DISCLAIMER: I DON'T OWN LORD OF THE RINGS
SHOUTOUTS:
Nightshade: Imeron gets even crazier in this chap ^^
Spooky Fyre: Isn't anime great? If u like Gundam Wing, and you like this, you might like my Lord of the Rings and Gundam Wing Crossover fic. Here's the link to ch.1 if you'd like:
Melissa: Thanx ^^ that's a great compliment. I noticed that u've reviewed a lotta my fics. You're so cool ^^ thanx
Thalionoriel: Tankies ^^ Maybe I =should= get Imeron in a dress...Hee hee
Name: Poor Haldir!! I must do something nice for him in this fic ^^ Also, I just LOVE your stories. Jack is just SOOO cool. I feel honored that u reviewed for me ^^
Daughter of Anubis: Yay ^^ Everybody likes the bets. Also, Anubis is real cool. But I personally like Horus best (for gods) and Isis (for goddesses).
Allor Gale: No, it wasn't the potion. That's explained in this chap a little more. But I'll tell ya anyway. Dagrius was so cruel, that he basically beat the memories from all his slaves. Ondraya found that if u didn't remember what he did, it hurt less, so she subconsciously cleared her mind of ALL memories. I hope that's not confusing ^^
Kiki0303: Naw. I'm just gonna have her and Imeron be like brother and sister. I just love Legolas too much not to have my OC love him too ^^
Okay everyone, thanx for reviewing. And for those of you who didn't-- *smacks you on head* bad!
*ahem, anyway. I have made a list of reviewers that I'll contact whenever I update. If u left an e-mail in your review, or signed your review, I automatically put u on the list. If u are on it (I e-mailed u this chapter) and don't want to be, lemme kno and I'll take ya off. If u didn't leave an e-mail, or don't have one in your bio, or just want to be on the list, leave your e-mail in your review (hint hint , heh heh ^^)
That's it! ENJOY! ^^
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
ONDRAYA'S P.O.V.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Haldir led us through a winding maze of trees and stairs. He and Imeron were still babbling, as I glanced around at the gorgeous settings. The feeling of someone watching me was even greater than before. The other two either didn't notice or didn't care; I wasn't sure which.
Before long, we'd arrived at the base of a large tree. Haldir reached up and pulled down a thick rope. "Brains before beauty!" Imeron smirked as he began to shimmy up the rope.
"Oh so not only are you calling your friends ignorant, but you're calling yourself ugly as well." I pointed out. He just grinned.
"Why hide the truth?" He asked as he continued to work his way up.
"So you ARE ugly?" I confirmed. "Works for me." I shrugged.
"After you, milady." Haldir bowed, motioning to the rope. He was completely disregarding the previous conversation. I blinked my eyes, flustered at how he'd just addressed me. Then, getting over the initial shock, I grabbed hold of the rope and began to climb it. Haldir was right behind me. What a gentlemen.
At the top of the rope was a large wooden structure, called a 'flet' (according to Haldir, anyway). Imeron was already settled in, his muddy boots resting on the table. "Ah! The beauty arrives!" He exclaimed, raising his hands in adoration. Haldir knocked his shoes off the table as he walked by him.
"I WAS going to say 'make yourself at home', but it appears that you've already managed that." He remarked. I chuckled. Imeron gave a lopsided grin.
"What can I say? It's a gift."
Sighing at his ridiculous antics, I spread my bedroll out on the floor. Then I plopped down on it.
"Aw! Now she's =sleeping= beauty!" Imeron laughed.
"Shove it, Imeron." I yawned, then closed my eyes and drifted off.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Narrator
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Imeron glanced at Ondraya and chuckled some more. Haldir eyed her. She was already fast asleep. "Long journey?" Haldir asked. Imeron shrugged.
"I guess. She's been completely on edge ever since last night. I almost feel bad for her." Imeron sighed.
"What was last night?" Haldir questioned. Imeron shrugged again.
"We were just sittin' there, when our fire suddenly went out. When it lit back up, we noticed a dagger embedded in a nearby tree. There was some note attached to it, but she threw it into the flames before I could read it." He explained.
"Really?" Haldir's eyebrow rose inquisitively.
"Yeah. When you guys were following us this morning, she was completely freaking out." He informed Haldir.
"Had we known that she was with you, we would not have stalked you like that. I was also unaware that our discreet presence was frightening her." Haldir explained. Imeron laughed.
"Don't let her hear you say that." He advised. "She takes pride in being courageous." He chuckled. Haldir nodded.
"I'll remember that." He decided.
~*~*~
After Ondraya woke up, they had a light dinner in Haldir's flet. Then Haldir declared that he had border duty again that night, and wouldn't return until sunup.
"You may explore the city, although I recommend sleep." He called as he climbed back down the rope to the grounds below.
