Chapter 4
That night I was brought dinner by someone else. She was much shorter then the other elven girl, but had the same supercilious expression on her face. With hardly more then a second glance at me, she swept out of the room as if she herself were the mistress. I ate my dinner alone that night, but I was grateful for it. It was a real meal, unlike the leftover scraps they had been feeding me for the past three weeks. It was delicious and I savored every bite like it was my last. There were some things on my plate I had never heard of, or tasted before, but it was to die for.
Afterwards I left the plate outside my door in the hallway and continued to wait for my clothing to arrive. It had been three hours since I was told they would be here 'shortly'. I guessed since these elves lived so long, that their meaning of shortly and mine differed. But I had really nothing else to do, so I sat by the window and watched the sun set over the forest. A thought formed in my mind as I sat there. If we entered from a tunnel and headed underground (or so I presumed), why were there windows? The cell I was kept in had a small window as well. So this place was not underground as I had first imagined. I pressed my face against the glass to see if I could see something below me. To my pleasure, I found that there were other windows, and even doors and balconies, cut into the living stone of the rock face. Mind you the entrance was on the other side. It would be a dead give away if you had windows and such sitting over your secret entrance.
It was only after the sun had finally laid itself to sleep that I heard a light tap on my door. I turned my head to see yet another serving girl enter the room. She had her arms full of different coloured and textured materials and seemed to be struggling a bit with the load. I wasn't expecting an entire years wardrobe, perhaps only a couple dresses until we could sort this mess out. But what I got was not in the least, unwanted. I rushed forwards to help the pour thing as she blindly made her way into my prison, and took half the fabrics from her so that she could at least now see where she was heading. Her eyes swiveled around until at last she found me, and I was graced with a smile, which was much more then I had gotten from any of the other servants. I returned the gesture and went to put my newly acquired garments on the bed so that I could sort them.
The girl hurried after me and started up right away. "I wasn't really sure what you liked so I brought in a bit of everything." Her voice, slightly accented, a little soft, but it held authority to it. She was not one to mess around with. She quickly deposited her load down beside mine. "You can go through these and see what you like. If you don't want it just leave it on one of the sofas. I'll come get it later. I do hope they are the right size, Lothwen didn't really give me very accurate measurements, but I did the best I could with what I had. So if you'll excuse me, my lady, I have other things to attend to at the moment." And with those last words her smile flashed once more and then she turned and made her way from the room. Before the door had closed I was already picking through the garments and seeing which ones would most suit me.
It probably took me only an hour to go through everything. There were even a few pairs of slippers along with some accessories. I found it amusing that the king had decided to extend his hand to one who had been locked away in his dungeons for almost a month. Mind you the dungeon part was far from funny. But it seemed that what little I had told him about myself, he had decided to believe. I went to bed that night a little lighter then I had in the past three weeks.
I awoke the next morning to find all the discarded dresses gone and another delicious meal waiting for me. Soon after I had finished my toilet, I found a messenger outside my door, waiting to escort me to the king once more. I followed him without hesitation and soon enough found myself at the doors of not the same study I had been taken too on other occasions. This one was not as elaborately decorated, but it still had its class. It was less formal to put it simply. As I entered the double doors I quickly caught sight of the king seated by the window. He was speaking to none other then Elrohir, who was reclining on one of the many lounge chairs that were strategically placed around the room. Both turned to me as I made my entrance. Mind you the smile on Elrohir's face was a bit too friendly for one who had just met me the evening before.
"Ah, Phèdre. You've finally decided to join us." The king almost sang as he rose from his place by the window. Why were both of them so extremely happy to see me? There was no denying it. It was written all over their faces. "Your highness." I bowed my head slightly as I walked further into the room. "Lord Elrohir." His name sounded strange on my tongue. I stood somewhere between the two and waited. The king immediately motioned for me to take a seat, which I did. Then without any further hesitation, started. "Well, first things first. I hope it will please you to know that I have arranged to have a meeting with Lorindol this afternoon." At this, I smiled in thanks. Surely he would see Lorindol for who he was and set him free. " And now, I would ask you to start with your tale. Elrohir is curious about it as well. I hope you do not mind him being here?"
"Not at all your highness." I took a deep breath, then began. "I was born flawed, or so they thought...." All morning it took for me to spin my childhood for them. Some things I told in detail, and some not. Some things I had even taken out entirely. By the time the noon hour had arrived, both the king and Elrohir had a new look of awe in their eyes when they looked at me. I had made a lasting impression on them. This would work to my advantage. But before I could bask in the glory of my domination, the king asked me a single question. "The hand maiden who was attending you yesterday said you had a rose engraved onto your back. Is this true?" I would have to tell him a little more of my past, which I had discretely left out. "Yes, it is. Namah, she is one of the goddess' I told you about. It is dedicated to her. A tribute, if you will." This seemed to satisfy both of them for they relaxed back into their seats.
