The Mystery of Love
THANK YOU ALL FOR THE REVIEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Twenty *does victory dance*
Surprises to Come
~~~POV-REYNA LINDELE~~~
I rode hard and reached Mirkwood forest by sunset. As I approached the Bastion I noticed a rider leaving.
I came to a halt, as did the other rider, and I examined her. "Ya naa lle?" {Who are you?}
Her violet eyes lit with fright, "No one Miss! I am just an elf." She glanced around nervously, her lilac eyes darting to and fro like a frighten doe's.
I glared, "I realize that. I am half elven myself. I am no foe. What is your name and what is your business in Mirkwood?" I tried not to look too hostile; something about those eyes was familiar.
She took a deep breath, "I am Lirawen of Eardor and I am the elf maiden who was engaged to Legolas Thranduillion of Mirkwood. Through no choice of mine or his."
Shivers ran up my spine, this was his little minx. I glared, "You 'were' engaged? What ensued? Do tell all that you know young elf."
Her eyes brightened, their eerie violet shining. "Yes, I was, but am no longer, engaged to him. Galadriel sent me away from my dearest Haldir! She forced me to journey here and wed him but he loved someone else too. We decided that I would marry Haldir before Thranduil or Galadriel could do anything about it. Legolas is not wed to me or anyone else. He does have a very special someone though; it shines in his eyes. That is why we decided to rebel against the ludicrous decision."
Relief flooded over me, "Who suggested such a thing?"
"Legolas of course. I am not so cunning. It was a brilliant plan that should work well if I get to Lothlorien before sunset tomorrow."
I nodded, "I am Reyna Lindele, your secret is safe with me. Tell Haldir I send best wishes to you two." I recognized the girl as I watched her, and she in turn recognized me. I smiled, "I bid thee fare well. Aa' menle nauva calen ar' ta hwesta e' ale'quenle." {May thy paths be green and a breeze on your back.}
A smiled crossed her face, "Lissenen ar' maska'lalaith tenna' lye omenta." {Sweet water and light laughter till next we meet.} I waved her off and took off to the bastion. I leaped off Kemi and ran up the stairs where I saw Legolas standing. Never had a sight brought such emotion into my heart. I felt like flying. I ran up to him with a bright smile across my face. His eyes lit up when he saw me.
"Melamin!" {My love!} I embraced him tightly, "Diolla lle!" {Thank you!} He let out a startled breath before wrapping his arms around me. I smiled, "I am so glad! I feared the worst!"
He laughed, "Of course you would Cathelle. I would never want anyone else!" He paused, "You were not supposed to be here! You should be resting in Glacia!" He wrapped me tightly in his arms, "You have me very worried for a while my kitten. I am overjoyed to see you awake and healthy again." He kissed the top of my head gently as we embraced.
Color rushed to my cheeks, "I am sorry for causing such worry. Why should I be in Glacia?"
Silence fell between us. His eyes darted around, as if searching for an excuse; "Because you should be resting." I wrapped my arms around his slender waist. "I missed you." His voice was so tender and husky that I was startled. I rested my head on his shoulder and we stood there for a moment. Suddenly Loraine walked out.
She giggled, "Just like newlyweds!"
Legolas and I blushed. I hugged her, "We are not wed! That is preposterous!" Loraine looked over at Legolas peculiarly. Some kind of silent hint was sent through those eyes but I could tell not what. "We will be departing soon anyway. Legolas demands that I return to Glacia, though I know not why." Loraine smiled.
"You will see Reyna. Come feast with Ariane and me whilst Legolas confers with Ada (Father)." Loraine took my hand and gave Legolas another odd look. "Come, let us get you out of that dreadful riding suit." I shrugged, hugged Legolas gently and waved as Loraine walked me into her chambers. "Now, I will pick the perfect dress!"
I smiled, "Yes." I was not truly acknowledging anything she said but 'yes' was always a good answer.
"Do you like blue?"
"Yes."
"Is this good?"
"Yes."
Loraine held a blue rug in front of my face and broke my thought train. "You want to wear a rug? I do not think so! Now stop daydreaming about Legolas and help me out."
I blushed, "I am daydreaming of no one!"
In the end we chose a green and silver dress. The gown was a deep hunter green. The sleeves were short and came to the middle of my bicep. The neckline was square and not too low. My feet were not visible, even in the silver sandals I wore. It was all made of a reflective green fabric that was soft and smooth to the touch. Silver ribbon ran along the v-shaped waistline and the end of the sleeves. Loraine took my hair out of the bun it was in and brushed it through.
She ornamented my head with an elven crown; it was silver and made of vines. There was one leaf in the middle of my forehead. It held my hair down and illuminated its color. She put small diamond studs in my ears and a silver chain on my wrist. I looked in the mirror. I gasped, "Is that me?" The being before me was so ladylike and exquisite looking; I could not believe it to be me. She had fair skin and a graceful air.
