Wow! I am so tired! Typing these things are fun but I kill myself in the process! XD I hope you're enjoying the story and special thanks to Aranel Mereneth and Teenagewasteland for their time looking into mine! Thanks for your continued support everyone! :D The way they ride is based off of the movies, not the books so don't mention anything about elves not supposed to have saddles and bridles if you review. By the way, sorry for the long time since updates! Winter break is now and I have to start worrying about exams soon. Sorry!
Chapter 3- Together Starting Today
Walking through a garden path, Lyra felt truly at ease. The sun was shining high in the sky, but she didn't know what time it was. The trees were bending gently in the wind and she could feel it on her skin. All around her, there were flowers and all sorts of plants. It made her happy. She was, for some reason, wearing a beautiful gown, but she was not tripping over it, even though it extended far across the ground. She glided over the cobblestones as easily as if she was wearing her favorite tunic and breeches. She sighed, an overwhelming sense of peace seeped into her body, giving her the feeling of drunken happiness. Taking another step, she heard something in the air. Cupping her ear and screwing up her face, she tried to panel the sound so that it came easier. It travelled over the wind again and this time, it was loud enough for her to hear.
"Lyra," the voice said. She recognized it.
"Prince Legolas," she said back to it. The voice seemed to sigh.
"Yes, it's me. Legolas. Not prince Legolas." She nodded.
"Okay. Legolas." She cocked her head. What a weird dream. Why was the prince in her head?
"Good. Now that we have that established, time for you to wake up!" She crinkled her nose.
"What are you talking about? I'm already awake!" She heard a growl and suddenly she felt her world start to shake.
"Geez Lyra! Wake up! Stop doing that!" She tried to fight the voice, but found she couldn't. The colorful world around her dissolved and she was flung into darkness, and then light.
She shot up in her bed, pushing something away and was about to scream when a hand clamped over her mouth. She struggled but was immediately restrained. "Lyra," someone hissed. Her eyebrows knit together in annoyance. Legolas. "Just stay still!" She craned her head to look at him and she glared. He smiled at her. "Good morning!" he said happily. "You are quite a vivid dreamer aren't you?" She brought her hand up to his and pulled it off her mouth.
"What do you think you are you doing in my room, on my bed, uninvited Legolas?" she snarled. Her eyes went from his face to the window. She wasn't surprised that it was open. She left it that way last night after all. No- what she was surprised about was the fact that it was still dark. The sun wasn't even in sight yet. The only light came from the elven lanterns set up everywhere on the grounds, creating a ghostly glow. "No. What the heck are you doing in my room uninvited, on my bed, this early?" He hurriedly put a finger to her lips.
"Shh!" He looked around. Lyra's voice had risen with every word that she said so that by the time that she was done, she was almost screaming. "Look," he said with his finger still on her lips. He hastily removed it after seeing that Lyra was just about ready to bite it off. "My apologies. It was wrong of me as a prince to enter without permission. I am extremely sorry." The smile he had, faded. He got off her bed and bowed smoothly. She stared at him for a few moments. It was definitely wrong and breached all forms of etiquette to appear in a girl's room without an invitation, especially when it was still dark outside. She was a little angry and more than a little embarrassed, but he was sincere in his apology. She already realized that he was an unruly prince anyway so she might as well get used to it. Might as well accept his apology since it was so kindly thrown out to her.
"Apology accepted," she said grumpily, rubbing her sleep drunken eyes. Legolas' smiled immediately came back on his face and Lyra felt herself smiling a bit as well. "What are you doing in here anyway? How did you get in? How did you know my room was here?" Legolas muffled a laugh in his gauntlet.
"Wow. You talk a lot in your dream and now you have a bunch of questions when you wake up." Lyra sighed and threw a cushion at him. It hit him squarely in the face.
"Shut up," she mumbled. He pulled the pillow of his face and placed it back on the bed.
"Not very ladylike now are you?" Lyra chose to ignore the comment.
"Just answer the questions." He shrugged and pushed back a few hairs that had come out of place after he had taken the pillow to the face.
"Well, the window is wide open isn't it?" He threw his arms out wide and gestured toward the outside. "It was so inviting that I couldn't refuse." She rolled her eyes, but the faintest of smiles touched her lips.
"What about the answers to my other questions?" Legolas crossed his arms back over his chest.
"I saw your mom leaving this room last night," he told her. "My room is next door." Lyra nodded, slightly perturbed. What the heck did Legolas think that he was doing and why the heck did their parents decided to put them so close to each other? Wasn't it improper, if even slightly? As soon as she thought it, she discarded it. If you thought about it, it was appropriate enough. As a vassal specifically for the prince, she would have to be close to him at all times. Her job is to protect him after all.
Grumbling softly, she rubbed her eyes. "Okay then. Your room is next to mine, but what are you doing here. I'm tired and I want to sleep. Don't you want to sleep?" Lyra suddenly gasped and glared at him. "Or are you trying to do something completely inappropriate and get us in trouble?" Legolas pounced and clapped his hands over her mouth once again.
"If you keep doing this then we will get caught and we will get in trouble!" He scolded. Lyra tried to pry his hands off of her to no avail. She couldn't match the strength of a male. She said something that sounded vaguely like a curse and Legolas chuckled. "Come on. I just want to take you out for a bit." She raised an eyebrow. "To show you the sights of Mirkwood. There is a village nearby, have you seen it yet?" Lyra was slipping, Legolas could tell. She was avoiding eye contact and gave off a feeling of a newfound overall calm. He grinned. He caught her, time to reel her in. Legolas mentally smacked himself. She was not a fish! "Come on! I heard that mother was going to start your lessons today. You know, the stuff you learn in court. Etiquette, history of royalty, engagements of politics," He grinned. "All that requites wearing a dress you know."