After a short pause in the conversation (most of which was done by me that morning), the king stood and strode over to the corner where yet another cord lay, ready to be pulled. Within less then a minute some one had answered the call. I still did not know how this worked, for when ever he pulled it, no sound came forth. The elf came in quietly, as if not to disturb us. "Tinaldor, could you have a lunch sent up, along with my son." With the request made, the elf bowed, then left the room as quietly as he had entered. At this point the king, went on towards a desk hidden on the other side of the room, while Elrohir turned to me. "My lady, I was wondering if there is a chance that you would tell me a bit more about yourself?" I raised an brow and looked him square in the eye. "Perhaps." I responded slyly. I small smile graced my lips as I continued to keep them sealed. This only irritated the elf sitting across from me.
He sat forwards in his seat and asked me questions which I skirted around the answers to. It was almost a game, to see how much he could squeeze out of me. I believed him that he honestly wanted to no more about me, but it was the reason behind it I wasn't sure about. I would have to think about it with a clear mind before I was absolutely positive. But the questions were stopped when a very angry and disheveled looking Legolas stepped into the room. He took one look at me and the fire in his eyes seemed to jump ten times higher. "I should have known." He mumbled under his breath. Of what little I could hear, I could however detect the rage that came from him. But at that precise moment, his father stood from his desk and came to address us.
"Ah, Legolas, you've arrived. Lunch should be here shortly then.", "May I ask why it is you need me father? I was in the middle of something important." The prince asked rather annoyed. "Legolas, frolicking around with maidens is hardly important. Now take a seat and I'll get started." At those words, my lips curved up into a small smile which I tried desperately hard to hide. While Elrohir burst out into a boisterous laughter. This only seemed to further enrage Legolas as he took a seat in the chair farthest away from me. Seeing as how we were all seated, although not all of us by our will, the king stood in front of the three of us and made his thoughts known.
"As I had promised, I am allowing you to return with Elrohir to Rivendell in exchange for your tale this morning. Legolas you will be joining you on your journey to Rivendell. You leave at the end of the week." Even before the king had finished his sentence, Legolas had jumped from his seat and was roaring at his father. "WHAT?! You cannot make me go with them! I have duties here that I must look after! I do not have time to go romping all over the Misty Mountains!" "SIT DOWN!" Thranduil hollered right back. "You are to go with them on this journey and there will be absolutely no arguments. Is that understood?" The prince was regarding the floor as if it was the most interesting thing in the world at that moment, but after a minute he nodded his head a few times, eyes still locked on the ground. "Very well. I trust you can make all necessary preparations yourself?" The king asked. "I have just one question father." Legolas finally raised his head from the ground. "Go ahead. Ask away." "Why is it you want me to go?" The king gave a sigh, but started up right away. "Because I feel you are spending too much time here. You need to get out more often, see the world." "But I've been to Imaldris more times then I can count."
"Yes well perhaps something will come up while your there." Thranduil answered with a twinkle in his eye. He had something planned for his son. This I knew only from years of experience. I wonder if his son had caught it? Most likely not for he continued to argue with his father until the same elf who had taken our lunch order, came back with the actual food. Which was delicious despite the fact that there was still an enraged elf prince on the premises trying to fight his way out of something he was already signed up for, with no way out. Once some of the food had found its way into him, he calmed down, somewhat. With no other reasons for him to be in the same room as us, he quickly left, slamming the door behind him. Elrohir jumped a bit at the action, but other wise the room was still intact.
With the king's permission, Elrohir offered to take me around the palace that afternoon. I accepted since it gave me something else to do besides sit in my room all afternoon, and worry about Lorindol, and of course the others. The fact that I knew Imriel was safe helped, but I still worried desperately for Joscelin and Ti-Philipe. The first thing we did after leaving the king's study was make an excursion outside, to the gardens. These I had not been able to see from my window, and was greatly surprised when I was told that was where we would be heading first. To get to the gardens was much easier then my first trip into the palace. There was no secret magical door to open, or an endless black hallway. We simply walked out a beautifully carved wooden door, into an even more beauteous garden. The colours all blended together to give you the image that you had died and gone to heaven. Greens, blues, reds, whites, lavenders and yellows surrounded me as I took in the marvelous terrace. Everything in this world seemed to be absolutely gorgeous. Excluding the dark places underneath the palace where certain people were kept.
Elrohir toured me around, naming almost every plant, tree and flower we passed. If I stared a little longer at a rose, he would then go into great detail about it. If he thought that I was getting tired, even by the slightest, he would lead me to a bench and we would rest for a time. The smallest thing, he would jump to get done for me. If I didn't know any better I'd have thought that he was infatuated with me. But I did not think that to be possible, we had only met the day before, and I as a prisoner when we first caught glimpses of each other. For that matter I was still considering myself a prisoner. I banished the thought from my head. I was simply worried for the others, that's why I had all these strange notions running through my mind.
