Thank you everyone for your patience.
Secrets of a Raven Beauty
The Lady's Messenger
TA 2768 - Fourteen years later
It was a day of Celebration.
As the sun descended, the streams of light peered through the caverns tapered and then dimmed. Elves gathered to the grand hall with candles that burned a warm light to capture the essence of the union between Calaphel and Maenor. The elves circled the couple as the ceremony commenced. Maenor held Calaphel by the hands, his eyes gazed fondly down at his bride clad in a long cream dress layered with embroiled skirts. A choir of song vibrated and evolved emotionally when the couple accepted one another as their bonded. Thus, the first union in centuries erupted in clapping and welcoming them as elf and wife. Birds perched upon the deep roots in the cavern and twittered to the deafening cheers that surrounded them.
The orchestra released a jovial melody, changing the mood of the halls and lured couples to the dance floor. Barrels of wine stacked toward the back with serving elves dispensing a goblet to every elf in Mirkwood. Calaphel beamed to the attention and approvals from the elleths surrounding her.
Laughter and chatter filled every corner. All the while King Thranduil leaned into his royal chair at the center of the crescent table. He enjoyed observing his people swaying like ocean waves and moving perfectly in unison to the music tempo. The Mirkwood elves waited decades for Calaphel and Maenor to finally unite their houses under the King's approval. He delicately guided the rims of his goblet to his lips and sip the grape flavor of the wine. Serving elves carried trays of cheese and fruits to the group and amongst them were Calaerien aiding at Erweth's behest.
"It's a lovely feast, my king." A voice ensnared his attention to his right where Lady Rivalel sat at the royal table swaying the wine in a perfect circular movement in her goblet. The liquid never slipped over the rims. Her stain-red lips tilted upward into a smug while she gazed superiorly at the people. Slowly she curved her sharp gaze to the prince who was preoccupied watching the festivities. "Won't you agree, Prince Legolas?"
Thranduil watched his son reluctantly tore his eyes away from the dance floor toward the lady. A smile hesitantly formed on his son's face, but it failed to reveal his mother's dimples. Legolas articulated, "Indeed it is, my lady. Our people deserve a moment of happiness in such dark times."
Legolas returned his attention to the crowd while tapping his fingers to the beat of the music. The prince revel in his people's bibulous satisfaction. He absent-mindedly watched the smooth rhythmic dancing when his eyes caught sight of raven hair. Calaerien snaked in her odd manner through the crowd, carrying a silver tray with three goblets of wine.
Thranduil cocked a nicely groomed eyebrow in curiosity about his son's behavior toward the lady. Though Legolas responded with kindness, he behaved passively. Thranduil sensed how uninterested he was in Lady Rivalel's attempts for conversation and only humored her when she inquired directly at him. The king could feel the frustrated air hovering over Rivalel at her every failed attempt. As Lady Rivalel tried to coax Legolas into a different topic of conversation, Legolas simply offered a quick and short response.
King Thranduil's own disappointment seeped in his veins as he sipped his wine. It was his aspiration to welcome Lady Rivalel to his bloodline.
She was eloquent, poised, and possessed a silver tongue that sculpted her into the perfect ideal future queen of Mirkwood. On top of her traits, she was a descendant of a noble linage that dated back to the days of Doriath. The lady impressed him when she served as an emissary for neighboring cities and looping in further business transactions. King Thranduil deemed her worthy of his son. But yet, Legolas refused to succumb to Lady Rivalel's charms.
"Mayhap you would ask the lady for a dance, my son?" King Thranduil urged, his deep voice hinting to sway his son's attention in the correct direction.
There was a subtle pause in Legolas's posture before he curved his attention to his father. Nothing by a command hardened in his father's gaze. It was no secret his father desired him to court the lady. Legolas gulped down his wine, before he added, "Of course, if it pleases you, my lady."
"It would please me greatly, my prince." Lady Rivalel confessed charmingly followed by a seductive grin.
Legolas came around the table to offer his hand, which she eagerly accepted. Lady Rivalel smiled smugly that proclaimed nothing but ignorance. When they reached the dance floor, Legolas allowed the elleth to melt into his arms before he swept into a fast-paced dance. As the music came to a climax, it waned down to a soft and slow beat. Lady Rivalel gravitated closer to the prince for a slow and intimate dance. Meanwhile, Calaerien smiled shyly when she handed out her last goblet. At the corner of her eyes, she noticed Legolas dancing with the beautiful Lady Rivalel.