Lyra paled. The last thing she wanted was to wear a gown. She wasn't ready! Yesterday was bad enough! She almost publicly humiliated herself in front of all those elves! Nodding hurriedly, she imitated closing her mouth, drawing a finger over it. Legolas raised an eyebrow before slowly letting her go. "Alright. Better get dressed quickly. As soon as dawn comes, it will be too late." Lyra nodded and went to her dresser before she realized that Legolas was standing there. She frowned and waved him away in a shooing motion. The prince, suddenly realizing what she meant, colored and hurried over to the front door. "Meet me in the main hall. Can you find your way there?" She nodded and he smiled, giving her a bow before slipping away into the darkness. She shook her head and right as she was about to remove her shift, he popped his head back in. "Oh! Another thing!" Lyra bit her lip to stifle a shriek and with a motion too fast for the eyes to follow, sent her pillow once again flying. Legolas dodged it just in time and covered his eyes when he came back in. "Sorry! But bring your weapons and your cloak with you!"
"I know!" she hissed. "I'm not an idiot and unlike you, I do have some common sense!" He snickered.
"Touché." Lyra sighed and managed a small grin.
"I know. I'll see you in the hall in ten minutes. Is that acceptable?" Legolas smiled.
"Completely." Without another word, he disappeared. Lyra waited a few moments, just to see if he was going to pull another unsuspecting blunder. When none came, she removed her nightgown and hurriedly dressed in the semi-darkness. Pulling on her boots, she grabbed her weapons last, peeking out the door of her room. She was just about ready to step out when she thought better of it. Going back to her bedside, she rummaged through the drawers until she found the one that carried a quill, ink and some parchment. Scribbling a note as fast as she could, she nearly spilled the ink. With sudden trembling fingers at the excitement of running off so early in the morning, she folded the note and set it on her pillow. She had never done something like this before, and the mere idea sent tremors of excitement through her body.
Peeking through the door once again, she counted slowly to ten. When no one appeared, she slipped out and closed it slowly. Suddenly, she was at a loss. Which way was it again? She stood there, wasting her precious time, trying to remember which way it was, then, she had it. Setting off at a run, she practically flew over the ground until she came to the grand pillars which were very hard to forget. The Main Hall. Cheering silently to herself, she stepped in. Immediately, she could see Legolas at a table. He waved her over and she complied, albeit a little apprehensively.
"That was great! You made it on time. Just barely." He pinched his fingers together and smiled. "You get lost or something?" Lyra turned away with a huff.
"You wish." He grinned before tossing something to her. In pure reflex, her hand extended and the mysterious object thudded into her gloveless hand. Raising an eyebrow, she turned it over. When she saw a small dessert sitting on her palm, she smiled. So it was breakfast huh? "Is this why you wanted me in the hall so early?"
"Not entirely. It's what comes after." He gestured for her to sit and she took the seat next to him, making sure that she was at least a foot away from the smiling prince. Legolas reached out and plucked a roll off a whole pile and tossed it into his mouth. Lyra followed his lead soon, after much reluctance. When she did, she knew that it was the right choice. The soft texture of the roll danced across her tongue and the soft buttery taste melted into her mouth. She must have had a weird expression on her face for Legolas laughed. "What's with that face?" Lyra blushed and glared hard at him.
"What face?" Legolas snorted and pointed right between her eyes.
"That face!" She scowled.
"Get your hand away from my face or you'll lose it." He immediately withdrew his hand.
"Whoa! Easy there little falcon! No need to get like that!" she frowned.
"Little falcon?" He nodded, fingering another roll before popping it into his mouth.
"Yeah. Calanon calls you that. You didn't know?" Lyra shook her head.
"He always just called me by my name. We didn't really have much use for names like that at the Blue Mountains."
"I see," was Legolas' simple reply. Silence once again reigned as the two eflings ate, their brains empty of anything relevant to say to one another. It wouldn't be able to stay that way for long however, as the bowl emptied more and more with each roll the children took care of. Eventually, they were all gone. Lyra licked a finger where a bit of the sugary sauce had run off and stood up. Legolas smiled and stood as well. "Come on! Follow me!" He grabbed her hand and gave it a gentle tug before setting off at a brisk pace. It was all Lyra could do to keep up with the unexpected long strides. She didn't even have time to think of where he was dragging her. Out in the darkness, it took a few moments for her sharp eyes to adjust before she could see where they were going. This path was unfamiliar to her so she made sure to remember where she was so she wouldn't get lost. Eventually, the dull quiet of the palace began to fade and they started to hear the sounds of animals- horses specifically. Both their hearts soared. Riding was already an art treasured by the elves, and it burned especially bright in the hearts of the young. The spirits of the children were shared with the spirit of the fiery creatures. Legolas placed a finger to his lips before reaching out and slowly lifting the latch to the stables. It protested with a loud creak and both elflings winced. It sounded deafening in the silence of the night. They both stood stock still, almost waiting for a guard or someone else to come over and catch them in the act. When none came, they couldn't help but breathe a huge sigh of relief. Legolas lifted the latch the rest of the way up and held the door open a crack, he motioned for Lyra to slip in and she did, poking her head within the darkness before the rest of her body followed. She looked around and was satisfied to see that they were alone with the horses. She tapped the prince on the hand and made a gesture for him to come in as well. He was there in an instant, door closing silently behind him.
They looked at each other for a moment, each bearing a silly grin in having cheated the adults. Happy neighs alerted both of them to two stalls near the front and they just had to smile. "Hello Raina," whispered Lyra softly to her filly. "Did you miss me?" The horse nickered and tugged at the braid that hung down her mistress' back. Lyra almost yelped. "Not now Raina! Don't pull my hair!" The horse looked at her with large intelligent eyes and instead settled on rubbing her face against Lyra's chest.
