Hey guys! Back with another chapter! :D Just to let you know, I'm changing Lyra's hair color. I know it's sort of late in the game but I decided that it might be nice! Thanks for staying with me if you started and welcome to the new ones! Please enjoy!
Alassiel- Joyful
Raina- Gracious
Chapter 2- When We Meet
Lyra broke through the trees as the sun was on its' way to setting behind them. No one seemed to notice her appearance right away so she straightened herself to her full height, even though it wasn't much. Sauntering into the camp, she was glad that the attention was on various parts of the forested surroundings, and not on her. They had passed through the borders and into the woodland realm of Mirkwood a day or two previous, and the royal palace was only less than half an hour away. Everyone was happy to be back. As she looked around, she caught wind of happy faces and excited chatter. Everyone was bustling around, making themselves look good for their arrival back home. A lot of the people in her caravan were servants of the palace, so they were overjoyed to be back in the service of the king, as well to be back at home. Lyra had none of those feelings of nostalgia. She could only see what was in front of her at the moment and a little beyond.
Surrounded, but feeling more or less alone, her thoughts drifted back to the boy in the clearing. She had no idea it was his secret spot and she was more than embarrassed to find that she invaded on it. She also felt a little foolish. She hadn't even noticed him arriving. If she was in the presence of Calanon, he would be rolling on the floor laughing at her ignorance and then hit her over the head when he was done. 'Always keep up your vigilance. You never know if that person hiding over there is your friend or enemy.' she quoted in her mind. The direct words of her mentor, and she forgot them so easily in the comfort of that grassy spot. Somehow, she couldn't help it. She felt so at home in this new place. It felt so much safer here than she ever felt in the Blue Mountains. She shook her head to clear the thought. It was still no excuse to not remember her training. She was just lucky that he didn't have any intention of hurting her.
She kicked at a rock and swore a most unladylike oath when she found out that it was rooted further into the ground than she thought. Jumping slightly on one foot, she slipped and fell into the bushes. Righting herself, she was glad to see that once again, no one was watching. The quick act of clumsiness brought her mind once more to the blonde boy. She didn't know why, but there seemed to be something strangely suspicious about him. He had good reflexes as far as she knew. Even if someone was as inaccurate and lacking power as she was when she loosed the arrow, she doubted that she would have been able to dodge it if she was on the receiving end. Compared to him, her mishap in the pond was just downright shameful. She was surprised that he had come to help her though. She half-expected him to just leave her there and laugh. It made her happy that he had offered to help.
Thinking back a bit, he seemed a bit too perfect in appearance to be a normal person. His clothes were so detailed and spotless. It looked so expensive. His face had a bit of a young gaiety to it, but it also looked mature. She wondered what kind of elfling could look like that- someone interesting no doubt. Not once did it cross her mind that that elf was the young prince Legolas- the one that she was supposed to look after in Mirkwood.
She strolled down the length of the camp where she saw her parents and Calanon happily chattering away by a small fire in front of their tent. She briefly considered leaving them to enjoy their conversation when her father spotted her. "Lyra!" he called, waving her over. When she hesitated, he only waved more urgently. "Come on sweetheart! Why are you hesitating?" She pursed her lips before smiling, running over to the little group that had gathered. Upon closer inspection of their little girl, both parents raised their eyebrows.
"What happened meleth?" her mother questioned, looking the girl up and down. "You're soaking wet." With a start, Lyra looked down at herself to find that she was still dripping. She thought that she had wrung out all the water before. It would seem she was too distracted and didn't. Her parents were staring at her intently and she looked to Calanon, hoping to draw some sort of help from his presence. It wasn't working. He looked just as curious and even had the nerve to look like he was about to laugh. Lyra sought an excuse desperately in her head. It was obvious that she was wet and it wasn't raining so that severely limited her excuses. Her parents had an uncanny ability to detect lies, or maybe it was just because she was a bad liar. She hated telling lies as well when she could avoid it. On a whim, she decided it might be easier to just tell the truth. It's not like she would tell the whole truth either. A partial truth was still the truth. The entire thought process only took a few seconds in her sub-consciousness, but her parents still felt the hesitation. There was something that the little elfling was hiding- whether it was intentional or not.
"I kind of," she started, putting on an act of sheepish humility. "Tripped and fell into a pond." It wasn't a lie, Lyra knew all too well. She did slip and fall into a pond, she knew she had the dripping clothes to prove it. She was also embarrassed about the whole ordeal in the first place so putting on that façade was no problem. She just simply, didn't tell the whole story. That wasn't so wrong now was it?
Her parents looked at each other and then at their girl. They could tell that she wasn't lying, but it still felt like something was missing. Calanon watched Lyra with an amused look. Like Lyra's parents, he could sense if something was off. He spent all that time training and tutoring the girl, he was going to pick up on some of her behavioral habits and be able to recognize them. For example, when she stood at the ready, her fingers would always make a little twitchy motion. When she was bored, disinterested, annoyed or something along those lines, her right leg would start vibrating. When she felt guilty, her eyes would look to the top left corner and when she didn't tell the whole truth, her eyes would look to the top right like she was doing at the moment. There were so many other habits, Calanon could make a list. He however, was currently more interested in the situation at hand.