For a brief moment, her heart sank before she forced herself out of the trance and continued her duties.
Two weeks later
Tauriel kept a watchful eye at the looming doors of Mirkwood. The guard captain propped against the crook of a large and heavily bend tree at the entrance. It was high above where she had a hawk-view of the curving path through Mirkwood Forest. Beyond the forest on the horizon, Tauriel noted the warm sunlight slowly devoured by thick thunderclouds. Her sharp eyes scanned the distance and inhaled the scent carried by the wind. A deep rumble boomed in the distance and Tauriel suspected those very clouds were marching to Mirkwood.
Tauriel repositioned herself to sit on the branch and sharpened her long knife. An eerie peace settled in the forest for several weeks. No sightings of spiders or orcs at the borders. Thus, King Thranduil ordered Prince Legolas to remain close to home. Mirkwood elves delighted the silence but it only bred an anxious turmoil in the pit of Tauriel's stomach. The idea of these filths deliberately waiting conjured worrisome thoughts at the back of her mind.
They would return. Evil always did.
Her morbid thoughts were shattered when her ears prickled to the sounds of galloping and dirt scuffling in its wake. Deep labored breathes ensnared Tauriel's attention to the path through the forest. Entering in her line of vision was a lone rider clad in the cloak of Lothlorien and trying to outrun the thunderclouds.
The sight left Tauriel bewildered.
The Lord and Lady of Lothlorien rarely dispatched messages to Mirkwood unless it was of grave importance. The hooks of dread slowly sank to her stomach until the anticipation all but consumed her. Tauriel sheath her knife before she slid off the edge of the branch. Nothing but a soft thud welcomed her smooth landing as she stood in the middle of the path. The two guards at the doors readied their weapons for any inconvenience.
The rider leaned forward to whispered soft elven versus into the horse's ear and the creature responded with a pleased snort. The horse slowed it pace to a steady trot before the mare halted before the guard captain. The black mare grunted eagerly at Tauriel and refused to wait to greet another elf. As Tauriel allowed the horse to sniff her wrist, the rider pulled back the green hood to reveal a mop of chestnut hair and a fair elven face.
"Greetings stranger, what brings you to King Thranduil's halls?" Tauriel greeted, she held her hand up to halt the guards behind her.
"Greetings. I am Corellon of Lothlorien." The elf responded professionally before he smoothly swung his leg over the saddle to dismount the mare. Corellon reached for the reigns as he used freehand to pull out a bundle of letters from his pouch. "I bring messages for both your king and an elleth of your home."
Two delicate eyebrows furrowed in curiosity, "Whom do you speak of, Master Corellon."
"I speak of Lady Erweth, a friend of Lady of the light. She bids thee welcome." Corellon elaborated.
Acknowledgment dawned on Tauriel's face followed by a quick nod. She urged, "Come, greet the King before the rains set in."
Tauriel gave a fleeting glance at the brewing clouds that hovered closer. A gust of cold wind brushed across with heavy droplets. With a wave of Tauriel's hand, the looming door creaked open, whining in protest to welcome them. Tauriel guided the messenger into Thranduil's halls when two elves scurried to greet the mair. The elves whispers and padded the horse's neck as they preceded to lead the mare toward the stables.
Tauriel made large strides over the narrow bridge when she heard, "I fear my horse will need a new shoe."
"Worry not," Tauriel assured Corellon when they came before the throne. The guard captain concurred, "I will have our stablemaster tend to your horse. She will be fed and ready at your leave."
'Greetings my old friend. I ask of thee to return to me before the last moon of the year. There is much to have and hold. Be prepared my friend, my news is grave and you must be swift.'
Galadriel's words burned Erweth's mind and left the tantalizing desire to unravel the Lady's riddle. Erweth declined on the couch in her chambers. She swallowed hard but remained vigilant in concealing the message. All awhile Tauriel paced back and forth, her body rigid nervously. It made her wonder if Galadriel saw something in her mirror. Memories of her mother telling stories about Galadriel's mirror and how the wisest couldn't always piece the riddle together. Tauriel cast a concerned look to Calaerien who mirrored her expression. Her cousin remained perched on a stool after Tauriel interrupted her weaving to deliver the letter. The young elleth began to fidget with her fingers before pulling back a strand of her dark hair behind her ear.
After a long, enduring minute, Tauriel grew impatient and finally broke her silence. She exclaimed, "What does the lady of the light say, aunt Erweth? Is it ill news?"
Erweth kept her face neutral when she returned the question, "Why must it be ill news, Tauriel?"
