Author's Note:
Fellowship of Avengers - Yea, Calaereth isn't much of one for waiting, she is not quite patient. I hope he makes it too, :) I know, a little D'awww moment at the end, thanks for your review. You're the first reviewer after I publish the chapter, again, congrats, LOL. I love to have your reviews! I'm looking forward to your next review! :)
wonderpanda10 - Thanks for following my story and thanks for reviewing! Hahaha I know, hopefully it will be sometime soon. I hope he will get well sometime soon too. Awwww I'm so sorry, okay no more depressed Calaereth, LOL. Heres the update, thanks for reviewing! I can't wait till your next review! :)
Leftfordead1 - Thanks for following my story! :)
i am a Fire-jay - Haha thanks! I'm happy you loved it! Yea, the part with the mellorn leaf was kinda funny, haha. Thanks for the review, I love your reviews! Looking forward to your next review! :)
Narsilia Lyanna Elendil - Thanks for following and favoriting my story, that is so sweet of you! :)
AHealingRenaissance - Hahaha yea, I can't wait till Helm's Deep too, LOL. Hahaha you'll see that soon! Thanks for reviewing, I can't wait till your next review! :)
Kaija212 - Thanks for following my story! :)
The morning sun rose quickly into the sky, and Calaereth was surprisingly, the first one up this morning. Calaereth went down the stairs quietly, careful not to disturb a sleeping Haldir. Calaereth had just finished doing a braid on her hair when there was a knock on the door. Calaereth opened it quickly, surprised to see a warden for Lady Galadriel on the doorstep.
"Good morning." The elf smiled politely, "I bring a message from Galadriel that is being spread across Caras Galadhon as I speak. Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn have decided to hold a formal dance tomorrow night, a small celebration before many of Lothlórien's wardens head off to battle. It will be held in the main hall tomorrow night, so it will be exclusively for the elves of Lothlórien. The elves of Rivendell are expected to arrive in two days, after our formal celebration." The elf told Calaereth kindly.
Calaereth heard footsteps behind her, and she turned to see Haldir hurrying down the steps with only a robe on. His pale blonde hair was down, Haldir hadn't even bothered to braid his hair. His silver eyes looked sleepy and tired, but still Haldir managed to look handsome without trying. Part of Haldir's chest was exposed by the robe, and Calaereth stared for a moment at the beautifully pale skin, there were no scars from what she could see. Calaereth quickly looked away, and nodded to the warden before leaving the door open for Haldir. She had practically been ogling Haldir in front of the warden, how embarrassing.
Calaereth heard the door close, and heard Haldir talk to the warden outside of the door. She needed to think about something to keep her mind off of Haldir's body. Calaereth sat in a chair and thought for a long moment about the formal event ahead of her. Calaereth was interested in this formal dance, Calaereth had never danced before. Since it was formal, Calaereth could assume that she would want to wear something very nice and beautiful. Calaereth wondered if she needed a partner to bring her to the dance. It could be difficult if she had to find someone other than Haldir. She felt that Haldir would forgive her if she stepped on his toes because of her lack of experience, but other male elves may not be so forgiving.
The door opened again, Haldir entered and closed the door behind him. "A formal dance." Haldir stated, looking over at Calaereth. Haldir was grinning on the insides like crazy, this was an opportunity to be close to Calaereth. Haldir would also get to teach her how to dance, that would be interesting as well. Haldir was sure though, that she would probably learn it quickly.
"Yea." Calaereth smiled nervously, "Do I need a partner?"
"Definitely." Haldir nodded, "Do not worry though, I will be your partner. I doubt any other male elf could handle your temper as well as me." Haldir teased.
Calaereth gaped in surprise at that comment, "Hey, it was once! You even admitted the question was silly!" Calaereth accused.
Haldir chuckled lightly, and headed for the stairs, "I'm getting changed and we are going to work on those nonexistent dancing skills of yours for tomorrow night."
