Disclaimer: This is becoming a tad redundant. No, I do not own Lord of the Rings or anything pertaining to it. Nor do I have any of the rights to Jessica Simpson's song "I Want to Love You Forever." However, I do own all the characters that you don't recognize. I must apologize that this update has taken so long. Lately all of my muses have been put to work trying to write a decent paper on the education of the philosopher-king in Plato's Republic.
Chapter 6- Prince Charming
I awoke suddenly due to a loud knock on my door.
"What the hell?" I grumbled to myself while trying to untangle myself from my bed sheets so I could answer the door. I continued grumbling nonsensical things to myself the entire way to the door, mostly revolving around elves and their lack of respect for sleeping people. As we witnessed I'm not a very happy person after being woken up and can be kind of irritable; that or I just kind of wander around in silence until sufficiently awake and willing to be pleasant to people.
I threw open the door and snapped, "What?" before realizing just who was at my door.
"Faelon?" I stared disbelievingly at the figure in front of me, causing him to fidget and lower his gaze to the ground between our feet. "What are you doing here?"
He cleared his throat and brought his gaze up to meet mine before saying in a slightly hurried tone, "I came to take you to the Healing Ward to have some of the other healers ascertain as to whether or not your arm was set properly and if it is healing well-at Glorfindel's request."
That meddling bastard; I bet this was payback for teasing him about Almira. Well this was a war I was going to win. Lord Glorfindel had no idea what fan girls were capable of when unleashed on an unsuspecting populace. But he was about to find out, and I was going to do the unleashing (God forgive me).
"Very well. Just give me a moment to get some shoes," I replied keeping my voice even. I was pissed, but I didn't need Faelon asking why. It wasn't exactly something I could explain to him. I retreated into the room, slipped on my shoes then came back.
I looked at Faelon expectantly and said, "Lead the way."
He nodded, and then stuck out his arm. It took me a second before I realized just what he was doing. "Oh, right…" I mumbled. . I slipped my arm through his, a little flustered. Could this have been anymore awkward? Right then Glorfindel turned the corner into the hallway. Why do I always have to ask?
"Why Kate, Faelon, on your way to the Healing Ward, I assume?" Glorfindel said with a smirk.
"As if you didn't already know," I muttered, shooting him a dark glance.
Faelon shot me a sideways look, but I didn't notice. I was too busy staring Glorfindel down.
If possible, Glorfindel's smirk grew. "Faelon, seeing as the evening meal is in less than an hour, perhaps you would be willing to escort Kate to the evening meal as well?"
"Of course," Faelon answered, not even looking at me.
"But Elwen was going to…" I tried to protest, but Glorfindel cut me off. "Do not worry; I will inform her of the change in circumstances."
At that moment the door to the room next to mine opened, revealing Almira looking a little out of it (she, too, must have been trying to sleep). "What's going on out here?"
"Glorfindel was just informing us he intended to ask you if you wouldn't mind if he escorted you to dinner tonight. Seeing as Faelon is taking me, it would only be right for you to have an escort as well. Isn't he just such a gentleman?" I looked over at Glorfindel, who was standing there with his mouth partially open.
Almira's countenance had completely changed; she now had a predatory gleam in her eye, which I don't think went unnoticed by anyone, especially Glorfindel. I almost felt bad for him; almost.
"He is! What time should I expect you?" Almira asked, opening the door a little wider and leaning against the doorframe in what was probably intended to be a seductive pose, but only came out looking awkward.
"In about an hour," he replied in a small voice, shot me a death glare, then walked briskly away before Almira could come up with some reason to detain him. She, of course, just huffed before shutting the door.
"Shall we be going?" Faelon asked.
"If we must," I replied, none too happy about my impending examination. My shoulder was still pretty tender and I didn't like the idea of having someone poking it and examining me; especially someone I didn't know.
"Relax," Faelon said, giving me a reassuring smile. "I am sure it is healing well. You have not been using your arm, have you?"
I shook my head no. "Then I am sure that it is continuing to heal quite nicely."
"Thank you," I said sincerely.
"There is no need," he stated quietly.
Feeling horrible about my behavior earlier, I stopped walking.
"What is it, why did you stop?" He turned to face me, a puzzled look on his face.
"I just wanted to apologize for this morning and to thank you for letting me use your stuff. It was very kind of you and I truly appreciate it."