Tauriel paused in the middle of the chambers, locked eyes with her aunt, and retorted with conviction, "There has been no communication with Lady Galadriel for over five hundred years."
"Such is the way for us." Erweth countered, her voice giving nothing away. She refolded the letter and rose gracefully from the couch. The older elf offered a loving smile to ease her niece's turmoil before she implied, "Worry not, Tauriel. My lady requests I to return to visit her before the year's end. The sooner the better."
"You're leaving Mirkwood, mother?" Calaerien blinked in surprise, her voice barely above a whisper.
Tauriel cast a fleeting glance at Calaerien, sensing her anxiety unfolding. A sense of protectiveness beckoned Tauriel to draw closer to her younger cousin until she was but a foot apart. Two eyebrows furrowed together when she interjected, "It is an odd time. The lands grow more dangerous."
"All the more reason to return to my lady before the roads fester with foul things." Erweth dismissed Tauriel's worries and tucked the letter in her pocket where it would remain hidden from the younglings. She continued, "It would be for a short time. I shall return in a few short months. The king would not be pleased if I stayed away longer."
"Aunt Erweth…."
"Tauriel…" Erweth interrupted her niece, "My lady wishes for me and therefore I can not deny her request. Now, I must speak with the King and make preparation."
"Perhaps I should accompany you?" Calaerien jumped into the conversation as she leaped to her feet. The young elleth couldn't bear being parted for her family after the journey to Mirkwood five hundred and thirty-nine years ago.
"I appreciate the offer, my love." Erweth began softly, "But you have your commissions and therefore, you must fulfill your obligations to your patrons. I'll return before you know it."
Erweth cast a reassuring smile as she turned on her heel. The elleth suspected the king was aware of Galadriel's request and wanted nothing more than answer her lady's call. The trees of Lothlorien have been stored in the back of her mind and knowing she'll see them again set aflame in her heart. Erweth approached the door with a familiar giddiness in her step.
When her hand touched the doorknob, she heard a soft and cracked voice, "What if you don't?"
Erweth stiffed.
The temporary giddy moment was shattered by her daughter's voice which allowed Erweth's heart to clench almost painfully. A wave of regret swelled and left Erweth breathless. Her hand fell lifeless to her side and she almost hesitantly turned to the elleths. As she looked upon Calaerien and Tauriel, there was only a glint of fear and despair in their eyes. It was a look that brought Erweth internal anguish. Erweth swallowed with difficulty before she approached the elleths. Gingerly, she cradled their hand and mustered, "Your concerns are well within your rights, my dears but we all will never truly be parted but I ask you both to be brave while I'm gone. You both have each other. Do no fear."
Three nights later
The night sky swallowed the atmosphere until nothing but starlight flickered in its wake. A cold crisp wind propelled as thunderclouds moved beyond Mirkwood. Legolas weaved through the shadows to the secret yard where he expected to wait for Calaerien to arrive but found her perched on a thick root. He planned on teasing her but found his words stuck in his throat. It surprised him when her posture was hunched and her fingers fidgeted nervously on her knees. The wind shifted the raven hair from her face revealing a forlorn expression. Something gnawed at her in a way that forced Legolas to feel an unfamiliar sense of protectiveness in his veins. When he came to her side, Legolas perched himself beside her.
"My lady…" Legolas began almost hesitantly as he witnessed the sadness devour her face. Calaerien sighed and recoiled instinctively to hide her expression, "What troubles you?"
There was a long pause filled with nothing but the cold wind howling between them. It gave an eerie sensation that Legolas found discomforting. The suffering silence came to an end when Calaerien barely muttered above a whisper, "My mother leaves on the morrow and my cousin seeks to escort her part of the way."
The dots suddenly came together which allowed Legolas to sympathize with her plight, but it confused him as to why she was melancholy. Elves depart from Mirkwood many times but Calaerien never expressed such behavior.
"Aye…" Legolas retorted bewildered, "If you are concerned for their wellbeing, have no fear they will be safe."
Calaerien sighed frustratedly before she abruptly rose from the root, her hands tightened into small fists at her side. She glared into the distance, hating the sense of fear tingling beneath her skin. When she turned to Legolas, he was dumbfounded by the waves of emotion swelling in her deep orbs. Calaerien began, her voice almost trembling, "You misunderstand my prince. The last time my family traveled I lost my uncle, my aunt, and my…. father."
Legolas listened intently, never breaking eye contact with her ocean blue eyes.