Calaereth grinned at that, and plopped back down on the chair, awaiting his return eagerly.
"Now put left your hand on the top of my shoulder. Good." Haldir smiled, as Calaereth placed her hand on top of his shoulder quickly. "Now I will place my hand on your back, some dances I will place my hand on your waist. If you happen to be dancing with another who places his hand any lower than your waist, do tell me." Haldir grinned, assuring her that no elf would get away with such a gesture.
"Oh, I don't think I will have to tell you. I think you will know." Calaereth grinned as well, her right hand holding his left.
"Good." Haldir stated, as Calaereth followed him in his steps in the formal dance that Haldir knew well and was most common at these events. "You're not as bad as I thought you would be at dancing." Haldir admitted. Calaereth laughed at that as she looked back down at her feet, careful not to step on him. They moved slowly around the living room together. Even though there was no music to keep them in sync, they danced in silence. After a while, Calaereth learned the pattern of the dance and she no longer had to look at her feet. Calaereth looked up to see Haldir looking down at her. His silver eyes watching, and analyzing her. Calaereth felt her face flush at that thought and a small smile appeared on Haldir's face.
Haldir admired how careful she was about avoiding his feet. It showed how much she cared for him, even though Haldir had clearly told her he didn't care if she stepped on him, he had even managed to insult her on telling her she was too small to do any serious damage. They had been at dancing for hours now, and evening was already approaching again. The day had gone by way too quickly for both Haldir and Calaereth.
They finished for the night, and moved the furniture back to it's original place in the living room. Haldir set out his best clothes for the dance, and then went upstairs with Calaereth to pick out a dress that would hopefully match his clothing. As Haldir skimmed through her closet he noticed a beautiful formal dress that was a breathtaking shade of cerulean, that reminded Haldir of the waters of the ocean.
Haldir immediately snatched it out of her closet, and Calaereth watched him, amused by his sudden interest in the dress. "Yes, this will definitely do." The shade of blue would go well with his best silver robes. The shade of cerulean on her dress was the exact same color of the embroidery on his silver robes.
"Well that certainly didn't take long at all." Calaereth commented as Haldir headed out the door and for the stairs.
"Goodnight Calaereth." Haldir called, the words really meaning just go to bed.
Calaereth grinned, "Goodnight Haldir!" Calaereth replied in a sing song voice.
The next day came fast, and before Calaereth knew it, she was in her room preparing herself for the evening to come. She wanted to squeal in excitement as she brushed her hair and thought about the dance. Her golden hair fell in soft waves down mid back. She was already in her blue dress, and she wore her silver flats to go with the dress. Calaereth ran her hands once more over the silky material of the dress, it was quite a luxury to have such a dress. Finally, she stood up and walked over to the door where she opened it and exited. She went past Haldir's room, once she entered the living room she was surprised to find Haldir ready.
Haldir looked up at her from where he had been fumbling slightly with his buttons on his tunic, even though they were already perfectly fashioned. Haldir quickly dropped his hands to his sides, and stared at her, his silver eyes widening at her appearance. She looked absolutely breathtaking in that dress, Haldir had been right, it was the perfect shade for her. Her golden hair was down and it looked soft with all of the beautiful waves. Her brown eyes literally sparkled in her happiness. A smile quickly appeared on her pink lips. Haldir's gaze suddenly stopped on her lips.
Calaereth noticed this and let out a small cough to interrupt his thoughts, secretly grinning when a small blush appeared on his face. Haldir looked just as handsome though, his pale blonde hair was smooth and straight. His hair was braided in the two usual braids at the sides of his head. His silver eyes were as calm as always, and they matched his tunic very well. Haldir sure does know how to clean up nicely, Calaereth thought silently.
"Shall we?" Haldir offered his arm politely, his appearance calm, trying to hide the embarrassed flush of being caught staring.
