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I was thinking I might fly today
Just to disprove all the things that you say
~Jewel, 'I'm Sensitive'
Chapter 10
Rivendell was in an uproar.
News of the Faeries' arrival had traveled fast, and pretty soon the entire city knew of their extravagent entrance - and that two of them would be journeying as members of the Fellowship.
This did not sit well with the Elves.
" Are you sure this is a good idea, my lord?" An Elf demanded to Elrond. The lord of Imladris was walking regally down a terrace to reach the Hall of Fire with an entourage of elves keeping pace with him, wanting to know why he would allow such "pesky" faeries, as a few elves had affectionately named them, to travel with the Fellowship.
As the questions grew more reduntant and quite annoying, to Elrond's mind, he found himself wanting to shake his head with the irritation. Did they not realize that this was meant to be? The Ringbearer would not choose anyone to accompany him lightly, and he apparently trusted the two enough to pick them. Elrond had previously known of Liana and Nevada from Gandalf, and had heard tales of their adventures and feats; needless to say, they left him quite impressed. He had no doubt in his mind that this was the right decision. However...Most of the elven and dwarven guests begged to differ.
" I do not see why we couldn't send strong elven warriors in their place-"
" Yes, there are others that would be willing to go besides the faeries-"
" That is not our place to decide," Elrond finally spoke to the elves, although his gaze still stayed ahead of them." It was Frodo who chose the faeries, and we cannot change that. Liana and Nevada have proven to be loyal and determined just by their coming here."
" They interrupted the counsel, threatened an elven life, and disarmed four elven guards!" an elf from Mirkwood reminded him.
Elrond fought to keep his lips from twitching into an amused smile." Yes, I believe they did. We will have to better the guards' training to avoid that in the future."
" My Lord, this is a serious matter-"
At that comment the elflord stopped walking and turned to face the elves with a commanding swish of his robes. The look on his face was unreadable, but it was clear he had enough of their questions from the stern gaze he gave them." I am well aware that this is a serious matter - a matter that had already been addressed. The eleven companions have already been chosen, and nothing will change that."
He was met with silence, until an Elf added," They are *women*, my lord. And not even that - they look to be in their early twenties by humans standards! We have no idea of their fighting skills, let alone how they would survive such a long journey to Mordor, of all places! No female, not even a Fae, should be subject to that."
All elves present nodded, and Elrond regarded them coolly. The thought of any of those five Faeries being "mere girls" with no fighting skills made him want to cuff the young elf on the ear for his naivete. Valar, he could almost hear Gandalf's robust laughter over that comment. Did people truly know that little about the race of the Fae?
" I realize that I am sending two women on a journey that will more than likely prove dangerous for them," he said appeasingly," however...They are not helpless. It is a well known fact that over half of the fighting forces in the Faerie Kingdom are made up of females, and might I add that their countries border Mordor, so they have a good idea of what they are up against. After all, they have been fighting Mordor and keeping them at bay for centuries. These are not ordinary girls," he continued, his voice deepening to get his message across." Liana is not only a princess, but a warrior and a leader of her people, and Nevada was the commander of an entire army and next in line to rule her country. Not to mention that both fight exceptionally well and are used to hard travel, as they have proven by coming here. I, for one, have faith that they will give their utmost effort toward protecting the Ringbearer, and I can only hope that their partaking in this journey will eliminate previous prejudices." He stared hard at the elves, who had the courtesy to look away slightly." Now if you will excuse me."
" Of course, my lord," a few elves bowed apologetically, and Elrond returned it, bowing deep before turning towards the entrance to the Hall of Fire, trying not to let out a sigh. This was proving to be harder than he thought it would, but his senses told him that it would all work out for the best. As he shut the doors behind him, breathing in the scent of firewood and warmth, he wondered how the subjects of their conversation were faring.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
" I feel like I'm being gawked at."
" You *are* being gawked at," Liana added helpfully, grinning at the look on Nevada's face.
" You'd think we killed somebody, with the way they're grimacing in our general direction," Nevada grumbled, dutifully ignoring Liana's comment." It's not like we planned on going on this trip."
It was Liana's turn to grimace at the thought." I know. Lord Elrond offered to send a messenger to Ciel and one to the Queen about the circumstances." She paused, shaking her head as if to rid herself of the guilt she couldn't help but feel." I hate being absent from home this long."
Nevada stopped to look her in the face." Don't worry about it," she said, attempting to soothe her friend. She couldn't exactly level with Liana on this one, but she understood the torn feeling of wanting to be two places at once." They'll send word to your commander and I know she'll watch over Ciel just fine. And anyways," Nevada smirked, not being able to resist," who would want to attack that barren wasteland of sand you call home? The Orcs would probably die from the heat first, and if not, then surely of the terrible lack of hospitality-" she broke off into laughter when Liana gave her a shove in the other direction.
" That was an honest mistake, and my soldiers could not see you in the foilage," Liana defended, trying to keep her tone angry but failing miserably. She relented and grinned." It was pretty funny, though."