She smiled, "Of course silly! You look fabulous!" There was a soft knock on the door and my heart fluttered. I felt like my heart would pound out of my chest.
I gasped again, "There is something in my stomach. I think I swallowed a bug, there is something flying around in my stomach!" By now I was quite frantic and Loraine laughed.
"You are just nervous. You have never heard of the cliché 'butterflies in your stomach'?" I shook my head and she laughed again as she opened to door. Legolas stood outside in his silver dress suit. I closed both my eyes and walked slowly towards him. 'Why am I so nervous? What is going on with me? Am I losing my mind?'
I peeked through one eye meekly. His mouth was parted slightly and his eyes glued on me. I blushed, "Well?"
"Lle naa vanima. Vanimle sila tiri." {You are beautiful. Your beauty shines bright.} I blushed and smiled. "One thing is missing though." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small necklace. It was silver and had a small ornament hanging from it. I gasped, on it was a silver mounted, diamond set crescent moon.
I put my hands to my mouth, "Who is this for?" I struggled to deny that it was for me. I had never done anything to Legolas worthy of any gift, and especially no gift of this proportion.
"You of course, melamin." {My love.} He smiled gently.
"I do not deserve such a thing!" I was aghast.
"Yes you do, here." He wrapped his arms around my neck after unclasping the necklace. He placed it onto my neck and clasped it again. As he pulled away he looked at the necklace dangling from my throat. His eyes glanced down at my lips. Our faces were less than an inch apart. I glanced into his eyes and than at his lips. His lips looked so moist and warm. He brought his face closer and kissed me on the cheek ever so lightly. "You deserve more than I have to offer." He genuflected and kissed my hand, "Will do you do me the honor of dancing with me tonight?"
Loraine smiled. I blushed, "Of course Prince Legolas." He stood and moved closer to me.
"Its just Legolas." He whispered in my ear. I became very flustered, for it was rare that I received any attention from a male. 'Why is he treating me so kindly? Could he really think I am pretty? Could he truly like me?'
I took his hand in mine and we walked down to the dining hall as Ariane joined us. He took Loraine in his arms and kissed her gently. I glanced at Legolas and blushed. 'Why do I keep looking at him! We are just friends!' My mind was swarming with thoughts and ideas.
We entered the room and musical began to play. I danced closely to him, our bodies against one another. I could smell the delightful scent of lavender and sweet pine. I inhaled deeply and almost felt like drifting off to sleep. I blushed, 'Sleep? What on Middle Earth is wrong with you? You must be going mad from being so weak!' I danced with him, concentrating intently on his bright blue eyes. They stared back at me intently. I smiled, "You look very handsome today, not that today is any exception to your normal attractiveness."
Pink hues floated along his pale cheeks very lightly. His eyes traveled over my entire form once more. "There are no words in Westron, Elvish or any other language to explain how utterly gorgeous you look." I blushed brightly. He took my hand in his and walked us out onto the balcony. I glanced up at the crescent moon and then at my necklace.
I sighed, 'If this was that feeling Arwen spoke of when we spoke in Rivendell than I wanted that feeling to last forever. Arwen had called it 'love' but I do not believe I am capable of being loved or giving love in return. Not after all the things . . .' I cleared the devastating thoughts from my mind. I clung tighter to Legolas and danced with him. I allowed him to twirl me around and followed his lead. As the sun began to rise I gasped.
"The sun is rising! We must depart soon. I do not think it is safe to ride to Glacia past dusk." He nodded and led me to my room. His chambers were right down the hall but he passed them to escort me to mine.
As we stood in front of my door, he looked down into my eyes. He took a deep breath, "I really want to kiss you right now but I do not think it is the right time. Just know I do care for you Reyna and that whenever you are ready to love, I am here. My love is always with you." I stood on my tiptoes and kissed his cheek lightly.
"We must hurry Lord Legolas, I will keep your comforting words in mind." I hugged him tightly, "Melamin." {My love.} He opened my door for me and shut it behind me. My mind screamed. 'He wanted to kiss you! That elf, the one with whom you are infatuated, wanted to kiss you! You idiot! You dolt! You turned him down! How could you!' I shook my head. I knew I was not ready to make such a commitment. I saddled Kemi, since I had never unpacked, and removed my dress.
I laid it on my bed and pulled on a pair of black riding pants. Over my white camisole I wore a light pink shirt that was slightly transparent. It accented my hair nicely. I put on my Fae crown. The silver chain looked splendid. The sapphire clashed somewhat but it would be dark out and he will never know. I gasped, 'He? He who? Since when are you trying to impress some elf? You know you will soon be the Queen of the Fae and you are going after an elf? Every queen before you has produced an heir without ever taking a consort and you want to marry an elf?'