He looked a little stunned, but then he gave a rueful little laugh. "I should apologize as well. I know my behavior was a little…strange."
"Why?" I blurted out before I could stop myself.
He turned his face to the left, focusing on some point further down the corridor. "Do not take this the wrong way, but you remind me of someone I cared greatly for, and still do to be honest. I just realized it a little too late."
I was stunned. For a second, my mind just went blank. He was in love with someone else. Of course, it didn't last that long. "Where is she? Who is she?" The questions poured from me. I couldn't help it; I pushed aside the nagging voice in my mind saying that I was prying and had no right to know, because I needed to know.
"Her name is Thanneth and she resides in Mirkwood."
"Then how did you meet her?" I asked eagerly.
"I take it your impatience is a remnant of your one-time mortality?" he asked dryly.
"I'll have you know I am a very patient person, but you cannot just drop this kind of bombshell on someone and expect them to remain perfectly calm. It isn't rational," I stated indignantly.
He just raised an eyebrow at my terminology and continued with his story. "My father hails from Mirkwood and is part of the King's royal guard, which is how he met my mother. He had escorted one of King Thranduil's ambassadors here and saw my mother from across the courtyard; it was love at first sight. They married and moved back to Mirkwood, which is where I was raised and have been living until just a few years ago when I came here to further my training in the healing arts."
He paused, turning to look me in the eyes again, a pained expression on his face. "I grew up with her, you see, knew her all my life. We were -and are I suppose- the best of friends. It was not until after I left that I realized how much a part of my life she was, and how much I had truly come to love her. My heart knew what my mind was too afraid to even consider. But I did not have the courage to act on it and I ended up convincing myself that we were just meant to be friends."
He looked down, and emitted a self-deprecating chuckle. "So you see, despite what Glorfindel thinks (and here he sighed) I am not desperately in love with you. It's just with you…with you I am reminded of her and the pain of her absence is a little more bearable. I know it's selfish, but it's the truth."
I could tell he was uncomfortable, but I was honestly just relieved. Relieved that he didn't actually love me because I didn't think I could handle that right now. And I also pitied him. Love bites, as they say.
"Perhaps," I said, "but I am glad you told me. I'm sorry and I know that doesn't mean all that much but I am beginning to see how much it hurts to be separated from those you love. You have been very kind to me and if you ever just need to vent I am always here."
"Vent?" he questioned.
"Talk," I explained. I always forgot about their lack of knowledge concerning modern slang.
He smiled then. "Thank you. I had hoped we could become friends. It seemed like you need one, especially seeing as Almira is not as caring as she would like people to believe."
"Is that was she was ranting about?" I asked.
He took my arm and we continued walking. "Yes, she went on and on about herself. I was tempted to throw myself from the cliff into the valley below."
"You and everybody else."
"True. Although I think none were more tempted than Glorfindel. And now you've sentenced him to have dinner with her. The poor elf just cannot seem to escape her."
"It's only the beginning," I said darkly.
"That sounds horridly ominous," a voice up ahead and to my right stated. I jumped and saw that the owner of the voice had just come to stand inside the doorway that Faelon was presently leading me to.
"What sounds horridly ominous?" spoke a second voice, and a moment later a body came into view.
"My lords, allow me to introduce the Lady Kate," Faelon said, inclining his head to them in respect.
The ellon who had been leaning against the door, stepped forward and bowed his head over my hand before saying, "Lord Erestor at your service, milady."
"And I, milady, am Lindir." He bowed and lightly brushed his lips over my hand, shooting Erestor a smug look, to which the Chief Advisor just quirked an eyebrow.
I curtseyed in response, albeit a bit awkwardly. "Really it's just Kate. I am not of noble birth and do not carry a title and have no desire to."
"That's the second time you have said that," Glorfindel stated, "why are you so opposed to carrying a title?"
"How do you do that? All you elves can just appear out of thin air! Is this something they teach you when you're young to freak out mortals?" I said, granted a little irately. It's just I was having a hard time adjusting to how silently elves moved, myself included.
"You did not answer the question," Glorfindel responded.
"And you didn't answer mine," I shot back.
"And you are not a mortal," Faelon pointed out.
"She's not?" both Lindir and Erestor chorused.
I pulled my hair away from my ear, exposing the pointed tip. "I used to be," I said quietly.
"This is also true of her…companion-the Lady Almira." As Faelon said this, Glorfindel shuddered, an action that did not go unnoticed.