"Of course." Calaereth moved forward quickly to hook her arm through his. Calaereth felt giddy as Haldir led her out the door and over the many bridges and stairways of Lothlórien to the main hall.
As they entered, Haldir nodded towards one of the wardens who nodded back and grinned. Calaereth's eyes widened as she looked around the transformed main hall. The middle was cleared out for dancing. The very front had musicians who played beautiful music, and each side of the room had one long table where everyone could sit. The tables were already decorated with beautiful silver ware, glasses, napkins, wine and food.
"Wow." Was all Calaereth was able to say as she looked on, amazed by the transformation of the dining hall. Haldir smiled down at her, and looked back up. He had seen the set up of the dining hall into a ballroom many times before, but he would pretend to be amused for Calaereth.
"Come, our seats have already been picked out for us. It is time for everyone to start sitting down." Haldir lead her to their seats which were quite up front and in view of many people. Very close to Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn, Calaereth noticed. Just as Haldir had said, everyone had started sitting down in their selected seats.
Once everyone was seated things settled down quickly, and the voices ceased. Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn entered gracefully, Calaereth watched with the same awe as always. It was such an honor to see the two ancient elves.
"Thank you everyone for attending tonight. I am grateful that so many of you could attend to celebrate with us. Allow us to have this wonderful night amongst some of the dark days to come." Galadriel nodded, her eyes meeting Calaereth's for a moment. Then both Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel sat down and the feast began. Calaereth was happy to be sitting next to Haldir, he was very talkative during dinner, something Calaereth greatly appreciated. She watched him with pure admiration as Haldir conversed with Celeborn for a moment. How lucky Calaereth was, to be sitting next to such a charming elf, who was probably most handsome person she had ever met.
Galadriel noticed this admiration in Calaereth and she smiled to herself, to see Calaereth look so smitten by Haldir. Galadriel was suddenly very proud of herself for arranging this event.
The time to dance was fast approaching and Calaereth grabbed Haldir's hand under the table nervously. Her confidence was no longer as strong as it had been, now that she was surrounded by all of these pretty ellith, many of them Calaereth felt were prettier than her. Haldir didn't even glance down at her hand, he simply wrapped his hand around hers to comfort her. Haldir gave a small, gentle, squeeze and glanced down at her to give a comforting smile. Calaereth found herself returning the smile as well, suddenly forgetting about the other ellith.
When the time came to dance, Haldir helped her out of her chair and guided her to the dance floor. There were very few couples on the floor so far, only Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn, and a few others that Calaereth did not know or recognize. Calaereth quickly adapted to the dance and the music, before she knew it she was dancing along to the music.
"Our lessons certainly helped didn't they?" Haldir asked, the corner of his mouth tilted upwards.
"Yes." Calaereth answered unashamed, she was going to make another comment when she spotted a group of ellith in the corner of the room staring at her with shocked faces. "Haldir, would you care to explain to me why those ellith look like fish out of water?" Calaereth asked, her head tilted in confusion. Haldir glanced over at the direction Calaereth had pointed to, to see a group of his female pursuitors. Each and everyone of them had pursued him in search of a courtship and Haldir had turned each one of them down. Haldir never cared too much for gossips anyway.
"Ah." Haldir smirked down at Calaereth, "I see you have noticed my little group of obsessive followers. Perhaps they will back down now that they have seen that I have found a female who I am in a relationship with." Haldir stated.
Calaereth looked up at Haldir in surprise, since when had they been in a relationship? Haldir ignored her look though and continued to dance with her. Throughout the night Calaereth had been passed off to several elves, Lord Celeborn, Orophin, Rúmil, and some very kind wardens from the borders who recognized her. As the last song began, Calaereth somehow found herself back in Haldir's arms again.
"You're very popular amongst the males here." Haldir commented, grinning.
"Am I?" Calaereth arched an eyebrow at him as they swayed together to the slow music.
"Very." Haldir nodded, his silver eyes watching her now with a relaxed look. "Have you enjoyed your night so far?"
