Hey again! As you've probably noticed, I update on the weekends so here I am. Took a while to write this. Sort of losing motivation…
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"Merith. Merith, dear!" The soft voice interrupted Merith's slumber and she opened her eyes. Standing alertly above her bed was Melawen, her long hair knit back into a braid, uniform straight and freshly ironed. Her eyes were wide and persistent. Merith had the sudden urge to push her away. But she resisted knowing she was only doing her job, no matter how much Merith liked to be on her own.
"Yes…Lady Melawen?" she groggily replied. "What is so impertinent that you- Oh my!" Merith jumped up, blankets flying out beneath her. "What's the time?" She now stood on her feet, scrambling over to her clothes. "Am I late?" She began to shake her hands in an anxious flutter, a nervous habit she had developed. "What do I put one first? Do I need to bathe? Do I-"
"Lady Merith!" The sharp rise in her voice stopped Merith. Seeing it had caught her, Melawen backed into apologizes. "You are not late, my lady. But I thought you might need help getting ready. We have some customs for dressing as you will be attending as a family guest. Arwen sent me. But we do have little time." She paused, staring at Merith weirdly. "I have never seen an elf sleep so deeply…"
"Well I'm awake now." She replied slightly impatiently. "So let's go ahead and do what you need to."
Merith still did not know how all this worked, having people to wait one you. Arwen had told her that she would accompany with Legolas, making her a date of royalty. This meant she would need to dress a certain way. Normally she would object, but they had given her so much…it didn't seem like much harm.
Although she did wonder why the prince had no date of his own. Perhaps it was because he was a prince no more…Temporarily at least. Where the maidens in his district really that shallow? Or had he rejected them for her? She didn't really care. She was just excited to be invited.
"Of course Lady Merith" Melawen spoke, interrupting her thoughts. "We shall start with your bath."
Merith wasn't keen to having strangers undress her but she figured it would soon become a routine. Melawen ran her bath and helped her untie her night gown. Merith had not realized the complexity of the one piece of fabric. She wiggled impatiently as Melawen untied the backing. Then Melawen politely stepped out, announcing she would pick out Merith's gown. Merith giggled slightly; glad the maid had become aware of her wants. Merith thought about telling her of the outfit she had set out but figured she would find it on her own. So she simply sunk deeper in the hot water, scrubbing generously.
When Merith had fully cleansed herself, Melawen reentered the bathroom. She now held a green gown on her arm, one similar to the turquoise in design, but threaded with silver. She hadn't seen it in closet but she liked the color and didn't mind slipped into it. The cool fabric contrasted with the warmth the bath had left and it created an odd feeling. The back was even more complex than the night gown and it took nearly five minutes to lace up. Then Melawen crossed behind her, started to pull at her hair. Merith reached back to stop her but Melawen swatted her hand away.
"Sorry, Lady Merith. You cannot have your hair in a bun today." She wove side braids into her dark hair, leaving the rest undone. The waves fell to her waist, hitting the exact stitch line of the fabric. Looking down, Merith realized the fabric grew darker the longer it fell- the summer grass turning into a leafy green. The change was almost uncatchable. It seemed to only happen just at the moment when the sun leaking in hit. Green and silver, the colors of Mirkwood…That was strange. Why was she portraying the area that she was not from? She turned to ask Melawen but decided not to interrupt the process.
Melawen finished with her hair and returned to face her. "Perfect." She was greatly pleased in her work as if Merith was a disaster before and she created a princess. In the mirror, Merith could see silver flashes hidden in the braids. Then she watched as Melawen placed a leafed band across her head. Stepping closer to her reflection she noticed the great familiarity. Glancing at her finger she realized it was an exact replica of the band, only wider.
"Where did you find this?" Merith whispered sharply.
"It…it was in a box…on the dresser?" The maid looked confused.
"Oh…of course…yes, I forgot." Merith backed away from the mirror, crossing back into her room. What box? She saw it perched on the dark wood, silver in color. It resembled the one she had found the ring in. Reaching over, she felt the smooth box. This…this I still do not remember.