"This should be an interesting story," said Lindir
"Yes, I would like to hear more about this elleth who has unnerved our steadfast, twice-born Balrog slayer," chimed in Erestor, shooting his longtime friend a smile.
Glorfindel shot Erestor a dirty look. "It is up to Kate if she is willing to speak on it and answer your questions."
I sighed, "I might as well. It will give me something to focus on while they are examining my shoulder."
"Wonderful!" Lindir said a little too brightly for my liking. Faelon guided me into the room after them, followed by Glorfindel who asked "What are the two of you doing here?"
"I had sliced my finger open while practicing a particularly difficult passage of a song on my lyre. I had come here to procure a bandage, which is where Lord Erestor found me to ask a question about a particular matter in one of the ancient lays."
"We were on our way out and heard your discussion. As you are well aware, curiosity got the better of us," filled in Erestor, as we continued walking.
The first room was a sort of waiting area, but was completely empty, unsurprisingly seeing as this was a community of elves. We continued into the second room and my nose was assailed with the pungent scent of herbs. I had figured with the lack of modern technology that herbalism would be the medicinal practice utilized here. I was fine with this seeing as I believed in the healing power of plants. I was also kind of a hippie.
Faelon guided me to one of six beds in the room. The room itself had lofty ceilings, and the doors to the garden were thrown open, creating a breezy, open feeling so typical of Rivendell. As for the garden, I assumed it was for the relaxation and rehabilitation of patients. What I could see of it was absolutely beautiful (Go figure).
As I sat down, a healer by the name of Galdirnon came over to examine my shoulder, giving me a small nod and kindly smile, which is when Lindir asked me the first of what I assumed to be many questions, "So how did you gain your immortality?"
"I honestly don't know."
"You do not know?" Erestor asked, a look of incredulity on his face.
"I am not from this world." At that declaration, the hands on my shoulder stopped.
"Not from this world?" asked Lindir, adopting the same look of incredulity as Erestor.
"Is it not rather obvious given the clothes she is wearing?" asked Glorfindel dryly. And it was true. I was still wearing the clothes I had on from my world.
"What are you wearing?" asked Faelon, looking at my clothing curiously.
"My clothing is pretty standard for people my age and in my country in general. I am wearing a t-shirt, sweatshirt, jeans, and flats," I explained. It was actually one of my favorite outfits. I was wearing jeans, a light blue shirt, my navy, double-zippered sweatshirt, and my brown ballet flats.
"These are strange materials," Erestor said coming forward to rub the sleeve of my sweatshirt between two fingers.
"The pants are denim, the shirt and sweatshirt are cotton, and the shoes are leather," I explained further.
He just shrugged, as Lindir chimed in, "I could not care less what her clothes are made out of, what I want to know is how she came to be wearing them in this world."
With this declaration the focus was once again on me. I had the feeling that I was very quickly going to get tired of telling my story. I took a deep breath and began, "I was just leaving my home to go to a party for my friend when I stopped to look up at the sky." I got up and walked to lean against the doorframe of the entrance into the garden so I was still partially facing them. "I don't know why or how, but I wished to just escape and I got my wish." I laughed bitterly. "Life had been pretty hectic what with my graduating high school and my impending move to California to attend college. I just needed a little respite. Why that respite coincided with a one-way ticket to Middle Earth I may never know, but I hope that I find out, that and a way back."
"Do you know how you were transported here?" asked Erestor, focusing on the base facts and what he understood.
"Unfortunately I have no idea. After I made my wish, I blacked out. The next thing I knew, I was waking up here next to her royal highness."
"So you had never met your companion before?" asked Lindir, as Galdirnon motioned me back to sit on the bed.
I complied and answered, "Nope, and I am beginning to wish I never had."
"Who isn't?" asked Glorfindel rather bitterly and shuddered as per usual when discussing this particular topic.
"I cannot help but have a certain amount of respect for the elleth who can strike so much fear into the heart of our stalwart Captain of the Guard," said Erestor with a mischievous grin.
"You speak of that which you do not know," I said, trying in vain to repress my own shudder of disgust.
"It is one of those things you have to see to believe," Glorfindel said. "But don't take our word for it. Judge for yourself, you shall meet her soon enough."
"Truly, Lady Kate is right. There are no words," Faelon stated, shaking his head slightly.