"I fear one-day Tauriel and my mother will not come back," Calaerien struggled to muster as she paced back and forth slowly without the will to leave tracks. The young elleth stopped, allowed the mud to slowly sink her boots. Her arms crossed over her chest and slowly brought her eyes to the starlight for answers, "When my mother lost part of our family, her spirit was broken. I had thought she would fade. I...I..."
Legolas sighed and came to his feet. The prince was unsure how to comfort the elleth but followed what felt natural to him. As he came before her, they were swathed under the moonlight which pierced through the ancient tree's canopy of leaves. He gently tucked a stubborn strand of raven hair behind her pointed ear. She avoided his gaze as if she feared he would see through her. Against his better judgment, he allowed his fingertips to gently drifted down her jawline as he watched her skin prickle. Slowly his fingers reached to her chin to guide her attention to him.
Lost in the deep depths of her ocean blue eyes, Legolas saw himself glancing back like a reflection. For but a moment, he was at a loss of words until he found his voice again. "Fear not, my raven beauty. Whilst there's breath in me, I shall keep your family safe."
Calaerien blinked. The seeds of devotion lingered in his words hitched a breath in her throat. The elleth groped for words but remained disquiet, lost in the intoxicated love and affection for the elf before her. Calaerien drew her hand to touch his silvery hair on his chest. Slowly she felt the soft texture of his strands between her fingertips.
"You promise?" Calaerien uttered softly, her almost desperately like her life depended upon his promise.
"Aye." Legolas retorted softly, his fingers continued to trail her jawline. "I promise until my last breath."
Morning came with the promise of a warm day, birds swept in through the cavern window in Erweth's chambers and chirped jovially. Four days since the arrival of Corellen had only swept Erweth's family in silent anxiety. Every glance from her daughter or niece was filled with worry and dread. Erweth sighed deeply as she fitted her old Lothlorien cloak over her shoulders. She felt their eyes burning on her backside from across the chambers. Any necessities items were tucked into her small porch at her side. When Erweth turned she noted Calaerien perched on her stool with Tauriel directly behind her.
"Do not farewell me with frowns." Erweth enunciated with a light chuckle and a loving smile.
The edge of Tauriel's lips barely twitch to the jest but her heart continued to wreath in dread. When Erweth barely got a rise from her family, she sighed long and hard. The older elf came to them. She gently cradled their cheek in the palm of her hand and offered a small smile. A gentle brush of her thumb caressed them in a loving manner.
"I know we haven't been parted before." Erweth surmised softly, her voice swelling with sympathy. Slowly her hands slipped down to their shoulders, "I'll return before you miss me."
Erweth drew them into a hug which they remained for a long time. She felt their hands grasping her cloak with an iron grip. Before long, Erweth withdrew with a final smile. They traveled to the throne platform where Corellon waited patiently along with Legolas and his patrol. King Thranduil Slowly rose from his chair and came to the edge of the elevated throne. His eyes narrowed on Erweth and felt a sense of regret for allowing her to leave his kingdom.
"I pray for your safe travels and swift return, lady Erweth." The King said with a double meaning as he stood above. "My son and his patrol shall escort you to the Gladden Fields where the Patrol of Lothlorien shall meet you."
"Fear not, my King, I shall return swiftly," Erweth assured kindly before she bowed her head in respect.
Legolas was the first to turn on his heel and led the group over the narrow bridge toward the gates. He glanced at Calaerien who lingered before the doors of Mirkwood. The prince flashed her a reassuring smile of his promise before nodding his farewell to her. There was a fleeting grateful smile on her lips as he turned away and passed the threshold. The group came to the forest outskirts where Corellon's black mare waited with a chestnut mare.
The chestnut mare snorted eagerly, stumping her front on the ground impatiently. Erweth strolled to the horse and smiled at the beast. Gently she caressed the mare's neck before Erweth whispered soft elven verses in her ear. The horse nickered jovially in response, earned itself a grin from Erweth. The older elf mounted the saddle with ease as Legolas took point and Tauriel guarded the back.
Deep within the hall, Calaerein watched, her eyes swelling with worry as the chestnut mare guided her down the path through Mirkwood.
Several days later
A deep roar of a horn sounded as Legolas and his company returned to the fold. His journey to the Gladden Fields was untainted by any foul things which left him utterly grateful. The door to Mirkwood rumbled open to his entrance. Though he was only gone for several days, Legolas felt pleased to be home. The patrol sought to return to the barrack as Legolas declined their offer of drinking wine for their safe return. The prince smiled at them before he preceded over a narrow bridge toward Calaerien's chambers. The prince suspected the elleth would be weaving on her loom instead of seeking solace from the trees. Calaerien always weaved in the mornings.