After we had finished with the garden, I was lead back inside and was given a tour of the palace proper. Some of the rooms were magnificent! I had never seen such beauty in all my life. Not even in Terre D'Ange did we have this kind of art. I spent the entire afternoon with the raven haired elf, who seemed rather dismayed to have to leave me in my rooms by myself. I assured him everything was fine and that I had had a wonderful time that afternoon, which I did. He finally left me, although very reluctantly. I closed the door behind him and let out a breath. Now I had time to think about things. In a weeks time, I would be traveling with Elrohir and Legolas, to this Rivendell place, where Imriel was. I wasn't jumping for joy at my traveling companions. One who thought I was a daemon, the other couldn't get enough of me. Strange, I know. But even stranger has happened to me. Once I reached my destination, I would have to figure out some way, to see if Joscelin and Ti-Philipe had also shown up in this Middle Earth. Once and if I found them, we would have to then find a way home.
Lorindol had told me about the Istari. Wizards he said they were called in the common tongue. There were two in particular he said, who could help me. Sauruman the white, and Gandalf the grey. He said to seek them out and ask for their aid, they would most likely give it. Once we were ready to go home, that is what we would do. We would search for these wizards and Elua bless us, they would help us. Unfortunately my thoughts were broken by a knock at the door. This knock was not made by one of the servants. It was too bold. I made my way across the room, my skirts swishing around my legs, and opened the door to see the king standing in front of me. He tilted his head by the slightest in greeting and asked if he could come in. Of course there was really nothing else I could do but let him in. Once I had closed the door behind him, he made himself comfortable on one of the lounge chairs and began.
"I spoke with Lorindol this afternoon." I waited impatiently as he took a pause. "I have decided to give him a chance to prove himself. He seemed very much like the elf you described him to be, therefore I will see if he is true. If all this proves to be a game, he will have no other chance." Inside, a small part of me was bursting with happiness. I had managed to give Lorindol a doorway out. A doorway I hoped he would not throw away. "Thank you, your majesty." I replied with the most neutral voice I could muster. For some reason it seemed more appropriate that way. "I also wanted to speak to you privately about the journey you are about to embark on." I shifted my head only slightly in sign that he should continue. Like most of his race, he picked up the movement without hesitation. "There is a mountain range you must pass on your way to Imaldris."
I had passed a mountain range once before. But at the time, it was not what one would call a pleasant passage. With only Joscelin and myself running for our lives in stolen furs, and praying we would not be caught, it is one experience I will most likely, never forget. But before my mind ran off with the past, I attuned it to what the king was saying. "These mountains are very dangerous. There are beings which live there, in which you have most likely never seen the likes. I do not even think they can be called beings. Abominations would be more appropriate." He took a quick breath before continuing. "These monsters hate the living. They abhor life. I am warning of these goblins incase you should encounter them, which I greatly hope you do not, only so that you will have some idea of what it is you are walking through. So that you will have some idea of what they are. Even though you will have my son and Lord Elrohir with you, please keep a sharp eye out yourself, for all eyes are needed when passing through their territory."
"I take it I should not bother asking what will happen to us should these, monsters, capture us." His eyes showed me a pain buried deep within him. A pain from long ago that refused to let go. But just as suddenly as the emotion stirred in his eyes, it was gone, as if it had never touched the surface." That is a question I would rather not answer, but I will tell you this. It will not be pleasant, and it will not be easy to bear." And with that last word, silence dominated the room, as if to allow for a moment of recollection. It gave me an eerie feeling, as if there was someone else in the room with us. Someone I did not know, someone I could not see. But the prescience quickly faded, and at that moment the king stood from his seat. "I will see you at dinner tonight then, Comtess?" He surprised me by addressing me by my title. The way the word rolled off his tongue seemed as if he had been practicing it for a time in his head before actually speaking it out loud. But I was being invited to dinner that night. A chance for me to get away from the confines of the room, and to see more of the culture of the elves. The servant would definitely have her feathers ruffled at the news. If not for any other reason, I agreed because of that. Usually this was something I would consider childish, but then again, I was not in a usual situation.
I thanked the king graciously for his invitation, and soon after that he departed to go attend to some other business. Seeing as how I would be present at dinner that night, I thought it only fitting that I change into something more suitable for dinner. The green dress I currently had on was very nice, but not something I would wear to dinner. I stepped up to my newly inherited wardrobe, and picked out something for the occasion. Since the king had not said anything else besides the fact that I would be attending, I only supposed that someone would come to escort me to the hall, or wherever it was they ate. I was ready and waiting an hour later when I once again heard a tap at my door. I should have known. Elrohir was waiting outside grinning like a love struck fool. If I didn't know before, I certainly did now. The look on his face was enough. The elf was completely taken with me. It was probably him who suggested to the king that I join them for supper.