"Lady Merith?"
Merith caught herself and placed the box back on the shelf. Then she went over to take the shoes from Melawen's outstretched hands. They were the gold sandals she had previously picked out and she gratefully laced them around her legs. Then she stood up, refusing to look back at the box.
"Thank you, Lady Melawen. For assisting me."
"It is only my job." The maid bowed and quickly exited the room, as if Merith's gratitude had scared her.
Oops. Sitting down on her long-chair, Merith couldn't help but smile slightly. This world, this world of royalty and riches was very strange indeed. It was something they would have laughed at at home. The village of Merico liked to live more simplistically. She wished she could tell her mother, the one person of stability she used to have in her life. But her mother was gone.
A single tear slid down her face. Her whole life had been taken in that orc pillage. And now she didn't know where she was to go. This scared her and she began to tense. Merith did not like surprises. They struck fear deep within her heart. Tapping her foot slightly against the wood, she glanced at the door. When was Legolas to come? Now that Melawen was gone she felt strangely alone. Anxiety built up with each second that passed. When he finally knocked upon the oak wood, Merith jumped. Breathing out deeply, she soothed her dress and stepped over to the door. Sighing one more time, she opened it, letting his tall figure fill the frame.
"You look lovely, Lady Merith." He bowed to her and she curtsied back. It was all very proper.
"As do you." He offered an arm, and she shakily took it.
"Are you ok?" His blue eyes flashed with a quiet concern.
"Oh…yes. Just a little overwhelmed." She straightened out. "But I'm fine. We may go now." He nodded and then began to walk, and she fell into his stride. She noted his fresh tunic of green and silver, shades identical to her own.
"Legolas…why do we have matching clothes?"
He acted startled, as if he had just noticed. "Perhaps it was of Arwen's doing?"
"Or does it have something to do with your father?" She stopped him from walking any further. "Because I think we all know I am not from Mirkwood."
He sighed, grabbing her hand. "Merith, I am truly sorry for what I am about to do but I needed this."
Merith pulled her hand away. "Needed what?"
He sighed again. "I…I talked to my father. I apologized for, well…yes and he accepted knowing most of it was no fault of mine. But he was still weary upon returning my title. So he told me that I must show a returned stability. And in order for that, I would need a…well…"
"Am I pretending to be your LOVE interest?" Merith looked at him in awe. She certainly had not been informed of this.
"No not exactly…well…I'm really sorry Merith. I didn't set this up. My father and Lord Elrond are old friends and they were the ones to arrange for this. Many people from Mirkwood are to attend and they need to see me moving forward."
"By USING me?" Anger grew within her, her face flushing red. She wanted to pull of the gown with disgust. It no longer seemed graceful and beautiful. It looked false. She didn't mind him accompanying her but using her was a different story.
"I am very sorry! It's only for today. I know someone should have asked your permission but my father usually doesn't prefer to act in that manner. You do not have to do anything other than stay at my side and introduce yourself….If it's too much, I understand…" He glanced at the ground, much like a boy caught in a mischievous act. She knew his words were probably true.
"No, no…It's fine…If it's only for today…" Besides, she felt bad. He too had lost everything- his kingdom, his life. And if she could offer help…
"But why me?" she asked. The question had just occurred to her.
"I told my father that I already promised to take you and I would have it no other way."
"Am I still going as Merith of Merico?"
"Yes. Of course." His smile reached the sides of his face and it caught onto Merith.
"Then let's get this over with."
...
The wedding was to be held in the Great Field. The spring flowers now burst through the thick soil, flashing pastel colors. A sweet summer breeze brushed by the stems, causing them to sway. A path of cream chairs was placed down the middle, laced with vines. The sky was a pale blue and several clouds danced beneath the sun. It smelled of spring in the air, a warm comforting scent.
A few guests were already gathered, eagerly chatting for the awaited arrival of the event. Merith could tell where each was from based of the colors hanging from their skin. If not, she could see the distinct features of humanity which meant they must be from Gondor. Only a few of were there and they stood in awe at the elven world, gasping at each detail. Merith found it comical for she had been the same way only yesterday.