Down a long hall, Legolas greeted any elf he passed until her doors came into his line of view. When he drew to her chambers, his knuckles softly rapped on the door.
There was a faint sound of her feet scuffling closer to the door followed by the doorknob creaking at the turn of the knob. The door slowly opened and within the small gasp between the door and the frame was Calaerien. Nothing but surprise formed on her face before she smiled and breathed with relief. "My lord, you've returned."
Her voice sounded pleased and affectionate in his ears. The elleth stepped out from her chambers with her ocean blue eyes pinned directly on him.
"Aye." Legolas declared and smiled fondly down at her. Calaerien stood but a foot from him. Legolas could sense her air, smell her scent, and fell warmth from her smile. Her fea flourished brighter and it reached into her eyes. It coaxed him to gently tuck a strand of her raven hair behind her ears. "I believed you'd wish to know that your mother is safe with the Lothlorien patrol and has most likely reached its borders."
Calaerien breathed heavily as if she held it. A deadweight suddenly lifted off her chest and was replaced with delight. The elleth added with grateful emotion, "Thank you, truly."
The corner of Legolas's mouth tilted upward as he reminded, "I intend to keep my promise to thee."
Calaerien felt her cheek slightly burn appreciatively to Legolas's tender words. It forced her heart to swell. "You're very kind, my prince."
Legolas smiled, pleased with her response as he felt himself swaying closer to Calaerien. He felt her breath on his lips as his eyes momentarily dropped to her tinted pink lips. Lips that spoke with conviction when needed and offered him reassurance during long nights. Calaerien never behaved as a contest in a race for his attention but only earned it through kindness and honesty. With difficulty, Legolas brought his gaze back to her eyes.
The sounds of another elf gliding down the hall made Legolas remember his propriety. When Legolas realized how close he was to her, he took a step back and cleared his throat. "My father intends to through another feast tonight. Do you intend on attending?"
"Aye..." Calaerien answered and then her cheek slowly flushed with a rosy shade. "If you'll be there,"
Legolas smiled until his dimples protruded on the sides of his cheeks.
"I shall see you then." He uttered softly, his eyes never wavered from hers. He gently cradled her hand into his and put it up to his lips. Without breaking eye contact, he left a ghost of a kiss on her soft skin before he whispered, "Until then."
Calaerien forgot to breathe which only made Legolas smile wider before he turned away from her. She watched her prince stroll down the hall with a noble step in his swagger. The beating of her heart echoed in her ears. Calaerien breathed with surprise as her heart contristed with excitement. Relunctely Calaerien returned to her chambers, dumbfounded by the prince's behavior. She glanced where Legolas pressed his lips upon and she found herself biting her lip to contain her delight.
This night, Calaerein was genuinely happy for tonight's events. More often than not, Calaerien served at feasts and celebrations but tonight, she will attend as a guest. Her excitement bubbled and brewed in her stomach until she sprinted to the unmentionables. When she lifted the chest lid open, neatly wrapped items welcomed her. She hastily moved the items aside until she reached for her heart's desire. Calaerien pulled out a white box that she saved for herself. She pulled the lid off and a neatly folded silver gown greeted her. The candlelight shimmered against the embroidery on the neckline. It was one she crafted decades ago.
When she pulled it out, the gown unfolded like a waterfall. Calaerien changed into the silver gown. The sleeves fitted to the wrist with a layer of sheer fabric that framed the arms with bell-shapes. The bodice was layered with silver embroidery that reflected against any light and flattered her waistline. A neckline came down like a V to the soft part of her chest and the skirt flowed down with a train. Calaerien stood before a polished silver that served as a mirror. Slowly she untangled her braids and allowed her hair to stand in contrast with the silver dress.
Calaerien felt the butterflies tickling to her stomach...
Thump-thump…. thump thump
The sounds of Calaerien's heart drummed in her ears. Down the corridor to the double doors leading into Grand Hall was the feast. Music and laughter echoed. It grew louder as she drew near and could no longer focus on her heartbeat. Feasts and celebrations always made her nervous and she sought out the shadows. Concealed away from the eyes of her kin. Not this night. Calaerien would force herself to stand firm in the spotlight and under the eyes of her people. Her silver dress trailed like a river behind her and glistered to the candlelights on the walls. The dress hung on the edge of her shoulders.