"Well, if you're so sure that's what happened." Calanon drawled out each word so that they sounded so slurred together, you almost couldn't tell where one word ended and the other began. Lyra glared at him and his eyes twinkled just a bit brighter which only seemed to make her more annoyed. Her parents noticed the exchange and they rolled their eyes. They were used to this type of scene. Back in the Blue Mountains, they were constantly away and as a result, Calanon was Lyra's constant companion. She grew up with him practically always around and she came to view him as an older brother and in turn, Calanon viewed her as a younger sister. They loved each other just like normal siblings, and just like normal siblings, they had the normal provocative banter.
"Of course I'm sure that's what happened!" Lyra retorted. "I'm the one that's wet, aren't I?" Calanon once again saw her eyes shift in that momentary, but just noticeable action.
"Yeah, you say that but," he grinned at her. "Is that all that happened? I mean did you get scared and slip instead of just slipping out of your own clumsiness?" Lyra felt the red flush of anger starting to boil and the group of adults realized with a start that Lyra was going to blow over and get most unpleasant. She could be a real brat sometimes when she was angry.
"That's enough Calanon," Idrhenion said firmly and the grin faded from the young captain's face. Lyra also felt her anger slowly, but surely, fading as well. There was just something about her dad that said, 'Listen or you are in big trouble.' Calanon lowered his eyes to the ground, searching apparently, for something, and yet, nothing.
"Sorry sir," he apologized, looking downtrodden. Now that there was silence, he reflected on what he had said and realized that he was completely out of line. Even with the little spats he had with Lyra, it never paid to be so rude. "I spoke out of turn. I apologize," He turned to Lyra and kneeled down to her level, rubbing her head. "To you to Lyra- sorry about that," She glared daggers at him one more time before slowly breaking into a smile.
"Okay. I forgive you, but I get to eat your dessert for a week." Calanon's face fell.
"H-Hey! Since when did we decide that?" he cried, aghast. At the sight of the uncharacteristic face that he was making, his onlookers laughed. Calanon looked between the three of them, hoping for some sort of mercy, but when finding none, he shrugged and joined in. Halfheartedly at first, but gradually it bellowed out with all his heart. Lady Alya stopped first, wiping a tear from her eye.
"You might as well face it Calanon. When Lyra sets her mind on your dessert, she's never going to give it up," Lyra nodded enthusiastically.
"It will spare you a lot of mental anguish in the future!" she added cheerfully. Only Idrhenion said nothing, but the slight smile at the corner of his lips told of his true feelings. Calanon stood up and sighed, looking at the other man, begging him silently to say something, anything. When nothing came, he let out a huge breath and smiled ruefully at Lyra who was staring up at him. Both of them already knew the outcome of this battle.
"Fine. You get my dessert," he chuckled as he saw Lyra cross her arms smugly- her eyes flashing in triumph. She was happy as long as she won huh? She looked up at them and her eyebrows knit together.
"What were you all talking about?" she asked. "You all seem pretty happy." The threesome looked at her, and then each other.
"Everyone's happy Lyra," Idrhenion told her evenly. "We are back home after all." She waved his comment away.
"Not that! There is that kind of happy but there is this kind of excited happy that you have. It was happy before, but now it feels like you're expecting something." Alya smiled.
"As a matter of fact, there is something that we're expecting," When Lyra gave her an inquisitive look, she gestured to the captain. "Why don't you tell her Calanon?"
He nodded and sat down on a log, staring meaningfully at one of the tents for a few long moments. Lyra followed his gaze, but couldn't understand why he was doing what he was doing. "I sent a scout up ahead to the castle," he said and Lyra blinked, understanding starting to form in her head. That tent was pitched for the scouts of the caravan. They would be there at the moment so that was why Calanon's gaze was drawn to that particular spot. "He brought back a message that we are expected tonight at the palace. They even have a party planned for us. It's a welcome back for us, and welcome to Mirkwood for you," Lyra's excitement exploded.
"A party? Really? That sounds like so much fun!" she twirled and laughed. "There will be new people there! I can finally meet new people! It's such a huge difference to meet new people than to be stuck with the old ones like Calanon!"
"Hey! What does that mean?" He made a face of mock insult. They all knew that it was a joke so his face only made things all the more amusing. "That really hurts you know." He put a hand to his heart, making a pained face as he did. Alya rolled her eyes and Lyra doubled over hugging her stomach, laughing.
"It means that your face is getting a bit old Calanon! Time for some new faces!" His eyebrows shot past his hairline and he reached out to her, taking a hold of her cheeks.
"Now what are you trying to imply?" he asked her jokingly, stretching her face. "I'm still in my prime you know!"
"Yu know vat I vent," Lyra forced out, her face looking more and more oval like to the side. "Ret go!" Calanon laughed and released her. She took a few steps back and rubbed her cheeks. They were now more than red with the pinching. She gave him a look that said, 'meanie,' before snorting in laughter. She was obviously trying extremely hard to hold it in. Calanon only shrugged and looked to lady Alya, who in turn, looked from her child, to her husband.
Idrhenion watched them for a few moments more when he felt that his wife's eyes were on him. He took that as his cue and he cut in, placing his hands on his daughter's thin shoulders. Her laughter died almost immediately as she stared up at her father curiously.
