. "I was not the first one to find Lady Calithradë in the forest. There were several orcs patrolling the area. There was also a man apparently trying to take her somewhere. He had a fresh gash on the side of his face, which I assume is courtesy of Lady Cali. I then injured the man further and he fled. Lady Cali was trying to do the same when Legolas and Déorwin arrived."

Now having to wrap both his arms around Cali's waist to prevent her from moving, he said, "I will explain everything further later. Right now I want to get Lady Cali to her chambers so she may rest. Dorath," he said to one of the guards. "Would you escort King Aragorn to some guest chambers?" The guard nodded and led the King of Gondor into the palace. "Mother, Father, Déorwin, I will see you all shortly." With that he drug Cali inside.

"Would you let me go!" Cali protested as Legolas took back to her chambers. "I promise I won't run."

Legolas shook his head. "A few hours ago I would have believed you. But now.?" he left the question hanging. Cali pouted the rest of the way. Once they entered her chambers, Legolas deposited her on her bed. "Now I expect you to stay here and not run off again. I was serious that you could have been killed my Lady. I will come by later to check on you." He slipped through the doors just as Cali lunged at him. Leoglas leaned against the now closed doors and grimaced as he listened to Cali bang on the door, demanding he let her out. He signaled a few nearby guards. "Stay here and watch these doors. Make sure no one comes out and no one goes in until I return."

"Yes your highness," the guards said and took stances next to the door.

Legolas then located a few other guards and instructed them to keep an eye on Cali's balcony. "She might try escaping that way again," he told them. After seeing to it that Cali would have no way to escape, he made his way to his father's study.

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Cali glared at the door from the bed. "This .... sucks." She looked over at her computer sitting on the small desk where she had left it and briefly wondered if she should bother checking it, but decided against it. She went back to glaring at the door, willing it to turn to ash so she could get out. Cali had already tried the balcony but had to back off when she saw the three guards underneath it. And the doors to the chamber were locked and she had no doubt there were guards on the other side as well. "Like I said before. This .... sucks."

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A/N: Oh man, I am so sorry this took so long. Part of it was computer programs. I was almost done with the two new chapters and the major editing was almost done as well. But when I was transfering some work from my mother's computer to mine, something happened and it was all lost. Thankfully I was able to find the vast majority of my work in the recycle bin and I hadn't yet thrown out the work I had written down on paper. Then to top it all off, I had a major case of writer's block. But I am finally done. Once again I aplogize for the long delay. So I hope you all enjoyed the new chapters!

Read and review!!! Please?

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