The power of Love
An/ Thanks to all my reviewers and my new betta! Love ya all!
Chapter 7: Taking leave
Araviniel was asleep on her bed. The sunbeams danced on her face as they flooded through the open glass balcony doors. She moaned and turned on her side, trying in vain to escape the torturing light. She sighed and slowly sat up in bed.
Last night was like a dream. 'Had all that really happened?' she asked herself. She glanced out on to the balcony. The sun was brighter then ever. She slowly rose from the bed. She was wearing a white silky night dress and the morning air was cold. She walked over to the oak closet and got out a cotton white robe. She slid it over her shoulders and headed out to the balcony.
She went over to the railing and hopped up on top of it. A breeze blew her hair behind her as the sun cast pink, orange, and red glows above the forest. It was breathtaking. Soft cries broke her concentration. She looked down blow the balcony. Alphril was in the garden below. Her dress still carried the blood stains of her brother. She cried into her hands and walked toward the small fountain. Roses grew abundantly there. She sat on the pools edge and wept. The scene reminded her of the funeral that was to take place in one hour.
Araviniel shook her head and got down from the railing. The view was less beautiful now. Tears broke the morning spell. She walked back into her room, slowly closing the glass doors behind her. She walked over to the small marble bowl on her night stand and splashed the water onto her face. She took the towel that was by the bowl and patted her face dry.
She took the brush by the vanity and combed through the knots in her hair. She placed the brush down and went over to the closet to pick out something to wear. She took out a long sleeved black dress. She found dark grey slippers and a black shawl. The funeral was today. It would be a horrible experience. She herself had been to two. That was much more then any other elf had ever been to.
She took a deep breath and left her room, closing the door noiselessly behind her. She followed the hallway until she came to a staircase leading down and out of the palace. Her eyes met with hundreds of elves who like herself were dressed in black. Many were weeping over the loss of their prince.
She followed the crowd past the open gates and up a stony path. The hill top was treeless and adorned with white tombstones. As she passed the stones she read the elvish engravings on them. Many were young, killed in battle. She followed the crowd till she reached the top of the hill. There were three graves. In the middle of the graves was a statue. It was a female elf wearing a long and flowing dress. In her hand was a branch from a rose tree. In her hair were four stars. Her eyes were sad and one solitary stone tear rested on her cheek.
A newly dug grave was now there. Many had gathered to say their last goodbyes to the would-be future king. People passed and as they did they threw white and red roses onto the casket that had yet to be lowered into the ground. As Araviniel passed she picked a rose off the bush next to the grave. She bent over and placed the rose on the casket and said, "No vaid lín na'alen a i 'waew adel len. Ir adgevedim, no vaid lín na'alen a glor." (May your paths be green and the breeze behind you. Until next we meet, may your ways be green and golden.)
She stood slowly and walked away. She glanced up suddenly only to find a pair of ice blue eyes staring at her tearfully. Legolas stood next to his father near the top of the hill. She turned around and there, slowly making her way up the cursed hill, was Alphril. She must have changed because she was now in a black outfit similar to Araviniel's. Legolas must have heard what she had said. The price was in a dark grey tunic with matching leggings and boots.
He nodded thankfully toward her and then looked back to the other people who were saying their goodbyes. She left down the hill only stopping when she came across Alphril. She took her arm and kissed her on the cheek. "It will get better my friend. Trust me. He has moved on to a better place and it pains him to see tears on your face." The words were all she could think of, but somehow to Alphril they brought comfort.
Araviniel left and went up to her room. She slid off the black clothes and went to the closet. She picked out a light yellow dress that came just passed her knees. It had long sleeves and a V neck. It was good for archery and riding. She had planned to leave some time after the funeral. She dug out a pair of light yellow leggings and a pair of light yellow boots. She put on the leggings and slid on the ankle high boots. She grabbed a cloak from the closet. It was dark purple and went nice with the yellow.
It was late in the day when Araviniel decided to talk to Legolas. She would ride on her own back to Lothlorien. But she had to say goodbye. She left her room and walked through the maze of hallways till she came to his room. She knocked lightly but got no response. She opened the door a crack and peeked inside. Legolas was on the balcony. His head was held high but she could see the tears slide down his face in the sunlight.