When the doors opened by two guards, they watched her with admiring eyes and respectfully nodded their heads to her. Beyond the threshold was the feast of celebrating the harvest. Elves danced, sang songs, and chattered together with great delight. Most of the guests clustered around the dance floor to admire the dancers and clapped in unison to the music. Other elves formed groups all around the hall sipping wine and conversing. Calaerien's eyes immediately darted to the crescent royal table toward the back and fell into disappointment when she didn't find Legolas.
Calaerien shook her head and melted into the crowd. At most events, her kin rarely noticed her but tonight she captured the eyes of those she passed. Her nerves to tighten and her stomach fumbled. Her fingers fidgeted with her long sheer sleeves as every muscle felt heavy with the attention. Most gazed upon her with admiration and acknowledged her presence while others were curious. They were even a few selected elves who were surprised to see her, the shy elf, molding in the crowd.
For the first time in her life, she had never felt utterly naked to her kin. They were truly seeing her in the light. Courage was all she needed. Calaerien forced a smile and nodded at those who stared openly at her. In return, they nodded their heads in respect before returning to their previous engagements.
Ocean colored swept across the Grand Hall and did not find whom she sought for.
"My lady?" A masculine voice came from behind in a gentle inquiry. Calaerien turned to find an elloth carrying a tray of goblets filled with red wine. "May I interest you in a drink?"
He held out the tray for her, his green eyes never wavered from her. Calaerien was a bit flustered from being nervous and simply nodded. Her delicate hand captured a single goblet as she offered a small smile. To her surprise, the elloth faltered for a moment unknowing to her charms. Calaerien never realized that she could make an elloth quiver to her smile.
When the elf retreated back to his duties, Calaerien moved around the room and sipped her wine. She caught eyes lingering on her as the others swiftly looked away, flustered to being caught. This atmosphere was foreign to her and Calaerien did not know quite how to handle it. In the far corner, she found Lady Rivalel charming a group of elloths with her silver tongue and red-stained smiles. She was better at this game than Calaerien ever would be.
She quickly turned away not wanting the attention of the Lady when to her dismay, she called out to Calaerien. Calaerien closed her eyes in dismay, her hand tightening on the goblet. As she mustered a smile, she turned to find Lady Rivelel approaching her.
"My, you are a dish!" Lady Rivalel's eyes trailed down her dress and back up, before smiling predatorily. More like investigating the competition. Although, Calaerien would have no desire in competing for the attention of the unmarried elloths. As she came closer, she grabbed Calaerien's hand in a friendly manner that felt utterly empty. "I almost did not recognize you."
"Almost," Calaerien repeated, her voice guarded.
Lady Rivalel smiled, her mind was calculative. She tucked Calaerien's hand around her arm as if she was escorting her. "Walk with me, my dear."
Almost unwillingly, Calaerien and Lady Rivalel walked the edges of the dance floor, mindful of the elves in their wake that conversed in groups. Lady Rivalel would smile as the elves moved aside for them to walk. Calaerien watched carefully as elves nodded in respect to Lady Rivalel. The way she held herself and used her charm, most would believe that Lady Rivalel had power. It was an illusion.
It made Calaerien uneasy.
"I am wearing the dress you crafted with her delicate hands." Lady Rivalel continued, her smile never faltered as she looked upon Calaerien's hand that curled around her arm. "Your name will be known beyond your kin. I foresee you replacing Lady Ecaries."
Calaerien did not like the way Lady Rivalel spoke of the seamstress, nor trying to boast her name. It made Calaerien wander of the Lady's motive. Why say such things?
"Is this your first time as a guest to a feast my dear?" Lady Rivalel inquired, her voice held a hint of patronizing tone. "You often chose to serve."
"No, my lady."
"Ah. I must have not noticed you before. You do love to linger in the shadows." Lady Rivalel jest but Calaerien felt the double meaning in her words.
"Indeed," Calaerien uttered firmly with unknown strength in her tone. Lady Rivalel turned her attention to the raven-haired elloth, almost surprised with her tone. Calaerien came to a firm stop and gently pulled her arm away from Lady Rivalel's grasp. As Calaerien focused her ocean eyes directly upon Lady Rivalel, she implied, "In the shadow, I can observe my… surrounding. I can see what is real and what is not..."
Lady Rivalel smile faltered but a moment but quickly regained her composer. Her charming demeanor returned but her eyes were guarded. The heavy gaze almost compelled Calaerien to back down but, she pushed aside the intimidating feeling and tilted her head up ever so slightly in defiance.