Legolas watched as Lyra catapulted herself into her horse's stall and he merely shook his head, snickering before climbing over to his own. "Good morning Sûl," the prince said. The colt shook his mane and snuffled at the boy's hand for treats. He laughed. "Sorry boy. No treats today." The horse snorted and then just proceeded to chewing on some hay. Legolas went over the stall door again and grabbed Sûl's riding equipment and brushes. When he came back, he saw that Lyra had done the same and was already running the brush along her horse's back. It was a little amusing to watch since Lyra's head barely came to the horse's shoulder and she had to reach to get the back. I guess that was the disadvantage of Lyra being a head shorter than he was. "You seem to know your way around the stables," Legolas remarked. "Isn't this your first time in here?" She nodded.
"Yes, but it is set up the same way that we did it at the Blue Mountains." She looked over at him. "It's really the same in the end." The prince nodded and returned to the grooming of his horse. There, they carried on in silence. Both of them were lost in their work, and they couldn't think of anything to say to each other anyway. Soon, their horses were tacked up and Lyra led her horse out of the stall to line up with Legolas'.
"Do you need a lift Lyra?" he asked her. She raised an eyebrow.
"No. Why do you ask?" Her eyes narrowed and the young royal shifted under the scrutiny. He couldn't say it was because she was short, that would offend her. He smiled.
"Well, it's polite to help a lady onto her horse isn't it?" Lyra winced.
"Please don't call me a lady. It reminds me of the dress." Legolas snorted in laughter but walked over to Lyra and laced his fingers together, creating a step. "You don't have to Legolas. I can get up on my own." He smiled.
"How about you let me treat you like a lady for just two seconds? Hmm?" She rolled her eyes.
"Fine. Treat away!" She stepped into his hands and he boosted her up while she swung her leg over to the other side, her feet slipping into the stirrups. She nodded her thanks and Legolas merely smiled, strolling to the door and opening it before going back over to his own horse and mounting as well.
"Ready to go?" he asked her, picking up his reins and shortening them. Lyra grinned.
"Ready!" Legolas grinned in response.
"Then follow me!" He brought his heels to the side of the horse and they shot off like an arrow with Lyra close behind. The thunder of hooves echoed throughout the courtyard like a rain of rocks upon the land, but the elfings could scarcely care if they woke anyone up. They were too busy enjoying themselves. They looked past the treetops to see the sun just peeking over the horizon and they looked back at the palace that suddenly seemed so small. Lyra urged her horse forward and pulled up right alongside Legolas.
"Where are we going again?" she called over the roar of the wind. She felt so alive. The fresh morning wind in her face and her hair as she sped along the track couldn't make her happier.
"The village on the border of the forest!" he answered her. He looked at her with a wry grin. "You're going to love it! Just remember to do as I say while we're there!" She nodded slowly. Do as he said while they were there?
What in the name of Middle Earth did he mean by that?
Lord Idhrenion strode through the palace, a slight frown on his face. It was well past breakfast and his daughter was nowhere to be found. They had found a note on his girl's bed this morning. Quick and concise, she was obviously in a hurry. Normally, Idhrenion would not be worried about his daughter disappearing, but suspicious things were happening and the haste in which it was written and the mess of her normally neat handwriting, gave him a cause to fidget. He stopped suddenly when another figure came into view- his king Thranduil.
"My lord," said the elf with a bow. The king jolted slightly, as if coming out of a dream.
"Idhrenion. My friend," he whispered, laying a tired hand on the retainer's shoulder. "You didn't happen to see Legolas did you?" The Silverleaf shook his head.
"No. I was about to ask you if you have seen Lyra." The king suddenly laughed, causing the lord to jump. "Thranduil? Are you alright?"
"Y-Yes. I'm fine," he snorted. The retainer raised an irritated eyebrow.
"Then what's so funny?" Thranduil wheezed and took a deep breath, quelling the rising laugh.
"It must be Legolas. I have a feeling that my son has spirited your daughter away." Idhrenion's mouth dropped open.
"Are you serious?" At that moment, two elves came around the corner and one of them ran up to Idrhenion.
"Meleth! I can't find Lyra! Have you seen her?" He grabbed his wife's shoulders and gently rubbed them.
"It's alright. She seems to be with his highness Legolas." The she-elf opened her mouth in disbelief.
"What does she think she's doing?" Her husband kissed her forehead.
"I'm sure that they will be fine. They are both capable fighters so if something happens they can take care of themselves." Thranduil turned to his wife who was standing right behind Alya.
"They're not there are they?" she nodded.
"Both Sûl and Raina are gone. They must have decided to go somewhere a little far if both the horses are not there." The king nodded and placed a hand on both his retainers shoulders.
"They should be fine. Legolas knows this entire area well. We have some other things to attend to." His friends nodded and they all set down the hallway until they reached a small room. It was half the size of their smallest bedroom. They hurried inside and the door closed behind them as they took their seats. "Mellon-nin," Thranduil started, addressing his friend. "Please. Your report." He nodded and folded his hands on the table, taking a deep breath to start.
"The orcs are getting bold," he stated with a frown. "There is some strange activity at the mountains. Something is coming from there. An ominous force." Thranduil raised a brow.
"How so?"
"As in the entire mountain is trembling," responded Alya. "We'd get chills from the mountains, like something powerful is there. At some times it's so strong, even Lyra feels a little sick and weary and Calanon can't get out of bed." The king rested his head on the back of his hands.
"That's disturbing news indeed. Blue mountain orcs have never bothered us before, so why now?" The retainers shrugged.
"We can't be sure," Idhrenion said, "But we can find out."
"No," said Thranduil firmly. All three of the other elves stared at him incredulously. "We don't know what we are up against. Things could be dangerous so until more information is gathered, you should stay here in the capital." Idhrenion looked like he would protest, but then closed his mouth, nodding slowly. The mission, if there is one, would be even more perilous if they had no idea what they were fighting against. It was best to spend time with their daughter while they still could. There was no way in all of Middle Earth and beyond would they bring little Lyra with them. Satisfied, the king stood up and the rest followed. "I will send some of my messengers to Blue Mountains to gather information. Until they return, let us stay and enjoy ourselves."