"Now that we're settled on who gets the extra sweets, why don't we clean you up, hmm?" Lady Alya was jolted back to reality. She looked over her daughter and her smile quickly turned into an ugly frown as her eyes searched her child. Lyra felt herself cringing over her stare. She hated when her mother worried about appearances. People were born to look one way so why put so much effort in trying to change it? Whenever she asked, her mother would always say that tweaking your looks will make you look even better than you were before. Lyra thought that it was a nice way to think of things, but she still hated dressing up so much. She would much rather be out in the woods, training or doing something of equal activity- in other words, something productive. Tweaking took too much time, too much valuable time that could be used for other things that were much more useful. Sometimes she wondered if it was easier to be a boy. They certainly didn't seem to have to prepare as much as women. Lyra was young, but even she noticed that the male elves were always ready to leave to whatever adventure awaited them first. They didn't seem to need the, tweaking, as her mother called it, as much as the she-elves.
"You're very right," Alya said as she looked over her daughter, placing a hand on her and lifting the wet rag of training clothes that was still hanging around Lyra. "She could definitely use some- tweaking," She cast a meaningful glance into Lyra's eyes and she felt herself groan. Her mother did that on purpose. She completely used that word with the full intention of making her squirm.
"I just need to dry off a little naneth," she objected. "I can go to the party the way I am. I'm just wet, is all." Her mother looked horrified at the very suggestion, making Lyra raise her eyebrows. She was then rapped over the head with her mother's knuckles. "Ouch!" she exclaimed, rubbing her noggin. "What was that about naneth?" Her mother sighed.
"You my dear, cannot go to a royal banquet dressed like that," She pointed down at the girl and Lyra followed the path of the delicate finger. Her mother acted like she was wearing something out of the garbage dump. The way she held her nose up in distaste was a little strange- alright, more than a little strange. She really didn't see anything wrong. Clothes like these were what she wore every day. From what she could see, they weren't dirty, they didn't smell bad either. The dip in the pond had helped with that and the design was nice and simple. There really wasn't much to complain about from Lyra's point of view.
"What's wrong with this?" she inquired, utterly and deeply confused. "I look fine don't I? As I said, I'm just wet," Her mother looked ready to throw herself to the ground and have a fit. When she looked to her husband and Calanon, they looked like they might just fall to the ground at any moment and start laughing.
"Don't blame her too much," Lord Idrhenion said, stifling a chuckle that almost escaped his lips. "This will be her first time to a real party- a banquet at the royal palace no less! She doesn't know what it's like." Lyra pursed her lips. She was beginning to get very annoyed.
"What it's like?" Lyra frowned slightly. "Why would it be any different than the parties that we always have?" Her parents stared at each other, exasperated. Calanon decided that he might as well spare them and answer the inquisitive young elf in their place.
"It's what it sounds like Lyra," he told her patiently. "It's a party at the palace. It's not like the parties that we held within our immediate friends. We show off our best sides and we share in more- graceful surroundings." Lyra nodded her head slowly although it was completely obvious that she didn't understand anything that Calanon was saying. Alya sighed and rubbed her temples.
"Let's just leave it at, you'll know what the banquet is like when we get there hmm?" Lyra nodded again, albeit this time a little sulkily.
"Okay. So what are we waiting for?" It was an attempt to brush off getting cleaned up and her parents saw right through it. When she was sliding away from the three of them, her mother clamped down on her in a tight grip that didn't suit the beautiful features of the elf.
"Not so fast Lyra," she said sternly. "Did you really think that you could get away with it just like that? You're coming with me to get yourself cleaned up!"
"But naneth-" she started.
"No buts!" she cut in fiercely, making her daughter jump. "You spend all that time training and riding and running through the forest. The only time you are actually indoors is when you are studying. Even then you never paid any attention to being a lady! You are most unladylike and this I will not stand for!" When she felt eyes on her, she whipped her head up to find that her husband and the captain were staring at her. When they noticed her gaze on them, they quickly averted their eyes. Alya felt her anger stirring within her chest. "Don't you two go about acting like you have nothing to do with it!" she practically screamed. Her voice drew curious gazes toward them and Idrhenion was quick to raise a calming hand, trying to stop his wife.
"Now, now dear, let's not yell" She glared at him and he clammed up immediately.
"You two are always having her train or learn things that you boys learn. She had no time for things that ladies do," she huffed and took her daughter's hand, not un-gently and led her away in the opposite direction in which Lyra came. "It's about time that Lyra should learn to be more like a she-elf, especially now that she's going to be in the presence of royalty."
Lyra stared back at her father and Calanon as she was led away, her eyes pleading for an excuse to get her out of what was to come. They shrugged at her helplessly. When Lady Alya goes into this mode, there was no stopping her. She decided to resign to her fate and allowed herself to be shuffled away into the woods. Her mother didn't say anything, but within a little while of walking, she heard the sound of running water. They emerged moments later to a wide river. Lyra realized after a few seconds that they had passed this river earlier on. She looked a little further down and saw that a few of elves from the caravan were bathing in the waters.
Her mother gestured at the water and Lyra knew what needed to be done. With a sigh, she stripped down to a light shift that she wore under her clothes and dived into the water. It wasn't cold, the water. It was pleasantly warm, just like the woods themselves. She ducked her head underneath and saw nothing but the riverbed a few meters below her, clear blue water and the occasional fish. She rose back to the surface and she swam over to the shallow bank where her mother was waiting. She took the girl's black hair and started scrubbing at it with a soap of flower oils and herbs. There was silence for a few moments and Alya was the first to break it.