She heard singing coming through the open balcony doors, a lament for the fallen prince. She entered the room and shut the door behind her. Her long blond and red hair fell loose around her waist. She hadn't bothered to put it up. She walked slowly over to Legolas she leaned her elbows on the railing and looked out to the courtyard. People were returning from the grave sight. Tonight they would go once more and sing as the casket was lowered into the ground.
"He will be buried next to our mother." Legolas said unfeelingly. She pitied him. It was hard enough for an elf to go through a death. But this death was his brothers. She looked at him for a minute. He looked tired. "Thank you for what you said to my sister. She has had a hard time with this." She nodded and said, "So have you." He didn't argue. "There is just so much killing Araviniel. Everyday I see someone die in battle, just so they can protect their families. Some who have wives and children and some who haven't even begun to live yet."
Araviniel looked back to him and brushed away a tear on his face like he had done just the other night. He looked at her and she said, "Nothing is forever Legolas. All things end but after night there is day. Death is a part of life and without it new life cannot exist." He just stared at her, letting her words sink in. "Why do you weep for him? He is now happy and full of life that you can never know. Tears also pass and soon you shall smile again. You once told me that there is always day right around the corner. You were right. Now it is your turn to look within and find the joy you seek. I must leave my friend."
Legolas just stared at her for a minute. She saw disappointment sink into his eyes even though he tried to hide it. "I will come back one day." She said reassuringly. He nodded and said, "I will ride with you in the morning." Araviniel shook her head and placed a hand on his cheek. "No, I will go tonight. You must stay with your father and sister. They need you Legolas. To leave them would bring great sorrow at this time of need." He went to argue but saw the stubbornness in her face. He instead leaned forward and kissed her on the cheek. "Be safe Mellon. (Friend) You may take my horse Sirdail, he knows the way to the golden wood." she smiled and left the room. She stopped by the kitchen in the lower parts of the palace and gathered some food to take with her along with a canteen of water. She placed them in a small pack and swung it over her shoulder.
She stopped by the archery and got a bow and quiver full of arrows. She found a sword also and then took a deep breath. 'This is it.'
She closed the door behind her and headed out to the stables. She placed the bow, quiver and sword by the door and asked the stable hand witch horse was Sirdail. He led her to the last stall on the right before leaving her alone. The Stallion whinnied as she approached and danced impatiently in the stall. He was beautiful. His coat shone in orange and red tones. "Steady Pen-veleg. El Na mellyn. (Steady mighty one. You are with friends.) Your name means flowing feet. Let us see how fast you can bring me to Lothlorien."
As if the horse could understand her he quieted down. She led him out of the stall and jumped onto his back. She wasted no time with a bridle or saddle. She knew how to ride bare back. She would direct him with her knees. Before she rode out of the stall she grabbed the bow and quiver along with the sword that was by the stable door and carefully placing the bow and quiver on her back she rode off for Lothlorien.
From the balcony, Legolas watched her ride off into the forest and whispered gently as he fingered his mother's necklace that his brother had given him, "Emelen ninnatha ir cenir adlen" (My heart shall weep until it sees you again) He placed the necklace around his neck and left his room. She was right. His sister needed him. He headed to the garden where he knew she would be. Last night he had finally fallen asleep by the soft singing voice of his sister. The song had come from the garden. Their mother had sung it to them all when they were very young. She sang it before she died.
Araviniel rode hard and fast. She had stopped only once. Her horse seemed as if he never tired. The moon had risen long ago. She had no idea where she was going. She hoped the horse was smart enough to bring her Lothlorien.
A day had passed and soon the terrain became familiar. The trees were slowly fanning out and it wasn't long before she had broken through the forest. Immediately a sense of relief washed over her. She knew this place. The wide open expanse of grass and a mountain on her right brought back memories. Last time she was here she no longer had her freedom. Now she was alone with nothing but Sirdail and her will to ride on. She pulled up the hood on her cloak and squeezed her knees gently. The horse took off at a gallop.
After a few more days she could see the forest of Lothlorien. The hidden path through the trees was only known by elves and apparently the horse she was ridding. She had never ventured out of Lothlorien so she could not know the way back. The horse slowed and trotted trough the trees as if there were a hundred signs saying Lothlorien, North for one mile then south for two. He was so confident it washed away any fear inside her.