I shook my head, the thoughts vanishing quickly. I walked outside in my leather moccasins and smiled; Legolas was saddling his horse and humming an elven song. I did not know the song well but I hummed along, my uncanny musical ability making that an easy feat. I smiled, "Melamin, sut naa lle?" {My love, how are you?}
"Quel, diola lle. Lle?" {Well, thank you. You?}
"Quel, diola lle." {Well, thank you.} I mounted Kemi and he mounted Arod. I smiled, "Let's ride!" We took off with the sun rising on our backs.
Legolas smiled, "I wish to stop in the Shire to see an old friend, the halfling who carried the One Ring."
A slight smile crossed my face, "I would love to meet him, and thank him."
"For what?"
"I want to thank him for helping to make you the elf you are today. You said yourself that you may never had left Mirkwood if it weren't for him."
Stars twinkled in his eyes, "Why thank you Reyna."
I shivered lightly as a cold breeze blew over me. Something ominous lay ahead and I knew not what. I grimaced, "Stay on your guard Melamin."
He nodded fiercely, "I feel it too." As we rode on, past Rivendell, I sensed darkness approaching. We were well on our way past Bree when realization reared its ugly face.
I gasped, "Uruk-hai, more than two dozen." I closed my eyes to perform a spell when something grabbed me from behind.
Legolas stared down at me, "Do not even consider it. We will fight with weapons." He steered Arod into the nearby trees. We galloped to the edge of the tree covering and stopped. I dismounted and tied our horses to nearby trees. I climbed one of the taller trees on the outside of the forest and waited. I knocked my bow with three arrows. Legolas looked likewise and we remained silent as the dark figures protruded over the hillcrest.
I shot, listening keenly to the sound of my arrows flying from my bow. As I knocked two more arrows I was still listening to the whizzing sound of my arrows. I heard them each come in contact with flesh and shot again. I repeated this four times, killing a total of twelve Uruk-hai. Legolas shot done ten and ran out. He withdrew his sword and attack. I saw him take a hard hit on the shoulder and I cried out.
I leaped from the tree I was in and threw my bow at Kemi's feet. I withdrew my emerald dagger and a white stiletto. I sliced through nine monsters before I reached Legolas. He was still fighting, swinging his sword with his left hand. I beckoned, "Nan barad! {Retreat!} You are injured!"
He laughed, "I am fine, I will kill them all first." I slaughtered nine more, leaving five smaller beasts circling us. I put my back to Legolas's.
"I will take them all out, you get back to the horses." He shook his head. I slashed through one of them and pushed Legolas through the circle. He hollered loudly before following my instructions. I slaughtered two more with my blades and ran. I saw an arrow zip past my head and heard it embed itself in orc flesh. I turned and killed the last one brutally.
I withdrew my dagger from its throat and sighed, "Where are they all coming from? I spoke with Treebeard in Rivendell and he told me that Isengard is safe from Sauraman. I do not understand where these beasts are all arriving from!"
Legolas worried face silenced me, "I hope Hobbiton is safe." We rode hard and I followed Legolas to a quite village with houses no more than five feet in height.
I smiled, "They are like doll houses!"
He laughed richly, "I would watch your tongue, for you are no more than five feet six inches."
Red blush colored my face. I dismounted as he did and he stopped. He walked up to an elderly man who was smoking a pipe, "Sam? Samwise?"
The halfling looked up and smiled. His face lit with excitement, "Legolas! It has been so long! How have ye been?"
I smiled, this man was about three feet Legolas's junior. He was so small yet so old. Legolas embraced him as he knelt down. "I have been fine, and ye?"
"Well, what brings you here?"
He motioned to me, "This is Reyna, and we are bound for Glacia. It is a land past the Grey Havens, north of the gulf of Lhun."
Sam walked over and shook my hand. I smiled, "It is a pleasure." He nodded. I looked up, "Where is the young halfling you were speaking of Legolas?"
Legolas looked up, "Yes, Sam, where is Frodo?"
Sam sighed, "He left for the Grey Havens shortly after the war."
Legolas's eyes dimmed, "I see. Oh well. It was a pleasure to see you again my friend. I would love to visit Frodo but not yet. I have many promises to keep, and miles to go before I can do so."
I forced myself to keep a straight face for Legolas, "Come, we must hurry. Samwise may accompany us if he wishes."
Sam shook his head, "I have myself a wife and daughter to look after now." Legolas nodded.
He sighed, "I see."
Sam laughed, "It seems you have a lady to guard over too."
I blushed and Legolas laughed, "No, she does more watching over me than vise versa."
I laughed, "You are feigning Lord Legolas! You have saved me on numerous occasions!"
Sam smiled, "So you are lovers?"
Legolas looked at me, I bit my lip. "Not officially. I am not ready."
Sam sighed, "I see. Lord Legolas, after so many years I would have thought that you would be wed by now."
Legolas shrugged, "In due time my friend. You will surely receive an invitation."
Sam smiled, "That is all I ask." The sun was starting to set and I shifted uncomfortably.