"You know," she said as she ran her fingers through Lyra's hair. "The prince's birthday is tomorrow." The elfling looked back at her mother curiously.
"Really? So we were born on the same day one hundred years apart," Her mother nodded and there was a light pause. "What's he like? I know that he's good with weapons. It's only befitting a prince of an elven nation after all. Is he nice?" Alya paused, seeming to ponder the question.
"Well, when we left, he was a very shy boy, to the point of timid really. I'm sure that he's grown out of it. His age now requires him to be a part of the court at some points so I'm positive that he's more confident. I heard that he's quite popular now so I'm assuming that means he's nice," She peeked at her daughter's face. "Does that answer your question?" Lyra smiled.
"Yeah. It will be nice to meet him," she winced as her mother tugged a little too hard near the top, but the moment was gone almost as soon as it came. Her mother had moved down to scrub at her daughter's bare arms and back, the sweet scent of the oils filling the air. There was quiet after that. Lyra didn't want to disturb her mother while she was at work and in turn, her mother couldn't think of much to say. Alya knew she would have to hurry though, she could already feel her daughter fidgeting under her.
"Just a little longer meleth," she said. It unfortunately, did nothing to still the impatient tremors, but it did encourage her to go a little faster. She finished in almost half the time and Lyra leaped back into the water, splashing her a bit as she disappeared, reappearing a few meters away. She swam back immediately after seeing her mother's look, and climbed out of the river, her clothes clinging to her. Her mother passed her a towel and she rubbed herself with it until she was dry. She let her hair stay a little damp. The warm air would dry it soon anyway. When she went over to her training clothes that her mother had hung up, Alya hissed.
"What do you think you're doing Lyra Silverleaf?" she barked. Her daughter jumped and looked at her tunic and breeches to her mother's fiery gaze.
"Um- getting dressed?" she answered. Her mother laughed and wagged her finger.
"Oh no! Remember? You can't go to a banquet dressed like that!" She smiled. "You shall wear a nice gown!" Lyra gaped.
"Uh, naneth," she said, choosing her words carefully. "I don't know if you forgot, but I don't have one." There was no need for one in the Blue Mountains where she practically trained every day. A dress was a nuisance and waste of space. Then again, many of the ladies still owned dresses. It was mostly because they brought it with them though. Her mother's next words, almost made her want to smack her head against the surrounding trees.
"Don't worry about that sweetheart!" she chirped cheerfully. "That's why I had Alassiel sew you one!" Lyra groaned, exasperated.
"Naneth! Is that really necessary? I'm sure that Alassiel had better and more important things to do." Her mother shook her head.
"As a matter of fact, she was most honored to be able to sew a dress for you. First time she did it for an elfling." Her mother went over to a tree a little further away and eyed the different branches, nooks and crannies. She mumbled something to herself, but Lyra didn't hear it. "She said that it would be a nice challenge for her." She snapped her fingers and pulled a wrapped parcel from a hole in the tree and sauntered back over. "Here you go sweetie," she handed the package to Lyra who hesitated for a moment. "I'm sure that you know what it is." Lyra nodded and gingerly detached the paper, making sure to not rip it. She wanted to save it for later. Her mother or someone else could probably use it again although for what, she didn't know. When the paper finally came away, she couldn't help but gasp. Lyra stood up and held the dress in front of her. Lyra was never much of a lady as her mother said, but even she couldn't resist the fabric art in front of her.
The dress was made with a dazzling silver cloth, accented with gold trimmings to match her eyes. It was quite long so when she pressed it to her body, it hung down to the floor. There was a crisscross of golden string across the front, allowing it to be tightened or loosened around Lyra's developing and currently nonexistent figure. Long flowing sleeves and a v-neck opening completed the look. Lyra stared, stunned while her mother eagerly awaited an answer.
"Well Lyra?" she said, trying to coax an answer from her. "How do you like it?" Lyra looked up at her, her eyes shining.
"I never thought that I'd say this but, I love this dress!" Her mother laughed and took it from her.
"Beautiful isn't it?" She flapped it in the air and the red glare of remaining sunlight caught on the fabric, making it shine. "Let's get you in it shall we?" Lyra hesitated for a moment, but catching sight of her mother's radiant smiling face, she felt that she couldn't say no. Grinning and nodding enthusiastically, she completely surrendered herself to her mother to do as she willed with her clothes.
The way the dress looked was one thing, the way it felt, was another. Lyra wasn't saying that the dress felt bad, it actually felt quite good. The fabric was feather light on her skin and it was like running your hand through water whenever you touched it. Elven fabric was prized for its' comfort after all. No. It was how it got in the way with her movement. She could no longer flip or run through the trees. She was stuck at an infuriating walk. It was a little better when she was riding Raina, but not by much. Her mother was afraid that if she rode too fast, the fabric will snag on branches that hung into the road. Even though her parents and Calanon and practically everyone in the camp said it looked exquisite on her, she already wanted it off. Her mother had attacked her earlier on. Almost as soon as the dress was over her head, she was dragged back to camp where she was showered with compliments. Afterwards, she was whisked away to a tent where her mother spent at least half an hour doing her hair and touching some perfumes to tactful places around her body. Lyra complained bitterly but it was too no avail. At least they were moving for the palace. That was good news.