As his eyes took me in, it seemed that he started to melt on the spot. There was no other word I could use to describe it. It was very strange. It must have been an elf thing, because I had never seen the likes of it before. But before he ended up as puddle on the floor, he held out his arm to me. Maybe I should have mentioned Joscelin to him. That might have averted this disaster to be. But seeing as how I had not mentioned my perfect companion to him, it seemed I was out of luck. The entire way down to the hall Elrohir chatted animatedly about various topics, most of which involved his home. It was as if he were describing to me what life would be like should I chose him. Even though he had not spoken the words, I could tell there were not far in line. Sooner or later he would spill his heart. That was the moment that I was dreading, for then I would have to break it, and that was something I was not looking forward to. But until then, I was safe, so to speak.
As we entered the hall, many heads turned to stare as Elrohir purposely lead me towards the head table. Now this was something I wasn't quite expecting. The head table was a bit much, considering yesterday I was in the dungeons. But it seemed that that was where I was destined. I took my place with the grace that I had been taught, and even though inside I felt rather out of place, outside I looked as if this were a daily occurrence. Well technically it was, but the situation at hand put a bit of a spin on it that made it awkward. Luckily I was seated at the end of the table, with Elrohir at my only side. Seeing as how the prince kept giving me death stares, I did not think the outcome would have very pretty had I been seated anywhere near him. But it was the woman who was seated next to the ever so charming prince that intrigued me the most.
This was the same woman who had been at my capture in the forest. Karenwë was her name, and I was correct in guessing that she was the prince's betrothed. Lucky girl, she got to marry an over pompous, prejudice, spoiled and stuck up prince. I silently wished her a good life and hoped Legolas showed her more curtsies then I ever received from him. He most likely did, seeing as how he would be spending the rest of his long life with her. So in a way, Karenwë was very lucky. They almost reminded me of Joscelin and myself. Almost, but not quite.
The food that night was just as good, or even perhaps better then the night before, despite the fact that almost everyone in the hall had their eyes glued to me at every chance they could get. The hum of whispers was not missed that evening either. I don't believe it ever stopped once. This almost ruined the delicious meal that was before me, but of course I had the ever so joyful Elrohir to keep me company. This I think was the only thing that saved me from being questioned and mauled by the court. They resembled a den full of tigers, simply waiting for the master to leave so they could pounce on their prey. I, being the prey, was ever so thankful that I was not left alone with these elves. Even though my people skills are exceptional most of the time, I did not think it would do me any good at that moment, seeing as how most seemed to side with the prince. I was something new and dangerous. I was a threat that had to be annihilated as soon as possible. Unfortunately for them, I was under the protection of the elite. I was untouchable, so to speak, and I was very glad of that at the time.
Seeing as how the rest of the elven population didn't agree wholly with my prescience, Elrohir thankfully escorted me from the dinning hall promptly after dinner. For this I was ever thankful. He led me straight to my chambers, and even after I distinctly said good night to him, he somehow managed to gain entrance to my room. I was a rather vexed at this, considering the current situation, but did not have the heart to oust him. He had a gentle and innocent soul from what I could see. Such a creature as him was not one you played around with. I should have taken my own advice. Playing with him was exactly what I was doing.
Every moment that he spent in my prescience thinking to somehow win my heart was one more stab of the knife he would eventually receive when he found out I could not feel the same way for him. I could tell that, if befriended by him, you would have a true and loyal friend for life, and it seemed that the one his heart chose, would get the same treatment. I had to think of way to break this enchantment he had placed over himself. All this and more ran through my head while he walked around my room, telling me some more of his home and about how I would love it there. But enough was enough. Soon I had tactfully gotten him out of the room after promising to go for a walk with him the following day. It was then I would have to put some sort of plan into motion. That, I would construct tonight.
But in a week I would be heading towards Imriel and that much closer to finding my companions, and a way home. I would have to have all my wits about me, my mind would have to be as sharp as ever. For this I would prepare in my own way. I had less then a week. I hopped that was enough time for what I had in mind.
A/N: Yes I must agree that could have been much better, but that part was a boring part that I wanted to get out of the way as soon as possible. Now it will start to pick up and hopefully it won't be all this I feel like "I'm running and going nowhere"! So, review anyways, those help me get this out faster, And I'll try to have the next chapter out in less then a month, I really do hate this every two month business, I forget what I wrote and then I have to end up going back and rereading everything I did. So enough of me babling away. REVIEW!!!!!!!