I bit my lip, "It is two days ride to Glacia, Lord Legolas. We should depart soon."
Legolas embraced Sam again and I waved politely. "Namarie!" {Farewell.}
He waved us off as we galloped off. I smiled brightly as a crisp breeze blew across my face. My chestnut hair flew behind me wildly. Legolas smiled and rode up beside me. His blond locks fluttered uncontrollably behind him. His blue eyes were lit with excitement. I spurred Kemi lightly and he picked up speed. Arod mimicked us. The faster we went, the merrier I became.
When I finally noticed the darkness around us, sunrise was only an hour away. I knew that the horses needed to rest but we were only four hours from home. What stopped me was seeing Legolas flinch when Arod tugged on the reigns. I bit my lip, "Your wound. . ."
He grimaced and looked over, "I am fine. We will be there soon."
I shook my head, "We stop now." I stopped Kemi in the middle of the pasture we were riding through. "Stop, I am going to heal you." I knew it wasn't safe, since I was already using my magic to hide my true appearance. I had never lost my mask, not even when I blacked out. Serlia told me she held it up for me. Thank the Mother. If Legolas saw me, I would never be able to talk to him again. He dismounted and walked over to me. I pulled four blankets out of my saddlebag and spread two out side by side on the ground. I sat Legolas down. "It's bad. Remove your tunic."
He gave me an offended look but did it anyway. "It's nothing, just let us go."
I gave him a reproving look. As he painstakingly removed his tunic, he cringed. I grimaced as I examined his gash. There was dirt in it and I scolded him silently. I removed a canteen from my saddle horn a poured half of the water onto a cloth and the other half I slowly poured over his shoulder. I wiped the dirt out, much to his dismay.
I looked in both our saddlebags for something to wrap it with, and found nothing. The cloth I had was too dirty and too small. I looked around and finally tore off a piece of my pant leg. He sighed, "You don't need to do that."
"Too late now." He groaned. I wrapped the cloth around his shoulder and pulled his tunic over his head again. I laid him down gently and unfolded a third blanket. I placed it over him and began to sing the song my mother sang me to sleep with. It was an elvish tune that my father had taught her.
~
I' elenoo naa tiri (The stars are bright)
Dome naa lantuva (Darkness is falling)
Kaima naa neva (Sleep is near)
Dina sii' (Be silent now)
~
Sii' lle esta (Now you rest)
Lye kaima sinome (We sleep hear)
Nu I' tiri elenoo (Under the bright stars)
Lle ar amin. (You and I)
Lye naa varna, alye' (We are safe, together)
~~
He smiled, "Uma, lye naa. (Yes we are)"
I kissed his forehead as he fell into an exhausted sleep. I lay down next to him and pulled another blanket over me. I shivered several times before giving in and lying on his inviting chest. He wrapped an arm around me and I sighed contently. This was how I wanted to be forever, this is the feeling I wanted to last.
~~~Three Hours Later~~~
Alas, it did not last forever; in fact it lasted for a little past sunrise. I woke sleepily and finished healing his wound. When he woke he stared at me. As I prepared two fish I had caught his eyes did not leave my face. I blushed, "Is there something on my face?"
He nodded, "Yes, you have freckles."
I gasped; my mask was wearing off. My illusion was wearing off. I covered my face, "Don't look!"
He smiled, "You have the most alluring freckle right by your left eye. It makes your lashes look incredibly sensual." I blushed but would not uncover my face. I felt the last of my magic drain and I sighed.
"No! I cannot keep the mask up any longer without draining my life energy. I knew we should have ridden through the night."
He pulled my hands away and smiled, "You look beautiful. Your skin is a little lighter. You have the cutest freckles." He ran his hands along my face. "You glow when you are not wearing your mask."
"It is my Fae magic, it's a dead give away of my race."
He sighed, "Why do you hide such beauty?" He cupped my face in both his hands and brought my face so close to his. I smiled.
"I know not what beauty you speak of." I hid my face, 'I ruined it! I ruined it all! He may have been starting to love me, but no longer! Fool!' I wiped away a small tear. It was not a surprise that I had screwed everything up.
He brushed more tears from my eyes, "You are gorgeous. You are the most beautiful being in all of Middle Earth. Galadriel herself was not fairer."
I blushed, "You had best not say that too loudly."
"I would declare it to the world if that is what it took." His eyes filled with sincerity.
"Took to do what?"
"To prove to you that I love you. That I think that I love you as more than a friend Reyna." He paused, "When you were ill, I could not leave your side. That feeling of hopelessness without you, that strong bond between us whenever I see you; I want that for all of eternity. That is what I want, that is what I want to experience with you." I gasped.
~~~END~~~
OOO!!! Long one this time, hope you all enjoyed! Happy belated v-day! Hope you all liked that scintillating romance! Hehe, R&R!!! What is Reyna's response? Find out in ch21 'Thoughts of the Future' coming soon to a Fanfiction.net site near you! Namaarie!