Lyra exercised her patience as they went towards the castle. The sun had sunk below the horizon not too long ago and the moon was just rising. The lights were lit and they travelled along the road in apprehensive chatter. All were excited to go home, but the threat of the spiders living here compelled them all to keep watch- all except Lyra. Her parents had tactfully neglected to tell her about them. Lyra hated anything that had too many eyes and legs. Spiders were the worst for her. One time when a small one showed up in her room, she practically fainted. Only the fear of the fact that it might crawl on her kept her awake and watchful. Their worries soon appeared to be fruitless as the light of the palace came rising up to meet them and the darkness of the forest diminished.
The elfling's parents looked over at their child to see how she was doing. Lyra's eyes were bright and her whole body was raised with anticipation. She was ready to meet her future. They could tell.
Legolas paced around the hall, his whole body giving off an air of impatience. It was no help that he had cakes just before either. His mother asked him to taste them and they were delicious! As expected of Mirkwood's top chef. The only problem was that any elfling was unable to stay still after one. He ran down the length of the hall and came to a stop in front of his father. "Ada," he said respectfully. Thranduil nodded his acknowledgement and permission to speak. "When are they coming? The sun has already set." The king laughed and waved away a servant who was bringing him a snack.
"They should be here soon. Be patient. It's not like we know the exact time that they will be arriving." Legolas sighed and tapped his foot against the stone floor.
"It's hard to be patient. You should know to ada. Isn't Lord Idrhenion your best friend?" Thranduil chuckled and straightened the silver, elven crown on Legolas' head.
"I am actually very anxious for his arrival," he said. "It's hard to wait but you must bear it- all right?" Legolas shrugged, resignedly and sat down on the stairs to the throne.
"I will ada. Sorry for the trouble." Thranduil almost jerked back in his seat. His son was apologizing for being impatient of his own free will? Was he sick? He didn't have time to dwell on it however, for an elf came running into the room, waving his hands in the air.
"They have arrived! Lord Idrhenion and Lady Alya have arrived with their caravan!" Legolas stood upright as Thranduil was already meeting the messenger halfway.
"Really? They're here?" The messenger nodded.
"They are approaching the palace now! What should I say to them?" Thranduil seemed to ponder the question, momentarily tapping his temple. Coming to a conclusion, he gestured towards the door.
"Please lead them in. I'll receive them in the hall." The messenger darted away immediately and wove his way back to the door through many bodies. By now, the calls of the messenger had alerted every elf within the vicinity and they all flocked to the hall, eagerly awaiting their old friends. Legolas looked up at his father whose eyes were shining. The prince felt his own excitement bubbling and it was only his mother's hand on his shoulder that kept him from doing something embarrassing. His father turned back to Legolas and said in a joyful voice, "I told you they would be here soon."
The elfling rolled his eyes and allowed himself to be placed in the throne for the prince as his mother and father both took a seat. Now that the time came for him to meet his own vassal, he was filled with a sense of unnatural peace. He fixed his eyes on the door and did the only thing that he could do- wait.
"Please follow me!" said an eccentric elf in clothing that looked several sizes too big. "The king would love to receive you in the Great Hall!" Lyra watched him as he rapidly shook hands with her father and mother, before he came to her. His eyes widened as he looked at her. Why would he do that? 'Was there something on my face?' she thought. "Is this your daughter my lord?" he asked. Idrhenion nodded.
"Indeed, she is," He looked back at her and smiled. "Introduce yourself Lyra." She jumped a little before turning to the elf and bowed slightly atop her horse.
"I'm Lyra Silverleaf, first she-elf vassal to the Greenleaf family. It's a pleasure." The messenger laughed.
"So polite. You will fit in quite well here," Unbeknownst to the elf, at the same time, Lyra's parents were shaking their heads. She seemed mild-mannered now, but it gets a whole lot worse when she was allowed free rein. The messenger glided lightly back to the front and beckoned them forwards so that they were right outside the door. Lyra's parents dismounted gracefully and she followed suit, after some difficulties. Her dress restricted her leg movement so on the way down, she nearly took herself out. She only managed to save herself by grabbing hold of Raina's withers and scrambling for a foothold in the ground. A few of the elves who noticed her blunder snickered, but nothing too serious. When she looked up at her horse, it snorted. She glared at the creature. Raina was laughing at her.
"Funny. Very funny," she grumbled and the horse merely tossed her head. A few stable hands came over and led the horses away while the messenger at the front rubbed his hands eagerly. Lyra half-walked, half-stumbled over to her parents and her mother looked down at her disapprovingly. Lyra made a face. What did she expect her to do? This was her first time wearing a dress. Thankfully, there was no time to discuss the matter of Lyra's poor skills of walking in a dress for the great door opened and the messenger announced to a huge crowd of smiling elves, "Elves of Mirkwood! I present to you our friends from years past that have now returned to their home. Please welcome back, the Silverleaf's, Captain Calanon and the attendants of the castle." There was an eruption of applause, but it did not last long. It died quickly when a tall figure stepped forward.
Lyra didn't know how to describe him. He was tall and slim like all elves. Her eyes darted to her father and then back to the figure. They seemed to be around the same height. Both their eyes sparkled while the new guy's were a brilliant light blue and her father's were a sparkling dark green. Again, there was contrasting color found in their hair. Her father's was raven black, just like hers, and the other ones hair was so blond, it was almost white. All in all, she guessed that she really had no opinion on the man other than that he looked like her dad in a way and with the sort of aura that seemed to surround him, he looked like he would make a good dad. She had no idea how close she was to the truth. The words the mystery elf and her father spoke next, shocked her to no end.