Anith
That night I was brought dinner by someone else. She was much shorter then the other elven girl, but had the same supercilious expression on her face. With hardly more then a second glance at me, she swept out of the room as if she herself were the mistress. I ate my dinner alone that night, but I was grateful for it. It was a real meal, unlike the leftover scraps they had been feeding me for the past three weeks. It was delicious and I savored every bite like it was my last. There were some things on my plate I had never heard of, or tasted before, but it was to die for.
Afterwards I left the plate outside my door in the hallway and continued to wait for my clothing to arrive. It had been three hours since I was told they would be here 'shortly'. I guessed since these elves lived so long, that their meaning of shortly and mine differed. But I had really nothing else to do, so I sat by the window and watched the sun set over the forest. A thought formed in my mind as I sat there. If we entered from a tunnel and headed underground (or so I presumed), why were there windows? The cell I was kept in had a small window as well. So this place was not underground as I had first imagined. I pressed my face against the glass to see if I could see something below me. To my pleasure, I found that there were other windows, and even doors and balconies, cut into the living stone of the rock face. Mind you the entrance was on the other side. It would be a dead give away if you had windows and such sitting over your secret entrance.
It was only after the sun had finally laid itself to sleep that I heard a light tap on my door. I turned my head to see yet another serving girl enter the room. She had her arms full of different coloured and textured materials and seemed to be struggling a bit with the load. I wasn't expecting an entire years wardrobe, perhaps only a couple dresses until we could sort this mess out. But what I got was not in the least, unwanted. I rushed forwards to help the pour thing as she blindly made her way into my prison, and took half the fabrics from her so that she could at least now see where she was heading. Her eyes swiveled around until at last she found me, and I was graced with a smile, which was much more then I had gotten from any of the other servants. I returned the gesture and went to put my newly acquired garments on the bed so that I could sort them.
The girl hurried after me and started up right away. "I wasn't really sure what you liked so I brought in a bit of everything." Her voice, slightly accented, a little soft, but it held authority to it. She was not one to mess around with. She quickly deposited her load down beside mine. "You can go through these and see what you like. If you don't want it just leave it on one of the sofas. I'll come get it later. I do hope they are the right size, Lothwen didn't really give me very accurate measurements, but I did the best I could with what I had. So if you'll excuse me, my lady, I have other things to attend to at the moment." And with those last words her smile flashed once more and then she turned and made her way from the room. Before the door had closed I was already picking through the garments and seeing which ones would most suit me.
It probably took me only an hour to go through everything. There were even a few pairs of slippers along with some accessories. I found it amusing that the king had decided to extend his hand to one who had been locked away in his dungeons for almost a month. Mind you the dungeon part was far from funny. But it seemed that what little I had told him about myself, he had decided to believe. I went to bed that night a little lighter then I had in the past three weeks.
I awoke the next morning to find all the discarded dresses gone and another delicious meal waiting for me. Soon after I had finished my toilet, I found a messenger outside my door, waiting to escort me to the king once more. I followed him without hesitation and soon enough found myself at the doors of not the same study I had been taken too on other occasions. This one was not as elaborately decorated, but it still had its class. It was less formal to put it simply. As I entered the double doors I quickly caught sight of the king seated by the window. He was speaking to none other then Elrohir, who was reclining on one of the many lounge chairs that were strategically placed around the room. Both turned to me as I made my entrance. Mind you the smile on Elrohir's face was a bit too friendly for one who had just met me the evening before.
"Ah, Phèdre. You've finally decided to join us." The king almost sang as he rose from his place by the window. Why were both of them so extremely happy to see me? There was no denying it. It was written all over their faces. "Your highness." I bowed my head slightly as I walked further into the room. "Lord Elrohir." His name sounded strange on my tongue. I stood somewhere between the two and waited. The king immediately motioned for me to take a seat, which I did. Then without any further hesitation, started. "Well, first things first. I hope it will please you to know that I have arranged to have a meeting with Lorindol this afternoon." At this, I smiled in thanks. Surely he would see Lorindol for who he was and set him free. " And now, I would ask you to start with your tale. Elrohir is curious about it as well. I hope you do not mind him being here?"
"Not at all your highness." I took a deep breath, then began. "I was born flawed, or so they thought...." All morning it took for me to spin my childhood for them. Some things I told in detail, and some not. Some things I had even taken out entirely. By the time the noon hour had arrived, both the king and Elrohir had a new look of awe in their eyes when they looked at me. I had made a lasting impression on them. This would work to my advantage. But before I could bask in the glory of my domination, the king asked me a single question. "The hand maiden who was attending you yesterday said you had a rose engraved onto your back. Is this true?" I would have to tell him a little more of my past, which I had discretely left out. "Yes, it is. Namah, she is one of the goddess' I told you about. It is dedicated to her. A tribute, if you will." This seemed to satisfy both of them for they relaxed back into their seats.