"I've had enough sleep." Ondraya grumbled.
"I'm gonna stay here." Imeron stated, pulling off his worn brown boots.
Ondraya just waved her hand like someone waving away and annoying fly. "Sure." She muttered. Glancing down at her boot to make sure that her spare dagger was there, Ondraya shimmied down the rope.
As she hit the ground, she could feel the eyes on her again. But she shrugged it off and continued on her way.
She had dreamt about Dagrius coming after her, and hoped that she didn't talk in her sleep. How embarrassing it would be if Haldir or Imeron had heard her mumbling about that dark decade with Dagrius.
This brought about another point to her mind. What had her life been like =before= Dagrius? She remembered being caught by his slave trader, and she recalled him hurting her. It had been a burning, searing pain. But what had that man hurt? Ondraya could not remember. She had gone to great lengths to block all those terrible memories from her sore mind. The pain was too intense. All that she could remember was her life in Dagrius's castle.
He'd always told her that her life before that was pathetic. He said that she'd lived in penury, and that she should be grateful he'd taken her in. He always mentioned how much better off she was than before. But all that she could think was 'If my life before Dagrius was =worse=, than it had to have been REALLY bad.' And with that, she decided that she didn't want to know about her previous life. It was just easier that way.
She shook her head, not wanting to think so foully while in this beautiful city. Lothlorien was dark, ghostly, and yet, uplifting. Despite the gloominess, the city was tranquil. And the tress were golden, gorgeous.
The Elves were courteous too, and nodded at her as she walked passed them. It was a greeting without words. She'd just nod back and continue on her way.
~*~*~
Ondraya wasn't sure how long she walked for. The sun was already gone, by that point, and the moon loomed overhead. Most of the elves were retiring for the night.
Ondraya knew that she wouldn't be able to sleep again. She might have more nightmares of Dagrius. Besides, sleep was uncomfortable and boring to her. Lothlorien was tranquil, and she felt, for once, at peace. Her mind wasn't spinning and racing like it usually was. Her heart wasn't thumping with anxiety and fear like always. She was breathing easily. This was a feeling that she wanted to bask in for as long as possible. She was happy.
Happy, that is, until an elf jumped down from the tree above. He landed directly in front of her. She jumped back with shock, yelping slightly. She was cursing herself for not paying attention. She should have noticed him!
"Why the hell did you do that!?" She shrieked. He bowed.
"So sorry, milady. I saw you walking, and wanted to catch up with you." He explained. Swallowing, and finally getting control of herself once more, Ondraya nodded. The elf walked over to her, and they began strolling. "I am so sorry for startling you and Sir Imeron this morning in the woods." The elf apologized. Ondraya shrugged.
"It's quite alright. I knew that =someone= was there, I just wasn't sure who." She smiled. He laughed. "Speaking of 'who', who are you?" She asked.
"By the Valar! Forgive me, I completely forgot to introduce myself." He exclaimed. "I am Mathis, son of Milrad." He smiled.
"Ondraya." She replied.
"A lovely name." He assured her. She grinned.
"I suppose." She shrugged.
"Who are your parents?" He asked. She paused. She didn't know.
"No one of great significance." She answered, finally.
"But who are they? Do they live here? Do I know them?" He inquired further. She cast him a glance but answered anyway.
"I suspect that they live in Gondor now, or some other city of man. Unless you've been there, I doubt very much that you'd know them." She responded.
"Still, that does not tell me who they are." He persisted.
"Nor does it tell me." She replied curtly, and began walking again. She knew her answer had miffed him, but she didn't care.
He puzzled her words over, and then ran to catch up with her. "I'm sorry if my questions offended you, milady." He apologized. She smiled.
"It's alright, really." She grinned.
"'Tis just..." He stopped there, pausing as though unsure if he should say it or not.
"It's what?" She prompted him.
"'Tis not often that a lady of your...uniqueness, graces Lorien with her presence. In fact, 'tis not often that a lady such as you graces Middle Earth itself!" He exclaimed.
"Such as me?" She repeated, confused. He sighed.
"I should really learn not to open my mouth." He muttered.
"No, no. What did you mean?" She insisted. He sighed, shoulders slumping in defeat.
"Not many women carry weapons-let alone use them." He explained. She smiled.
"Good." She grinned. Mathis blinked.
"I beg your pardon?" He questioned.
"Good. I prefer to be unique." She informed him. He laughed.
"Truly you are one of a kind, milady." He grinned. She smiled too.
"Glad to hear it." She glanced at the horizon. The sky was tinting pink and orange. The sun was rising. "It appears that I have wandered and talked the night away, for morning dominates the moon." She declared.
"Would you like me to escort you back, milady?" Mathis questioned.
"Please." She nodded, accepting his arm.
~*~
She arrived back at Haldir's flet, and climbed up the rope. "Good night, Mathis." She whispered, peering over the edge when she reached the top. He bowed.