"It's Kate, just Kate," I said becoming frustrated.
"You cannot avoid answering now-why this aversion to bearing a title?" Glorfindel asked a triumphant smirk on his face.
I took a deep breath and stared off into space for a moment before beginning. "First off, it's dishonest. I am not a noble plain and simple. Second, I don't believe in such titles. My country is a democracy, meaning it is ruled by the people for the people to put it as plainly as possible. To me, such titles create a distorted concept of worth. Nobility should be based on the character of an individual, not their rank or status. I have a hard time wanting to align myself with a system in which people are entitled to great wealth or an elevated status without putting in any effort. Nor do I believe a monarchy is the correct type of rule, which is the prevalent government in this world. It is too easily corruptible. And why should someone get to rule just because they were born into the right family? They could be a horrible and inept person, completely unfit to rule, yet they are entitled to the kingdom and in control of their citizens' lives. Not cool."
A stunned silence met the end of my tirade. Glorfindel was the first to speak and asked, "So this democracy works?"
"It has been in place for over 200 years, which to elves is not a very long time but for humans that's quite impressive. Especially since every person to govern the country is elected by the people which provides for a peaceful transition of power."
"Impressive," said Faelon, "seeing as most problems with monarchies do occur in human realms, due to their nature. They seek power and despite their best intentions, eventually succumb to greed and want."
"True. However, I have a hard time believing that humans could uphold this system. As we said it is in their nature to seek power. How could this system work?" responded Erestor.
I bristled. "Just because we are human does not make us completely inept. There is more than one branch of government, and each has specific powers. We also have a system of checks and balances to prevent one branch from gaining too much control. It's a very complicated system."
"Calm down," responded Galdirnon, speaking for the first time, "there is no need to get upset. It is not good for your injury. They meant no offense; it is just such a unique and unheard of concept." Up to now he had been grinding something with a mortar and pestle, but had stopped to place a calming hand on my shoulder. I gave him an apologetic smile.
"You said 'we.' Why? Do you still think of yourself as human?" asked Lindir.
But it was Glorfindel that answered, "Of course she does. She has known nothing else. All her life she has been a human, and more importantly mortal. It is not something that you should expect to be an easy transition."
I flashed him a grateful smile before continuing, "Besides in my world elves don't exist. So transforming into a fictional species is even more of a challenge." At their startled gasps, I launched into the same explanation I had given Glorfindel, his elves, and Lord Elrond about J.R.R. Tolkien and his trilogy.
After I finished, there was the customary silence from the recently informed parties. However, before they could ask any questions, the dinner bell rang. Frankly I was a little relieved. I could not say the same for Glorfindel who looked almost sick with dread.
"I suppose I should go retrieve Almira," he all but groaned.
"Yes, you should," said Faelon who looked like he was enjoying Glorfindel's discomfiture a little too much. Turning to me he bowed, extended his arm dramatically, and said, "Shall we be off Lady Kate?"
"You are going to call me that just to annoy me, aren't you?" I asked.
"Of course," he replied far too cheerfully. "Now, let us away to dinner before it is all gone." We turned to go, Glorfindel marching off quickly to fetch Almira. I guess he figured the sooner this began, the sooner it would end.
However, we were stopped by Galdirnon. "Not so quickly. Your shoulder is healing quite well and should be safe to use in another six days. But, I would like you to take this draught I have made to help with the pain and tenderness and to ensure you get all the ingredients necessary to promote good health."
"Six days!" I cried in surprise. "An injury like this should take several weeks at the least to heal."
He shook his head and replied, "Remember, you are an elf now. Our healing rate is greatly accelerated. It takes about a third the time for our wounds to heal in comparison with a mortal. The wound was set well, thanks to Faelon, and seeing as you did not put any further strain on it, has been healing quite nicely."
"Amazing," was the only thing I could think of to respond. This would come in so handy. Not that I was planning on getting any further injuries, but it was nice to have that kind of security.
We walked the rest of the way in comfortable silence; mostly because I was too busy staring at the general splendor that is Rivendell to carry on a conversation. When we reached the dining hall, I became a little nervous. There were a lot of people, all of whom had quieted and had begun staring at Faelon and me as we entered.
"Relax," he whispered as he led me over to the main table where Lord Elrond was sitting. He directed me to the only seat left open. I shot a confused glance at Faelon. "I will be sitting with my friends over at another table," he told me gently. Then with a quick glance at Glorfindel, who was seated directly across from Almira, said in an impish voice, "And I consider myself very fortunate for that fact." I smiled as he pulled out my chair, then departed with a slight bow after I sat.