They were only an hour into the wood when a troop of elves suddenly surrounded them. "Who are you and what is your business in the wood?" 'Who am I? Right now I'm not so sure myself. A week ago I would have I was just a commoner. Now I know myself to be a princess.' After a few seconds she decided it best not to bring that up. After all these elves knew that the prince had passed into the west. "My name is Araviniel. I was kidnapped and have escaped. This is my home. I ride the horse of Prince Legolas from Mirkwood. It was a gift to see me safely back." The leader, Haldir, nodded and the lady of Lothlorien spoke to him. "Let her pass. Bring her to me. This girl and I need to talk." Haldir lowered his hand and immediately the archers let down their weapons. "The Lady requests a visit. You will follow me to the Palace."
'A visit, with me?!' she thought. She followed him on her horse. It took about two hours more before she came across a familiar clearing. "I'm home." she breathed. Talons were scattered in the trees above and elves looked down on her curiously. She pulled the hood of her cloak closer to her face in order to hide from the peering eyes above. Soon they were looking at the great palace of Lothlorien. She slid off her horse and handed the rains to one of the archers.
She pulled back her hood and carefully began to climb up the many winding stairs that were built into the trees. When she reached the top a servant came up to her hand said, "Welcome Milady, Lady Galadriel expects you." She nodded weakly and followed the servant. 250 more steps later (Yes she counted) they came to a stop. Giant white wooden doors stood looming before her. Two guards positioned on either side looked at her curiously.
The servant nodded and left her standing alone. She took a deep breath and walked forward. She pushed the doors open with all her strength and walked inside. The floor was wooden and pale. In the center of the room two thrones sat. The lady Galadriel sat on the right and the Lord Celeborn sat on the left. She bowed slightly and said, "You wished an audience with me your majesty?"
The Lady rose from her chair and walked over to her slowly. Her mystical and clear voice rang out inside the chamber as she said, "Yes I did Araviniel." Araviniel was not surprised that the lady knew her name. She was anxious and a bit scared in the lady's presence. "You are my heir. I can see it in your eyes. You have my son's eyes dear child. Why is it you have not come to me?" Araviniel trembled a little and said, "I was not aware Milady. I was only informed a week ago."
Galadriel nodded and went back to her chair. "I was against my son marring your mother. He did so anyway. When your mother had you I was not told. Yet in my secret heart of hearts I knew you existed. You were responsible for the death of an elf. When your father left for war he left you both here. An elf of royalty was visiting. He tried to rape your mother and you stabbed him. You killed him. It was a just death for such an act but he was royalty. It was self-defense and so we had decided not to give you a punishment because in our eyes you did what was right. However, the parents of the brute forced us to do what the law stated clearly. In payment for the death of a prince you were to die. Your mother took your place. Her last request to us was that you were allowed to live free, until you decided you wanted to claim your birthright. That day was the worst in my life.
Your father begged us but we could do nothing. This was why you were not told my dear. I only wish that you know how much we love you."
Araviniel knew the story. She knew her mother had to die because of her. Inside of her, her heart rejoiced. These people were like the parents she never had. Love was something she lacked. But anger swelled as well. "How could you let me suffer?! Every day I was beaten and you have no idea what else my uncle has done to me. I was his toy, his enjoyment. You didn't tell me my right so I could be free and instead I was taken captive." Lady Galadriel looked infuriated. She rose from her chair and said harshly, "Who has done this to you?" Tears were streaming down Araviniel's face. Lord Celeborn rose from his chair. He put a hand on his wife's shoulder and then went to Araviniel. He wiped away her tears and then pulled her into a warm hug.
"Do not cry little one. We did not know of such things. You are safe here. We love you and always have. You are safe here." Comfort flowed through her and for the first time since she had met Tatharion she felt utterly safe. These people were her grandparents and they loved her. He pulled back and smiled. She smiled as well.
Lady Galadriel walked over to her. She had seemed so cold to Araviniel, almost like she had no feelings. The lady smiled and hugged her. Araviniel was shocked. The lady kissed her on the cheek and said, "Forgive me Daughter of the new dawn. You are my granddaughter and I love you very much." Araviniel smiled and said, "Thank you so much."
Galadriel nodded and then her smile faded. "Who is this uncle of yours?" Araviniel's smile also faded and she spoke his name like poison, "Cúdir is his name." Galadriel nodded and called for a servant. A tall male servant came through the door and bowed. "Send a message to Cúdir Bowman. Tell him that the Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn request a visit." The servant nodded and left the room.
