I am the black sheep of my family my name is Lurin, always a shadow to my brother Eldarion.
I am known for my free-spirited nature and strong-willed personality. However, I often find myself overwhelmed by the weight of my royal responsibilities and seek solace in hiding from them. My mother understood me, though she never took my side against father.
Eldarion was expected to be the future king of Gondor, though if he should die that role would get passed to me. The thought of ruling the kingdom and adhering to its strict traditions suffocated me. I yearned for adventure, freedom, and a life of my own choosing. Feeling trapped within the confines of the castle walls, so many walls, the sprawling city of Minas Tirith, seemed to have nothing but walls.
I would often slip away, evading my duties and seek refuge in the nearby forests. Eldarion was perfect, ten years my senior, he held his head high and shoulders back ready to bear the weight of a nation. In the forest, I could embrace my true self without the burdens of my title. I roamed freely, my vibrant spirit unbound by royal expectations. The trees whispered secrets to me, and the wind carried my laughter through the air. I befriended the creatures of the forest, forging a deep connection with them. They say elven blood bears elven gifts; I seem to have those gifts when it comes to animals within the forest. When father will allow me to visit that is.
He treats me like such a child, I'm seventeen. Mother says it's simply his way of showing his care; he's still affected by what happened in the war that was all before I was born though. I sighed sitting in front of the floor length mirror in front of my bed brushing my thick black hair over my shoulder. I looked identical to my mother, blue eyes and full lips. Often if we were in the same room we would get mistaken for sisters, it would make father seethe, not because they mistook his queen no, because they saw me as a woman and not a child.
A faint drumming sounded at my door, "Are you awake sleepyhead?" My brother called from the hall, I threw my brush at the door in response. He cackled, "Father has requested your presence in his office, I suggest not being so violent with him." I exhaled deeply hearing his footsteps retreat down the hall. I stood up smoothing my dress out as best as I could before taking a step out into the hall. My footsteps echoed through the marble corridors of the grand palace. My heart pounded with a mix of nervousness and determination.
As I entered the office, I found King Elessar sitting behind a massive oak desk, surrounded by scrolls and papers. His stern expression softened as he caught sight of me. He gestured for me to take a seat opposite him, and I complied, trying to hide my apprehension. "Lurin," I heard a noise to my left and turned ignoring my father as he addressed me. There was a tall blonde elf standing by the wall, he had dark expressive brows and a sharp jawline, I didn't recognize him. He was tall and composed, clad in the royal guard uniform, and his piercing gaze conveyed a sense of vigilance and loyalty. "This is Haldir, he will stay by your side as a guard, he will accompany you wherever you travel and ensure your safety."
I rolled my eyes, " I'm not a child and I definitely don't need a guard." He sighed pinching the bridge of his nose, "Lurin, this is not your decision." I shook my head, folding my arms over my chest. "Oh right, I forgot I have no decisions in this life."
He clenched his jaw, "Lurin, you know that isn't true-" I cut him off, "may I be excused?" I asked standing up and turning on my heel before he had a chance to answer. The elf, Haldir trailed after me silently. His role as a guard, though unwanted, seemed to symbolize my father's concern for my well-being. It was annoying, he didn't show such care for Eldarion, he only treated me as the weak one.
I made it to my room and slammed my door into the elf's face. I heard him chuckle outside my door, and my face broke out into a grin. I slipped off my dress quickly and changed into a tunic and leggings I often wore on my escapades. I pulled a cloak tightly over myself, taking one last glance at the door before climbing out of my window and into the city.
Carefully, I climbed out of the window, my movements agile and swift. This was second nature to me now, a task I've done so often. The cool morning air caressed my face as I dropped down onto the palace grounds. Silently, I navigated through the shadows, my senses heightened and my steps purposeful. My attire concealed my true identity, allowing me to blend seamlessly into the bustling streets. As I made my way through the winding alleys and bustling markets of the city, I reveled in the anonymity I had longed for. Each level I descended I felt freer, the weight of responsibility lessening, here I was just another face in the city, not princess Lurin.
I paused to listen to the enchanting melody that filled the air. A young man sat on a street corner, his nimble fingers dancing across the strings of a worn lute. His voice resonated with raw emotion, captivating the crowd that had gathered around him. The passion in his eyes and the vulnerability in his voice spoke of a life touched by hardship and resilience, he was handsome and when our eyes met I quickly looked away. I had very few encounters with the opposite sex due to my father, most were family or basically family. Uncle Gimli and Legolas were frequent visitors to the palace, and I had my brother and my father but all other encounters were limited and formal.