I was staring into my plate, trying to keep calm, and therefore missed the curious stares directed at Faelon and myself. I looked up and noticed I was seated to Glorfindel's right; something I don't think went unnoticed by the other occupants of the table. Whereas, Almira was sitting across from Glorfindel, but she did not seem particularly putout because seated next to her was an absolutely drop dead gorgeous blue-eyed, blonde-haired ellon who happened to be wearing a circlet. "Oh for the love of god," I muttered under my breath, but not quietly enough that Glorfindel did not catch it.
"Is something amiss?" he queried, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
I had a sneaking suspicion he already knew what I was referring to, seeing as Almira was unabashedly staring at the Prince of Mirkwood who was desperately avoiding her gaze; but I decided to humor him anyway. "I am just now realizing why you seem so happy with our seating arrangement," I replied, continuing in a whisper so as not to alert the whole table to our discussion.
"Ah, yes," he began with a delighted grin, "I almost feel bad for his highness, almost."
"For someone so recently freed from her wannabe highness' clutches, I'm surprised at your lack of compassion. Why such blatant disregard?"
"Because on several occasions during their childhood, he and the twins pulled a series of pranks that I was none too pleased with." At that he shot Legolas a smug look, which said prince returned with a glare.
"Fair enough. Karma's a bitch as they say."
"Karma?"
"The word means action or activity and its subsequent results. Therefore, a bad choice can have negative consequences. Think of it as what goes around comes around."
"Interesting. Bitch?"
"Uh…"
Sensing my hesitation, he filled in dryly, "I take it that word is not complimentary?"
"Bingo."
"Bingo?"
"Oh for the love of God… will it never end?"
At this point Legolas, needing something to focus on, joined in our conversation ever so conveniently putting an end to Glorfindel's questioning. "So Lady…?"
"Kate," Glorfindel responded.
"Lady Kate," he continued with a small smile, only to be interrupted by Almira saying in a lofty voice, "She is not a Lady. Isn't that right, Kate?" Awkward silence ensued, but I just smiled stiffly and replied, "That is correct. I am simply Kate."
"Well then, simply Kate," Legolas tried again valiantly, "how did you injure your shoulder?"
I shot a look at Glorfindel. "Do you mind if I answer this one?"
He just grinned and gestured me on with his hand. I turned back to Legolas, whose grin had grown a bit, and said, "I tackled an Orc and upon landing dislocated my shoulder."
"I should not have agreed because you never tell it correctly," Glorfindel interjected. "The Orc was sneaking up behind Faelon and had she not tackled him, he probably would not be alive today."
"No," I began to protest, "Someone else would have-"
"But they did not. You did, and that is most commendable, especially since your hands were bound. Not to mention the fact that you were our prisoner. Not many people would risk their lives for someone holding them captive," Glorfindel stated magnanimously.
"He is right," Legolas said softly.
Almira no longer able to stand the fact that not everyone's attention was focused on her, her voice sugary sweet and full of false concern asked, "How did the examination go this afternoon?"
"It went well. My shoulder should be completely healed within the next week," I answered shortly.
"Well, that is certainly good news!" a small but exuberant voice said from the vicinity of my right elbow. I looked down to see a hobbit smiling up at me.
"Bilbo Baggins at your service and that of your family, milady," he said along with a conspiratorial wink and a courteous bow.
Despite the fact that he used a formal title, I could not be annoyed with him. I stood from my seat and offered my hand so he could shake it saying, "Kate Rogers at yours." Instead of shaking it he turned my hand and made as if to kiss it. I felt my smile widen. "Such a gentleman," I said laughingly. As I turned to sit down Glorfindel rose, pulling my chair out for me. "Thank you," I said feeling a little awkward.
"Of course," he replied.
"So," Bilbo began conversationally, "you are the woman from another world, correct?"
I cleared my throat; uncomfortable with the fact that everyone at the table (except for those who already knew) was staring at me. "I am," I answered slowly.
"My, my! Do you have any idea how you came to be here?" he asked, looking at me intently.
"I haven't the foggiest notion," I replied.
"How peculiar! But what an adventure! I must say you are handling it well. To be quite honest, I was a great deal less composed on my first adventure."