After a short pause in the conversation (most of which was done by me that morning), the king stood and strode over to the corner where yet another cord lay, ready to be pulled. Within less then a minute some one had answered the call. I still did not know how this worked, for when ever he pulled it, no sound came forth. The elf came in quietly, as if not to disturb us. "Tinaldor, could you have a lunch sent up, along with my son." With the request made, the elf bowed, then left the room as quietly as he had entered. At this point the king, went on towards a desk hidden on the other side of the room, while Elrohir turned to me. "My lady, I was wondering if there is a chance that you would tell me a bit more about yourself?" I raised an brow and looked him square in the eye. "Perhaps." I responded slyly. I small smile graced my lips as I continued to keep them sealed. This only irritated the elf sitting across from me.
He sat forwards in his seat and asked me questions which I skirted around the answers to. It was almost a game, to see how much he could squeeze out of me. I believed him that he honestly wanted to no more about me, but it was the reason behind it I wasn't sure about. I would have to think about it with a clear mind before I was absolutely positive. But the questions were stopped when a very angry and disheveled looking Legolas stepped into the room. He took one look at me and the fire in his eyes seemed to jump ten times higher. "I should have known." He mumbled under his breath. Of what little I could hear, I could however detect the rage that came from him. But at that precise moment, his father stood from his desk and came to address us.
"Ah, Legolas, you've arrived. Lunch should be here shortly then.", "May I ask why it is you need me father? I was in the middle of something important." The prince asked rather annoyed. "Legolas, frolicking around with maidens is hardly important. Now take a seat and I'll get started." At those words, my lips curved up into a small smile which I tried desperately hard to hide. While Elrohir burst out into a boisterous laughter. This only seemed to further enrage Legolas as he took a seat in the chair farthest away from me. Seeing as how we were all seated, although not all of us by our will, the king stood in front of the three of us and made his thoughts known.
"As I had promised, I am allowing you to return with Elrohir to Rivendell in exchange for your tale this morning. Legolas you will be joining you on your journey to Rivendell. You leave at the end of the week." Even before the king had finished his sentence, Legolas had jumped from his seat and was roaring at his father. "WHAT?! You cannot make me go with them! I have duties here that I must look after! I do not have time to go romping all over the Misty Mountains!" "SIT DOWN!" Thranduil hollered right back. "You are to go with them on this journey and there will be absolutely no arguments. Is that understood?" The prince was regarding the floor as if it was the most interesting thing in the world at that moment, but after a minute he nodded his head a few times, eyes still locked on the ground. "Very well. I trust you can make all necessary preparations yourself?" The king asked. "I have just one question father." Legolas finally raised his head from the ground. "Go ahead. Ask away." "Why is it you want me to go?" The king gave a sigh, but started up right away. "Because I feel you are spending too much time here. You need to get out more often, see the world." "But I've been to Imaldris more times then I can count."
"Yes well perhaps something will come up while your there." Thranduil answered with a twinkle in his eye. He had something planned for his son. This I knew only from years of experience. I wonder if his son had caught it? Most likely not for he continued to argue with his father until the same elf who had taken our lunch order, came back with the actual food. Which was delicious despite the fact that there was still an enraged elf prince on the premises trying to fight his way out of something he was already signed up for, with no way out. Once some of the food had found its way into him, he calmed down, somewhat. With no other reasons for him to be in the same room as us, he quickly left, slamming the door behind him. Elrohir jumped a bit at the action, but other wise the room was still intact.
With the king's permission, Elrohir offered to take me around the palace that afternoon. I accepted since it gave me something else to do besides sit in my room all afternoon, and worry about Lorindol, and of course the others. The fact that I knew Imriel was safe helped, but I still worried desperately for Joscelin and Ti-Philipe. The first thing we did after leaving the king's study was make an excursion outside, to the gardens. These I had not been able to see from my window, and was greatly surprised when I was told that was where we would be heading first. To get to the gardens was much easier then my first trip into the palace. There was no secret magical door to open, or an endless black hallway. We simply walked out a beautifully carved wooden door, into an even more beauteous garden. The colours all blended together to give you the image that you had died and gone to heaven. Greens, blues, reds, whites, lavenders and yellows surrounded me as I took in the marvelous terrace. Everything in this world seemed to be absolutely gorgeous. Excluding the dark places underneath the palace where certain people were kept.
Elrohir toured me around, naming almost every plant, tree and flower we passed. If I stared a little longer at a rose, he would then go into great detail about it. If he thought that I was getting tired, even by the slightest, he would lead me to a bench and we would rest for a time. The smallest thing, he would jump to get done for me. If I didn't know any better I'd have thought that he was infatuated with me. But I did not think that to be possible, we had only met the day before, and I as a prisoner when we first caught glimpses of each other. For that matter I was still considering myself a prisoner. I banished the thought from my head. I was simply worried for the others, that's why I had all these strange notions running through my mind.