" To you," Nevada sniffed." You weren't on the receiving end of that 'honest mistake.'"
" Glad to say I wasn't," Liana chuckled.
" Keep laughin', Liana. I dare you." The two bantered back and forth jokingly while they crossed Rivendell to reach their sleeping quarters, and after a few more minutes they lapsed into a comfortable silence.
" It really is beautiful here," Liana remarked when they reached their destination.
Nevada nodded, grudgingly admitting it to herself that Imladris was a sight to see. The ancient buildings and carvings of the elves were unprecedented in their splendor, not the mention the elaborate statues, fountains, and gardens surrounding the whole city. Water could be heard trickling from those fountains, and each garden the girls passed held a new array of vibrant colors and species of flowers, most of which Nevada knew by name, but some she had never seen before. She felt as if she could easily lose herself here, in the peaceful tranquility of Elrond's home. War and death did not come to places like this; the very air thrummed with elven magic, and both faeries could feel it in the life of the trees and on the air. Elrond had been right - the Ring could not stay here.
" Ah, just the two I wanted to see. How are my little ones?"
Caught off guard, both girls refrained from jumping and instead turned to face the speaker standing a few feet away. A slow smile spread across their faces at the familiar white beard and weathered, amused face.
" Your little ones are just fine," Nevada replied. Gone was the bitter anger from earlier on during the council, and in its place a look of warmth resided in her deep purple eyes. No longer were their depths hostile, but alight with affection as she embraced the old wizard.
The smile on Liana's face and the joy in her eyes was pure, as well." Gandalf! How have you been?" She reached over and he enveloped her in a bear hug, chuckling at how her fingers seemed to curl into his robe like she had done so many years ago.
" I am quite well, my dear. It is most wondrous to see you both here. And you've brought your friends with you to see the undoing of the Ring, have you?" he winked at Nevada and looked down at Liana with affection, remembering her as a child. Watching her now, as a grown princess and leader of an entire army force and land under the rule of the Faerie Queen, Emilia, and Nevada; that sweet girl grew up into a force to be reckoned with. Many a brave warrior could not compare to her accomplishments or skill in the battlefield.
" Yes, we have," Liana answered gravely in her own Tongue, knowing the old wizard understood everything she said." We grew worried as to what was happening here in the West. We heard of the RingBearer, and were very curious as to his whereabouts."
Gandalf nodded, stepping back to get a better look at her." So you and your companions took it upon yourselves to leave for the West. And no doubt Nevada had a heavy hand in convincing all of them to come." Nevada smiled slyly, causing him to chuckle. He turned back at Liana's laughter, marveling at the how the two had grown." And now my girls are members of the Fellowship of the Ring," he said grandly." I do not have to tell you how proud I am, because you already know." He smiled fondly at the two, before clasping each on the shoulder and bringing them closer." Come; walk with me, and tell this old wizard what both of you have been up to these past few decades."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
" I win."
Two outraged groans rang the air." I swear, Peony, you've got to be cheating!" Diana exclaimed, sitting upright. She threw her playing cards down and made a face." That's the fourth time!"
" Are you cheating?" Alexia raised an eyebrow at the mischevious look on the girl's face.
Peony looked shocked." Never!" Then smiled arrogantly." I'm just better at this game than all of you!"
Diana rolled her eyes." Right, Peony. Anyhow, I am not up to playing cards anymore."
" Why not?" Peony asked. She turned her head to watch Diana perch herself on a windowsill, looking out into the rest of the city." Homesick?"
She shrugged delicately." More like worried."
Alexia frowned from her position on the floor amidst the pillows they had thrown down for their game. The rooms the elves had given them were all connected, and they were currently in her own room, enjoying the peacefulness of Imladris. When they left the council, they had been sent to the healers to get looked over, and to Alexia's surprise, they finished healing Peony and Diana to the point where the two were at full health again. The blonde was ready to re-evaluate her opinion of elves after their kindness, but she still wasn't sure about them." Whatever for?"
" Nev and Liana," Diana admitted, surprising the two on the floor." They're going to be traveling with complete strangers for who knows how long, and what if anything happens to them? We won't know, and that's going to bug me. Even besides that, what we are we going to do? Stay here? Go back home?"
" Lord Elrond wanted us to stay for a period of time because of the growing number of Orc attacks along the passage we took," Alexia said carefully, remembering their own ambush." I suppose we will return home a few weeks after. And as far as Liana and Nev go..."
" We'll be just fine."
The three turned to see both girls leaning on either side of the doorframe lazily.
" Should I ask how long you've been standing there?" Alexia wondered dryly, getting up off the floor. She helped Peony up, and the three walked over to the other two.
" Long enough," Nevada shrugged, sharing an amused look with Liana. She spotted the cards in Peony's hand a moment later." Excellent, you brought them! Let's play a few."
Through the next three games, the three faeries began to wonder at the change of attitude in both Nevada and Liana. Each seemed a bit lighter of heart, but it was more evident in Nevada. She was, by no means, over what had happened at Deimos, but it looked as if a weight had been lessened on her shoulders. It was also evident through the games that Peony was cheating.