"And you only left the Shire!" cut in a deep, booming voice, one chair down from Legolas. "Milady, allow me to introduce myself. I am Glóin, son of Gróin."
"It is a pleasure to meet you," I said warmly all the while chanting in my head 'Don't laugh, don't laugh.' I ignored the looks some of the elves were shooting at Glóin and me, his highness included. Obviously relations with the dwarves were still quite frosty, which would explain the careful seating.
"I must say I would like to hear more about your world, but it is probably best to delay that conversation until tomorrow. I am quite inquisitive you see, and will probably have several questions," Bilbo said.
"To say the least," whispered Glorfindel, who had probably been subjected to such a conversation from the lively, old hobbit.
"Of course," I replied to Bilbo smoothly, repressing a chuckle. "Perhaps we could meet after the noon meal?"
"Most excellent. It is best to converse on a full stomach."
As if on cue, servants appeared carrying food to be placed on the table. It smelled absolutely divine. I felt my mouth begin to water. I hadn't realized how hungry I'd been; granted we had food when traveling, but not like this.
"I'm so excited," I said to Glorfindel. I'm not going to lie. I love food, especially delicious food.
"I can tell," he said dryly. "But please, try not to drool."
"Hardy har har. You're so funny," I muttered sarcastically.
"Actually I was being completely serious. Almira is practically drooling all over his highness. I would hate to have to watch you do it too." I had been completely focused on the food before me and as I was about to take my first bite, I looked over at Almira and Legolas. I had to quickly cough to try and cover my laugh. I failed. Almira was blathering on and on about herself, leaning over provocatively with her hand on his arm (effectively keeping him in his seat). Poor Legolas looked absolutely desperate to get away. He was as far to the left in his chair as he could get, practically leaning on the man next to him in his attempt to get away from her. Hearing my laugh, his gaze connected with mine. I half-shrugged and shot him a sympathetic smile, trying to convey my helplessness at resisting the hilarity of the situation. At first, he didn't seem too amused, but then I saw the corners of his mouth twitch, which was followed by a self-deprecating chuckle and then a full-blown laugh, which caused me to laugh even harder.
Of course, when Legolas started laughing Almira had not witnessed our exchange and was completely oblivious to the fact that she was the cause for our mirth. "My lord, I must protest. The horrible aspects of my past are not funny!" she declared indignantly.
Legolas, who was trying to rein in his laughter (and failing), had no idea how to answer seeing as he probably had not been paying attention. Feeling guilty for the whole situation, I jumped in. "You will have to forgive his highness; I must have made a rather comical face upon trying the food. I believe it was my reaction he was laughing at, not the horrid events of your story." By now the entire table was looking at us curiously, and I had to redouble my efforts to keep from laughing again. Having gained control of his laughter, Legolas affirmed this saying, "Pray forgive me, Lady Almira. I would never laugh at the painful events of your past. I was solely laughing at Kate's reaction. She speaks the truth."
"Not likely," I heard Glorfindel mutter, which earned him a kick under the table from both Legolas and I.
"That hurt," he whispered into my ear.
"Serves you right for making that comment," I responded evenly and just as quietly.
"She would have to be a complete idiot to believe such an excuse," he whispered back, as we both kept our attention on Almira waiting for her reaction.
"Of course I believe you!" she declared dramatically. "You are far too kind and compassionate to ever knowingly laugh at such a tragic story." Here she shot me a look full of disdain and continued, "It would obviously have to be entirely Kate's fault."
"Unbelievable," Glorfindel whispered, though he did not sound particularly surprised. I could only nod my head in agreement, wondering for the second time why I of all people deserved such punishment.
As people turned their attention back to their meals and previous conversation, my gaze and that of Legolas connected once more. He mouthed a 'thank you' and I replied in kind with a 'you're welcome.' An awkward pause ensued, our gaze still connected. However, the moment was broken when Almira once again planted her hand on his arm demanding his attention.
I decided I could not watch another round and retain my appetite, so I turned to Bilbo and asked, "What's the Shire like?"
Needless to say the rest of the meal passed in easy conversation about life in the Shire. I think Bilbo sensed the need to preserve our appetites so as not to waste such good food, just as much as everyone else had.