"Now princess, I think you would like to get out of those clothes and perhaps soak in a nice bath am I right?" Araviniel smiled, "Yes that would be wonderful thank you." The lady called for another servant who appeared moments later. "Take the princess Araviniel and give her A room. She will need a bath and clean clothes." the Servant nodded and Araviniel followed her out of the room.
She was given a beautiful large room with a balcony. The servant prepared a bath. She stepped into the bathroom and the servant left. She rid herself of her travel clothes and stepped lightly into the white marble tub. It was long enough for her to completely stretch out. The water felt so good on her tired muscles. Tomorrow she would have to find Tatharion and let him know she was alright. Tomorrow she would have to face Cúdir. But not alone, she had her grandparents.
After her bath the servant took her traveling clothes and left a red long sleeved night dress on the bed. Araviniel slid it on over her head. She walked over to the balcony and opened the doors. She smiled as the cool breeze filled the room. She walked over to the giant bed where she noticed one solitary red rose. It stood out from the white bedspread. She looked around the room but no one was there. She smiled and placed it on the night stand. She drew back the covers and slid under the sheets. The last thing she remembered was a soft voice coming through the open doors. The song lulled her to sleep.
Late at night when all the world is sleeping I stay up late and think of you and I wish on a star That somewhere you are thinking of me too
'Cause I'm dreaming of you tonight 'Til tomorrow I'll be holding you tight And there's nowhere in the world I'd rather be Than here in my room dreaming about you and me
Wonder if you ever see me and I wonder if you Know I'm there If you looked in my eyes would you see what's inside Would you even care
I just wanna hold you close but so far All I have are dreams of you So I wait for the day and the courage to say How much I love you
I'll dreaming of you tonight 'Til tomorrow I'll be holding you tight And there's nowhere in the world I'd rather be Than here in my room dreaming about you and me
I can't stop dreaming of you I can't stop dreaming I can't stop dreaming of you
Late at night when all the world is sleeping I stay up and think of you And I still can't believe that You came up to me and said I love you I love you too
I'll be dreaming with you tonight 'Til tomorrow and for all of my life And there's nowhere in the world I'd rather be Than here in my room dreaming with you endlessly
AN/ Thanks everyone! I hope you like the chapie. Thanks to my betta!
An/ Thanks to all my reviewers and my new betta! Love ya all!
Chapter 7: Taking leave
Araviniel was asleep on her bed. The sunbeams danced on her face as they flooded through the open glass balcony doors. She moaned and turned on her side, trying in vain to escape the torturing light. She sighed and slowly sat up in bed.
Last night was like a dream. 'Had all that really happened?' she asked herself. She glanced out on to the balcony. The sun was brighter then ever. She slowly rose from the bed. She was wearing a white silky night dress and the morning air was cold. She walked over to the oak closet and got out a cotton white robe. She slid it over her shoulders and headed out to the balcony.
She went over to the railing and hopped up on top of it. A breeze blew her hair behind her as the sun cast pink, orange, and red glows above the forest. It was breathtaking. Soft cries broke her concentration. She looked down blow the balcony. Alphril was in the garden below. Her dress still carried the blood stains of her brother. She cried into her hands and walked toward the small fountain. Roses grew abundantly there. She sat on the pools edge and wept. The scene reminded her of the funeral that was to take place in one hour.
Araviniel shook her head and got down from the railing. The view was less beautiful now. Tears broke the morning spell. She walked back into her room, slowly closing the glass doors behind her. She walked over to the small marble bowl on her night stand and splashed the water onto her face. She took the towel that was by the bowl and patted her face dry.
She took the brush by the vanity and combed through the knots in her hair. She placed the brush down and went over to the closet to pick out something to wear. She took out a long sleeved black dress. She found dark grey slippers and a black shawl. The funeral was today. It would be a horrible experience. She herself had been to two. That was much more then any other elf had ever been to.
She took a deep breath and left her room, closing the door noiselessly behind her. She followed the hallway until she came to a staircase leading down and out of the palace. Her eyes met with hundreds of elves who like herself were dressed in black. Many were weeping over the loss of their prince.
She followed the crowd past the open gates and up a stony path. The hill top was treeless and adorned with white tombstones. As she passed the stones she read the elvish engravings on them. Many were young, killed in battle. She followed the crowd till she reached the top of the hill. There were three graves. In the middle of the graves was a statue. It was a female elf wearing a long and flowing dress. In her hand was a branch from a rose tree. In her hair were four stars. Her eyes were sad and one solitary stone tear rested on her cheek.