THANK YOU ALL FOR THE REVIEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Twenty *does victory dance*
Surprises to Come
~~~POV-REYNA LINDELE~~~
I rode hard and reached Mirkwood forest by sunset. As I approached the Bastion I noticed a rider leaving.
I came to a halt, as did the other rider, and I examined her. "Ya naa lle?" {Who are you?}
Her violet eyes lit with fright, "No one Miss! I am just an elf." She glanced around nervously, her lilac eyes darting to and fro like a frighten doe's.
I glared, "I realize that. I am half elven myself. I am no foe. What is your name and what is your business in Mirkwood?" I tried not to look too hostile; something about those eyes was familiar.
She took a deep breath, "I am Lirawen of Eardor and I am the elf maiden who was engaged to Legolas Thranduillion of Mirkwood. Through no choice of mine or his."
Shivers ran up my spine, this was his little minx. I glared, "You 'were' engaged? What ensued? Do tell all that you know young elf."
Her eyes brightened, their eerie violet shining. "Yes, I was, but am no longer, engaged to him. Galadriel sent me away from my dearest Haldir! She forced me to journey here and wed him but he loved someone else too. We decided that I would marry Haldir before Thranduil or Galadriel could do anything about it. Legolas is not wed to me or anyone else. He does have a very special someone though; it shines in his eyes. That is why we decided to rebel against the ludicrous decision."
Relief flooded over me, "Who suggested such a thing?"
"Legolas of course. I am not so cunning. It was a brilliant plan that should work well if I get to Lothlorien before sunset tomorrow."
I nodded, "I am Reyna Lindele, your secret is safe with me. Tell Haldir I send best wishes to you two." I recognized the girl as I watched her, and she in turn recognized me. I smiled, "I bid thee fare well. Aa' menle nauva calen ar' ta hwesta e' ale'quenle." {May thy paths be green and a breeze on your back.}
A smiled crossed her face, "Lissenen ar' maska'lalaith tenna' lye omenta." {Sweet water and light laughter till next we meet.} I waved her off and took off to the bastion. I leaped off Kemi and ran up the stairs where I saw Legolas standing. Never had a sight brought such emotion into my heart. I felt like flying. I ran up to him with a bright smile across my face. His eyes lit up when he saw me.
"Melamin!" {My love!} I embraced him tightly, "Diolla lle!" {Thank you!} He let out a startled breath before wrapping his arms around me. I smiled, "I am so glad! I feared the worst!"
He laughed, "Of course you would Cathelle. I would never want anyone else!" He paused, "You were not supposed to be here! You should be resting in Glacia!" He wrapped me tightly in his arms, "You have me very worried for a while my kitten. I am overjoyed to see you awake and healthy again." He kissed the top of my head gently as we embraced.
Color rushed to my cheeks, "I am sorry for causing such worry. Why should I be in Glacia?"
Silence fell between us. His eyes darted around, as if searching for an excuse; "Because you should be resting." I wrapped my arms around his slender waist. "I missed you." His voice was so tender and husky that I was startled. I rested my head on his shoulder and we stood there for a moment. Suddenly Loraine walked out.
She giggled, "Just like newlyweds!"
Legolas and I blushed. I hugged her, "We are not wed! That is preposterous!" Loraine looked over at Legolas peculiarly. Some kind of silent hint was sent through those eyes but I could tell not what. "We will be departing soon anyway. Legolas demands that I return to Glacia, though I know not why." Loraine smiled.
"You will see Reyna. Come feast with Ariane and me whilst Legolas confers with Ada (Father)." Loraine took my hand and gave Legolas another odd look. "Come, let us get you out of that dreadful riding suit." I shrugged, hugged Legolas gently and waved as Loraine walked me into her chambers. "Now, I will pick the perfect dress!"
I smiled, "Yes." I was not truly acknowledging anything she said but 'yes' was always a good answer.
"Do you like blue?"
"Yes."
"Is this good?"
"Yes."
Loraine held a blue rug in front of my face and broke my thought train. "You want to wear a rug? I do not think so! Now stop daydreaming about Legolas and help me out."
I blushed, "I am daydreaming of no one!"
In the end we chose a green and silver dress. The gown was a deep hunter green. The sleeves were short and came to the middle of my bicep. The neckline was square and not too low. My feet were not visible, even in the silver sandals I wore. It was all made of a reflective green fabric that was soft and smooth to the touch. Silver ribbon ran along the v-shaped waistline and the end of the sleeves. Loraine took my hair out of the bun it was in and brushed it through.
She ornamented my head with an elven crown; it was silver and made of vines. There was one leaf in the middle of my forehead. It held my hair down and illuminated its color. She put small diamond studs in my ears and a silver chain on my wrist. I looked in the mirror. I gasped, "Is that me?" The being before me was so ladylike and exquisite looking; I could not believe it to be me. She had fair skin and a graceful air.