The mood immediately lifted as Mirima took Thranduil's arm and Alya took Idhrenion's. "The celebration is to be held tonight. It's a milestone in the lives of our children," said Alya. "Lyra is turning one hundred and Legolas two hundred. The celebration is to be magnificent." With the elves all in agreement, they left the room as silently as the came. The weight of their meeting would be forgotten…
For now.
"Legolas?" Lyra questioned as they passed through the forest, the trees stretching high to the sky on either side of them.
"Hmm?" he answered, turning back to look at her. "What is it Lyra?" The young she-elf fidgeted, looking past him.
"You said that we while we're at the village, I have to do as you say? How come?" Legolas bit his lip and tapped his chin.
"Well… This is a settlement for the race of men." Lyra's eyes widened and her jaw dropped.
"Men? Legolas! How could you go to a village of men?" The prince winced and held up his hands defensively.
"Calm down Lyra. It's not that bad. Human settlements are interesting. There are a lot of things there that we elves wouldn't even think of!" She shook her head in disbelief at the young sovereign.
"Do your parents know that you have escapades to these settlements?" There was no answer and Lyra shook her head, disbelieving. "I don't believe this! I'm heading back!"
"Lyra!" Legolas called, exasperated. "Come on! It will be fun! I've been there before. It really isn't as bad as whatever you make it out to be." She sighed, looking up to the forest canopy as if asking for guidance on how to deal with him. She was so absorbed in her task, that she never noticed the prince slowing to the same pace in which Lyra was riding. "Hey," he said, laying a hand on her arm. "I'm sorry okay? I promise you that everything will be fine. You got nothing to worry about." She raised a brow before sighing, looking away with a large pout.
"Fine." He laughed and pulled ahead once again.
"Great! Follow my lead!" he kicked his heels against his steed and they shot off. It only took one shake of the head from Lyra before she was quick to go after him.
"Hey! Don't leave me behind!" Riding hard, she quickly pulled up next to him. He turned and gave her a cheeky grin before he sped ahead. Lyra's blinked before a huge smirk lit up her face. He was challenging her! Urging her mount with a swift kick to the side and spoken encouragement, they shot right past the young prince. The surprise on his face was obvious as she looked back. His confident smile was soon back on his face however, when he and Lyra were neck and neck. Suddenly, his hand shot out and took the reins from her hands, causing them both to come to a sudden stop. Lyra jerked in the saddle and her braid flipped over her face. Putting it back over her shoulder, she shot the prince a powerful glare.
"What the heck was that for? How about a little warning next time?" she snapped angrily. He put his finger to his lips and her mouth clamped shut, eyes roaming the woods. "Prince?"
"We're here." He grinned and dismounted, throwing up the hood of his cloak. When Lyra didn't move, he beckoned to her with his hand. "Come on. You don't want to sit up there forever do you?" She frowned, but slid off her horse's back anyway. "Here," He reached behind her and flipped up the cowl of her cloak. "There. That's to hide your ears!" He grinned and took her hand, pulling up his cloak at the same time.
"Why do we have to hide our ears?" she asked, getting tugged along behind him. "We are elves! We should be proud of our heritage!" He suddenly stopped and Lyra crashed into him from behind. "Ow! What are you doing?"
"Shh!" he hissed. "You know. The truth is that the humans here don't really see eye to eye with us from Mirkwood. As long as we don't reveal that we're elves, everything will go along fine." He smiled encouragingly as they neared the edge of the forest. "Come on Lyra. Don't you trust me?" She glared at him hard before all her breath left her lungs and she slumped.
"Yes. I do. Just… I hope you know what you're doing!" He gave her a cheeky grin and let go of her hand temporarily.
"Of course. I always know what I'm doing." He spoke into the ears of their horses and the two mounts faded back into the forest. "They'll come back when we need them." Lyra nodded and he took her hand again, pulling her closer to the edge of the forest.
"A-Actually I changed my mind!" she said, pulling back. "Can we go back to the palace Legolas?" He shook his head, a devious look in his eyes.
"And miss all the fun? You have got to be kidding!" Before Lyra could protest again, he tugged her one final time and they were out of the woods and into a large throng of people. He looked back at her to see her mouth agape. Lyra had never before seen anywhere this busy. Street performers danced in the pathways and people walked by. Vendors shouted their wares and everyone seemed to be having a good time. It was a heavy change from the grace and elegance of an elven hall. "So? Not bad huh?" Lyra snapped back to him and shook her head stupidly.
"I… Um… I guess not." Legolas laughed and pulled her into the crowd.
"Great! Now can you put a smile on your face?" She nodded and slowly, the corners of her lips turned up. He laughed and hooked his arm around her shoulders. "Wonderful! Let's go!" He ran off, Lyra coming up quickly behind him. He led her to the nearest vendor and smiled at the shopkeeper- a middle aged woman with round, rosy cheeks and a tummy that was obviously with child. "Good morning madam. How are you today?" She turned in the direction of Legolas' sweet voice in surprise.
"Oh my! Aren't you a handsome child?" Legolas grinned and Lyra raised a brow. At that very moment, she seemed to notice the young girl and smiled down at her. "And what an adorable little friend you have!" Lyra blushed and clutched the prince's arm tightly. He grinned at her before turning back to the shopkeeper who was chuckling quietly.
"Can we get two egg-glazed bread loafs?" The lady nodded and disappeared inside her shop for a moment, coming out not ten seconds later with two steaming packages. She handed them to Legolas with a smile.
"Here you go dearies"
"Thank you," Legolas replied. "How much do we owe you?" She held up her fingers and he nodded, fishing out the right amount from the pouch on his side. He handed it to her and she took it with a nod.
"Pleasure doing business with you. What are two doing out here today? Enjoying the sun?" Lyra didn't know what to say so she only clenched his arm tighter. Legolas however, had the same unwavering confidence as always so he merely smiled and nodded.