Legolas now led her around the grass laid floors, greeting his fellows. Each time Merith would curtsy and spit out a nervous short blurb of herself. The people would smile, only not of her. They smiled for the return of their prince. And that made Merith regret her former anger towards the situation. All the people seemed relieved that he was ok. If he actually is. Legolas seemed like one to easily hide his pain.
But he kept up with his smiles, leading her around with his arm around her waist. Every once and a while they would both look at each other and burst into giggles, laughing at the absurdity of the situation. This probably helped the lie look even more convincing. They received a knowing wink from Lord Elrond and laughed even more.
After they mingled for a little longer, Legolas led her over to their seats. They sat in the second aisle, next to the seat where Legolas' father would be. Merith abruptly got up when she saw him approach, saying she had get a drink. Legolas gave an odd look at this comment until he was covered by the shadow of his father.
"Ada!" Legolas embraced him happily, his voice escalating into a higher tone. Merith watched from her distance as the man let go slightly, shaking him off. Legolas dropped his arms to his side in defeat. Then they shuffled oddly, until both sitting down. They were an awkward looking family.
Merith saw the seriousness on the king's face as he spoke to Legolas and the slump in the young elf's shoulders as he heard his father's words. She guessed he was saying something along the lines of "Don't mess up." Legolas straightened up again, much like an officer receiving a command. It was like a business affair. Merith didn't enjoy watching. After she had waited a respectable time, she returned to her seat.
"And this must be her!" The king offered a hand and shook hers warmly. "You are Merith, yes? The one accompanying my son. Well, I could tell by your outfit but I just wanted to make sure. Our colors suit you well! You could easily pass off as a princess in such a lovely dress."
"Father." Legolas mumbled. The king simply continued to smile, unaware of the awkward situation.
"Yes, I am Lady Merith. Of Merico. It's a pleasure to meet you." She retook her seat next to Legolas and he turned to her.
"Again, I am sorry," he whispered warmly in her ear. She smiled back, about to speak until she was interrupted by the king.
"So tell me about yourself. Don't spare a single detail. After all, you may be a future member of Mirkwood itself!"
Merit glanced at Legolas. Yes. Sorry for that.
...
Merith continued to answer every question, casually tossing aside any mention of princesses. The king seemed persistent on making her beauty pertinent, her graces known. Again and again he complimented her…or rather pointed out that she looked fine in green. He didn't hide his wishes easily either. It was very obvious that the king wanted Legolas to find a partner soon. They probably had even discussed this. Did…did he think they were in love?"
"No, he does not. It's only for show." Another cool whispered brushed by her ear, only faint enough for her to catch it. They held eye contact and she signified a thanks. The king was still unaware of their exchange and continued on. Merith had resulted to simply nodding until another known guest sat down on the other side of his father, saving her.
"Pelon! Please, sit!"
Thank you, she sighed. The ordeal was getting to be a little more overwhelming.
Now nearly all the chairs had been filled, the valley no longer vast but lined with the faces of many friends from many lands. The voices around had grown and she could make out at least three distinct foreign tongues.
"Aragorn has many friends." Legolas spoke, noticing her interest.
"Yes, he really does. Do you know many?"
"I know the names of roughly half but I only truly know a few. The fellowship will be here soon. Those are the guests you should get to know. Amazing people, each and every one of them. I could take you to meet them in avoidance of…more questions." He smirked and Merith gave him a stern look.
"Now whose fault is it that I am enduring this?"
It was an odd relationship that the two had developed. Both were relatively easy going near each other and Merith felt no restraints of uncomfortableness. She knew he was only there under his father and Elrond's wishes. But it was still nice to have someone there. It was a little strange that the person be male for at this age, the two genders usually intertwined when marriage was in question. Which, she guessed, made sense considering that that was what they were portraying. But they were still strangers and the picture painted was far from the truth. She still didn't know much about him.