She smiled, "Of course silly! You look fabulous!" There was a soft knock on the door and my heart fluttered. I felt like my heart would pound out of my chest.
I gasped again, "There is something in my stomach. I think I swallowed a bug, there is something flying around in my stomach!" By now I was quite frantic and Loraine laughed.
"You are just nervous. You have never heard of the cliché 'butterflies in your stomach'?" I shook my head and she laughed again as she opened to door. Legolas stood outside in his silver dress suit. I closed both my eyes and walked slowly towards him. 'Why am I so nervous? What is going on with me? Am I losing my mind?'
I peeked through one eye meekly. His mouth was parted slightly and his eyes glued on me. I blushed, "Well?"
"Lle naa vanima. Vanimle sila tiri." {You are beautiful. Your beauty shines bright.} I blushed and smiled. "One thing is missing though." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small necklace. It was silver and had a small ornament hanging from it. I gasped, on it was a silver mounted, diamond set crescent moon.
I put my hands to my mouth, "Who is this for?" I struggled to deny that it was for me. I had never done anything to Legolas worthy of any gift, and especially no gift of this proportion.
"You of course, melamin." {My love.} He smiled gently.
"I do not deserve such a thing!" I was aghast.
"Yes you do, here." He wrapped his arms around my neck after unclasping the necklace. He placed it onto my neck and clasped it again. As he pulled away he looked at the necklace dangling from my throat. His eyes glanced down at my lips. Our faces were less than an inch apart. I glanced into his eyes and than at his lips. His lips looked so moist and warm. He brought his face closer and kissed me on the cheek ever so lightly. "You deserve more than I have to offer." He genuflected and kissed my hand, "Will do you do me the honor of dancing with me tonight?"
Loraine smiled. I blushed, "Of course Prince Legolas." He stood and moved closer to me.
"Its just Legolas." He whispered in my ear. I became very flustered, for it was rare that I received any attention from a male. 'Why is he treating me so kindly? Could he really think I am pretty? Could he truly like me?'
I took his hand in mine and we walked down to the dining hall as Ariane joined us. He took Loraine in his arms and kissed her gently. I glanced at Legolas and blushed. 'Why do I keep looking at him! We are just friends!' My mind was swarming with thoughts and ideas.
We entered the room and musical began to play. I danced closely to him, our bodies against one another. I could smell the delightful scent of lavender and sweet pine. I inhaled deeply and almost felt like drifting off to sleep. I blushed, 'Sleep? What on Middle Earth is wrong with you? You must be going mad from being so weak!' I danced with him, concentrating intently on his bright blue eyes. They stared back at me intently. I smiled, "You look very handsome today, not that today is any exception to your normal attractiveness."
Pink hues floated along his pale cheeks very lightly. His eyes traveled over my entire form once more. "There are no words in Westron, Elvish or any other language to explain how utterly gorgeous you look." I blushed brightly. He took my hand in his and walked us out onto the balcony. I glanced up at the crescent moon and then at my necklace.
I sighed, 'If this was that feeling Arwen spoke of when we spoke in Rivendell than I wanted that feeling to last forever. Arwen had called it 'love' but I do not believe I am capable of being loved or giving love in return. Not after all the things . . .' I cleared the devastating thoughts from my mind. I clung tighter to Legolas and danced with him. I allowed him to twirl me around and followed his lead. As the sun began to rise I gasped.
"The sun is rising! We must depart soon. I do not think it is safe to ride to Glacia past dusk." He nodded and led me to my room. His chambers were right down the hall but he passed them to escort me to mine.
As we stood in front of my door, he looked down into my eyes. He took a deep breath, "I really want to kiss you right now but I do not think it is the right time. Just know I do care for you Reyna and that whenever you are ready to love, I am here. My love is always with you." I stood on my tiptoes and kissed his cheek lightly.
"We must hurry Lord Legolas, I will keep your comforting words in mind." I hugged him tightly, "Melamin." {My love.} He opened my door for me and shut it behind me. My mind screamed. 'He wanted to kiss you! That elf, the one with whom you are infatuated, wanted to kiss you! You idiot! You dolt! You turned him down! How could you!' I shook my head. I knew I was not ready to make such a commitment. I saddled Kemi, since I had never unpacked, and removed my dress.
I laid it on my bed and pulled on a pair of black riding pants. Over my white camisole I wore a light pink shirt that was slightly transparent. It accented my hair nicely. I put on my Fae crown. The silver chain looked splendid. The sapphire clashed somewhat but it would be dark out and he will never know. I gasped, 'He? He who? Since when are you trying to impress some elf? You know you will soon be the Queen of the Fae and you are going after an elf? Every queen before you has produced an heir without ever taking a consort and you want to marry an elf?'