"Yes madam. It's too wonderful a day to stay inside." She smiled and turned away from them to another customer, but not before a final line.
"Alright! Have fun children!" Legolas smiled and pulled Lyra away, handing her the loaf as he did so. She stared down at it skeptically, not sure if this was something that she wanted to put in her mouth. It wasn't elven food after all. He rolled his eyes and to demonstrate that there was nothing wrong with the food, took a bite himself. After a long pause as she watched him chew the loaf most happily, she slowly raised it to her lips and tried it herself. She had to be honest with herself.
It wasn't all that bad.
A smile on her face, she followed behind the prince as they continued down the roads of the town. No one paid them any heed. Why would they? Children out on the road on a day like this weren't at all unusual.
Legolas stopped under a tree hanging over the street and pulled out a handkerchief, wiping his hands clean on the soft cloth. Lyra quickly stuffed the rest in her mouth as he passed her the cloth and Lyra's already not very sticky hands were cleaned. She made to put it in her own pocket, planning to wash it for him at the nearest stream, but he took it from her before she had a chance. As she looked up at him incredulously, he gave her a smile as he tucked it back in his bag. "You don't have to do me the service of washing it Lyra. You are my retainer, not my maid." Lyra nodded slowly, letting the words sink in. It sounded… strange coming from him. Her parents had always told her that their duty was to serve the royals of Mirkwood. Didn't this include the small things?
If Legolas had sensed what Lyra was feeling, he gave no indication of it, instead, giving her a pat on the back. "I got to go and perform an errand. Why don't you go wander around on your own?" She blanched. Wander around on her own? This was her first time in a human village and he wanted her to wander around on her own? The panic must have showed clearly on her face, for he gave her head a slight rub. "It's not a bad village. Keep your ears hidden and stay where there are many people around. Nothing will happen and we will meet back here in half an hour. Alright?" After a long bout of silence, Legolas began to fear that she would refuse. If she did, he could still go but he couldn't very well just leave her. He could order her to stay, but he didn't want to. That wouldn't be fair to her. As the thoughts were running through his head, he almost missed Lyra's nervous little nod.
"Okay. I'll go look around." He grinned, revealing a perfect row of flawless white teeth and gave her shoulder a light squeeze.
"Thanks Lyra. I appreciate it." He let go and jogged away, waving behind him. "See you in half an hour!" The little she-elf watched the prince's back as he disappeared, and she immediately looked around for somewhere that she could sit comfortably. She had just remembered that today was her own birthday and as a result, it was also the prince's. It wasn't clear what she could do, but she thought at least she should sit down and think of something to offer to her sovereign. Quickly spotting a tree with ample shade, she made a beeline through the crowd and plunked herself down underneath the branches.
She quickly drew her knees to her chest and yawned, leaning her cheek against her legs. "Stupid prince," she muttered under her breath, "Who drags a girl out of bed so early in the morning for no other reason then going to a village of men?" One of her hands dropped to the grass below and she ran her palm along the soft green ground. She stayed that way until the sun moved a little closer to the middle of the sky.
Now, Lyra was young and still tired from her early morning escapade, but there was no way that she wouldn't notice an approaching presence that seemed to be meant especially for her. Looking up quickly, she watched as a human lady wrapped in a cloak approached her. Her hand dropped to her waist where her knives lay concealed, her eyes gazed at the woman warily as she sat down by her side and turned so that Lyra could see her face.
She had an odd sort of face. A long elongated chin and large round eyes that glowed an eerie purple. The way they sparkled when she looked at her made Lyra's hair stand on end. Her eyebrows and cheeks were so high that they looked like mountains. Some of her brown hair stood out from her hood and framed her face and waxy skin so loose they hung of her cheeks. Right away, Lyra felt tight in the chest. She felt odd around her, but despite appearances, she felt almost safe, almost comfortable around this strange woman.
"Good morrow elf-child," she whispered, her voice like the sound water makes when it touches hot metal. The girl frowned, but her hand wandered away from the bright metal at her side.
"How did you know?" Lyra replied, finding herself unable to lie to that face. The woman chuckled, once again raising goose bumps.
"There are not many girls your age, with such intelligent eyes and developed face. You're not alone, are you?" Lyra stiffened.
"What are you talking about?" The woman laughed once again.
"You can't lie to me little Silverleaf," she said, her voice changing to resemble a snake gliding over cool river rocks. "I know everything there is to know about you and those around you." The elf scoffed.
"No one knows more about me than me. Don't be so cocky. Besides, that's impossible. No one can know everything." She smiled and Lyra drew back. As if knowing her name wasn't disturbing enough.
"Really? Are you really sure about that young one?" She laughed and held up a bony finger. "How about this. You take what I will give you and you pass it to the prince. You agree to that and I won't approach you or any of your kin again." She stood up and Lyra followed her with her eyes.
"What if I don't trust you? What if I want to refuse your request?" The woman's face was hidden by her cloak as she leaned in and whispered mere inches from the elf girl's face.
"You can't refuse. That has already been written in stone. Your choice now, no matter what you take, will lead to the same result in the near future, but a different choice, will be the difference between safety and a calamity in distant time." Lyra felt a small weight drop in her lap, but she couldn't look at it as her eyes were fixed on the woman. She smiled and stroked the girl's black hair under her cloak. "Thank you for the delightful conversation sweetheart." The woman blew into Lyra's eyes and in surprise, she squeezed them shut, her tear glands starting to work. The breath was like acid. Her eyes almost burned. Her hands flew to her face, rubbing them to alleviate some of the pain. When she opened them next, the woman was gone. Blinking the last of the sensation away, her gaze dropped down. Sitting innocently in the folds of her tunic, was a charm. Curiosity taking precedence over caution, she lifted the charm from her lap with the tip of her forefinger and thumb, and into the light.