"Good night, arwenamin my lady, It had truly been an honor to be graced with your presence this night." He replied. She smiled.
"Likewise." She replied, and he scampered off. She stood and turned, going inside.
Haldir was already back. "Good evening, milady. Or should I say, good morning. Where have you been all night?" He inquired.
"I took your advice and explored the city. 'Tis lovely. One of your guardsmen, Mathis, was kind enough to show me around." She answered.
"Ah yes, Mathis. He is quite the gentlemen. I am glad that you enjoyed these woods, milady. The Lady Galadriel will be most pleased to hear that." He smiled warmly.
Ondraya paused in taking off her boots, "Lady who?" She asked. Haldir's eyes went wide.
"Lady Galadriel, that Lady of the Light?" He repeated. Ondraya shrugged.
"Never heard of her." She replied. Haldir, who looked thoroughly disturbed, just nodded. "I shall introduce you to her before you leave the city." He resolved. She nodded and lay down on her bedroll. "Milady, dawn is breaking. You shall sleep now?" He questioned. She yawned and nodded.
"It's just how I am. Nocturnal." She replied, closing her eyes and drifting off to sleep.
~*~*~*~
She awoke a few hours later to the smell of something cooking. "What's that god-awful stench?" She inquired, rubbing the sleep from her eyes and stretching.
"I'm afraid that you slept through breakfast, Ondraya. I am in the middle of making lunch." Imeron replied. Ondraya looked over to see that whatever he was trying to make was black, charred, and smoking.
"That explains everything." She growled, getting up and walking over to the burnt pan. "Did you make breakfast, too?" She asked, an eyebrow raised.
"Naw. Haldir said that he refused to eat my toxic food. He made it." Imeron replied, grinning. Ondraya laughed.
"I'm not surprised. Speaking of Haldir, where'd he get to? Wasn't the point of your visit to see him? So far, he's only been around when you're sleeping." She muttered, grabbing a piece of bread that hadn't been mutilated yet. Imeron shrugged.
"He said that he was going to make preparations for a meeting with the Lady Galadriel." He answered. Ondraya nodded.
"Yeah. He about had a heart-attack when he heard that I didn't know of her." She added. Imeron dropped the pan, and it hit the floor with a loud 'clang!'
"You've never heard of the Lady of the Light?" He gasped in horror.
"No. So what? What's the big deal?" She muttered.
At that moment, Haldir appeared in the doorway. "She shall see you now, Milady." He nodded to Ondraya.
"Galadriel?" Ondraya confirmed. Haldir just nodded solemnly.
Ondraya, Imeron, and Haldir all descended the rope. Haldir lead the way to Galadriel's chambers.
Finally, though, he stopped in front of a large pair of oak doors. "You go in alone, Ondraya. Make sure that you use good manners." He cautioned. Ondraya frowned.
"Yes, yes. Manner, manners. You elves are so picky." She grumbled, pushing the door open.
She stepped inside and closed the door behind her. This wing of Lothlorien, out of everything she'd yet seen, was by far the most beautiful. It was almost impossible to verbally describe; it was so breathtaking.
"Over here, Child." Declared a strong and wise voice.
Ondraya rounded the corner, and came face to face with a pair of ocean blue eyes. "Whoa! Hello!" She exclaimed sarcastically, and Galadriel smirked. Her slender hand emerged from beneath her pristine white robe, motioning for Ondraya to sit on a nearby stone bench. Ondraya complied.
"Who are you, dear girl, that knows so little of the Elves?" Galadriel questioned.
"Ondraya." She replied, introducing herself
"Yes..." Galadriel murmured knowingly.
"I take it that you're this 'Lady of the Light' that everyone keeps ranting about?" Ondraya inquired. Galadriel nodded slowly. "And you are the Lady of Lothlorien?" Ondraya pressed, finding the silence awkward. Galadriel just nodded again, smiling somewhat. Ondraya shifted her feet nervously.
"But you are =you=, child?" Galadriel whispered.
"I told you. I'm Ondraya." Ondraya frowned. What was up with this woman? Hadn't she just said that?
Galadriel gave a small laugh at her answer. "Yes, You told me your =name=, but still. I know not who you =are=." She explained.
"What do you mean?" Ondraya asked, almost hesitantly. She wasn't sure that she wanted the answer.
"Who are your parents? Where are you from? What do you feel, think? What is your path in life?" Galdriel said softly, almost incoherently.
Normally, Ondraya would have changed the subject by now. But something about the Lady Galadriel made her stop and pause.
"I wish I knew." She confessed.
"A wise answer," Galadriel assured her.
"Wise? How on Middle Earth was that wise?" Ondraya puzzled, eyebrows knitting together.