A newly dug grave was now there. Many had gathered to say their last goodbyes to the would-be future king. People passed and as they did they threw white and red roses onto the casket that had yet to be lowered into the ground. As Araviniel passed she picked a rose off the bush next to the grave. She bent over and placed the rose on the casket and said, "No vaid lín na'alen a i 'waew adel len. Ir adgevedim, no vaid lín na'alen a glor." (May your paths be green and the breeze behind you. Until next we meet, may your ways be green and golden.)
She stood slowly and walked away. She glanced up suddenly only to find a pair of ice blue eyes staring at her tearfully. Legolas stood next to his father near the top of the hill. She turned around and there, slowly making her way up the cursed hill, was Alphril. She must have changed because she was now in a black outfit similar to Araviniel's. Legolas must have heard what she had said. The price was in a dark grey tunic with matching leggings and boots.
He nodded thankfully toward her and then looked back to the other people who were saying their goodbyes. She left down the hill only stopping when she came across Alphril. She took her arm and kissed her on the cheek. "It will get better my friend. Trust me. He has moved on to a better place and it pains him to see tears on your face." The words were all she could think of, but somehow to Alphril they brought comfort.
Araviniel left and went up to her room. She slid off the black clothes and went to the closet. She picked out a light yellow dress that came just passed her knees. It had long sleeves and a V neck. It was good for archery and riding. She had planned to leave some time after the funeral. She dug out a pair of light yellow leggings and a pair of light yellow boots. She put on the leggings and slid on the ankle high boots. She grabbed a cloak from the closet. It was dark purple and went nice with the yellow.
It was late in the day when Araviniel decided to talk to Legolas. She would ride on her own back to Lothlorien. But she had to say goodbye. She left her room and walked through the maze of hallways till she came to his room. She knocked lightly but got no response. She opened the door a crack and peeked inside. Legolas was on the balcony. His head was held high but she could see the tears slide down his face in the sunlight.
She heard singing coming through the open balcony doors, a lament for the fallen prince. She entered the room and shut the door behind her. Her long blond and red hair fell loose around her waist. She hadn't bothered to put it up. She walked slowly over to Legolas she leaned her elbows on the railing and looked out to the courtyard. People were returning from the grave sight. Tonight they would go once more and sing as the casket was lowered into the ground.
"He will be buried next to our mother." Legolas said unfeelingly. She pitied him. It was hard enough for an elf to go through a death. But this death was his brothers. She looked at him for a minute. He looked tired. "Thank you for what you said to my sister. She has had a hard time with this." She nodded and said, "So have you." He didn't argue. "There is just so much killing Araviniel. Everyday I see someone die in battle, just so they can protect their families. Some who have wives and children and some who haven't even begun to live yet."
Araviniel looked back to him and brushed away a tear on his face like he had done just the other night. He looked at her and she said, "Nothing is forever Legolas. All things end but after night there is day. Death is a part of life and without it new life cannot exist." He just stared at her, letting her words sink in. "Why do you weep for him? He is now happy and full of life that you can never know. Tears also pass and soon you shall smile again. You once told me that there is always day right around the corner. You were right. Now it is your turn to look within and find the joy you seek. I must leave my friend."
Legolas just stared at her for a minute. She saw disappointment sink into his eyes even though he tried to hide it. "I will come back one day." She said reassuringly. He nodded and said, "I will ride with you in the morning." Araviniel shook her head and placed a hand on his cheek. "No, I will go tonight. You must stay with your father and sister. They need you Legolas. To leave them would bring great sorrow at this time of need." He went to argue but saw the stubbornness in her face. He instead leaned forward and kissed her on the cheek. "Be safe Mellon. (Friend) You may take my horse Sirdail, he knows the way to the golden wood." she smiled and left the room. She stopped by the kitchen in the lower parts of the palace and gathered some food to take with her along with a canteen of water. She placed them in a small pack and swung it over her shoulder.
She stopped by the archery and got a bow and quiver full of arrows. She found a sword also and then took a deep breath. 'This is it.'
She closed the door behind her and headed out to the stables. She placed the bow, quiver and sword by the door and asked the stable hand witch horse was Sirdail. He led her to the last stall on the right before leaving her alone. The Stallion whinnied as she approached and danced impatiently in the stall. He was beautiful. His coat shone in orange and red tones. "Steady Pen-veleg. El Na mellyn. (Steady mighty one. You are with friends.) Your name means flowing feet. Let us see how fast you can bring me to Lothlorien."