I shook my head, the thoughts vanishing quickly. I walked outside in my leather moccasins and smiled; Legolas was saddling his horse and humming an elven song. I did not know the song well but I hummed along, my uncanny musical ability making that an easy feat. I smiled, "Melamin, sut naa lle?" {My love, how are you?}
"Quel, diola lle. Lle?" {Well, thank you. You?}
"Quel, diola lle." {Well, thank you.} I mounted Kemi and he mounted Arod. I smiled, "Let's ride!" We took off with the sun rising on our backs.
Legolas smiled, "I wish to stop in the Shire to see an old friend, the halfling who carried the One Ring."
A slight smile crossed my face, "I would love to meet him, and thank him."
"For what?"
"I want to thank him for helping to make you the elf you are today. You said yourself that you may never had left Mirkwood if it weren't for him."
Stars twinkled in his eyes, "Why thank you Reyna."
I shivered lightly as a cold breeze blew over me. Something ominous lay ahead and I knew not what. I grimaced, "Stay on your guard Melamin."
He nodded fiercely, "I feel it too." As we rode on, past Rivendell, I sensed darkness approaching. We were well on our way past Bree when realization reared its ugly face.
I gasped, "Uruk-hai, more than two dozen." I closed my eyes to perform a spell when something grabbed me from behind.
Legolas stared down at me, "Do not even consider it. We will fight with weapons." He steered Arod into the nearby trees. We galloped to the edge of the tree covering and stopped. I dismounted and tied our horses to nearby trees. I climbed one of the taller trees on the outside of the forest and waited. I knocked my bow with three arrows. Legolas looked likewise and we remained silent as the dark figures protruded over the hillcrest.
I shot, listening keenly to the sound of my arrows flying from my bow. As I knocked two more arrows I was still listening to the whizzing sound of my arrows. I heard them each come in contact with flesh and shot again. I repeated this four times, killing a total of twelve Uruk-hai. Legolas shot done ten and ran out. He withdrew his sword and attack. I saw him take a hard hit on the shoulder and I cried out.
I leaped from the tree I was in and threw my bow at Kemi's feet. I withdrew my emerald dagger and a white stiletto. I sliced through nine monsters before I reached Legolas. He was still fighting, swinging his sword with his left hand. I beckoned, "Nan barad! {Retreat!} You are injured!"
He laughed, "I am fine, I will kill them all first." I slaughtered nine more, leaving five smaller beasts circling us. I put my back to Legolas's.
"I will take them all out, you get back to the horses." He shook his head. I slashed through one of them and pushed Legolas through the circle. He hollered loudly before following my instructions. I slaughtered two more with my blades and ran. I saw an arrow zip past my head and heard it embed itself in orc flesh. I turned and killed the last one brutally.
I withdrew my dagger from its throat and sighed, "Where are they all coming from? I spoke with Treebeard in Rivendell and he told me that Isengard is safe from Sauraman. I do not understand where these beasts are all arriving from!"
Legolas worried face silenced me, "I hope Hobbiton is safe." We rode hard and I followed Legolas to a quite village with houses no more than five feet in height.
I smiled, "They are like doll houses!"
He laughed richly, "I would watch your tongue, for you are no more than five feet six inches."
Red blush colored my face. I dismounted as he did and he stopped. He walked up to an elderly man who was smoking a pipe, "Sam? Samwise?"
The halfling looked up and smiled. His face lit with excitement, "Legolas! It has been so long! How have ye been?"
I smiled, this man was about three feet Legolas's junior. He was so small yet so old. Legolas embraced him as he knelt down. "I have been fine, and ye?"
"Well, what brings you here?"
He motioned to me, "This is Reyna, and we are bound for Glacia. It is a land past the Grey Havens, north of the gulf of Lhun."
Sam walked over and shook my hand. I smiled, "It is a pleasure." He nodded. I looked up, "Where is the young halfling you were speaking of Legolas?"
Legolas looked up, "Yes, Sam, where is Frodo?"
Sam sighed, "He left for the Grey Havens shortly after the war."
Legolas's eyes dimmed, "I see. Oh well. It was a pleasure to see you again my friend. I would love to visit Frodo but not yet. I have many promises to keep, and miles to go before I can do so."
I forced myself to keep a straight face for Legolas, "Come, we must hurry. Samwise may accompany us if he wishes."
Sam shook his head, "I have myself a wife and daughter to look after now." Legolas nodded.
He sighed, "I see."
Sam laughed, "It seems you have a lady to guard over too."
I blushed and Legolas laughed, "No, she does more watching over me than vise versa."
I laughed, "You are feigning Lord Legolas! You have saved me on numerous occasions!"
Sam smiled, "So you are lovers?"
Legolas looked at me, I bit my lip. "Not officially. I am not ready."
Sam sighed, "I see. Lord Legolas, after so many years I would have thought that you would be wed by now."
Legolas shrugged, "In due time my friend. You will surely receive an invitation."
Sam smiled, "That is all I ask." The sun was starting to set and I shifted uncomfortably.
I bit my lip, "It is two days ride to Glacia, Lord Legolas. We should depart soon."
