It had been almost a week since the death of Remnul, and Melannen had recovered from the ordeal rapidly, mainly due to the undying devotion of Legolas. Thranduil had not even considered punishing the Lorien Elf for her actions, the King understood that it was in the best interests for everyone.

Currently she stood with Legolas as they watched the entourage from Rivendell approach. Lord Elrond had brought his sons and some warriors with him, Glorfindel included, to Mirkwood when he came to congratulate the King for his son's recovery.

When the group entered the gates, they were greeted by Legolas and Melannen. Elrond's twin sons leapt off their horses and embraced Legolas, for they had been friends since birth. The Prince introduced the twins to Melannen, who found their humorous antics quite, well, humorous.

She was nearly doubled over in laughter when she heard a stern voice behind her, "Elrohir, Elladan, you father wishes to see you." Melannen turned to see a tall Elf on a great white stallion, his golden hair in an Elf-braid. He apparently had some power over Elrond's sons because soon they sulked off, muttering in an undertone. "Do not mind them, my lady," the warrior shot the twins a playful glance, "They are challenged when it comes to manners." He smiled brightly.

"Glorfindel!" Legolas cried, "How wonderful to see you!"

"And to see you, my friend." he clapped the younger Elf on the shoulder.

Melannen laughed, something she had been doing often lately. "I expected you to look more like a Balrog, but now I see Legolas must have been mistaken."

Both heard the Prince grumble something about 'Just look at his profile.' Glorfindel looked at Melannen, causing her stomach to flip and her heart to rise in her throat, but she managed to smile.

Noticing the manner in which the warrior looked at the healer, Legolas could not help but to break the silence. "Come inside! Everyone!"

Thranduil had announced that a ball would be held in honor of the guests from Imladris and that there would be feasting and dancing and merrymaking. Melannen had put on her finest dress which was a pastel blue and she wore a mithril circlet upon her brow. Secretly she hoped to get Glorfindel's attention, but he seemed unlike Remnul in that way, so it was only a try.

Suddenly she heard a knock a her door. It was probably Legolas. "Come in, the door's open."

"My lady, you look stunning." She heard Glorfindel's deep voice, making her heart skip.

"Lord Glorfindel." she bowed her head in respect.

He shook his head, "Do not bow to me, herinya." (My lady)

Melannen regained her composure, "May I ask why you have come?"

"To ask you to the dance."

Melannen could not believe what she was hearing. It took her a few seconds before she could speak. "That would be absolutely wonderful."

"Then, come, they have already started." She slipped her arm in his and they walked off to the great hall.

They had been dancing enthusiastically for nearly three hours and it was late. Melannen was tired and more intoxicated than she should have been. The Elf tugged at Glorfindel's sleeve, "It's late, I'm retiring for the night." she yawned.

Before he could respond, Elladan and Elrohir walked by and jabbed him in the ribs, "Meow."

"Shoo!" they disappeared into the croud, giggling. "May I escort you?" he turned to Melannen.

"Sure. That would be nice." She leaned on him for support, "I think I'm just a little too drunk, Glorfie." she laughed.

"Yes, I'd have to agree." Then they headed off towards her room.

Legolas looked around trying to find Melannen. He had hardly seen her tonight and the few times he had managed to spot her she was with the Balrog Slayer, the though invoked a twinge of jealously. He had to keep reminding himself that Glorfindel wasn't like Remnul and would not harm her, but it didn't help.

Finally he decided she must have retired for the night, but he resolved to make sure she was asleep just in case. Though he knew he was paranoid.

Glorfindel opened Melannen's door. "It was a pleasure dancing with you this night."

"Come in."

He nodded and entered, scanning her spacious quarters. "Are you happy with your living space?"

She laughed, not any more sober. "They are very nice." Then she leaned towards Glorfindel and he seemed somewhat surprised when their lips met, though soon he returned the affections. Things became more fiery when Melannen allowed his tongue to explore her mouth. Had she been sober, events may not have occurred as they did, but that was not so. Glorfindel felt himself pulled downward until they lay on her bed, still kissing.

Legolas saw that Melannen's door was slightly ajar, a sign that she was inside and didn't mind visitors. He pushed the door open and immediately noticed the two Elves on her bed.

"Melannen?"

Glorfindel gasped and stood up. "Legolas, let me explain . . . ."

"What is there to explain, Glorfindel?"

Melannen sat up, her dress sleeves were pulled down and her hair was already tousled. "Legolas, it is not what it seems!"

"No, you're right, it's much worse." the Prince gave Glorfindel a hateful glance as if to say 'You hurt her in any way or ever lay an unwanted hand on her you will wish you were never born.' Then he stalked out of the room.