As if the horse could understand her he quieted down. She led him out of the stall and jumped onto his back. She wasted no time with a bridle or saddle. She knew how to ride bare back. She would direct him with her knees. Before she rode out of the stall she grabbed the bow and quiver along with the sword that was by the stable door and carefully placing the bow and quiver on her back she rode off for Lothlorien.
From the balcony, Legolas watched her ride off into the forest and whispered gently as he fingered his mother's necklace that his brother had given him, "Emelen ninnatha ir cenir adlen" (My heart shall weep until it sees you again) He placed the necklace around his neck and left his room. She was right. His sister needed him. He headed to the garden where he knew she would be. Last night he had finally fallen asleep by the soft singing voice of his sister. The song had come from the garden. Their mother had sung it to them all when they were very young. She sang it before she died.
Araviniel rode hard and fast. She had stopped only once. Her horse seemed as if he never tired. The moon had risen long ago. She had no idea where she was going. She hoped the horse was smart enough to bring her Lothlorien.
A day had passed and soon the terrain became familiar. The trees were slowly fanning out and it wasn't long before she had broken through the forest. Immediately a sense of relief washed over her. She knew this place. The wide open expanse of grass and a mountain on her right brought back memories. Last time she was here she no longer had her freedom. Now she was alone with nothing but Sirdail and her will to ride on. She pulled up the hood on her cloak and squeezed her knees gently. The horse took off at a gallop.
After a few more days she could see the forest of Lothlorien. The hidden path through the trees was only known by elves and apparently the horse she was ridding. She had never ventured out of Lothlorien so she could not know the way back. The horse slowed and trotted trough the trees as if there were a hundred signs saying Lothlorien, North for one mile then south for two. He was so confident it washed away any fear inside her.
They were only an hour into the wood when a troop of elves suddenly surrounded them. "Who are you and what is your business in the wood?" 'Who am I? Right now I'm not so sure myself. A week ago I would have I was just a commoner. Now I know myself to be a princess.' After a few seconds she decided it best not to bring that up. After all these elves knew that the prince had passed into the west. "My name is Araviniel. I was kidnapped and have escaped. This is my home. I ride the horse of Prince Legolas from Mirkwood. It was a gift to see me safely back." The leader, Haldir, nodded and the lady of Lothlorien spoke to him. "Let her pass. Bring her to me. This girl and I need to talk." Haldir lowered his hand and immediately the archers let down their weapons. "The Lady requests a visit. You will follow me to the Palace."
'A visit, with me?!' she thought. She followed him on her horse. It took about two hours more before she came across a familiar clearing. "I'm home." she breathed. Talons were scattered in the trees above and elves looked down on her curiously. She pulled the hood of her cloak closer to her face in order to hide from the peering eyes above. Soon they were looking at the great palace of Lothlorien. She slid off her horse and handed the rains to one of the archers.
She pulled back her hood and carefully began to climb up the many winding stairs that were built into the trees. When she reached the top a servant came up to her hand said, "Welcome Milady, Lady Galadriel expects you." She nodded weakly and followed the servant. 250 more steps later (Yes she counted) they came to a stop. Giant white wooden doors stood looming before her. Two guards positioned on either side looked at her curiously.
The servant nodded and left her standing alone. She took a deep breath and walked forward. She pushed the doors open with all her strength and walked inside. The floor was wooden and pale. In the center of the room two thrones sat. The lady Galadriel sat on the right and the Lord Celeborn sat on the left. She bowed slightly and said, "You wished an audience with me your majesty?"
The Lady rose from her chair and walked over to her slowly. Her mystical and clear voice rang out inside the chamber as she said, "Yes I did Araviniel." Araviniel was not surprised that the lady knew her name. She was anxious and a bit scared in the lady's presence. "You are my heir. I can see it in your eyes. You have my son's eyes dear child. Why is it you have not come to me?" Araviniel trembled a little and said, "I was not aware Milady. I was only informed a week ago."