"Welcome back, mellon-nin," the one in front of her said, a childish grin on his face. "I have not seen you for a long time. I'm glad that you're back." Her father nodded, a smile on his lips.
"I am glad to be back in your realm, King Thranduil," Lyra's jaw almost dropped. The king? Okay. She would admit that he looked kingly with his crown and regal clothing, but the king? Never in a thousand years would she have thought he was the king, and elves live past that age! He just looked so- ditzy. "I have missed your company." There was a moment of silence in which the formalities absorbed, but then the king laughed and clasped his arm with Lyra's father.
"Don't be so stiff, Idrhenion," Thranduil laughed. "You are in the presence of friends after all!" He swept his arm across the hall as the elves in attendance all shouted their agreement. Lyra was almost reeling. She was in the presence of so many people. She had never before seen so many people all in one place, ever! Thranduil peeked over and seemed to notice her mother and Calanon. "Lady Alya, it is a pleasure to see you again," she bowed curtly.
"The pleasure is all mine Thranduil." He then turned to Calanon.
"Your majesty," The young captain bowed and the king merely smiled, putting his hand on his shoulder.
"Welcome back Calanon." There was a moment of silence and then they laughed, slapping each other on the back. A moment later, seemingly completely by accident, he turned and noticed Lyra for the first time, who was still staring at him in confusion. He smiled and she snapped back to reality, desperately trying to hide the fact that she was staring.
"Now. Is this Lyra?" he asked. Idrhenion nodded.
"Yes. Lyra Silverleaf. Our daughter and soon to be vassal to young Legolas." Lyra tried to curtsy, but unfortunately, she stepped on her dress and stumbled a bit. Her mother's hand thankfully prevented her from going too far. She felt her cheeks flame with embarrassment.
"At your service your majesty," she mumbled. Thranduil clapped his hands together with a small laugh.
"Thank you Lyra. Why! Enough with the formalities!" He turned to address the whole room. "My friends have returned from the Blue Mountains after one hundred and fifty years! I'm sure all of you remember my vassal, Lord Idrhenion- his wife, Lady Alya, and my captain of the guard, Calanon." Each of them bowed and in return, was greeted with thunderous applause. He silenced them all with one hand and then placed it on Lyra's head. "We also have a new face today. The daughter of my most loyal friends, Lyra Silverleaf." The applause of welcome was just as loud as her parent's before her. She felt herself smile. She had never been greeted this way before. The crowd parted slightly so that they could see the thrones. "Let me introduce you to Legolas," he said to her gently. She suddenly felt a little shy so she looked around, trying to avoid eye contact. It would seem that it wasn't as desperate to avoid her, for almost immediately after she decided to look away, her eyes locked with someone else's.
Legolas tapped his foot impatiently against the hard stone floor as he tried to see who his father was talking to. He managed to catch sight of Lord Idrhenion, Lady Alya and Captain Calanon, but he couldn't see his vassal. He knew she was there. His father's vassal had just mentioned it. In the end, he came to the conclusion that the girl must be shorter than him, otherwise he would be able to see her. His fidgeting caught the attention of his mother who flicked him in the ear. He sat up straight in momentary surprise and she raised her eyebrows at him. Immediately, it prompted him to stay still.
His chance would come. The crowd soon parted and he had a clear view of his father, and his friends. A moment later, he saw a girl. She looked awfully familiar, but he couldn't place his finger on it. The girl had midnight black hair and also the small figure he predicted. That must be Lyra. He watched her face as she looked around, avoiding eye contact when completely by accident, she looked at him. Their eyes met and comprehension dawned on the girl's face and Legolas was sure the same thing happened to him. They were both having the same thought. They were in the clearing together.
Legolas leapt to his feet. "YOU!" Both of them hollered at the same time. They were strangely, in the same position. Hand raised and finger out, pointing incredulously at their counterpart. Feet separated and faces alight with a look of complete disbelief. There was silence following the outburst as the parents looked on, confused. The prince, finally realizing what he was doing, slowly turned to look at his mother. She glared down at him. Her gaze seemed to be telling him that he was going to have some explaining to do. He cringed. This was not good. He withdrew his finger and stood straight. Thranduil and the Silverleaf's were just as puzzled as Legolas' mother. It made no sense. This was Lyra's first time in Mirkwood. There was just no way that the two elflings ever had a chance to meet each other, or, that was what they thought.
Seeing everyone's eyes on them, Lyra quickly stuck her hands to her side and submitted to the awkward silence that continued to stretch. Thranduil thankfully broke it after deciding that it was allowed to go on for too long. "Well," he started cheerfully. "I'm glad that you two have had the chance to meet," He turned to all the other elves. "Thank you all for your time. The food is out and you are free to enjoy." He swept his arm out and for a moment, no one moved. Then, after a fake cough from the queen, they all dissipated and mingled into their own little groups. The Silverleaf's and Calanon, after a puzzled look sent in the direction of Lyra, went off on their own as well. Legolas took the opportunity to get away. His mother gave him a look that said it wasn't over, but let him go. It was a special occasion after all.