Legolas embraced Sam again and I waved politely. "Namarie!" {Farewell.}
He waved us off as we galloped off. I smiled brightly as a crisp breeze blew across my face. My chestnut hair flew behind me wildly. Legolas smiled and rode up beside me. His blond locks fluttered uncontrollably behind him. His blue eyes were lit with excitement. I spurred Kemi lightly and he picked up speed. Arod mimicked us. The faster we went, the merrier I became.
When I finally noticed the darkness around us, sunrise was only an hour away. I knew that the horses needed to rest but we were only four hours from home. What stopped me was seeing Legolas flinch when Arod tugged on the reigns. I bit my lip, "Your wound. . ."
He grimaced and looked over, "I am fine. We will be there soon."
I shook my head, "We stop now." I stopped Kemi in the middle of the pasture we were riding through. "Stop, I am going to heal you." I knew it wasn't safe, since I was already using my magic to hide my true appearance. I had never lost my mask, not even when I blacked out. Serlia told me she held it up for me. Thank the Mother. If Legolas saw me, I would never be able to talk to him again. He dismounted and walked over to me. I pulled four blankets out of my saddlebag and spread two out side by side on the ground. I sat Legolas down. "It's bad. Remove your tunic."
He gave me an offended look but did it anyway. "It's nothing, just let us go."
I gave him a reproving look. As he painstakingly removed his tunic, he cringed. I grimaced as I examined his gash. There was dirt in it and I scolded him silently. I removed a canteen from my saddle horn a poured half of the water onto a cloth and the other half I slowly poured over his shoulder. I wiped the dirt out, much to his dismay.
I looked in both our saddlebags for something to wrap it with, and found nothing. The cloth I had was too dirty and too small. I looked around and finally tore off a piece of my pant leg. He sighed, "You don't need to do that."
"Too late now." He groaned. I wrapped the cloth around his shoulder and pulled his tunic over his head again. I laid him down gently and unfolded a third blanket. I placed it over him and began to sing the song my mother sang me to sleep with. It was an elvish tune that my father had taught her.
~
I' elenoo naa tiri (The stars are bright)
Dome naa lantuva (Darkness is falling)
Kaima naa neva (Sleep is near)
Dina sii' (Be silent now)
~
Sii' lle esta (Now you rest)
Lye kaima sinome (We sleep hear)
Nu I' tiri elenoo (Under the bright stars)
Lle ar amin. (You and I)
Lye naa varna, alye' (We are safe, together)
~~
He smiled, "Uma, lye naa. (Yes we are)"
I kissed his forehead as he fell into an exhausted sleep. I lay down next to him and pulled another blanket over me. I shivered several times before giving in and lying on his inviting chest. He wrapped an arm around me and I sighed contently. This was how I wanted to be forever, this is the feeling I wanted to last.
~~~Three Hours Later~~~
Alas, it did not last forever; in fact it lasted for a little past sunrise. I woke sleepily and finished healing his wound. When he woke he stared at me. As I prepared two fish I had caught his eyes did not leave my face. I blushed, "Is there something on my face?"
He nodded, "Yes, you have freckles."
I gasped; my mask was wearing off. My illusion was wearing off. I covered my face, "Don't look!"
He smiled, "You have the most alluring freckle right by your left eye. It makes your lashes look incredibly sensual." I blushed but would not uncover my face. I felt the last of my magic drain and I sighed.
"No! I cannot keep the mask up any longer without draining my life energy. I knew we should have ridden through the night."
He pulled my hands away and smiled, "You look beautiful. Your skin is a little lighter. You have the cutest freckles." He ran his hands along my face. "You glow when you are not wearing your mask."
"It is my Fae magic, it's a dead give away of my race."
He sighed, "Why do you hide such beauty?" He cupped my face in both his hands and brought my face so close to his. I smiled.
"I know not what beauty you speak of." I hid my face, 'I ruined it! I ruined it all! He may have been starting to love me, but no longer! Fool!' I wiped away a small tear. It was not a surprise that I had screwed everything up.
He brushed more tears from my eyes, "You are gorgeous. You are the most beautiful being in all of Middle Earth. Galadriel herself was not fairer."
I blushed, "You had best not say that too loudly."
"I would declare it to the world if that is what it took." His eyes filled with sincerity.
"Took to do what?"
"To prove to you that I love you. That I think that I love you as more than a friend Reyna." He paused, "When you were ill, I could not leave your side. That feeling of hopelessness without you, that strong bond between us whenever I see you; I want that for all of eternity. That is what I want, that is what I want to experience with you." I gasped.
~~~END~~~
OOO!!! Long one this time, hope you all enjoyed! Happy belated v-day! Hope you all liked that scintillating romance! Hehe, R&R!!! What is Reyna's response? Find out in ch21 'Thoughts of the Future' coming soon to a Fanfiction.net site near you! Namaarie!