Merith had never really considered marriage. Or rather, she did not remember loving anyone besides her family. But so many couples surrounded her now. Was she behind? It was strange to consider elves acting in time frames, given their immortal ages. But many found love quickly after entering "adult hood". She was surprised that Legolas was alone. It wasn't as if he was bad looking…quite the opposite if she may say so. She wanted to ask him about it but it would probably be considered rude and an invasion of personal space. She would have to contain her curiosity.
Legolas rose suddenly, breaking her thoughts. Merith could hear a coarse voice in the background, complaining loudly followed by a man's laugh.
"All this pointy-ears! Where are all the dwarfs?"
"Perhaps we're at the wrong place. There obviously should be more dwarfs..."
"Exactly!"
Legolas gestured for Merith to follow then ran up to embrace his old friends. She watched awkwardly from the side as he greeted the four hobbits, a dwarf, and a man. They all seemed in good will except perhaps one, the hobbit closest to her. While the others laughed, he politely smiled, his eyes wandering into oblivion.
"This is Merith, my father's date."
She smiled until she realized what he said, and she then quickly opened her mouth to explain but was cut off.
"She looks like a feisty one, she does. You might need to watch out for her," the dwarf chuckled.
"Now, now Gimli… I think she looks perfectly harmless and quite lovely. I am Faramir by the way." The man bowed slightly and Merith returned with a smile. "This is Gimli. Feel free to ignore him," he added, giving the dwarf a look. The dwarf grumbled something, perhaps an apology.
"Now don't forget us!" piped a hobbit. Merith turned to face the halflings. Three of them had light brown hair, the color of caramel. The last was of a darker shade, closer to her own. He was the quiet one.
"I am Pippin. The smartest and best of the group. I single handedly let them all with my brains and wits," he bragged, puffing out his chest.
"And I am Merry, the actual smart one." This comment caused the other to put on a face of offense.
"You could have let me lead her on a but more..."
"And I am Sam. And this here is Frodo." The larger one spoke, nodding towards him, and Frodo lifted his head slightly, muttering a greeting. The one called Sam shifted in front of Frodo, in a protective manner. She knew that Frodo must have been the ring bearer merely by appearance. His eyes darted around, unclear of their destination. His body seemed still and worn. She almost pitied him.
"Pleasure to meet you all. I am Lady Merith from Merico."
"Ahh yes, I have been there once before. It was a lovely place, small and quaint," spoke the man. "Only once," Faramir added, seeing the excitement in her eyes. Merith blushed causing more laughter.
"Let's take our seats. It's probably starting soon. And we can all watch as Aragorn comically proclaims his love," Legolas said easily, leading them back to their spot.
"And Legolas can tell us about him tantrum," spoke Gimli. Merith glanced at Legolas but he kept a tight grin. Was Gimli referring to his years in solitude? If so…it's not really a joking matter. But Merith assumed Legolas hadn't told them the severity. The only reason she knew was because he told her in order to gain her trust. Maybe the others didn't know at all.
Merith found it curious how she was already so easily placed in the society. In only four hours she had met hundreds. Of course, she was under the false pretense of being a possible Mirkwood princess. But at least she knew who they were if they didn't know her herself. And now she sat with the real fellowship. And Faramir.
Wow. They had really done it. She finally came to terms with that fact. Legolas…the hobbits….the dwarf…They had all fought for the lives of Middle Earth. It was truly amazing. Her curiosity grew so she turned to one of the hobbits not engaged in the exchange with Legolas.
"It's Pippin, right?"
"Yes, miss Merith?"
"Do you mind…err… telling me about the fellowship? I'm sorry...it's just so...amazing" she questioned slyly. The hobbits eyes lit up and he jumped straight in, proceedimg to tell of some of the journeys with great animation. He told her he'd skip the bad parts and he spoke on and on till the rest of the crowd had silenced.
"But we got away from them, it was really-" Realizing the silence, his voice slowly faded away, filled with Lord Elrond's.
"Welcome all! We are gathered here today..." His booming voice blanketed over the crowd and they all turned to face him. He stood under the alter, next to a man she assumed was Aragorn. When had he arrived? The king of Gondor stood anxiously waiting as the Elvin king gestured for the music to start.