Lyra broke away equally quickly, hiding herself in the crowd of taller people. She was so embarrassed. Now that she realized the boy from the clearing was the prince, she couldn't believe that she treated him with such familiarity. She even scolded him! Placing her hands in her hair, she shook her head. She practically ruined things before they even started! 'He must be furious with me,' she thought. 'I have to make amends before things get worse!' She looked around when a hand touched her shoulder. She squeaked in surprise and she grabbed the arm to throw it, but she was pulled back before she could do anything.
"Sheesh," said a voice that she distinctly recognized. "Why is it that when we meet, you seem to want to hurt me, kill me or something along those lines?" She turned and found herself face to face with the young prince. Her face instantly colored and she tried to say something, but all that come out was incoherent stammering. Legolas rolled his eyes and pulled her away.
"Come on! Don't just stand there stuttering!" He dragged her over to the tables and plucked two cakes from their places on the plate and led her away to a more quiet area of the room. He sat down with a sigh and held out one of the cakes to her. "Here," he jiggled the dessert and when she didn't take it, he sighed. "Come on! It's really good! You know you want it!" Lyra paused before reaching out and tentatively taking the dessert. Legolas smiled as she thanked him.
"I'm sorry Prince Legolas," she said meekly. The prince's hand stopped, halfway to his mouth.
"Huh?" Lyra gulped and took a breath.
"I'm sorry for barging in on your secret spot and almost killing you and yelling at you and scolding you and treating you with such disrespect and running away and leaving you there and everything that I may have done to offend you!" She gasped and breathed in, panting from the effort. Legolas snickered. She had let it out all in one breath and was now red in the face.
"Don't worry about it," he told her. "I'm glad that you treated me that way. Too much respect gets stuffy and boring. I'm glad that there is someone here who will freely give me a piece of their mind." Lyra looked at him incredulously. She was expecting a scolding.
"Aren't you mad your highness?" Legolas suddenly frowned.
"I will be if you keep addressing me with those titles- prince and your highness. I don't need that. Legolas will do."
"But," Lyra started.
"Legolas will do," he stated firmly. He was young but there was already an air about him that made him impossible to refuse. Lyra nodded.
"Right. Legolas." He smiled and slapped her on the back, nearly making her drop the cake.
"There we go! Lose the formalities! You're my vassal right? Let's become friends like our father's before us." Lyra hesitated for one moment, but after seeing the bright smile on his face, she found it hard to say no.
"Okay." A small smile made its way onto her face and there was a moment of silence as they enjoyed each other's quiet companionship. Lyra thought that she felt eyes on the side of her face and when she turned to look, Legolas was eyeing her. "Is there something on my face?" He shook his head.
"Nope. I was just wondering if you were going to eat that." He pointed at the cake that was nestled invitingly in her hand. Lyra's jaw dropped and she shoved him away.
"Of course I'm going to eat it!" She rammed it into her mouth and was overcome with a momentary sense of pleasure. She had never tasted anything so good. When she looked back over at Legolas, he was pouting.
"That was mean," he said. Lyra's face went blank.
"You deserved it." He frowned.
"That was also mean."
"Again, you deserved it." They glared at each other for a few moments and Legolas looked away first.
"Fine. I deserved it. It was still mean though," Lyra raised an eyebrow.
"You're letting me win?" He shrugged.
"It's your first time in Mirkwood. I believe you deserve some kind of special treatment for the day." Lyra seethed.
"Hey! That's not fair! Treat me proper-"
"Mellon, you hear that?" The girl stopped. Whether it was because he called her melon or because of his reference to sound, she would never know. Lyra nodded. It was a hearty, elven tune. Most of the music of elves were fitting of great halls and were smooth and graceful. This was one of the rare ones where it made a tune that was perfect for dancing and frolicking. Legolas smiled and grabbed her hand, all signs of the previous spat forgotten. "Come on Lyra! Let's get moving!" He pulled her to her feet and she heavily protested!
"W-Wait! Legolas!" She tried to stop, but with not a lot of success. "I can't dance in this dress! Heck! I can't dance even when I'm not wearing a dress!" He snorted and more or less ignored her.
"Nonsense! Just follow my lead! You're going to have to learn proper dancing later and besides, this song doesn't call for proper dancing!" Lyra had no choice. She was tugged through the crowd until Legolas finally stopped and twirled her around. She bit back a scream of surprise as they world was sent spinning around her. He stopped her by placing his hands on her shoulders. She bit back an angry remark.
"Are you trying to kill me?" she demanded. He shrugged.
"You can handle weapons but you can't handle a dance? Come on! I know you can do better!" She bit the inside of her cheek.
"Fine! Just watch me!" Lyra exerted as much effort as she could and timed herself to the music and Legolas' footsteps. She was still barely avoiding tripping and falling on her face, but as the music went on, she found her feet moving easier. The dress no longer seemed to be getting in her way and her legs weren't getting in a tangle every time she turned. Eventually, she started to think less and began to enjoy it, even letting out a laugh. Legolas guided her along, making sure that she wouldn't cause bodily harm to herself or others by accident. They didn't know how long they were doing it, but they were stopped by the sudden lack of lively music in the room. It went back to being graceful and serene. When Lyra looked up at the prince, he looked a little disappointed. She could only assume that that expression was on her face as well. She wouldn't exactly admit it, but she enjoyed the dance very much. It was the first time where she didn't crash and burn. They just stood there awkwardly until a few figures glided through the crowd.