"Interesting, my dear. You are full of surprises." Lady Rivalel retorted carefully, her voice polite. "I shall depart from you. I'm sure the prince is waiting for a dance. Enjoy your evening."
Her eyes lingered on Calaerien followed by a predatory smile. It made Calaerien's skin crawl and the warning in her heart tightened. Calaerien sighed deeply and felt utter relieved to be released from Lady Rivalel's hold. Lady Rivalel's charms were heavy and very enticing, but it only made Calaerien's skin crawl. The comment about the prince almost tantalized Calaerein to strike in overprotectiveness. Calaerien shook all negative thoughts when she noticed an elloth approaching her.
His green eyes were solely on her and Calaerien quickly turned her attention away.
"My lady." He uttered kindly as he swiftly captured her hand and placed a kiss on top of it. Calaerien blushed a light shade of red for not many offer such affection. His smile deepened to the reaction he got. She noted that he was indeed attractive, more so than the others. Honey-colored hair ran down his back and his height was taller than most. Gentle dark eyes and thin lips that curved into a bow smile. "I must say, I had to almost chase you across the Hall in order to capture your attention. I do not think we've been properly introduced. I am Olithir, son of Lord Sarnor."
There was pride in his tone. Calaerien registered the name of his father who was a personal advisor to the King. When Olithir cleared his throat to motion her to return the same gesture, Calaerien almost forgot her manners, "Oh! Pardon me, my lord. I am Calaerien, daughter of Romonil."
Olithir eyes light up to the name of her father. "Ah, yes the late second in command. Your father was truly an elloth of great worth and is missed amongst those who remain."
Calaerien faltered slightly about her father. Swallowing hard, she murmured. "Thank you for your kind words."
"Have you been to the feast before? I would surely remember you." Olithir coaxed Calaerien into a conversation while he flashed her a charming smile. A smile that Calaerien suspected worked well on many elleths.
"Yes." Calaerien retorted, she finished her goblet and gave it to a server. "I often assist my mother Erweth serving during these festivities."
"Ah, how could I not have seen…?" Olithir asked more himself than her.
"You see what you chose to see my lord." Calaerien felt brittle by the conversation as she mumbled, "If you would please excuse…"
"May I have the honor of this dance. My lady? I, after all, chased you down, perhaps it is my reward for my efforts?" He immediately interrupted her and once again grabbed her hand urging her to follow him.
The blush darkened as Calaerien lost her voice, and her mouth hung open. Swiftly she closed it and replied with as much dignity she could muster, "I am most apologetic to your ordeal, my Lord…"
"If you deny me, you'll dishonor me greatly. It is simply a conversation between two people." He immediately cut her off with a gentle voice. He was a persistent elloth that would not accept 'No' for an answer. Calaerien was hesitant but humored him.
"Very well, one dance my lord." She reluctantly obliged.
"Come." He guided her behind him.
The elloth kept a firm hand on hers as if he feared she would flee. Every muscle in her core tightened involuntarily as others watched them curiously. What was worse: he brought her to the middle of the room and under the bright chandelier of candles. In everyone's viewpoint. The action almost seemed like he wanted everyone to see them. It was nearly impossible to not notice the shimmering embroidery on her dress beneath candlelights. Olithir turned to Calaerien, smiled charmingly down at her before he pulled her body into her arms. She flustered as she felt his hand trailed down to the small part of her back.
Hesitantly, Calaerein placed her hand on his high shoulder. She glanced up at the elloth who towered over her easily and smiled down at her nervous dilemma. Apparently enjoyed the effect that he had on her. However, it was simply nerves from being uncomfortable rather than her attraction to him. She did not wish to openly embarrass the elloth. They stilled as the last song came to an end followed by another song.
As the tender beats echoed from the instruments, the Olithir led Calaerien around the dance floor in a smooth motion. She did not have much experience in dancing, especially with a partner. Her every muscle was tense as he twirled her around and recaptured her in his arms. His embrace was rather firm and almost too invasive for Calaerien's liking.
Do not trip. She repeated in her mind and focused on her next steps. They continued to sway around the dancefloor smoothly as her dress and hair whirled elegantly. Then the song slowly came to an end and the elves stop in unison and cheered the orchestra. Calaerien clapped her hands in praise before she sought to flee from Olithir but he quickly captured her hand. "Another, my lady. The night is still young."