" Would you stop that?" Liana laughingly ordered, throwing down her cards.
" Stop what?" Peony blinked.
" Winning!"
" You've got to be cheating," Nevada said suspiciously. While she spoke, Diana had reached over and pulled Peony's cards out of her hands.
" Aces!" Diana found, then narrowed her blue eyes at her." You must've changed your cards to aces. No wonder you've won so many times, you can't possibly lose!"
" You little-" Nevada jumped up and chased Peony around the platform they were using for the night while the others laughed. It had a beautiful canopied roof over it with tendrils of ivy curling around the pillars; they chose outside because it was so warm in Rivendell." I'll get you!"
Peony laughed behind her and ran out into the grass." Gotta catch me first, Nevvie!"
Nevada hissed at the pet name and continued the chase. She narrowly missed a group of Elves walking by, and a plan formed in her head. Chuckling wickedly, she chased Peony closer to the group. Once Peony was nearly circling them,' Nevvie' put on a burst of speed and gave her friend a shove-right into one of the elves.
Peony whooped as she crashed head-on with a stern looking Elf; long brown hair, solemn grey eyes, and a horrified look on his face as both went down in the grass. Nevada's nearby laughter rung in Peony's ears. Mortified, she quickly got up off of him and helped him up, babbling," Valar, I'm so sorry, I did not mean to run into you, sir, honest, it was all my friend's fault, I hope I didn't get you dirty or anything-" she proceeded to dust off his tunic and cloak, blushing furiously to the tips of her blonde hair. She gasped a little when he shoved her hands away. Not understanding, she looked up, a little hurt.
The severe look on his face made her eyes go downcast. She wasn't the bravest of Faeries to be able to take that kind of rejection, not like Nevada or Alexia. And she wasn't prepared for the shove he gave her. She supposed it wasn't that big of a shove, but it caught her so unaware she fell backwards and landed on her bottom.
" Hey!" Nevada growled to herself after what she saw. She moved to go forward and show the pompous Elf her fist, but another blonde newcomer made her stop and watch curiously.
" That will teach you, dear Faerie," he said in an irritatingly patient talking-to-children's tone," not to run in to your elders and betters." Mortified by his chuckle and that of the others, Peony kept her gaze downcast. She was ready to pick herself back up and retreat back to her people so she could cry over the humiliation in safety (and kick Nevada over her stupidity) when a pale, strong hand came in her gaze. She stared dumbly, unsure of what to do. She knew it wasn't the Elf that pushed her, cause the moment the hand came into view, the laughter stopped.
" Come on," she heard a strong yet soft masculine voice tell her. She'd heard that voice before-at the council. Curious now, and still self-conscious, she took the hand and allowed him to pull her upright with no effort at all. Blushing, she looked up at her rescuer, and was astonished to see it was the prince of Mirkwood. He dusted off her cloak a bit, and turned to the other Elves, seemingly forgetting Peony was standing there, and began scolding them in Elvish. She was mesmerized by his voice and speech, and watched him sternly glare the Elves down who now, shamefaced, turned to Peony.
" Forgive us, lady," the elf that pushed her said, somewhat embarrassed." We did not mean to treat you so unfairly. I sincerely thought you wouldn't fall." All she could do was nod, which was enough for him. He paused, bowed, and left with his friends.
" You must forgive Dwelyn," Legolas said, finally turning to Peony." He is but young yet, and still holds foolish prejudices installed in him by his ancestors."
She bit her lip, and nodded." Thank you for helping me, Prince." She paused for a moment, studying him. He certainly was a handsome elf, breathtakingly gorgeous, even by fae standards. She still thought it was a wonder how male elves could grow their hair out so long, and his was only about an inch shorter than Nevada's!
At that moment, she happened to see the amused expression on his face, and the humor in his blue eyes. Thinking he was secretly laughing at her fall, too, she became defensive." Sir, if you think to help me and then laugh at me-"
She stopped when he let out a low chuckle. Astonished at the sound, she let him continue." If you saw the look on Dwelyn's face when you ran into him, you would be laughing, too."
Peony blinked, then grinned." Yeah, that was a keeper. And thank you again. That was very kind-"
He dismissed the thanks with a wave of his hand, giving her a friendly smile." Think nothing of it. Are you and your friends enjoying your stay at Rivendell, little one?"
" Yes, we are," Nevada strolled up, her arms folded across her chest. Her stance was relaxed as she rested a hand on her hip, but the look in her eyes was a subtle warning." Elrond's home is breathtaking."
Legolas nodded, pausing to speculate over the newcomer. She certainly proved of her temper at the council, but now he was faced with a more composed Nevada." Yes, it is," he replied, feeling more at ease at her cooperativeness. He had been worried that she would continue to be hostile during the journey, which would put a strain upon the Fellowship and their ability to get along, but she was proving him otherwise." It has been many years since I have visited Imladris last."
" You visit often?" Nevada echoed. She nodded to Peony, who got the hint, nodded gratefully in Legolas' direction, and joined the other three faeries watching from the terrace where they had been sitting previously.