"I have." Calaereth smiled up at him, "Thank you for bringing me here."
"My pleasure." Haldir smiled, and before the couple knew it the song came to an end.
Haldir and Calaereth were halfway back to the talan when Haldir conveniently remembered the small piece of jewelry he had bought her, a reward for her hard training she had endured with him. Haldir feared he wouldn't be able to survive the battle to give her anything afterwards. He had meant to give it to her before the dance so she could wear it tonight, but he had been so distracted by her he had completely forgotten, until now.
"Calaereth." Haldir called out her name, grabbing her wrist gently, stopping her effectively. Calaereth turned towards him, surprised, as she allowed Haldir to pull her back to him. Calaereth watched him as he pulled a small navy box, that seemed to be covered in a velvet material. "This is for you." Haldir said almost shyly, surprising Calaereth even more.
"Thank you." Calaereth replied, taking it gently. She slowly opened the box, wondering what could be inside. She was surprised to find a silver necklace inside, on the necklace there was a small pendant in the shape of a mellorn leaf. Calaereth's mouth fell open in surprise at the beauty of the gift, whoever had crafted the necklace had put some serious detail into the pendant. Haldir had given her such a wonderful gift, and Calaereth had no words to describe how she felt. Calaereth looked up at Haldir who stared down at her, gauging her reactions.
"I thought that you deserved something for the hard work that you have put into your training, for such little time you have accomplished so much." Haldir nodded proudly, as he kept a calm poker face.
Calaereth felt tears at the corner of her eyes, no one had given her such a nice gift before. Calaereth closed the box, and quickly embraced him. Haldir, stood shocked for a moment before returning the embrace, he had not meant to make her cry. "Thank you. Thank you so so much." Calaereth broke away from the embrace to wipe at her tears. "Forgive me." Calaereth laughed despite her tears, "I have never been given such a beautiful gift before."
Haldir smiled in understanding, the mermaids did not usually have any items that were as beautiful as things that were elven-made. "You deserve this gift, and probably much more, but I fear our time together is running short." Haldir spoke truthfully.
Calaereth looked up at him, surprised by that comment. She had forgotten about the upcoming battle, and that their chances of surviving were slim. Calaereth admired him as he stood lit up by the pale moonlight that made his pale hair appear white. The most heartbreaking thing for her to see was his silver eyes, never had she see them look so sad. Without a second thought, Calaereth cupped his face watching him for any signs that he would protest them kissing. Calaereth now realized how short their time together was, and she figured she might as well do something she had always wanted to do. Haldir's silver eyes watched her in anticipation, he could see she wanted to kiss him, she had made the first move. Haldir decided to make the last move, and he leaned in and kissed her full on the lips.
Kissing Haldir was everything she had imagined it would be, he was gentle but exerted enough dominance to tell her who was in charge. Calaereth nearly grinned at that, of course, Haldir has to be in charge of everything. But giving some of that dominance to Haldir was nice, for Calaereth. She could simply follow his movements, and not have to worry about leading him just yet. Calaereth was very inexperienced in kissing, it was completely new to her, and Calaereth liked it.
After a few moments, that felt like hours for the couple they broke apart to breathe. Haldir grinned to see the small flush on her cheeks, knowing he had caused it. "Come." Haldir extended his arm, his mood improved immensely, "Let's go home."
Calaereth gladly accepted his arm, and sleep didn't sound so bad right now. Besides, she had Rivendell elves to meet tomorrow. Calaereth smiled to herself, squealing in excitement on the inside, Haldir had kissed her! It had been brief but still, probably the most thrilling thing Calaereth had experienced with Haldir so far. Calaereth felt like nothing could ruin her mood now, and both Haldir and Calaereth slept well that night.
Yay! Chapter 14 is done, I hope you all liked it, and I look forward to your reviews! Sorry for the long delay everyone, I've been busy with tennis practice, lol. Thanks for reading, please review! :)