I tried to hide my blushing face by pulling my cloak down as I walked deeper into the levels of the city. An elderly couple walking hand in hand passed by me. Their wrinkled faces bore the marks of a long, shared journey, and their eyes sparkled with a love that had weathered the tests of time. I smiled as I passed them; I want a love like that. A middle-aged woman manned a small stall, her infectious laughter resonating through the crowd. With a welcoming smile, she shared stories of her creations, each piece infused with her passion for craftsmanship.
I passed by quietly making my way to the city gates. I snuck by in a crowd of merchants, making my way to the stables. I smiled when the scent of hay and the gentle whinnies of horses filled the air. Approaching my trusted steed, Fana, a magnificent creature with a sleek chestnut coat and a spirited gaze, I felt a surge of excitement. My bond with the horse ran deep, our connection a testament to years of shared adventures. I did not saddle him; I never did, opting instead to ride bareback. It was something I know if father found out about it he would fly into a fit, he always did when he found out. I ran my hand along his muscular neck. Fana, sensing my intention, stood still, as if in silent agreement.
I vaulted effortlessly onto his strong back, my body adapting to the movement with ease. I could feel the warmth of his powerful body beneath me, a connection that went beyond physical touch. It was a connection of trust and shared spirit, as if we were embarking on this rebellious journey together.
"Fly, Fana" I whispered into his ear, holding onto his neck. I could feel the subtle shifts of his muscles, the rhythm of his breathing, and the powerful grace in every stride. It was different than riding with a saddle. He gave a huff and we were off, racing along the plains and farmsteads on the outskirts of the great city. The wind tousled my hair blowing my cloak off, and a sense of liberation washed over me. I laughed into the wind, letting go of Fana's neck extending my arms out at my side.
As I rode bareback through the open fields, relishing in this brief freedom, the sound of hooves approached from behind. Turning my head, I saw Haldir, a steadfast figure on horseback, riding up behind me on a large speckled stallion. I grimaced, how was he able to catch up so quickly? I shook my head; no I'm not going back now. I leaned down into Fana, gripping his mane with my hands, squeezing his sides with my thighs, "Show him what you're made of." Fana flew, galloping at a fervent pace. I held on for dear life, smiling knowing there wasn't a possible way he could catch up. Fana was the fastest horse in all of Gondor, there was no way this heavy man, in his heavy saddle could catch up to us.
I glanced back, a mischievous glint in my eyes as I sought to outpace my guard. I felt the thrill of rebellion coursing through my veins, fueling my desire to break free from the constraints of my royal duties. If he doesn't quit after today then I will make him wish he did. My eyes widened seeing him closing the gap between us, how is that possible? He was smirking at me, I scowled turning back around urging Fana on faster. It was clear that he was committed to his duty, unwilling to let me venture too far into the unknown without his protection. Adrenaline rushed through my veins. His presence grew nearer, his determination unwavering. It became clear that evading him entirely would prove challenging, if not impossible. "There," I whispered to Fana urging him into the Druadan Forest.
He might be a skilled horseman, but the forest was my domain, I could easily escape him in there. It almost felt like a game. With a surge of determination, I directed Fana into the dense foliage, using the towering trees as my shield and cover.
The forest welcomed me with its cool, earthy scent and dappled sunlight that filtered through the thick canopy above. My heart raced with a mix of excitement and trepidation as I navigated the winding paths, weaving between the trunks and branches, Fana remained agile and sure-footed.
With each passing moment, I wanted to burst into a fit of giggles this is the most fun I've had in my entire life. The dense foliage acted as my ally, concealing me from the prying eyes of the outside world.
I heard his horse close by, crunching the fallen leaves and twigs under its strong hooves. I brushed my fingers against the rough bark, finding comfort in its sturdy support. The soft, mossy ground absorbed the sound of Fana's hooves, muffling our walk. This was my domain; there was no way he would find us in here. Using the cover provided by the trees, I slowed our pace, savoring the quietude of the forest. The solitude allowed my thoughts to roam freely, untethered by the expectations of my role. Playful squirrels, with their fluffy tails and mischievous eyes, began to emerge from the tree branches, drawn to my presence. They scurried down the trunks, leaping from branch to branch, "Hello my friends," I sighed out; Fana huffed in annoyance as the squirrels took to climbing on top of him to get to me. I took one look over my shoulder before dismounting. The squirrels chattered with excitement, their tiny paws skittering across the forest floor, some crawled across my body tickling me with their tiny paws. I let out a fit of giggles, leaning onto the tree for support. Fluffy creatures hopped out from their hidden burrows, their noses twitching with curiosity as they approached me and my squirrel companions. Fana let out another huff of annoyance, "hush you," I scolded him.