" Yes," Legolas smiled." It is unfortunate that the five of you should see Rivendell in such grevious times, though."
Nevada shrugged slightly." It can't be helped. So what brought you over here?"
Legolas hesitated slightly, his sharp eyes taking in the three other faeries and Liana on the terrace. The princess was trying not to look suspicious as she glanced over every so often to see what they were up to. Legolas had to admit to himself that was intrigued by her. He had heard her laughing with Gandalf earlier, and Liana's laughter had...enthralled him. He found himself wanting to hear it again, but in times like these...he doubted he would. He didn't even know what possessed him to come this way, but he found himself heading towards the area where she was to speak with her again.
" I was passing by and stopped to help Peony," he said, smoothly covering up his true reason for being there while he watched Nevada nod acceptingly.. She dropped her arms to her side, and when she winced, he frowned." Are you wounded?"
" It's not that bad," Nevada shook her head, briefly touching her upper arm." I should be fine."
" Let me see it."
" No," Nevada snapped, then softened it by adding," It's an old wound that-"
" Obviously bothers you." Legolas reached over and took her by the arm." You should see the healer."
" I do not need a healer-"
" Mi'lady," he cut in, amused at the reaction on her face to being called that," You need to be at full strength for this journey, and we leave tomorrow. We do not need anyone going in there wounded. It would hinder not only you, but the whole Fellowship."
Nevada fumed for a minute, then rolled her eyes." Fine, *Prince*. I'll see a healer."
He smiled as she huffed off in the right direction, and cast one last glance towards Liana before taking his leave. He would see her tomorrow.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
It was a sight to behold. Dwarves, elves, men, and faeries alike stood behind Lord Elrond to see off the eleven companions of the Fellowship, who stood proudly before them at the gates of Imladris.
" The Ringbearer is setting out on a quest for Mount Doom," Lord Elrond stated, looking each Fellowship member in the face. A few of the hobbits still looked uncertain, especially Frodo himself, but Elrond saw pride in the eyes of Boromir, Legolas, and Gimli. Aragorn was drinking in his surroundings, as if it were the last time he would see them, and the two females of the group made a picture of their own. They stood regally, heads high, and looking ready for anything. He knew they had chosen well, and shared a look with Gandalf, knowing he was thinking the same thing.
" And you who travel with him," he continued," No oath, no bond is laid to go further then you want." He paused, feeling a great sadness sweep over him. Perhaps it would be the last time he could see all of them together and healthy, but only time would tell. They had a hard road ahead of them." Farewell. Hold to your purpose. May the blessings of elves, of faeries, and men, and all free folk, go with you."
Legolas and Aragorn placed a hand over their hearts and spread them toward Elrond in a gesture of farewell, and Liana and Nevada nodded their goodbyes to Elrond, Diana, Alexia, and Peony, who stood off to the side, trying to be happy yet failing. Their smiles were ones of sincerity, but the sorrow at their friend's leavetaking was evident in their eyes.
" The Fellowship awaits the Ringbearer," Gandalf stated. He had put on his trademark hat, and clutched his staff as he watched Frodo, urging him on with a gentle smile.
Frodo turned, looking for all the world like an innocent child, blue eyes wide as he took in everyone and the pathway he was walking down. His heart was thudding in his chest as he thought,' This is it. No more safe cities, no warm beds. Just a lot of traveling to a place I don't want to be. But at least...'He smiled to himself, glancing at Sam, Merry, and Pippin.' At least I have my friends with me. I'm not alone.' The young hobbit led them down the path past the gates of the city, and when the path split into two separate entities, he stopped, confused.' Where do I go?'
" Mordor, Gandalf," Frodo whispered with uncertainty." Is it left or right?"
" Left," Gandalf nodded.
With each step, Nevada found herself growing more anxious. She was looking forward to any fights with Orcs they might get into, but she couldn't help but feel a morbid sense of unease. Should they have agreed to come? Would her and Liana be able to get along with these strangers? She knew none of them personally, and it was a great comfort to Nevada to have Liana with her. Of any person Nevada became close to, Liana was the closest, and she understood her the best. So maybe it wouldn't be so bad with her along. Continuing with that mindset, the raven-haired warrior walked purposefully, telling herself that all things happen for a reason, and some good *had* to come out of this.
Liana kept her gaze calm and collected as she took in each Fellowship member, trying to ward off her own jitters. She would be living with these people for the next couple of months - eating with them, fighting, traveling, everything. Part of her didn't mind because of Nevada being there; having a best friend along for the ride certainly made things a lot better, but part of her was still whispering,' What have we gotten ourselves into?' Her gaze stopped at Frodo, and she softened. That's why.' How it must feel to have such an evil thing bound to you,' she thought sadly. He was such a friendly little thing, and Liana found herself thinking that this journey should prove to be pretty interesting with four hobbits, two humans, an elf, a dwarf, and two faeries.
Liana fought back a bubble of laughter at the thought.' This should be interesting.'