"I saw your hesitation. The truth, no matter how harsh, is always preferable to a lie." Galadriel stated. "'Tis better to open up." She added.
She began walking towards Ondraya. Her footsteps were silent and unheard. As she came closer, Ondraya realized just how tall she was. Her eyes were knowing, and her expression simple. Her mouth was set in one small, straight line. Her eyebrows simply hovered over her oceanic eyes. Galadriel gently placed a soft hand on Ondraya's cheek. It was like silk: smooth and fine.
Ondraya subconsciously stood. Galadriel caught her eye. She could not turn away. She wanted to look somewhere else, see something different. But an unseen force compelled her to drown in Galadriel sea-like eyes. Ondraya had no control over the whirring feeling in her mind, or the refusal of her muscles to work.
Galadriel's jaw dropped ever so slightly. "By the Valar," She murmured, blinking. Ondraya was finally able to tear away from her gaze, trembling somewhat.
"W-what?" She stammered. Galadriel dropped her hand and stepped back, shaking her head as though to clear thoughts. "What did you see?" Ondraya pressed. Galadriel was silent for a moment. Then, finally, she looked up.
"Do you want to know?" She questioned, serious. It seemed like such a simple question, but Ondraya detected the solemnity hiding behind it. She merely nodded, unable to rouse her voice.
Swiftly, and yet slowly at the same time, Galadriel stepped towards a small, serene waterfall. She grasped an elongated silver pitcher that was nearby. She filled it with the sparkling crystal water, and moved it towards the stone pedestal in the middle of the area.
Agonizingly slow, she poured it into the top of the carved stand, "Come here, child." She commanded quietly, fixing her gaze on Ondraya once more.
Ondraya's feet inched forward slowly, without her even being aware of it. She could not take her eyes from Galadriel's pale face. It was like a light in the dark; beckoning to her.
"Look for yourself." Galadriel whispered mystically, pointing her elegant fingers to the water. Swallowing, Ondraya peered over the edge.
At first, it was calm and still. But ripples formed before her eyes. All on their own, the ripples expanded across the silver water. Fuzzy images surfaced. With each new ripple, the vision cleared.
There was a town. Two waterfalls crashed behind the marvelous structures of the city, throwing a dazed mist on the scene. Small figures moved slowly, gracefully, across the grounds. Everything was tranquil.
A ripple formed from the center out, and another image revealed itself. There was a man sitting behind an oak desk. Shadows played across the man's features, but Ondraya could see his head hung low in defeat. He was depressed. Ondraya peered closer, trying to see passed the darkness, but the vision changed abruptly.
There was an empty room. No, wait, It wasn't empty. A woman stood on the balcony, hugging her arms tight. Clouds covered the sun, and her face was hidden too. Her shoulders shook, and she fell, suddenly, to her knees, as dogs howled in the distance. She was weeping,
There was a small crackling sound, and flames appeared over the water. They seemed so real...so close. Ondraya could almost feel the heat emanating from them, and her ears, for some strange reason, burned. A girl's screams were heard above the fire, and the water instantaneously turned bright white. Then, it faded to black. There was a blue tint on its surface, but that was all.
Ondraya stepped back, shaking. Steam rose from the pedestal, curling softly in the dense air. Ondraya blinked. What was all that?
A hand fell on her shoulder, and she jumped. She had even forgotten that Galadriel was there! The elder elf scanned Ondraya face. "You are puzzled." She decided. Ondraya could only nod.
"I saw the visions also." Galadriel informed her quietly.
"Then, then who w-were those p-people?" Ondraya stammered. Galadriel sighed and looked away.
"Dear child, listen well. I long to tell you, my heart aches with grief. And yet I cannot." She stated. Ondraya's eyes went wide.
"What! W-why!?" She questioned frantically.
"The laws of the Valar forbid me." Galadriel whispered mournfully.
Ondraya slumped back, defeated. "Now there is more to plague my mind." She muttered.
Galdriel glided towards her. She gently grasped Ondraya's chin, and forced her face up. "Hope remains, dear girl." She murmured.
"How could it?" Ondraya grumbled, shaking free of the firm and gentle grip.
"Go outside and tell Haldir that I require council with him." Galadriel ordered softly. Ondraya looked at her.
"Why?" She mumbled.
"Do as I say, child. Fetch him!" Galdriel repeated, a little more stern.
Ondraya jogged towards the doors. She paused slightly, and turned to look at Galadriel once more. She felt this would be one of the last times she ever saw the wise elf. "Thank you." She whispered; knowing her gratitude was heard. Then she pulled the door open, and left the room.