It was small, that was her first impression of it, probably not that much bigger than her thumbnail. If she had to describe it, a small acorn would be a good comparison. It could be a light sapphire, but it also looked like a moonstone, and even a bit like peridot. There was a whole swirl of colors within the stone, but it couldn't even be called an opal. All in all, the identity of the type of the stone was a complete mystery. Lyra blew a few strands of hair out of her face and turned it around so that the light flashed through it. There was a small hole at the top and a knotted silver and gold cord ran through it. At first glance, it looked like elf-work, but yet it also seemed like dwarven jewelry. All in all, she couldn't tell what the make was, no matter how hard she tried. It was fairly pretty, she had to admit, but also slightly eerie. As she was examining it more, she felt a weight gather on her head.
Legolas flew across the ground after leaving Lyra, dodging people, animals and local botany alike as he came to an abrupt stop in front of a familiar shop. The wooden pillars were weak with age and looked like they could topple over with one gust of wind that was too strong. A horse shuffled around outside in its pen and the furnace in the back sent waves of heat all the way to where he was standing. It didn't look like the best place in town, but it was strangely popular. Loosening the cloak quietly at his neck, he stepped inside. Immediately, beads of sweat formed on his brow. The heat was more intense in here than it was outside, but yet he couldn't risk taking off his cloak, lest someone notices his lineage and exposes him. Stepping further in, he realized how uncomfortable the shop really was and wished that the keeper could have met with him outside.
"Flito!" Legolas called, cupping his hands around his mouth. "Silversmith! Where are you?" A large man emerged from behind a charred curtain, yawning.
"Quiet down young master," he said. "You're making a racket." The elf looked up at the human man. He hadn't changed at all really since yesterday, yet he couldn't really be expected to. Legolas' head only reached his chest and the brown beard he sported only seemed that much scragglier. His hair was messy and unkempt and his blue eyes were still red from lack of sleep.
"Did you fulfill my request?" The prince asked in his most authoritative tone. "I paid you quite a large sum to have it done by morning today." Flito rolled his shoulder, cracking his neck at the same time.
"Yes, yes. I got it. Really. I stayed up all night to make it. Look at my eyes. They are red and swollen from lack of sleep."
"Your eyes were like that yesterday when I came to see you." The smith shrugged.
"Well, fine, but still. I need my rest." Legolas nodded.
"I understand. I've come to retrieve my request and then I'll leave you to your rest." He nodded and left the elf, going into the back room and then coming back mere moments later, a small parcel wrapped in silk resting on his palm.
"Wasn't easy I tell you," he huffed, unwrapping the fabric, "You really now how to make someone's life difficult." Legolas took the object resting in the middle.
"Well I did give you ample compensation. I'm sure you understand." he said, a small smirk almost making its way onto his lips. Talking with the race of men was always so interesting. Even so, he had to admire the handiwork. For such a large man with large hands, his work was delicate. The silver was hammered into a small, thin sheet and shaped into leaves that you would see on the stems of flowers. Each vein was subtly lifted from the body, creating a sense of realism as he ran his fingers over it. The spot where the chain attached to the charm was carefully wrapped in a gold casing. Smooth and sparkling from a new polish, the work was a fine piece made by man. "It's very well made," Legolas commended, looking at all angles to make sure there was nothing the silversmith had missed.
"Well what did you expect?" Flito answered him, looking uninterested in the whole conversation. "If I took your order at all then you better believe that it's good." He lifted a finger and basically wagged it in front of the prince's face. "I don't take on anything that I don't know I can do well." Legolas had wrapped up the package and was already on the way to the door.
"I know! Thanks for all your help! Have a nice day and get some rest!" Bowing swiftly in front of the entrance, he departed the shop before the man had a chance to say anything. Running down the road, he stopped and looked back. Seeing that Flito hadn't decided to follow and talk some more, he breathed a sigh of relief. "By the Valar, that human sure can speak." Glancing back down in his hand, he smiled and wrapped the pendant back up, tying the knot at the top. "But he does his job well." Pursing his lips, he shielded his eyes and looked up at the sun. It was about time that he met up with Lyra again. Retracing his steps, he continued back to the spot where he had last seen her. When she wasn't in sight, he felt a bubble of panic rise in his throat, but then he realized that she couldn't be expected to stay at that spot. Once that revelation hit his head, he took some time to look around. Spotting the one in question under a tree, he smirked and snuck up on her, leaning his elbow on her head.
"You're full of openings." He said. She didn't even blink.
"So are you." His eyes travelled down, seeing the tip of her knife inches from his abdomen.
"I see." Legolas retracted his arm from her head and as he stuffed the packed charm in his pouch. He didn't notice Lyra do the same thing. "What have you been up to while I was gone?" he asked. She shrugged, standing up.
"Nothing. Just waiting for you to drag yourself back here. Honestly. How could you leave me here alone when I've never been here before?" Legolas chuckled, sheepishly, scratching the back of his head, offsetting some of his hair.
"Sorry. It was important," Rubbing her head again, he smiled. "How about I make it up to you?" She huffed, sticking out her lip as she crossed her arms across her chest.
"I'm not a child. I don't need you rubbing my head." A moment after she said it, she realized how childish it did sound. She hoped that Legolas wouldn't notice, but it appeared that her hopes were in vain. His right lip quirked and he took his hand back.
"Of course. We're both kids, but I'm that much older than you." Lyra scowled and without another word, stalked off towards the direction they came from. "H-Hey!" he ran after her, catching up easily after three long strides. "Sorry, but I just couldn't resist."
"Just because I'm one hundred years younger than you doesn't mean that you have to treat me like I'm so much younger than you." Legolas sighed.
"I'm sorry alright?" She whirled on him.
"Are you? You always apologize and then just find new ways to irritate me." A nervous look came onto the prince's face as he fiddled with his belt straps.