By the end of our meal (which involved several courses of all varieties of meat, vegetables, and fruits-all excellent, of course) it was fully dark outside. At this point Lord Elrond rose and proclaimed, "Now that our meal has ended, all those that wish to may adjourn to the Hall of Fire to enjoy the entertainment to be found there." He then offered his arm to the most beautiful elleth I had ever seen: his daughter, Arwen, the Evenstar.
Almira was glaring at her, obviously green with envy. And in all honesty, who wouldn't be? I mean, she was perfection in elleth form. Though I wasn't hugely bothered by it, why should I be? It's not like she's competition, she's got Aragorn-the lucky man. They proceeded to lead the way to the Hall of Fire as everyone else rose and made to follow.
"Seeing as you are new to Imladris, I insist that you visit the Hall of Fire," a familiar voice said very quietly into my ear.
I jumped and turned to see Faelon standing behind me. "Sneaky elves," I muttered, causing him to grin. "I was planning on visiting anyway."
"Wonderful! Allow me to escort you?"
I inclined my head and we set off with everyone else. Upon reaching the Hall of Fire, Faelon led me to one side of the room where Nordithen, Tirithedain, Bellon and an unfamiliar elleth were gathered.
Catching sight of us, Nordithen bowed and said jovially, "Faelon, Kate, good to see you!"
Tirithedain, who had been standing with his back to us turned and said, "Hello! I was hoping to see you again Kate. Faelon," he just nodded to him, like good friends usually do.
Bellon stepped forward then with the unfamiliar elleth. "Kate, I would like you to meet Maerwen, my betrothed."
"It is a pleasure to meet you," she said while curtseying.
"Thank you. I feel the same. Bellon had told me about you while traveling and I have wanted to meet you ever since," I replied while returning her curtsey.
"Then our situations are very similar for Bellon was telling me your tale before dinner and I had hoped to meet you afterwards. For saving Faelon's life you deserve praise, but perhaps-and I think the gentlemen would agree with me here-you deserve a medal for enduring your companion's company," she said with a sly smile.
"What of us?" protested Tirithedain. "We had to travel with her as well!"
"Yes, but Almira treated Kate quite a deal differently as you well know," Bellon stated supporting his fiancée's claim.
"I think if anyone is to be given a medal it should be either Glorfindel or Legolas," I stated, shooting a look at his highness who had unfortunately not managed to escape Almira's clutches. Literally, she was still hanging onto him.
"I wholeheartedly agree," said Glorfindel coming to stand beside me, nodding to the other occupants of the circle, except for Maerwen, to whom he sketched a short bow.
"Come now, his highness looks like he is at least mildly interested," said Nordithen.
"If by 'mildly interested' you mean desperate to get away," I added dryly.
"I would have to agree with Kate," said Erestor, coming to join our circle as well.
"I do not recall ever seeing Legolas look this miserable and I have known him since his birth," stated Glorfindel speculatively and with a touch of humor.
"Perhaps we should rescue him?" suggested Bellon.
"No! I am enjoying this far too much," said Glorfindel quickly.
"You would," Nordithen and I said in unison, before sharing a smile and short laugh.
"I think we should do it," I said after a moment. "Didn't you want to be rescued, Glorfindel?"
"Fine," he sighed, "ruin all my fun."
"Now, we are going to need a plan," Tirithedain said.
"This plan will have to be applicable to anything that's male and moves you realize," I added.
"I have a feeling this is probably going to involve personal sacrifice and not a small amount of lying," stated Faelon dryly.
"What else? However we should wait for the twins' arrival and leave the planning to them," said Erestor shooting Glorfindel a sympathetic glance. "They are quite experienced in the area of dastardly plans."
"I comfort myself with the knowledge that this plan is for the greater good and will not be committed against some poor, unsuspecting and undeserving citizen of Rivendell," Glorfindel admitted.
While we were talking lively music had been playing in the background but now seeing as everyone had made their way into the hall that wanted to, the singing would begin. Our group moved to sit in an area a little to the left of the stage. Instead of chairs we were seated around a small table with pillows (like you do in an Indian restaurant) though there were chairs for those that wanted them. I had no idea how much time passed. I was spellbound by the music and could not resist being pulled into the tales being told. I was barely aware of my surroundings; I was so focused on the beautiful singing I was listening to. That is, until Almira got up to sing.
"Oh no," I groaned, dropping my head to my hands.
"This should be interesting," I heard Maerwen mutter.
"I wish we did not have to find out," Legolas said coming to sit with us (this being his chance to escape Almira, for the moment).