~*~*~*~
Okay. That's all ^^
I hope that you're all puzzled and intrigued now. Don't worry, everything seen in the mirror WILL be explained. But not this chapter ^^
You have to keep reading to find out! Again, leave your e-mail and I'll add you to my update list. SO REVIEW!! ^^
~* ElfPilot *~
SHOUTOUTS:
Nightshade: Imeron gets even crazier in this chap ^^
Spooky Fyre: Isn't anime great? If u like Gundam Wing, and you like this, you might like my Lord of the Rings and Gundam Wing Crossover fic. Here's the link to ch.1 if you'd like:
Melissa: Thanx ^^ that's a great compliment. I noticed that u've reviewed a lotta my fics. You're so cool ^^ thanx
Thalionoriel: Tankies ^^ Maybe I =should= get Imeron in a dress...Hee hee
Name: Poor Haldir!! I must do something nice for him in this fic ^^ Also, I just LOVE your stories. Jack is just SOOO cool. I feel honored that u reviewed for me ^^
Daughter of Anubis: Yay ^^ Everybody likes the bets. Also, Anubis is real cool. But I personally like Horus best (for gods) and Isis (for goddesses).
Allor Gale: No, it wasn't the potion. That's explained in this chap a little more. But I'll tell ya anyway. Dagrius was so cruel, that he basically beat the memories from all his slaves. Ondraya found that if u didn't remember what he did, it hurt less, so she subconsciously cleared her mind of ALL memories. I hope that's not confusing ^^
Kiki0303: Naw. I'm just gonna have her and Imeron be like brother and sister. I just love Legolas too much not to have my OC love him too ^^
Okay everyone, thanx for reviewing. And for those of you who didn't-- *smacks you on head* bad!
*ahem, anyway. I have made a list of reviewers that I'll contact whenever I update. If u left an e-mail in your review, or signed your review, I automatically put u on the list. If u are on it (I e-mailed u this chapter) and don't want to be, lemme kno and I'll take ya off. If u didn't leave an e-mail, or don't have one in your bio, or just want to be on the list, leave your e-mail in your review (hint hint , heh heh ^^)
That's it! ENJOY! ^^
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
ONDRAYA'S P.O.V.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Haldir led us through a winding maze of trees and stairs. He and Imeron were still babbling, as I glanced around at the gorgeous settings. The feeling of someone watching me was even greater than before. The other two either didn't notice or didn't care; I wasn't sure which.
Before long, we'd arrived at the base of a large tree. Haldir reached up and pulled down a thick rope. "Brains before beauty!" Imeron smirked as he began to shimmy up the rope.
"Oh so not only are you calling your friends ignorant, but you're calling yourself ugly as well." I pointed out. He just grinned.
"Why hide the truth?" He asked as he continued to work his way up.
"So you ARE ugly?" I confirmed. "Works for me." I shrugged.
"After you, milady." Haldir bowed, motioning to the rope. He was completely disregarding the previous conversation. I blinked my eyes, flustered at how he'd just addressed me. Then, getting over the initial shock, I grabbed hold of the rope and began to climb it. Haldir was right behind me. What a gentlemen.
At the top of the rope was a large wooden structure, called a 'flet' (according to Haldir, anyway). Imeron was already settled in, his muddy boots resting on the table. "Ah! The beauty arrives!" He exclaimed, raising his hands in adoration. Haldir knocked his shoes off the table as he walked by him.
"I WAS going to say 'make yourself at home', but it appears that you've already managed that." He remarked. I chuckled. Imeron gave a lopsided grin.
"What can I say? It's a gift."
Sighing at his ridiculous antics, I spread my bedroll out on the floor. Then I plopped down on it.
"Aw! Now she's =sleeping= beauty!" Imeron laughed.
"Shove it, Imeron." I yawned, then closed my eyes and drifted off.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Narrator
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Imeron glanced at Ondraya and chuckled some more. Haldir eyed her. She was already fast asleep. "Long journey?" Haldir asked. Imeron shrugged.
"I guess. She's been completely on edge ever since last night. I almost feel bad for her." Imeron sighed.
"What was last night?" Haldir questioned. Imeron shrugged again.
"We were just sittin' there, when our fire suddenly went out. When it lit back up, we noticed a dagger embedded in a nearby tree. There was some note attached to it, but she threw it into the flames before I could read it." He explained.
"Really?" Haldir's eyebrow rose inquisitively.
"Yeah. When you guys were following us this morning, she was completely freaking out." He informed Haldir.
"Had we known that she was with you, we would not have stalked you like that. I was also unaware that our discreet presence was frightening her." Haldir explained. Imeron laughed.
"Don't let her hear you say that." He advised. "She takes pride in being courageous." He chuckled. Haldir nodded.
"I'll remember that." He decided.
~*~*~
After Ondraya woke up, they had a light dinner in Haldir's flet. Then Haldir declared that he had border duty again that night, and wouldn't return until sunup.
"You may explore the city, although I recommend sleep." He called as he climbed back down the rope to the grounds below.
"I've had enough sleep." Ondraya grumbled.