Imladris - Elvish for Rivendell
I was thinking I might fly today
Just to disprove all the things that you say
~Jewel, 'I'm Sensitive'
Chapter 10
Rivendell was in an uproar.
News of the Faeries' arrival had traveled fast, and pretty soon the entire city knew of their extravagent entrance - and that two of them would be journeying as members of the Fellowship.
This did not sit well with the Elves.
" Are you sure this is a good idea, my lord?" An Elf demanded to Elrond. The lord of Imladris was walking regally down a terrace to reach the Hall of Fire with an entourage of elves keeping pace with him, wanting to know why he would allow such "pesky" faeries, as a few elves had affectionately named them, to travel with the Fellowship.
As the questions grew more reduntant and quite annoying, to Elrond's mind, he found himself wanting to shake his head with the irritation. Did they not realize that this was meant to be? The Ringbearer would not choose anyone to accompany him lightly, and he apparently trusted the two enough to pick them. Elrond had previously known of Liana and Nevada from Gandalf, and had heard tales of their adventures and feats; needless to say, they left him quite impressed. He had no doubt in his mind that this was the right decision. However...Most of the elven and dwarven guests begged to differ.
" I do not see why we couldn't send strong elven warriors in their place-"
" Yes, there are others that would be willing to go besides the faeries-"
" That is not our place to decide," Elrond finally spoke to the elves, although his gaze still stayed ahead of them." It was Frodo who chose the faeries, and we cannot change that. Liana and Nevada have proven to be loyal and determined just by their coming here."
" They interrupted the counsel, threatened an elven life, and disarmed four elven guards!" an elf from Mirkwood reminded him.
Elrond fought to keep his lips from twitching into an amused smile." Yes, I believe they did. We will have to better the guards' training to avoid that in the future."
" My Lord, this is a serious matter-"
At that comment the elflord stopped walking and turned to face the elves with a commanding swish of his robes. The look on his face was unreadable, but it was clear he had enough of their questions from the stern gaze he gave them." I am well aware that this is a serious matter - a matter that had already been addressed. The eleven companions have already been chosen, and nothing will change that."
He was met with silence, until an Elf added," They are *women*, my lord. And not even that - they look to be in their early twenties by humans standards! We have no idea of their fighting skills, let alone how they would survive such a long journey to Mordor, of all places! No female, not even a Fae, should be subject to that."
All elves present nodded, and Elrond regarded them coolly. The thought of any of those five Faeries being "mere girls" with no fighting skills made him want to cuff the young elf on the ear for his naivete. Valar, he could almost hear Gandalf's robust laughter over that comment. Did people truly know that little about the race of the Fae?
" I realize that I am sending two women on a journey that will more than likely prove dangerous for them," he said appeasingly," however...They are not helpless. It is a well known fact that over half of the fighting forces in the Faerie Kingdom are made up of females, and might I add that their countries border Mordor, so they have a good idea of what they are up against. After all, they have been fighting Mordor and keeping them at bay for centuries. These are not ordinary girls," he continued, his voice deepening to get his message across." Liana is not only a princess, but a warrior and a leader of her people, and Nevada was the commander of an entire army and next in line to rule her country. Not to mention that both fight exceptionally well and are used to hard travel, as they have proven by coming here. I, for one, have faith that they will give their utmost effort toward protecting the Ringbearer, and I can only hope that their partaking in this journey will eliminate previous prejudices." He stared hard at the elves, who had the courtesy to look away slightly." Now if you will excuse me."
" Of course, my lord," a few elves bowed apologetically, and Elrond returned it, bowing deep before turning towards the entrance to the Hall of Fire, trying not to let out a sigh. This was proving to be harder than he thought it would, but his senses told him that it would all work out for the best. As he shut the doors behind him, breathing in the scent of firewood and warmth, he wondered how the subjects of their conversation were faring.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
" I feel like I'm being gawked at."
" You *are* being gawked at," Liana added helpfully, grinning at the look on Nevada's face.
" You'd think we killed somebody, with the way they're grimacing in our general direction," Nevada grumbled, dutifully ignoring Liana's comment." It's not like we planned on going on this trip."
It was Liana's turn to grimace at the thought." I know. Lord Elrond offered to send a messenger to Ciel and one to the Queen about the circumstances." She paused, shaking her head as if to rid herself of the guilt she couldn't help but feel." I hate being absent from home this long."
Nevada stopped to look her in the face." Don't worry about it," she said, attempting to soothe her friend. She couldn't exactly level with Liana on this one, but she understood the torn feeling of wanting to be two places at once." They'll send word to your commander and I know she'll watch over Ciel just fine. And anyways," Nevada smirked, not being able to resist," who would want to attack that barren wasteland of sand you call home? The Orcs would probably die from the heat first, and if not, then surely of the terrible lack of hospitality-" she broke off into laughter when Liana gave her a shove in the other direction.
" That was an honest mistake, and my soldiers could not see you in the foilage," Liana defended, trying to keep her tone angry but failing miserably. She relented and grinned." It was pretty funny, though."