"I wish to dedicate this song to Prince Legolas because he is so kind and handsome and friendly and attractive and nice and striking and compassionate and pretty and charming," Almira said in an annoyingly cute and perky voice that just made you want to smack her.
"I believe she left out caring," Nordithen said sarcastically.
"And studly," I added, picking my head up. By now Legolas had covered his face with his hands. "This is beyond embarrassing," he groaned.
"Humiliating, really," said Glorfindel, far too cheerfully based on the situation.
"This song is entitled 'I Want to Love You Forever.' It's a special song from my world," Almira stated, winking in Legolas' direction, before launching into her song. However, she was singing in English so Legolas was spared further humiliation that would have accompanied comprehension of the words. Everyone else was just confused, though, admittedly her voice was not unpleasant.
I -of course- began cackling maniacally. I did not even attempt to try and stop it. I did, however, try and stifle it. It was no use. I mean, this was just so priceless and classically Mary Sue. Not to mention everyone else at the table was in various states of hysteria (due to her speech and Legolas' discomfiture), ranging from the most extreme being Nordithen and Tirithedain who were practically crying and Glorfindel who had his lips firmly pressed together to repress his laughter. Legolas at this point had his arms crossed and was shooting us all death glares; that is, until he noticed who was striding towards us.
"It appears we need a makeshift plan and quick," said Erestor quietly. Everyone except Legolas began smiling knowingly.
"What are you talking about?" hissed Legolas.
"You'll see," replied Tirithedain in a singsong voice.
Before Legolas could reply, Almira had reached us. "So, what did you think?" she asked, while gazing adoringly at Legolas.
"It was great," he said, forcing a smile.
Conversely, I was forced to hide my smile behind my hand. "Why, Lady Kate was that a yawn?" asked Nordithen, his voice full of false concern.
"No-" I began but quickly changed what I was saying at the glare he was giving me. "I mean, yes. Yes, it was."
"You have had a trying day. You should probably seek your rest, seeing as you are still injured," Faelon said.
"Good idea!" Nordithen interrupted, "However, Lady Kate is quite new to Imladris. She would have a hard time finding her way back. Someone will have to escort her." And here he shot Legolas a look.
"Yes, but who else has a room in that part of the house and would be familiar enough with the area to escort her?"
Legolas catching on suddenly offered, "I happen to be staying in that same area and have been here many times. In fact, I believe my room is quite close. It would be no trouble at all to escort you, milady."
"Thank you. How kind of you to offer," I said trying my best to sound sincere.
"Shall we?" Taking his arm, we turned and quickly left the hall, leaving a flabbergasted Almira behind. Once outside, he started laughing and I quickly followed.
After it subsided he said, "Thank you for rescuing me. I do not know how much more of her presence I could have taken and still retained my sanity."
"Don't worry about it. I've had to spend two entire days with her. I know the feeling."
He shuddered. "A fate worse than death it would seem."
"Close."
He just smiled and we continued walking in silence for a few moments.
"I take it you will be attending the Council?" he said lightly, not revealing his reasons for asking such a question.
"Yes and unfortunately so will Almira."
"You cannot be serious." His face was the picture of absolute dread. "Lord Elrond should know better."
"I suppose. But who can say what he might have seen? Why do you ask by the way?" I was curious as to his reasons for bringing up a supposedly secret council with a girl from another world.
"Because there is much mystery surrounding you and I have a feeling many questions will be answered while there." With that he stopped, bowed, and kissed my hand before entering his room which was directly across the hall from mine, interestingly enough.
"Bloody elves and their inquisitiveness," I grumbled, entering my room.
I made my way to the bedroom and proceeded to get ready to sleep. But before I crawled into bed, I decided to go out on the balcony and see Rivendell at night. I wasn't disappointed. It was gorgeous; the kind of night that was meant to be shared. I couldn't help the sudden wave of loneliness that crashed down on me. I didn't want to do this alone. My family had always been there and I was just beginning to realize how much I had depended on them. But I knew that no matter how hard I wished for it, my parents weren't going to appear and make it all better. Tears started coursing down my cheeks, and I could not keep myself from weeping. I sank to the cold, stone floor, sobs wracking my entire body. I hated crying, yet knew that I needed to cry; to grieve for all that I had lost. How long I continued I don't know. But by the time I drifted into sleep the sky was beginning to lighten.