After we had finished with the garden, I was lead back inside and was given a tour of the palace proper. Some of the rooms were magnificent! I had never seen such beauty in all my life. Not even in Terre D'Ange did we have this kind of art. I spent the entire afternoon with the raven haired elf, who seemed rather dismayed to have to leave me in my rooms by myself. I assured him everything was fine and that I had had a wonderful time that afternoon, which I did. He finally left me, although very reluctantly. I closed the door behind him and let out a breath. Now I had time to think about things. In a weeks time, I would be traveling with Elrohir and Legolas, to this Rivendell place, where Imriel was. I wasn't jumping for joy at my traveling companions. One who thought I was a daemon, the other couldn't get enough of me. Strange, I know. But even stranger has happened to me. Once I reached my destination, I would have to figure out some way, to see if Joscelin and Ti-Philipe had also shown up in this Middle Earth. Once and if I found them, we would have to then find a way home.
Lorindol had told me about the Istari. Wizards he said they were called in the common tongue. There were two in particular he said, who could help me. Sauruman the white, and Gandalf the grey. He said to seek them out and ask for their aid, they would most likely give it. Once we were ready to go home, that is what we would do. We would search for these wizards and Elua bless us, they would help us. Unfortunately my thoughts were broken by a knock at the door. This knock was not made by one of the servants. It was too bold. I made my way across the room, my skirts swishing around my legs, and opened the door to see the king standing in front of me. He tilted his head by the slightest in greeting and asked if he could come in. Of course there was really nothing else I could do but let him in. Once I had closed the door behind him, he made himself comfortable on one of the lounge chairs and began.
"I spoke with Lorindol this afternoon." I waited impatiently as he took a pause. "I have decided to give him a chance to prove himself. He seemed very much like the elf you described him to be, therefore I will see if he is true. If all this proves to be a game, he will have no other chance." Inside, a small part of me was bursting with happiness. I had managed to give Lorindol a doorway out. A doorway I hoped he would not throw away. "Thank you, your majesty." I replied with the most neutral voice I could muster. For some reason it seemed more appropriate that way. "I also wanted to speak to you privately about the journey you are about to embark on." I shifted my head only slightly in sign that he should continue. Like most of his race, he picked up the movement without hesitation. "There is a mountain range you must pass on your way to Imaldris."
I had passed a mountain range once before. But at the time, it was not what one would call a pleasant passage. With only Joscelin and myself running for our lives in stolen furs, and praying we would not be caught, it is one experience I will most likely, never forget. But before my mind ran off with the past, I attuned it to what the king was saying. "These mountains are very dangerous. There are beings which live there, in which you have most likely never seen the likes. I do not even think they can be called beings. Abominations would be more appropriate." He took a quick breath before continuing. "These monsters hate the living. They abhor life. I am warning of these goblins incase you should encounter them, which I greatly hope you do not, only so that you will have some idea of what it is you are walking through. So that you will have some idea of what they are. Even though you will have my son and Lord Elrohir with you, please keep a sharp eye out yourself, for all eyes are needed when passing through their territory."
"I take it I should not bother asking what will happen to us should these, monsters, capture us." His eyes showed me a pain buried deep within him. A pain from long ago that refused to let go. But just as suddenly as the emotion stirred in his eyes, it was gone, as if it had never touched the surface." That is a question I would rather not answer, but I will tell you this. It will not be pleasant, and it will not be easy to bear." And with that last word, silence dominated the room, as if to allow for a moment of recollection. It gave me an eerie feeling, as if there was someone else in the room with us. Someone I did not know, someone I could not see. But the prescience quickly faded, and at that moment the king stood from his seat. "I will see you at dinner tonight then, Comtess?" He surprised me by addressing me by my title. The way the word rolled off his tongue seemed as if he had been practicing it for a time in his head before actually speaking it out loud. But I was being invited to dinner that night. A chance for me to get away from the confines of the room, and to see more of the culture of the elves. The servant would definitely have her feathers ruffled at the news. If not for any other reason, I agreed because of that. Usually this was something I would consider childish, but then again, I was not in a usual situation.
I thanked the king graciously for his invitation, and soon after that he departed to go attend to some other business. Seeing as how I would be present at dinner that night, I thought it only fitting that I change into something more suitable for dinner. The green dress I currently had on was very nice, but not something I would wear to dinner. I stepped up to my newly inherited wardrobe, and picked out something for the occasion. Since the king had not said anything else besides the fact that I would be attending, I only supposed that someone would come to escort me to the hall, or wherever it was they ate. I was ready and waiting an hour later when I once again heard a tap at my door. I should have known. Elrohir was waiting outside grinning like a love struck fool. If I didn't know before, I certainly did now. The look on his face was enough. The elf was completely taken with me. It was probably him who suggested to the king that I join them for supper.