" To you," Nevada sniffed." You weren't on the receiving end of that 'honest mistake.'"
" Glad to say I wasn't," Liana chuckled.
" Keep laughin', Liana. I dare you." The two bantered back and forth jokingly while they crossed Rivendell to reach their sleeping quarters, and after a few more minutes they lapsed into a comfortable silence.
" It really is beautiful here," Liana remarked when they reached their destination.
Nevada nodded, grudgingly admitting it to herself that Imladris was a sight to see. The ancient buildings and carvings of the elves were unprecedented in their splendor, not the mention the elaborate statues, fountains, and gardens surrounding the whole city. Water could be heard trickling from those fountains, and each garden the girls passed held a new array of vibrant colors and species of flowers, most of which Nevada knew by name, but some she had never seen before. She felt as if she could easily lose herself here, in the peaceful tranquility of Elrond's home. War and death did not come to places like this; the very air thrummed with elven magic, and both faeries could feel it in the life of the trees and on the air. Elrond had been right - the Ring could not stay here.
" Ah, just the two I wanted to see. How are my little ones?"
Caught off guard, both girls refrained from jumping and instead turned to face the speaker standing a few feet away. A slow smile spread across their faces at the familiar white beard and weathered, amused face.
" Your little ones are just fine," Nevada replied. Gone was the bitter anger from earlier on during the council, and in its place a look of warmth resided in her deep purple eyes. No longer were their depths hostile, but alight with affection as she embraced the old wizard.
The smile on Liana's face and the joy in her eyes was pure, as well." Gandalf! How have you been?" She reached over and he enveloped her in a bear hug, chuckling at how her fingers seemed to curl into his robe like she had done so many years ago.
" I am quite well, my dear. It is most wondrous to see you both here. And you've brought your friends with you to see the undoing of the Ring, have you?" he winked at Nevada and looked down at Liana with affection, remembering her as a child. Watching her now, as a grown princess and leader of an entire army force and land under the rule of the Faerie Queen, Emilia, and Nevada; that sweet girl grew up into a force to be reckoned with. Many a brave warrior could not compare to her accomplishments or skill in the battlefield.
" Yes, we have," Liana answered gravely in her own Tongue, knowing the old wizard understood everything she said." We grew worried as to what was happening here in the West. We heard of the RingBearer, and were very curious as to his whereabouts."
Gandalf nodded, stepping back to get a better look at her." So you and your companions took it upon yourselves to leave for the West. And no doubt Nevada had a heavy hand in convincing all of them to come." Nevada smiled slyly, causing him to chuckle. He turned back at Liana's laughter, marveling at the how the two had grown." And now my girls are members of the Fellowship of the Ring," he said grandly." I do not have to tell you how proud I am, because you already know." He smiled fondly at the two, before clasping each on the shoulder and bringing them closer." Come; walk with me, and tell this old wizard what both of you have been up to these past few decades."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
" I win."
Two outraged groans rang the air." I swear, Peony, you've got to be cheating!" Diana exclaimed, sitting upright. She threw her playing cards down and made a face." That's the fourth time!"
" Are you cheating?" Alexia raised an eyebrow at the mischevious look on the girl's face.
Peony looked shocked." Never!" Then smiled arrogantly." I'm just better at this game than all of you!"
Diana rolled her eyes." Right, Peony. Anyhow, I am not up to playing cards anymore."
" Why not?" Peony asked. She turned her head to watch Diana perch herself on a windowsill, looking out into the rest of the city." Homesick?"
She shrugged delicately." More like worried."
Alexia frowned from her position on the floor amidst the pillows they had thrown down for their game. The rooms the elves had given them were all connected, and they were currently in her own room, enjoying the peacefulness of Imladris. When they left the council, they had been sent to the healers to get looked over, and to Alexia's surprise, they finished healing Peony and Diana to the point where the two were at full health again. The blonde was ready to re-evaluate her opinion of elves after their kindness, but she still wasn't sure about them." Whatever for?"
" Nev and Liana," Diana admitted, surprising the two on the floor." They're going to be traveling with complete strangers for who knows how long, and what if anything happens to them? We won't know, and that's going to bug me. Even besides that, what we are we going to do? Stay here? Go back home?"
" Lord Elrond wanted us to stay for a period of time because of the growing number of Orc attacks along the passage we took," Alexia said carefully, remembering their own ambush." I suppose we will return home a few weeks after. And as far as Liana and Nev go..."
" We'll be just fine."
The three turned to see both girls leaning on either side of the doorframe lazily.
" Should I ask how long you've been standing there?" Alexia wondered dryly, getting up off the floor. She helped Peony up, and the three walked over to the other two.
" Long enough," Nevada shrugged, sharing an amused look with Liana. She spotted the cards in Peony's hand a moment later." Excellent, you brought them! Let's play a few."
Through the next three games, the three faeries began to wonder at the change of attitude in both Nevada and Liana. Each seemed a bit lighter of heart, but it was more evident in Nevada. She was, by no means, over what had happened at Deimos, but it looked as if a weight had been lessened on her shoulders. It was also evident through the games that Peony was cheating.