The rabbits bounded through the underbrush, their soft fur blending seamlessly with the verdant surroundings. The rabbits weaved intricate patterns around the horses' hooves, seeming to taunt him as he stood by my side. I sunk to the ground, laughing as they tackled me. I gently stroked their fur, savoring the delicate texture beneath my fingers. The animals seemed to revel in the affection, nuzzling closer to me, as if seeking solace and a sense of belonging. This was my secret place, no one knew of this connection I held with animals, not like they would believe me if I told them anyway.
"Your highness, though I enjoyed the chase," I jumped hearing the voice, it was thick and baritone, the sound did something to my insides and made heat rise up my neck. "Next time you decide to run off, do let me know your intended destination. It would save us both the trouble." His voice was bored, almost icy.
The rabbits and squirrels scurried away, sensing my unease. I looked up into his blue eyes glaring into them. I flexed my hand at my side, a wordless signal to Fana, I jumped up and onto his back quickly. "Better get used to the chase," I yelled out over my shoulder as I raced past him on Fana's back.
He quickly hopped onto his own horse and caught up to me, riding alongside me with the same smirk he held before. "I understand the need for security, but there's a difference between protection and suffocation. I do not need a guard; you are relieved of your duty." I said turning to him, Fana gave a whinny in agreeance. He quirked a brow, "Oh I apologize, my lady If my attempts to ensure your well-being feel suffocating. " his tone oozed sarcasm
I nodded, matching his sarcasm with my own, "I appreciate the apology, you are relieved of your duty, you may go."
"You are not in the position to relieve me of duty, my lady " I stopped Fana's pace, staring the man down in defiance.
"Will you tell my father of today?" I asked quietly, vulnerability laced in my voice. I held no power over this man, he could easily tell my father of my escapade and the animals he saw.
"My job is to guard you not gossip." He replied, relief washed over me. As we rode back towards the stables, an air of tension lingered between us. The quiet, steady rhythm of our horses' hooves against the ground provided a backdrop for my swirling emotions that filled the air. "What's his name?" I asked breaking the silence. Haldir's gaze was piercing and made my stomach flip, he seemed aware of the way he made me feel because after our eyes would briefly meet he would smirk.
"Erildod," I nodded, smiling at the steed. As we rode side by side, I found myself stealing glances at him, studying his features. The morning light of the day cast a warm glow upon his face, highlighting the strong lines of his jaw and the intensity in his eyes. His countenance, once marked by arrogance, now revealed a complex mixture of determination and guardedness. The windswept strands of his hair danced in rhythm with the horse's movement, adding an air of untamed energy to his presence. There was an undeniable strength in his posture, a testament to the years of training and duty he had undertaken. Every muscle seemed to be in perfect harmony with the majestic creature beneath him, and there were plenty of muscles to behold.
I noticed the grace with which he guided the horse, his hands gently but firmly holding the reins. The subtle cues he gave with his body language spoke volumes, my eyes wandered lower. With each stride, his legs subtly adjusted, responding to the horse's cues and maintaining a seamless connection between them. I observed the slight flexing of his calf muscles, the way his thighs effortlessly gripped the sides of the horse. It did something inside me; I looked away quickly swallowing hard.
"Tomorrow, I plan to come back to the forest," I whispered into the wind not wanting to face him and him see my burning face.
As we arrived at the stables, he dismounted his horse with practiced ease, his movements displaying his strength. I walked Fana deeper into the stables, until we reached his stall. He stomped his feet in protest, we both wanted our adventure to go longer. "Come on, I'll be back tomorrow." I whispered into his mane urging him forward. He neighed rearing back; I tightened my thighs around him so I wouldn't get bucked off. "No, now stop that or you won't come." I scolded. He huffed hanging his head low allowing me to walk him into the stall. "That's what I thought." I smiled in triumph; suddenly Haldir was at my side, his arm extended to help me dismount. "Oh, that's not necessary." I said flustered, my hands let go of Fana's mane and I began to swing my leg over as Fana bucked causing me to fly into the air. My heart pounded with a mix of fear and surprise, it was unlike Fana to act in such a way, he was normally such a gentleman. I gasped as large arms broke my fall. In that split second, he became my anchor, his strong embrace enveloping me in a cocoon of safety. The world seemed to slow down as our bodies connected, his muscular arms providing a secure hold. The rush of adrenaline coursed through my veins as I found myself nestled against his chest. Our eyes met, a mix of concern and relief reflected in his gaze. His normal arrogant expression softened, his grip tightening slightly to provide additional support. I could feel his pulse beating in his chest; I wonder could he feel my heart racing too? I swallowed trying to calm my breathing as he placed me on the ground. I steadied myself, taking a deep breath to regain my equilibrium. The warmth of his touch lingered, an imprint upon my senses. "I must say, your dismount was quite impressive." He smirked; I flushed hiding my face with my hands, pulling my cloak down.