As his eyes took me in, it seemed that he started to melt on the spot. There was no other word I could use to describe it. It was very strange. It must have been an elf thing, because I had never seen the likes of it before. But before he ended up as puddle on the floor, he held out his arm to me. Maybe I should have mentioned Joscelin to him. That might have averted this disaster to be. But seeing as how I had not mentioned my perfect companion to him, it seemed I was out of luck. The entire way down to the hall Elrohir chatted animatedly about various topics, most of which involved his home. It was as if he were describing to me what life would be like should I chose him. Even though he had not spoken the words, I could tell there were not far in line. Sooner or later he would spill his heart. That was the moment that I was dreading, for then I would have to break it, and that was something I was not looking forward to. But until then, I was safe, so to speak.
As we entered the hall, many heads turned to stare as Elrohir purposely lead me towards the head table. Now this was something I wasn't quite expecting. The head table was a bit much, considering yesterday I was in the dungeons. But it seemed that that was where I was destined. I took my place with the grace that I had been taught, and even though inside I felt rather out of place, outside I looked as if this were a daily occurrence. Well technically it was, but the situation at hand put a bit of a spin on it that made it awkward. Luckily I was seated at the end of the table, with Elrohir at my only side. Seeing as how the prince kept giving me death stares, I did not think the outcome would have very pretty had I been seated anywhere near him. But it was the woman who was seated next to the ever so charming prince that intrigued me the most.
This was the same woman who had been at my capture in the forest. Karenwë was her name, and I was correct in guessing that she was the prince's betrothed. Lucky girl, she got to marry an over pompous, prejudice, spoiled and stuck up prince. I silently wished her a good life and hoped Legolas showed her more curtsies then I ever received from him. He most likely did, seeing as how he would be spending the rest of his long life with her. So in a way, Karenwë was very lucky. They almost reminded me of Joscelin and myself. Almost, but not quite.
The food that night was just as good, or even perhaps better then the night before, despite the fact that almost everyone in the hall had their eyes glued to me at every chance they could get. The hum of whispers was not missed that evening either. I don't believe it ever stopped once. This almost ruined the delicious meal that was before me, but of course I had the ever so joyful Elrohir to keep me company. This I think was the only thing that saved me from being questioned and mauled by the court. They resembled a den full of tigers, simply waiting for the master to leave so they could pounce on their prey. I, being the prey, was ever so thankful that I was not left alone with these elves. Even though my people skills are exceptional most of the time, I did not think it would do me any good at that moment, seeing as how most seemed to side with the prince. I was something new and dangerous. I was a threat that had to be annihilated as soon as possible. Unfortunately for them, I was under the protection of the elite. I was untouchable, so to speak, and I was very glad of that at the time.
Seeing as how the rest of the elven population didn't agree wholly with my prescience, Elrohir thankfully escorted me from the dinning hall promptly after dinner. For this I was ever thankful. He led me straight to my chambers, and even after I distinctly said good night to him, he somehow managed to gain entrance to my room. I was a rather vexed at this, considering the current situation, but did not have the heart to oust him. He had a gentle and innocent soul from what I could see. Such a creature as him was not one you played around with. I should have taken my own advice. Playing with him was exactly what I was doing.
Every moment that he spent in my prescience thinking to somehow win my heart was one more stab of the knife he would eventually receive when he found out I could not feel the same way for him. I could tell that, if befriended by him, you would have a true and loyal friend for life, and it seemed that the one his heart chose, would get the same treatment. I had to think of way to break this enchantment he had placed over himself. All this and more ran through my head while he walked around my room, telling me some more of his home and about how I would love it there. But enough was enough. Soon I had tactfully gotten him out of the room after promising to go for a walk with him the following day. It was then I would have to put some sort of plan into motion. That, I would construct tonight.
But in a week I would be heading towards Imriel and that much closer to finding my companions, and a way home. I would have to have all my wits about me, my mind would have to be as sharp as ever. For this I would prepare in my own way. I had less then a week. I hopped that was enough time for what I had in mind.
A/N: Yes I must agree that could have been much better, but that part was a boring part that I wanted to get out of the way as soon as possible. Now it will start to pick up and hopefully it won't be all this I feel like "I'm running and going nowhere"! So, review anyways, those help me get this out faster, And I'll try to have the next chapter out in less then a month, I really do hate this every two month business, I forget what I wrote and then I have to end up going back and rereading everything I did. So enough of me babling away. REVIEW!!!!!!!
Anith