"Well… I wasn't trying to get you to feel that way. I wanted you to feel more welcome." She raised an eyebrow incredulously.
"Oh? That's a unique method of trying to make someone feel more welcome. Treat them like a fool. Is that it?" He opened his mouth to argue, but Lyra raised her hand, palm facing right towards him. "Never mind. It doesn't matter. I know that your heart is in the right place." She adjusted the cloak on her head and attempted a small smile on her face. "Let's just go back? I don't want to stay here anymore." Legolas' head was reeling. One moment she was snarling at him and the next moment she was telling him that there was no problem with what he was doing. On another note, she wanted to go back home. Home. It rolled so easily in his mind. Mirkwood was her home now and he should do everything in his power to make her love it as much as he does.
"The palace? Why? Didn't you enjoy your morning?" She looked at him murderously for a split second, quickly deciding to leave out the parts about how he snuck into her room in the dark, pulled her out before the sun had even risen and then just left her in a strange human village.
"It was fun and new in a way, but I think I've had enough of new things for today. Ada and naneth will be worried, and so will King Thranduil and her lady queen." Legolas stood still, brows slightly furrowed as he thought about what she said. It did make sense, and the more he thought about his mother, the more anxious he felt. He knew his father wouldn't mind and Lyra's parents were unlikely to care all that much either, but he knew that the partner monarch of Mirkwood would be most displeased.
"Point taken," he said quickly, shrugging. "Shall we?" She nodded vigorously.
"Please," she whispered quietly. He smiled gently and gripped her hand again, taking the lead.
"Come on. No sense dawdling if you want to leave." Weaving through the streets, they made their way back to the edge of the forest. Past midday, the amount of people in the streets had dwindled, and it was easier to move without bumping into other bodies. A few adults glanced at them as they made their way back to the forest, but turned back to their work without much thought. To them, two children heading to the woods weren't all that unusual. It was not unsafe if they were careful to stay on the path. Of course, they would never think that these two children were older than their family put together and that they had no intention to stay on the path. No one so much as looked at them again as they stepped into the forest and was swallowed up by the darkness.
Legolas let out a slow whistle as soon as the light began to fade from behind him and muffled steps could be heard. A small rustle of the bushes came next and then both Sûl and Raina trotted out to greet their companions. Lyra didn't think that she'd ever been happier to be back in the comfort of something familiar and she gratefully hugged her filly. Legolas smiled and stood by her side, kneeling down and holding his fingers together once again. This time, Lyra glanced down at him and without saying a word, stepped lightly into his hand and he lifted her up. She smiled at him from the saddle and Legolas, not wanting to say anything to spoil the present good relations, merely smiled in return.
He stepped away after a moment and into the stirrup of his own saddle, taking a seat. Taking the reins in his hand, he made sure that Lyra was ready and waiting before tapping his mount's sides, galloping off back into the forest.
The time it took to get back to the palace took a lot longer than getting out. This time, they had to be concerned about lookouts, servants and others of the royal court. They were no doubt missed already and getting caught now would do neither of them good. They would be questioned, asked where they had gone if their horses were discovered with them, though there horses would have no doubt been discovered missing as well. They could no longer use the front gates, so Legolas brought them to the back where an unused entrance was their savior. They managed to get their horses rubbed down and back in their stalls without being caught, and they snuck back in the palace without many problems either. However, Lyra couldn't shake a feeling.
"Legolas…" she started. He turned to her.
"Yes?"
"Don't you think this is odd?" She stopped walking for a moment and looked around her before continuing. "It was so quiet and there were hardly anyone in the halls." The young prince glanced left and right before setting his eyes back front.
"I noticed as well. It's strange. Normally around dinnertime everyone is up and about." He laid a hand on his knife and stepped toward the main hall's large double doors. Lyra followed his lead and did the same. Crouching down lowly, they nodded at each other, but before they could do anything, the doors were thrust open and a chorus of voices attacked their ears.
"Congratulations!" The two elflings stood side-by-side and completely shocked as their parents stepped forward. Idhrenion and Alya went to their daughter, embracing her gently as Thranduil and Mirima did the same to their son.
"What's going on ada?" the young prince asked. The king stood back, stroking his son's hair.
"It's your birthday isn't it? You and young Lyra." Once again, the elflings were caught looking at each other. Sure it was their birthday, but why all the fuss? As if reading their mind, Mirima smiled.
"You two have never celebrated a birthday together before. We thought that we would make it memorable for you." Legolas stepped forward and wrapped his arms around the waists of his parents.
"Thank you," he whispered and they nodded. Lyra and her parents did the same. The hall stood in silence as they say the proceedings. A loud clang broke the silence and they all looked to the back of the room where Calanon stood on one of the tables, holding a ladle and metal bowl in hand.
"Thank you very much my lords and ladies, but the children must be hungry! Don't just stand there! Let the feasting begin!" Both Alya and Mirima shot him sharp looks, but their male counterparts only laughed, along with a vast majority of the elves in attendance, including Legolas and Lyra.
"Of course Calanon! Thank you very much!" Thranduil chortled. Clapping his hands, the crowd dispersed onto the tables. Legolas and Lyra were ushered to the front with their parents and they all stood, goblets in hand, filled with fruit nectars and fine elixirs alike. "A toast! To my son and dearest niece. Both of them have hit a monumental time in their lives, the turn of their centuries. May their years ahead be prosperous and happy!" Not a single voice was left out as the cheer rose to complete the toast.
All that came next was mostly a blur to the prince and his retainer. There was a lot of food and drink, grander and more delicious than what they had the night before. There were performers of sorcery in which everyone watched in delight along with soothing music and dance. Endless congratulations were rampant and the air was buzzing with energy. It seemed like forever since the night started, but when no one was watching, Legolas got ahold of Lyra and together, they slipped from the party, away from the stifling throng of bodies and clamor of too many sounds at once from music, to singing to happy merrymaking. He led her away from the warmth of the palace until both sound and light faded away entirely.