" Would you stop that?" Liana laughingly ordered, throwing down her cards.
" Stop what?" Peony blinked.
" Winning!"
" You've got to be cheating," Nevada said suspiciously. While she spoke, Diana had reached over and pulled Peony's cards out of her hands.
" Aces!" Diana found, then narrowed her blue eyes at her." You must've changed your cards to aces. No wonder you've won so many times, you can't possibly lose!"
" You little-" Nevada jumped up and chased Peony around the platform they were using for the night while the others laughed. It had a beautiful canopied roof over it with tendrils of ivy curling around the pillars; they chose outside because it was so warm in Rivendell." I'll get you!"
Peony laughed behind her and ran out into the grass." Gotta catch me first, Nevvie!"
Nevada hissed at the pet name and continued the chase. She narrowly missed a group of Elves walking by, and a plan formed in her head. Chuckling wickedly, she chased Peony closer to the group. Once Peony was nearly circling them,' Nevvie' put on a burst of speed and gave her friend a shove-right into one of the elves.
Peony whooped as she crashed head-on with a stern looking Elf; long brown hair, solemn grey eyes, and a horrified look on his face as both went down in the grass. Nevada's nearby laughter rung in Peony's ears. Mortified, she quickly got up off of him and helped him up, babbling," Valar, I'm so sorry, I did not mean to run into you, sir, honest, it was all my friend's fault, I hope I didn't get you dirty or anything-" she proceeded to dust off his tunic and cloak, blushing furiously to the tips of her blonde hair. She gasped a little when he shoved her hands away. Not understanding, she looked up, a little hurt.
The severe look on his face made her eyes go downcast. She wasn't the bravest of Faeries to be able to take that kind of rejection, not like Nevada or Alexia. And she wasn't prepared for the shove he gave her. She supposed it wasn't that big of a shove, but it caught her so unaware she fell backwards and landed on her bottom.
" Hey!" Nevada growled to herself after what she saw. She moved to go forward and show the pompous Elf her fist, but another blonde newcomer made her stop and watch curiously.
" That will teach you, dear Faerie," he said in an irritatingly patient talking-to-children's tone," not to run in to your elders and betters." Mortified by his chuckle and that of the others, Peony kept her gaze downcast. She was ready to pick herself back up and retreat back to her people so she could cry over the humiliation in safety (and kick Nevada over her stupidity) when a pale, strong hand came in her gaze. She stared dumbly, unsure of what to do. She knew it wasn't the Elf that pushed her, cause the moment the hand came into view, the laughter stopped.
" Come on," she heard a strong yet soft masculine voice tell her. She'd heard that voice before-at the council. Curious now, and still self-conscious, she took the hand and allowed him to pull her upright with no effort at all. Blushing, she looked up at her rescuer, and was astonished to see it was the prince of Mirkwood. He dusted off her cloak a bit, and turned to the other Elves, seemingly forgetting Peony was standing there, and began scolding them in Elvish. She was mesmerized by his voice and speech, and watched him sternly glare the Elves down who now, shamefaced, turned to Peony.
" Forgive us, lady," the elf that pushed her said, somewhat embarrassed." We did not mean to treat you so unfairly. I sincerely thought you wouldn't fall." All she could do was nod, which was enough for him. He paused, bowed, and left with his friends.
" You must forgive Dwelyn," Legolas said, finally turning to Peony." He is but young yet, and still holds foolish prejudices installed in him by his ancestors."
She bit her lip, and nodded." Thank you for helping me, Prince." She paused for a moment, studying him. He certainly was a handsome elf, breathtakingly gorgeous, even by fae standards. She still thought it was a wonder how male elves could grow their hair out so long, and his was only about an inch shorter than Nevada's!
At that moment, she happened to see the amused expression on his face, and the humor in his blue eyes. Thinking he was secretly laughing at her fall, too, she became defensive." Sir, if you think to help me and then laugh at me-"
She stopped when he let out a low chuckle. Astonished at the sound, she let him continue." If you saw the look on Dwelyn's face when you ran into him, you would be laughing, too."
Peony blinked, then grinned." Yeah, that was a keeper. And thank you again. That was very kind-"
He dismissed the thanks with a wave of his hand, giving her a friendly smile." Think nothing of it. Are you and your friends enjoying your stay at Rivendell, little one?"
" Yes, we are," Nevada strolled up, her arms folded across her chest. Her stance was relaxed as she rested a hand on her hip, but the look in her eyes was a subtle warning." Elrond's home is breathtaking."
Legolas nodded, pausing to speculate over the newcomer. She certainly proved of her temper at the council, but now he was faced with a more composed Nevada." Yes, it is," he replied, feeling more at ease at her cooperativeness. He had been worried that she would continue to be hostile during the journey, which would put a strain upon the Fellowship and their ability to get along, but she was proving him otherwise." It has been many years since I have visited Imladris last."
" You visit often?" Nevada echoed. She nodded to Peony, who got the hint, nodded gratefully in Legolas' direction, and joined the other three faeries watching from the terrace where they had been sitting previously.