Calaerien could barely force a smile but it was twisted with displeasure. "My lord…"
"Forgive my intrusion." Another voice came from Calaerien's side and her heart sped to the sound. Without looking, Calaerien knew it to be Legolas and her heart was caught in her throat. As she turned, Legolas stood but a foot from her side, and Calaerien felt immense relief. The prince smiled kindly at the Lord Advisor's son. "Might I ask the lady for the next dance?"
Olithir flustered to his intrusion but knew he could not deny the crown prince. He stiffly bowed his head respectfully and his hand crossed his chest. "Of course my lord. Save me a dance, before the night end. My lady."
The Olithir gave Calaerien a fleeting look before he retreated. Calaerien sighed in relief as she turned to Legolas who was smirking to some secret. She cocked an eyebrow in curiosity as he murmured, "I must say, you appear most eager for another dance."
He cocked his head toward the direction of Olither. Calaerien broke into a wide smile and suppressed a nervous chuckle to the Prince's jest. Which only made the prince smile wider as he watched the elleth smile shyly. The music in the background started a new song, as Legolas looked at the orchestra and back to Calaerien, "Might I have this dance Calaerien."
Calaerien felt her heartstring tug when he asked her informally. Since the day she came to Mirkwood, she dreamed of the day they would dance before their kin. A sincere smile widened on her lips and reflected in her eyes. Calaerien added, "Yes, my lord."
Pleased by her answer, Legolas grin until his small dimples protruded on the sides of his cheeks. Unlike Olithir, Legolas drew Calaerien into his arms and allowed her to melt into him. Calaerien's fingertips brushed up Legolas's arm up to his shoulder. Legolas rested his hand against the small part of her back and sent tingles down her spine. As Legolas pulled her closer into his firm frame, he flashed her a smile which she easily returned and he swept up her free hand.
Their eyes never wavered from each other. Calaerien felt herself melting easily into his embrace, her tense muscle relaxed and completely forgotten the crowd around them. Slowly, Legolas took the first step and led her around the dance floor in gentle sways. Their slow dance matched the rhythm of the song. He turned her and immediately caught her before her feet took a misstep. Despite the embarrassing mishap on her part, she couldn't help but chuckle at herself and watch Legolas smile wider at her.
Calaerien and Legolas swept the crowd into a trance of their growing connection. One by one couple slowly faded from the dance floor and joined the fellow spectators. As the music continued to swathe them in a romantic ambiance, it left Legolas and Calaerien unknowingly alone on the dance floor.
King Thranduil remained in his chair at the royal table, his watchful eyes never wavered from his son and Calaerien. Their smooth movements swept the crowd in a moment of wonderment. Calaerien's raven hair fanned out and stood in comparison to Legolas's silvery crown. It almost reminded Thranduil of parting the world with night and day. Beautiful contrast in appearance and spirit. Despite the lovely display of elegant movements, Thranduil could not dismiss his suspicions. Since Erweth's departure, Thranduil carefully watch Calaerien and ensured her safety. However, he did not expect to have to watch his son also. The King's eyes darted to Lady Rvialel who watched from the crowd, her delicate hands clenching furiously and her eyes burned with envy. All these years, the lady attempted to win Legolas over but never realized she had lost from the beginning. When his eyes return to Calaerien and Legolas, he noted how his son gazed down at Calaerien with devotion and the subtle closeness of their embrace. Thranduil could not deny Legolas's fondness for the raven-haired elf. A tender-hearted, shy elf that preferred the shadows to light.
The most unlikely person to ever draw Legolas's attention.
To be continued
A/N: I wrote the last dancing scene a long time ago. I'm so glad I finally get to this part. This scene was what started this fanfiction! :)
Answers for comments
realSkyEyes: Thank you for your kind words. I've noticed many readers felt the same way as you do about shy characters. It truly warms my heart that you've overlooked that about Calaerien. To be perfectly honest, I do not like shy characters myself but I've always read stories about the man pursuing the out-going, super smart, warrior type, or drop-dead beautiful women. I wanted to challenge myself with a shy character.
Luna's Child fanfic: Thank you for dropping a review. I am highly pleased that you've noticed it! It was definitely my aim :)
City-of Dimes: I appreciate it. I'm glad you like her determination about achieving her goals.
Sugarplums-3247: Thank you for your kind words about my writing style. I do put a lot of effort into it, which is why it takes time between chapters. I hope this chapter wasn't a disappointment!
Ply-Mouth: Thank you for your review.
Thank you to all the guests who took the time to review. I value all the reviews.
Until next time! ;)