The Forgotten

by Faerlas

"Daughter of Exiles needs returned. Thy Lord & Lady bid thee fetch her." After a series of dreams, Jennifer saw the person in her dreams outside her school window. She fell out of the window and landed in Middle-earth with Legolas. The next morning she awoke and her ears were pointed. But why? ***Very canon compliant***Story re-written b/c long overdue. RATING JUST TO BE SAFE.

2. That Morning and That Week

THE FORGOTTEN

That Morning and That Week

Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings. I do not own anything else either. Everything belongs to its respective owners, which definitely does not include me.

Author's Note: Rewriting is an odd thing. Rewriting something you wrote when you were a teenager is even odder. I thought this re-write would look like the difference between a theatrical release and a director's cut. It's starting to feel more like the difference between "Steamboat Willie" and "Fantasia". (And I don't own either of those either!) As a side note – now being older, wiser, and more learned about the past, I have decided to try to infuse little bits of historical living into this and trying to give glimpses into little everyday things from years of yore.

The next morning Jennifer woke up, but didn't open her eyes. She was hugging some soft squishy lump that she thought was her stuffed cat.

"That was the craziest dream last night!" she muttered to herself. "Me going to Middle-earth and dancing with Legolas! How ridiculous!" she chuckled softly to herself. She rubbed her eyes. Everything looked blurry for a moment then slowly came into focus.

"Drat. I must have slept in my contacts!" she grumbled. She looked around. "Wait a second, where...oh my! So that wasn't a dream! Well, when I was younger I always believed people could get into other places, like the Chronicles of Narnia. Guess he was right." she smiled to herself. "Wrong world though."

She got of bed and looked around the room. Yes, she was definitely in Mirkwood. Suddenly she remembered her contacts, hadn't she taken them out the night before? She reached over and opened her contacts case. There they were. Two bowl shaped pieces of plastic floating in contact solution. And there on the table were her glasses, so that meant, SHE COULD SEE! By some miracle, she could see without aid! She started dancing around in joy. She must tell someone, but who? Legolas! She must tell Legolas!

She ran towards her door yelling, "Legolas! Legolas! I can see! I can see!" she threw open the door to the hallway and there stood the elf prince in the passage. "Legolas! I can see clearly without contacts!"

"I know! I heard you through the wall. It was hard not to!" He replied.

"I'm so happy!" She smiled a big smile. She was trembling with joy! "I don't know how, but- I'm just so happy!" She flung her arms around him then let go and began dancing around the room. Suddenly she burst into tears.

"Why are you crying?" the elf gently asked.

"I'm crying because I'm happy! I never dreamed…I'm just so happy!" she said as clearly as she could.

"Then I am happy for you," he said, still standing in the doorway.

After a pause she said, "I must go get dressed. Oh, Legolas! I can see!" she threw her arms around him and gave him a quick peck on the cheek and darted into her room, shutting the door behind her in a flash.

Legolas turned bright red. He hadn't expected that! He slowly put his hand up to his kissed cheek, in disbelief of what had just occurred. He looked around quickly, and ducked back into his room before anyone else could see him. If an elf had seen that, rumor would have spread like wild fire through all elvendom that Legolas was kissed by a human girl and blushed.

Inside her room, Jennifer couldn't believe she had done that! She felt foolish and silly, but oh she was just so happy! But then her jubilation abated just enough to allow the thought of why – why was her vision magically perfect?

Just then there was a knock on the door and she opened it to find Estelneth.

"Good morning, milady," she said with a curtsy.

"Good morning, Estelneth! How are you today?"

"I am well. How are you this morning?" the elf replied.

"I'm wonderful!" Jennifer said.

"I apologize that I was unable to assist you last night," she said.

"No, no," Jennifer said, "That's fine! I was able to get out of the dress and get the circlet off without a problem."