" Yes," Legolas smiled." It is unfortunate that the five of you should see Rivendell in such grevious times, though."
Nevada shrugged slightly." It can't be helped. So what brought you over here?"
Legolas hesitated slightly, his sharp eyes taking in the three other faeries and Liana on the terrace. The princess was trying not to look suspicious as she glanced over every so often to see what they were up to. Legolas had to admit to himself that was intrigued by her. He had heard her laughing with Gandalf earlier, and Liana's laughter had...enthralled him. He found himself wanting to hear it again, but in times like these...he doubted he would. He didn't even know what possessed him to come this way, but he found himself heading towards the area where she was to speak with her again.
" I was passing by and stopped to help Peony," he said, smoothly covering up his true reason for being there while he watched Nevada nod acceptingly.. She dropped her arms to her side, and when she winced, he frowned." Are you wounded?"
" It's not that bad," Nevada shook her head, briefly touching her upper arm." I should be fine."
" Let me see it."
" No," Nevada snapped, then softened it by adding," It's an old wound that-"
" Obviously bothers you." Legolas reached over and took her by the arm." You should see the healer."
" I do not need a healer-"
" Mi'lady," he cut in, amused at the reaction on her face to being called that," You need to be at full strength for this journey, and we leave tomorrow. We do not need anyone going in there wounded. It would hinder not only you, but the whole Fellowship."
Nevada fumed for a minute, then rolled her eyes." Fine, *Prince*. I'll see a healer."
He smiled as she huffed off in the right direction, and cast one last glance towards Liana before taking his leave. He would see her tomorrow.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
It was a sight to behold. Dwarves, elves, men, and faeries alike stood behind Lord Elrond to see off the eleven companions of the Fellowship, who stood proudly before them at the gates of Imladris.
" The Ringbearer is setting out on a quest for Mount Doom," Lord Elrond stated, looking each Fellowship member in the face. A few of the hobbits still looked uncertain, especially Frodo himself, but Elrond saw pride in the eyes of Boromir, Legolas, and Gimli. Aragorn was drinking in his surroundings, as if it were the last time he would see them, and the two females of the group made a picture of their own. They stood regally, heads high, and looking ready for anything. He knew they had chosen well, and shared a look with Gandalf, knowing he was thinking the same thing.
" And you who travel with him," he continued," No oath, no bond is laid to go further then you want." He paused, feeling a great sadness sweep over him. Perhaps it would be the last time he could see all of them together and healthy, but only time would tell. They had a hard road ahead of them." Farewell. Hold to your purpose. May the blessings of elves, of faeries, and men, and all free folk, go with you."
Legolas and Aragorn placed a hand over their hearts and spread them toward Elrond in a gesture of farewell, and Liana and Nevada nodded their goodbyes to Elrond, Diana, Alexia, and Peony, who stood off to the side, trying to be happy yet failing. Their smiles were ones of sincerity, but the sorrow at their friend's leavetaking was evident in their eyes.
" The Fellowship awaits the Ringbearer," Gandalf stated. He had put on his trademark hat, and clutched his staff as he watched Frodo, urging him on with a gentle smile.
Frodo turned, looking for all the world like an innocent child, blue eyes wide as he took in everyone and the pathway he was walking down. His heart was thudding in his chest as he thought,' This is it. No more safe cities, no warm beds. Just a lot of traveling to a place I don't want to be. But at least...'He smiled to himself, glancing at Sam, Merry, and Pippin.' At least I have my friends with me. I'm not alone.' The young hobbit led them down the path past the gates of the city, and when the path split into two separate entities, he stopped, confused.' Where do I go?'
" Mordor, Gandalf," Frodo whispered with uncertainty." Is it left or right?"
" Left," Gandalf nodded.
With each step, Nevada found herself growing more anxious. She was looking forward to any fights with Orcs they might get into, but she couldn't help but feel a morbid sense of unease. Should they have agreed to come? Would her and Liana be able to get along with these strangers? She knew none of them personally, and it was a great comfort to Nevada to have Liana with her. Of any person Nevada became close to, Liana was the closest, and she understood her the best. So maybe it wouldn't be so bad with her along. Continuing with that mindset, the raven-haired warrior walked purposefully, telling herself that all things happen for a reason, and some good *had* to come out of this.
Liana kept her gaze calm and collected as she took in each Fellowship member, trying to ward off her own jitters. She would be living with these people for the next couple of months - eating with them, fighting, traveling, everything. Part of her didn't mind because of Nevada being there; having a best friend along for the ride certainly made things a lot better, but part of her was still whispering,' What have we gotten ourselves into?' Her gaze stopped at Frodo, and she softened. That's why.' How it must feel to have such an evil thing bound to you,' she thought sadly. He was such a friendly little thing, and Liana found herself thinking that this journey should prove to be pretty interesting with four hobbits, two humans, an elf, a dwarf, and two faeries.
Liana fought back a bubble of laughter at the thought.' This should be interesting.'
Imladris - Elvish for Rivendell