"Legolas…" came Lyra's soft voice. "It's already really dark out. We shouldn't have left like that." He snickered.
"Don't worry. They won't even notice we left. Just trust me. I know where I'm going." She wasn't convinced, but what choice did she have? If she went back alone, questions would definitely be asked, and she would be expected to answer. She was so absorbed, that she didn't even notice when Legolas parted a branch and led her out. "Lyra? Come on. Back to the present." She jumped and stared at him. Smiling, he gestured out and her eyes followed, widening when she laid eyes on where they were.
It was the clearing where she had accidentally stumbled into only a day before.
Only this time, it was full of fireflies. Compared to the brightness of day, there was a different majesty about the spot at night. The serene rays of the moon lit up the pond, illuminating it. The fireflies danced through the air, leaving little trails of yellow light behind them. As one came close to them, Lyra's face lit up in a smile.
"It's so pretty!" she exclaimed, laughing as she reached out to touch it. The small bug landed on her outstretched hand and flew away only seconds later. "Is it always like this at night?" Legolas shook his head.
"Not always. It actually only happens a few times a year." He stepped forward and raised his hand, touching one. It flew away in a hurry. "It's ironic though. Fireflies have such a short lifespan, but yet their beauty stays with us, even when they're gone." Lyra nodded.
"It's really different from us." Legolas laughed and walked to the center of the clearing, immediately letting himself fall onto his back on the ground.
"You're right. It is. Ada and naneth told me that sometimes, it's really hard to tell the difference between what divine beauty is." She followed his example, but sat down next to him instead of lying on the ground.
"Isn't it too early to think about that?" she asked and he merely crossed his arms under his head.
"I don't know. I don't think it really makes much of a difference in the long run." He turned over onto his side and his face went serious. "Anyway. Pondering the meaning between elves and other creatures isn't why I brought you here today."
Lyra raised a brow, suddenly feeling self-conscious. Why was he looking at her like that? Then, as quickly as that face came, it was gone and he pulled out a small pouch. She pulled her braid to the front, fiddling with it as she watched him. What could possibly be in such a small bag? "Legolas?" He didn't say anything, but opened it and pulled out something wrapped in silk. He looked up at her finally, holding out his hand, palm up. Not quite understanding, Lyra followed his lead and he took her wrist, placing the parcel lightly in her hand. Unexpectedly, it had a weight to it. Not really heavy, but substantial. Her eyes travelled to his and he smiled, nodding at it.
"Go on. Open it." She looked down suspiciously at it, but did as she was told, unfolding the silk. When she pushed away the final fold, she couldn't help but gasp. The expression of shock quickly changed, and she smiled down at it. A silver leaf, so delicate in form and fine in detail, that she would immediately assume that it was made by elves and maybe by dwarves, but not very likely. But, the more she thought about it, the more both seemed unlikely, and the more men became likely.
"Legolas," she started, "Is this what you went to get when you left me in the village earlier today?" He chuckled, scratching the back of his head.
"Guess I was found out." Grinning, he rested his head on his hand. "Well… I wanted to make you feel welcome. To give you something from me for your birthday. I'm sorry that I had to deceive you to do it."
She looked at him, then at his gift, then back. She beamed at him, honestly giving Legolas a start.
"Thank you. I'll treasure your gift." His cheeks turned a bit pink, but it was barely visible in the low light. Turning away, he stared at the sky.
"You're welcome. I'm just glad you like it." She nodded, but then reached into her own pocket. The stone still lay there in her pocket. She heard the woman's voice through her head again.
"You can't refuse. That has already been written in stone. Your choice now, no matter what you take, will lead to the same result in the near future, but a different choice, will be the difference between safety and a calamity in distant time."
Lyra glanced at Legolas and when he wasn't looking, she pulled the charm from her pocket and held it precariously in her palm. She stared at it and took a deep breath. It was now or never. "Legolas," she called out gently and he turned, quick as a bolt.
"Yes?" She held out her hand and put the charm in his hand.
"Happy Birthday." The prince blinked, disbelieving as he stared down at the charm in his hand before his face completely lit up.
"Thanks Lyra! I never would have expected this! It means a lot to me." This time, it was her turn to blush and she turned away.
"I'm glad you like it," she murmured, furiously fidgeting with her hair. He snickered and tapped her knee. She turned, questioning the purpose of his action.
"Hey Lyra! Let's make a promise." If she was perturbed before, she was even more so now.
"A promise? What about?" He sat up, looking down at her.
"That we'll always be together." She gave him a look.
"That's so childish Legolas." He frowned.
"Why would it be childish? Our fathers have been together for almost their entire lives. Why can't we?" She sighed, thinking about whether she actually had a response for it. Finding none, she nodded.
"You're right." He grinned in triumph. Lyra glared at him. That was a face that she already decided she disliked. It made her feel incompetent.
"Thank the Valar!" His face fell. "How should we do it?" Lyra pulled out her knife immediately.
"Blood pact," he withdrew.
"You can't be serious." She cocked her head.
"Why not? The adults have always done it this way." He sighed.
"That's because," he stopped midsentence and sighed. "Never mind. Let's do it then." He took out his own knife and pricked Lyra's finger and she did the same. Holding hands and the hilt of their swords, they recited the ancient oath that their parents had took before them. "Though it's not official, it's still a serious promise… Right?" She nodded.
"Uh huh." He smiled and took her hand, kissing the back.
"So we'll be together starting today, correct?" She nodded and he smiled, pulling her down so that they could watch the stars together. Unknown to them, a shooting star had just passed above their heads not too long ago, in fact, as soon as they finished their oath. It was like the god of Middle Earth himself, blessed the ancient partnership of the two families, and wished for them to unite each generation once again.
Like it always has been.
((Sorry for the long wait. I actually rushed a lot on this chapter, so it might not be as good, but I hope you all like it anyway! Thanks!))