"I'm gonna stay here." Imeron stated, pulling off his worn brown boots.
Ondraya just waved her hand like someone waving away and annoying fly. "Sure." She muttered. Glancing down at her boot to make sure that her spare dagger was there, Ondraya shimmied down the rope.
As she hit the ground, she could feel the eyes on her again. But she shrugged it off and continued on her way.
She had dreamt about Dagrius coming after her, and hoped that she didn't talk in her sleep. How embarrassing it would be if Haldir or Imeron had heard her mumbling about that dark decade with Dagrius.
This brought about another point to her mind. What had her life been like =before= Dagrius? She remembered being caught by his slave trader, and she recalled him hurting her. It had been a burning, searing pain. But what had that man hurt? Ondraya could not remember. She had gone to great lengths to block all those terrible memories from her sore mind. The pain was too intense. All that she could remember was her life in Dagrius's castle.
He'd always told her that her life before that was pathetic. He said that she'd lived in penury, and that she should be grateful he'd taken her in. He always mentioned how much better off she was than before. But all that she could think was 'If my life before Dagrius was =worse=, than it had to have been REALLY bad.' And with that, she decided that she didn't want to know about her previous life. It was just easier that way.
She shook her head, not wanting to think so foully while in this beautiful city. Lothlorien was dark, ghostly, and yet, uplifting. Despite the gloominess, the city was tranquil. And the tress were golden, gorgeous.
The Elves were courteous too, and nodded at her as she walked passed them. It was a greeting without words. She'd just nod back and continue on her way.
~*~*~
Ondraya wasn't sure how long she walked for. The sun was already gone, by that point, and the moon loomed overhead. Most of the elves were retiring for the night.
Ondraya knew that she wouldn't be able to sleep again. She might have more nightmares of Dagrius. Besides, sleep was uncomfortable and boring to her. Lothlorien was tranquil, and she felt, for once, at peace. Her mind wasn't spinning and racing like it usually was. Her heart wasn't thumping with anxiety and fear like always. She was breathing easily. This was a feeling that she wanted to bask in for as long as possible. She was happy.
Happy, that is, until an elf jumped down from the tree above. He landed directly in front of her. She jumped back with shock, yelping slightly. She was cursing herself for not paying attention. She should have noticed him!
"Why the hell did you do that!?" She shrieked. He bowed.
"So sorry, milady. I saw you walking, and wanted to catch up with you." He explained. Swallowing, and finally getting control of herself once more, Ondraya nodded. The elf walked over to her, and they began strolling. "I am so sorry for startling you and Sir Imeron this morning in the woods." The elf apologized. Ondraya shrugged.
"It's quite alright. I knew that =someone= was there, I just wasn't sure who." She smiled. He laughed. "Speaking of 'who', who are you?" She asked.
"By the Valar! Forgive me, I completely forgot to introduce myself." He exclaimed. "I am Mathis, son of Milrad." He smiled.
"Ondraya." She replied.
"A lovely name." He assured her. She grinned.
"I suppose." She shrugged.
"Who are your parents?" He asked. She paused. She didn't know.
"No one of great significance." She answered, finally.
"But who are they? Do they live here? Do I know them?" He inquired further. She cast him a glance but answered anyway.
"I suspect that they live in Gondor now, or some other city of man. Unless you've been there, I doubt very much that you'd know them." She responded.
"Still, that does not tell me who they are." He persisted.
"Nor does it tell me." She replied curtly, and began walking again. She knew her answer had miffed him, but she didn't care.
He puzzled her words over, and then ran to catch up with her. "I'm sorry if my questions offended you, milady." He apologized. She smiled.
"It's alright, really." She grinned.
"'Tis just..." He stopped there, pausing as though unsure if he should say it or not.
"It's what?" She prompted him.
"'Tis not often that a lady of your...uniqueness, graces Lorien with her presence. In fact, 'tis not often that a lady such as you graces Middle Earth itself!" He exclaimed.
"Such as me?" She repeated, confused. He sighed.
"I should really learn not to open my mouth." He muttered.
"No, no. What did you mean?" She insisted. He sighed, shoulders slumping in defeat.
"Not many women carry weapons-let alone use them." He explained. She smiled.
"Good." She grinned. Mathis blinked.
"I beg your pardon?" He questioned.
"Good. I prefer to be unique." She informed him. He laughed.
"Truly you are one of a kind, milady." He grinned. She smiled too.
"Glad to hear it." She glanced at the horizon. The sky was tinting pink and orange. The sun was rising. "It appears that I have wandered and talked the night away, for morning dominates the moon." She declared.
"Would you like me to escort you back, milady?" Mathis questioned.
"Please." She nodded, accepting his arm.
~*~
She arrived back at Haldir's flet, and climbed up the rope. "Good night, Mathis." She whispered, peering over the edge when she reached the top. He bowed.