A sweet symphony filled the air and everyone turned once again to face the oncoming bride. Merith gasped. Everything about Arwen was beautiful. Her hair was intricately laced with gold, each delicate strand hanging loosely, dancing in the sun. The dress she wore was of cream lace, filled with designs of small flowers. It fell down to her feet and trailed behind her. The gown was also threaded with gold, the warm color weaving in between the small petals, complimenting her fair skin. In her hand she held a bouquet of pink flowers yet their shade was light, like the color of a baby's cheeks when it laughed. She smiled radiantly, her whole figure glowing.
Merith glanced back at Aragorn. His face was filled with great love and astonishment; it was as if he still couldn't believe it was happening. When Arwen reached him it looked as if they were both trying as hard as they could not to embrace each other on the spot. Merith could feel the moment building in front of her. It was truly beautiful. She was able to watch as two souls were bound together. The union of two people, two races.
They each said their own and placed the rings on their index fingers. Cermony played out. Then they finally kissed, simplistically and beautifully. The crowd stood up and cheered, Merith joining them. The couple smiled at them all, remaining in a dreamy state. Aragorn still held Arwen in his arms.
...
"Congratulations my friend!" Legolas said brightly. The newlyweds had completed the ceremony and now moved unto the reception. The chairs had been moved out and brighter music played around the hanging lanterns, replacing the fading sun.
"Thank you, Legolas. You know how much it means to me that you came."
"I wouldn't have missed it."
"Well I suppose we owe it all to Merith! Great to see you again!" Aragorn faced her, smiling.
Merith laughed uncomfortably. "I'm sorry, I don't think we've actually met before nor did I save Legolas. He was the one to save me."
Behind her, Legolas widened his eyes towards Aragorn, trying to get him to read his mind. No.
Aragorn seemed to catch on, wittedly replying, "I meant Legolas' spirits. He was getting bored with all the elves in our lovely city!"
Merith's cheeks redden again. That seemed to be happening a lot at the celebration. "Oh, we aren't actually…I'm just…" She felt a warm hand on her shoulder and stopped talking.
"It's ok, I'll explain it to him. Just give us a moment."
She nodded, watching as Legolas led him off.
...
"TWICE? You gave her Mirona twice?"
"It was her choice and it-"
"But that is not to be used unless in extreme cases! She would have recovered finely. "Aragorn's voice rose in the coming night, causing Legolas to wince.
"The first time was because of her parents, we had no control over that. But she wouldn't have healed. She realized we used it on her and she tried to search for answers that did not want to be found. It was a necessity."
"So what does she know?"
"We allowed her to create a story." Legolas proceeded to replay the scenario in front of him. Aragorn tried to jump in several times but Legolas continued till he was through. The man nodded in understanding.
"So a new start?"
"Precisely."
"Sounds like something you could have used, my friend," Aragorn spoke lightly.
"Yes…yes indeed. But that doesn't matter. Lets just go enjoy this fine wedding of yours"
...
The night passed by in a blur. Merith remembered dancing with several of the hobbits and Legolas. Legolas and she had danced to so many songs she couldn't even remember the number. Most were fast paced, their bodies spinning quickly, her feet caught in a tangle. She was truly aweful and many of the others backed away in caution.
These songs were followed by some slower ones where Legolas awkwardly held her body close to his own. They were still spaced but he now touched her lightly. She closed her eyes, inhaling his scent. He smiled of the woods- that indescribably smell all elves came to love. But it wasn't quite that. It was mixed with sunlight- if that was even a smell. But that's the only way she could describe it. It reminded her of early morning when the sum leaked through the canopy.
She wondered what he was thinking about at the moment. Was he familiarizing himself with her? She probably smelled of soap; she had used so much this morning in her anxious dressing.
"Merith, my dear…you smell very strongly of…soap." Yes. There it was. But at least now she knew what he was thinking. She didn't respond, instead letting the music play on. They swayed longer, finally locking eyes.
"Thank you for doing this. It means a lot to me. Especially since you barely know me." His warm voice pulled her closer to him.