Galadriel nodded and went back to her chair. "I was against my son marring your mother. He did so anyway. When your mother had you I was not told. Yet in my secret heart of hearts I knew you existed. You were responsible for the death of an elf. When your father left for war he left you both here. An elf of royalty was visiting. He tried to rape your mother and you stabbed him. You killed him. It was a just death for such an act but he was royalty. It was self-defense and so we had decided not to give you a punishment because in our eyes you did what was right. However, the parents of the brute forced us to do what the law stated clearly. In payment for the death of a prince you were to die. Your mother took your place. Her last request to us was that you were allowed to live free, until you decided you wanted to claim your birthright. That day was the worst in my life.
Your father begged us but we could do nothing. This was why you were not told my dear. I only wish that you know how much we love you."
Araviniel knew the story. She knew her mother had to die because of her. Inside of her, her heart rejoiced. These people were like the parents she never had. Love was something she lacked. But anger swelled as well. "How could you let me suffer?! Every day I was beaten and you have no idea what else my uncle has done to me. I was his toy, his enjoyment. You didn't tell me my right so I could be free and instead I was taken captive." Lady Galadriel looked infuriated. She rose from her chair and said harshly, "Who has done this to you?" Tears were streaming down Araviniel's face. Lord Celeborn rose from his chair. He put a hand on his wife's shoulder and then went to Araviniel. He wiped away her tears and then pulled her into a warm hug.
"Do not cry little one. We did not know of such things. You are safe here. We love you and always have. You are safe here." Comfort flowed through her and for the first time since she had met Tatharion she felt utterly safe. These people were her grandparents and they loved her. He pulled back and smiled. She smiled as well.
Lady Galadriel walked over to her. She had seemed so cold to Araviniel, almost like she had no feelings. The lady smiled and hugged her. Araviniel was shocked. The lady kissed her on the cheek and said, "Forgive me Daughter of the new dawn. You are my granddaughter and I love you very much." Araviniel smiled and said, "Thank you so much."
Galadriel nodded and then her smile faded. "Who is this uncle of yours?" Araviniel's smile also faded and she spoke his name like poison, "Cúdir is his name." Galadriel nodded and called for a servant. A tall male servant came through the door and bowed. "Send a message to Cúdir Bowman. Tell him that the Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn request a visit." The servant nodded and left the room.
"Now princess, I think you would like to get out of those clothes and perhaps soak in a nice bath am I right?" Araviniel smiled, "Yes that would be wonderful thank you." The lady called for another servant who appeared moments later. "Take the princess Araviniel and give her A room. She will need a bath and clean clothes." the Servant nodded and Araviniel followed her out of the room.
She was given a beautiful large room with a balcony. The servant prepared a bath. She stepped into the bathroom and the servant left. She rid herself of her travel clothes and stepped lightly into the white marble tub. It was long enough for her to completely stretch out. The water felt so good on her tired muscles. Tomorrow she would have to find Tatharion and let him know she was alright. Tomorrow she would have to face Cúdir. But not alone, she had her grandparents.
After her bath the servant took her traveling clothes and left a red long sleeved night dress on the bed. Araviniel slid it on over her head. She walked over to the balcony and opened the doors. She smiled as the cool breeze filled the room. She walked over to the giant bed where she noticed one solitary red rose. It stood out from the white bedspread. She looked around the room but no one was there. She smiled and placed it on the night stand. She drew back the covers and slid under the sheets. The last thing she remembered was a soft voice coming through the open doors. The song lulled her to sleep.
Late at night when all the world is sleeping I stay up late and think of you and I wish on a star That somewhere you are thinking of me too
'Cause I'm dreaming of you tonight 'Til tomorrow I'll be holding you tight And there's nowhere in the world I'd rather be Than here in my room dreaming about you and me
Wonder if you ever see me and I wonder if you Know I'm there If you looked in my eyes would you see what's inside Would you even care
I just wanna hold you close but so far All I have are dreams of you So I wait for the day and the courage to say How much I love you
I'll dreaming of you tonight 'Til tomorrow I'll be holding you tight And there's nowhere in the world I'd rather be Than here in my room dreaming about you and me
I can't stop dreaming of you I can't stop dreaming I can't stop dreaming of you
Late at night when all the world is sleeping I stay up and think of you And I still can't believe that You came up to me and said I love you I love you too
I'll be dreaming with you tonight 'Til tomorrow and for all of my life And there's nowhere in the world I'd rather be Than here in my room dreaming with you endlessly
AN/ Thanks everyone! I hope you like the chapie. Thanks to my betta!