"Good night, arwenamin my lady, It had truly been an honor to be graced with your presence this night." He replied. She smiled.
"Likewise." She replied, and he scampered off. She stood and turned, going inside.
Haldir was already back. "Good evening, milady. Or should I say, good morning. Where have you been all night?" He inquired.
"I took your advice and explored the city. 'Tis lovely. One of your guardsmen, Mathis, was kind enough to show me around." She answered.
"Ah yes, Mathis. He is quite the gentlemen. I am glad that you enjoyed these woods, milady. The Lady Galadriel will be most pleased to hear that." He smiled warmly.
Ondraya paused in taking off her boots, "Lady who?" She asked. Haldir's eyes went wide.
"Lady Galadriel, that Lady of the Light?" He repeated. Ondraya shrugged.
"Never heard of her." She replied. Haldir, who looked thoroughly disturbed, just nodded. "I shall introduce you to her before you leave the city." He resolved. She nodded and lay down on her bedroll. "Milady, dawn is breaking. You shall sleep now?" He questioned. She yawned and nodded.
"It's just how I am. Nocturnal." She replied, closing her eyes and drifting off to sleep.
~*~*~*~
She awoke a few hours later to the smell of something cooking. "What's that god-awful stench?" She inquired, rubbing the sleep from her eyes and stretching.
"I'm afraid that you slept through breakfast, Ondraya. I am in the middle of making lunch." Imeron replied. Ondraya looked over to see that whatever he was trying to make was black, charred, and smoking.
"That explains everything." She growled, getting up and walking over to the burnt pan. "Did you make breakfast, too?" She asked, an eyebrow raised.
"Naw. Haldir said that he refused to eat my toxic food. He made it." Imeron replied, grinning. Ondraya laughed.
"I'm not surprised. Speaking of Haldir, where'd he get to? Wasn't the point of your visit to see him? So far, he's only been around when you're sleeping." She muttered, grabbing a piece of bread that hadn't been mutilated yet. Imeron shrugged.
"He said that he was going to make preparations for a meeting with the Lady Galadriel." He answered. Ondraya nodded.
"Yeah. He about had a heart-attack when he heard that I didn't know of her." She added. Imeron dropped the pan, and it hit the floor with a loud 'clang!'
"You've never heard of the Lady of the Light?" He gasped in horror.
"No. So what? What's the big deal?" She muttered.
At that moment, Haldir appeared in the doorway. "She shall see you now, Milady." He nodded to Ondraya.
"Galadriel?" Ondraya confirmed. Haldir just nodded solemnly.
Ondraya, Imeron, and Haldir all descended the rope. Haldir lead the way to Galadriel's chambers.
Finally, though, he stopped in front of a large pair of oak doors. "You go in alone, Ondraya. Make sure that you use good manners." He cautioned. Ondraya frowned.
"Yes, yes. Manner, manners. You elves are so picky." She grumbled, pushing the door open.
She stepped inside and closed the door behind her. This wing of Lothlorien, out of everything she'd yet seen, was by far the most beautiful. It was almost impossible to verbally describe; it was so breathtaking.
"Over here, Child." Declared a strong and wise voice.
Ondraya rounded the corner, and came face to face with a pair of ocean blue eyes. "Whoa! Hello!" She exclaimed sarcastically, and Galadriel smirked. Her slender hand emerged from beneath her pristine white robe, motioning for Ondraya to sit on a nearby stone bench. Ondraya complied.
"Who are you, dear girl, that knows so little of the Elves?" Galadriel questioned.
"Ondraya." She replied, introducing herself
"Yes..." Galadriel murmured knowingly.
"I take it that you're this 'Lady of the Light' that everyone keeps ranting about?" Ondraya inquired. Galadriel nodded slowly. "And you are the Lady of Lothlorien?" Ondraya pressed, finding the silence awkward. Galadriel just nodded again, smiling somewhat. Ondraya shifted her feet nervously.
"But you are =you=, child?" Galadriel whispered.
"I told you. I'm Ondraya." Ondraya frowned. What was up with this woman? Hadn't she just said that?
Galadriel gave a small laugh at her answer. "Yes, You told me your =name=, but still. I know not who you =are=." She explained.
"What do you mean?" Ondraya asked, almost hesitantly. She wasn't sure that she wanted the answer.
"Who are your parents? Where are you from? What do you feel, think? What is your path in life?" Galdriel said softly, almost incoherently.
Normally, Ondraya would have changed the subject by now. But something about the Lady Galadriel made her stop and pause.
"I wish I knew." She confessed.
"A wise answer," Galadriel assured her.
"Wise? How on Middle Earth was that wise?" Ondraya puzzled, eyebrows knitting together.
"I saw your hesitation. The truth, no matter how harsh, is always preferable to a lie." Galadriel stated. "'Tis better to open up." She added.