"It really is no problem. After all it's only for one night. And everyone has been so kind to me, especially you." She breathed out. It was hard to speak with his strong arms grabbing her waist.
"Well I'm very gracious, never the less…You are really beautiful by the way. Green suits you even if it isn't your home color. It sets off your eyes."
"Oh Legolas, I'm sure you say that to all your fake dates." Merith joked, not wanting to submit to his compliment. He was probably just being kind.
"Actually, I've never really been on many dates…" he mumbled, looking at the ground.
"Really? But you're…You're Prince Legolas!" she replied incredulously, stopping their dance.
"Exactly. That how most of the maidens saw me. As a prince. A busy prince may I add."
"Well then thank you for the previous compliment. You're doing well for such few dates."
"I meant it too. You look lovely. It's strange though, Merith…You just don't feel like a stranger to me at all. It feels easy."
"What do you mean by easy?"
"I'm not sure how to explain it…" His eyes left the floor, returning to her. Merith saw the great intensity and emotion they held and she understood what he meant. Easy like friendship.
"Legolas. I know I've only known you for two days but I think I'd like to spend more with you. How about you show me how you spend your time in Rivendell? I should probably acquire a few hobbies." She tried to lighten the mood before it became to serious.
"Sounds like a fine plan. But I don't think you can wear that dress again. Maybe something more of your own personal style."
"Thank goodness. I didn't like it much anyway." She feigned disgust and he laughed. She is quite comical. And curious. Exactly like the first day they met. Or the second really. She was oddly compelling in her manner.
The music died down and Legolas let go of Merith though the warmth lingered.
"I'll let you go now. You are prisoner no more." He smiled her off and she took it as her key to leave.
"Yes. I wanted to talk to someone anyway," she said, giving him an excuse to leave. He probably wanted to rejoice with his friends more. His friends. Merith almost forgot about them. They reminded her that she still wasn't a part of any circle no matter what plans she had just made.
She knew that he'd be back to escort her up to her room but Merith didn't feel like waiting. She wanted out of the fancy attire, longing for the soft sheets. Slowly she began to follow the path back to the palace.
"Leaving now?"
Arwen's soft voice startled her as they crossed paths.
"Oh yes. Thank you for inviting me. It was a truly pleasurable time." Merith said politely. She hasn't realized Arwen was there. Was Merith being rude by leaving?
"It was my pleasure. And Merith, you really don't need to be so formal with me." She giggled slightly. "You live in my home now. That makes us nearly family."
A slight oh was all she could manage making Arwen's laughter grow.
"I'm serious though. Now that my wedding is coming to an end I would like to get to know the strange girl that stumbled upon our grounds. You seem very nice and I could always use another girl to hang out with."
"Yes! That sounds nice." She stuttered.
"Ok then. I'll stop by. Perhaps I can show you my favorite things to do around her, get you more familiar. Rivendell has much more to offer than you saw on that short tour."
"That would be wonderful, Lady Arwen. Thank you so much. Oh and congratulations if I hadn't said before."
"Oh thank you! Which reminds me, I must return to my husband! I will see you later!"
"Goodbye."
When Merith finally reached her room, she closed her eyes with gratitude. What a wonderful day.
...
"Now tell us about this girlie you have"
The group of friends sat, circling a table full of drinks and party food. The food lay mostly untouched but much of the wine had disappeared.
"Oh she's only a girl I met with a very complicated past. Im helping her out."
"Seems to me like she's the one helping you," Faramir remarked.
Legolas laughed and the others joined in.
But she sort of was...it was nice having someone there who didn't quite know you enough to make assumptions. It was like having a clean slate. She didn't know the full details of his last years unlike the other maidens in Mirkwood. Most now feared him. He hadn't meant for it to become that way. But it would take more than a false date to fix the mistrust. He knew that. But he also knew that he liked Rivendell. He liked being away from his birthright. It was the closest he got to his own Mirona without having to lose it all.
Hope you enjoyed. I had serios lack of motivation but I did it just for all you faithful readers!