"Lyra, Legolas," It was Alya and Mirima. The two elflings hastily bowed. Lyra almost slipped again but Legolas' hand kept her stable. She lightly nodded her thanks, but whether he saw it or not, she didn't know.
"Naneth," Both of them said in respect to their mothers. They smiled.
Alya held out her hand for Lyra to take, and she did after a moment. "Let us go to your room. It has been prepared for you."
"But naneth," she started, looking back over at Legolas. "The night hasn't ended yet." Her mother shook her head.
"It has for you. Come," She was about to argue, but there really was no point. When she glanced back at Legolas, he was giving her a helpless shrug as his mother led him away as well.
"Yes naneth," Her mother gently led her through the halls, light flickering above them. Lyra had no idea where they were going. The hallways seemed to stretch on forever. With a pang of regret, she realized she wouldn't be able to run off on her own. She would get lost, for sure! She had no choice but to go along with everyone else. Her mind drifted into a daydream and she barely noticed when they finally came to a room.
"Lyra," said her mother, rousing her from her daydream. She turned to her, a smile on her face.
"Yes naneth?" she rubbed her eyes involuntarily. She was quite tired all of a sudden. It was probably the after effects of all the blood rushing through her body during the dance.
"Take a look at your new room," Lyra blinked and looked around her, her eyes widening.
"Oh wow!" she exclaimed, a wide grin on her face. "This place is huge! Is this bed really for one person? How many people can sleep in here? I'll never have that many clothes! Why is the bathroom so big? Hey! It has a place for my weapons!" She held onto the front of her dress so that her bare legs were showing and ran across the room. She had no choice in the matter. If she didn't hold up her skirt, she would be face first on the ground. Her mother shook her head good naturedly and went over to the cupboard.
"Do you like it?" Lyra nodded.
"I love it! It's so different from the cottage we had at the Blue Mountains," Alya rummaged through the drawers absentmindedly.
"It's good that you like it. It's yours now," Lyra's jaw dropped and she punched the air.
"All right!" Alya rolled her eyes to heaven and pulled out a long shirt.
"Think fast Lyra!" she called and hurled it in her direction. The elfling turned and caught it easily. She looked at it quizzically.
"Isn't this my sleepwear?" she asked. Her mother nodded.
"All your things were brought here and put away while the party was going on. Get changed and go to bed." Lyra nodded and quickly switched clothes. She ran a few circles in front of the bed and sighed with comfort. She was so glad to be out of the dress. There was so much more freedom. She went over and hugged her mother before crawling under the covers. Alya removed Lyra's hairpiece and picked up her clothes, tucking them all away. She gently kissed her daughter's hair before walking to the door.
"Naneth," Lyra whispered, stopping her mother.
"Yes sweetheart?" She thought she could see a smile touch the elfling's lips.
"I'm glad I'm here. It's going to be so much fun," Alya smiled, stepping out and closing the door carefully behind her.
"I'm sure it will be, Lyra."
Legolas had watched Lyra leave moments before and was now being herded back to his own room. He couldn't really complain about it. His mother was rather stiff and there was silence. He knew that this was the calm before the storm. His mother wanted to say something and it was coming. He knew that if he decided to complain, it would only make things worse. Walking through the empty halls was strange. There would normally be at least one person that was roaming about, but not tonight. Everyone was at the banquet. He and Lyra were singled out for rest since they were the only young ones there.
They arrived at Legolas' room with no delay and he immediately set out to look for his night clothes. "Meleth," Mirima said quietly. Legolas stiffened. It was the slightest movement of the shoulders, but it was there.
"Yes naneth?" She took a breath and hardened herself. She never enjoyed reprimanding her son, but he needed to learn to behave right. He was mature beyond his years, but he still did stupid things. It would have been fine for a while, but lying was one thing she couldn't stand.
"I know you were excited, but there are some things that are just unacceptable," His shoulders slumped as he felt his mother's eyes bore into his back. "I know that you can't stay still so getting at least a little dirty is normal, but lying about it is not tolerated. I have no power if you do it to others, but lying to me is inexcusable. Do it again and a suitable punishment will be laid out. Understand?" Legolas bit his lip. He was in a lot deeper than he thought.
"I understand. I'm sorry." The Queen stared at her son long and hard until Legolas felt himself sweat under the intense gaze, then she smiled and smoothed her son's hair.
"Good. I'm glad that you see now," she kissed his forehead and walked towards the door. "Sorry dear but I know that you are aware of the need for good discipline." He nodded again but said nothing. He took off his crown and placed it on top the dresser. His mother stepped out the room and was about to close the door when she peeked back in, smiling. "Legolas?" He turned, confused at her new tone of voice.
"What is it?" She waved her hand airily, in a nonchalant way.
"What did you think of Lyra?" He drew back a little. What was there to say?
"She seems nice, although I can't really say anything. I just met her after all. I think that we'll be good friends." Alya nodded, satisfied. She really didn't expect much. They just met, but his answer made her happy. He had no real friends in Mirkwood. She would do him good.
"Why don't you take her out to show her the sights tomorrow?" she suggested. "It will give you guys a chance to get to know each other. It will also make a great birthday gift." Legolas seemed to ponder the suggestion before breaking out in a smile.
"Good idea naneth. I'll do that." Alya nodded with a smile and closed the door.
"Wonderful"