She began walking towards Ondraya. Her footsteps were silent and unheard. As she came closer, Ondraya realized just how tall she was. Her eyes were knowing, and her expression simple. Her mouth was set in one small, straight line. Her eyebrows simply hovered over her oceanic eyes. Galadriel gently placed a soft hand on Ondraya's cheek. It was like silk: smooth and fine.
Ondraya subconsciously stood. Galadriel caught her eye. She could not turn away. She wanted to look somewhere else, see something different. But an unseen force compelled her to drown in Galadriel sea-like eyes. Ondraya had no control over the whirring feeling in her mind, or the refusal of her muscles to work.
Galadriel's jaw dropped ever so slightly. "By the Valar," She murmured, blinking. Ondraya was finally able to tear away from her gaze, trembling somewhat.
"W-what?" She stammered. Galadriel dropped her hand and stepped back, shaking her head as though to clear thoughts. "What did you see?" Ondraya pressed. Galadriel was silent for a moment. Then, finally, she looked up.
"Do you want to know?" She questioned, serious. It seemed like such a simple question, but Ondraya detected the solemnity hiding behind it. She merely nodded, unable to rouse her voice.
Swiftly, and yet slowly at the same time, Galadriel stepped towards a small, serene waterfall. She grasped an elongated silver pitcher that was nearby. She filled it with the sparkling crystal water, and moved it towards the stone pedestal in the middle of the area.
Agonizingly slow, she poured it into the top of the carved stand, "Come here, child." She commanded quietly, fixing her gaze on Ondraya once more.
Ondraya's feet inched forward slowly, without her even being aware of it. She could not take her eyes from Galadriel's pale face. It was like a light in the dark; beckoning to her.
"Look for yourself." Galadriel whispered mystically, pointing her elegant fingers to the water. Swallowing, Ondraya peered over the edge.
At first, it was calm and still. But ripples formed before her eyes. All on their own, the ripples expanded across the silver water. Fuzzy images surfaced. With each new ripple, the vision cleared.
There was a town. Two waterfalls crashed behind the marvelous structures of the city, throwing a dazed mist on the scene. Small figures moved slowly, gracefully, across the grounds. Everything was tranquil.
A ripple formed from the center out, and another image revealed itself. There was a man sitting behind an oak desk. Shadows played across the man's features, but Ondraya could see his head hung low in defeat. He was depressed. Ondraya peered closer, trying to see passed the darkness, but the vision changed abruptly.
There was an empty room. No, wait, It wasn't empty. A woman stood on the balcony, hugging her arms tight. Clouds covered the sun, and her face was hidden too. Her shoulders shook, and she fell, suddenly, to her knees, as dogs howled in the distance. She was weeping,
There was a small crackling sound, and flames appeared over the water. They seemed so real...so close. Ondraya could almost feel the heat emanating from them, and her ears, for some strange reason, burned. A girl's screams were heard above the fire, and the water instantaneously turned bright white. Then, it faded to black. There was a blue tint on its surface, but that was all.
Ondraya stepped back, shaking. Steam rose from the pedestal, curling softly in the dense air. Ondraya blinked. What was all that?
A hand fell on her shoulder, and she jumped. She had even forgotten that Galadriel was there! The elder elf scanned Ondraya face. "You are puzzled." She decided. Ondraya could only nod.
"I saw the visions also." Galadriel informed her quietly.
"Then, then who w-were those p-people?" Ondraya stammered. Galadriel sighed and looked away.
"Dear child, listen well. I long to tell you, my heart aches with grief. And yet I cannot." She stated. Ondraya's eyes went wide.
"What! W-why!?" She questioned frantically.
"The laws of the Valar forbid me." Galadriel whispered mournfully.
Ondraya slumped back, defeated. "Now there is more to plague my mind." She muttered.
Galdriel glided towards her. She gently grasped Ondraya's chin, and forced her face up. "Hope remains, dear girl." She murmured.
"How could it?" Ondraya grumbled, shaking free of the firm and gentle grip.
"Go outside and tell Haldir that I require council with him." Galadriel ordered softly. Ondraya looked at her.
"Why?" She mumbled.
"Do as I say, child. Fetch him!" Galdriel repeated, a little more stern.
Ondraya jogged towards the doors. She paused slightly, and turned to look at Galadriel once more. She felt this would be one of the last times she ever saw the wise elf. "Thank you." She whispered; knowing her gratitude was heard. Then she pulled the door open, and left the room.
~*~*~*~
Okay. That's all ^^
I hope that you're all puzzled and intrigued now. Don't worry, everything seen in the mirror WILL be explained. But not this chapter ^^
You have to keep reading to find out! Again, leave your e-mail and I'll add you to my update list. SO REVIEW!! ^^
~* ElfPilot *~