"I am glad to hear it. Shall we get you ready for the day? Breakfast shall be served soon," Estelneth said. She went over to the wardrobe and pulled out the brown and green dress and helped Jennifer into it as she told Estelneth all about how she woke up this morning and was able to see. Estelneth then fetched the brush and began brushing Jennifer's hair but then suddenly gasped and dropped the brush on the floor.

"What's wrong?" Jennifer asked.

"Come with me," she said, taking Jennifer by the hand and leding her to Legolas' door and knocking.

"Come in," the elf said.

Jennifer was horribly confused as to what was happening, but was distracted momentarily with her first look at the room. She saw Legolas sitting on a chair putting on his shoes. His room was richer than hers, understandably. He had rugs all over the floor. Each one looked thick and soft. All the tables, chairs, and furniture were similar to what was in her room except his were larger and more ornate. Upon his walls were mounted swords, arrows, bows, and knives. There were also several shelves upon his walls, each one contained trinkets that he had collected over the centuries. Each one had a story behind it and significance to him. She noted that there was no bed visible and concluded this must be an antechamber. It didn't quite look like a study, despite her noticing a book shelf in the corner, but not quite like a sitting room either. Her gaze fell upon two paintings sitting side by side on the mantle of his fireplace. One was his father, the other was an elf woman.

Before Jennifer could do or say anything, Legolas looked up was surprised to see Estelneth and Jennifer standing there, the former looking rather serious and earnest and the latter looking a bit confused.

"My prince, forgive our intrusion, but I believe you and your father ought to be made aware of this immediately," Estelneth said as she gently pulled Jennifer's hair away from her ears.

"What? What is it?" Jennifer asked upon seeing the rather shocked look on Legolas' face.

"Jennifer, I think you should look at yourself in the mirror," the elf prince replied. They all walked over to the mirror and gazed in. "Look at your ear," the elf commanded, pulling her hair back. She did so and saw the last thing she expected. Her ear was pointed. Her jaw dropped and her eyes got wide.

"What? How? Why?" she mumbled. She didn't understand it.

"I do not know. I would say you are an elf, or have elven blood, if you had been born here, but you were not. I believe we should seek council with my father," Legolas replied.

Jennifer could only nod in reply, wide eyed and thoroughly shocked.

"But first, I think you should eat," Legolas said. "We shall discuss it with the king at breakfast. Estelneth, would you please inform my father we would like to join him for breakfast alone? I shall attend to our guest for the time being." Estelneth gave a quick curtsy and hastened out of the room. "Would you like to sit down?" he asked Jennifer.

She didn't say anything, but gave a nod and turned towards one of the seats in front of the fire, feeling the new pointed tips of her ears absentmindedly.

"Have you finished getting ready this morning?" he asked, trying to distract her a little.

"Huh? Oh, no. Estelneth was about to do my hair. You know, I just can't figure it! Overnight I get pointed ears and perfect vision! I suppose I shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth, but really! This raises more than a couple questions," she rambled.

"It does, and that is why we shall discuss this with my father. I had already planned on speaking with him about your restored vision and what that may mean, but clearly there is more at work here than I was thinking."

"What were you thinking?" she asked.

"It does not matter really, as I now think I was wrong, but we shall discuss it with my father. Would you like me to help you finish with your hair?" he said.

"Um, yes. That would be nice. I'm really all thumbs when it comes to hair," she answered. He had her go back to in front of the mirror and began braiding. "Who is the elf lady in the picture on your mantle?" she asked.

"My mother," he replied.

"Where is she?" Jennifer asked.

"She sailed West some years ago," he replied nonchalantly. She had always thought that if an elf had sailed West, that the ones left behind would be distraught. He spoke of it like she had gone to the supermarket.

"So, do you miss her?" she asked.

"I do miss her, but it is not as if I shall never see her again," The elf answered. She pondered what he said a moment then gave a small, unconscious nod.

"Do you mind if I ask why she sailed?"

His face became a little sad. "She was traveling with a small company towards Lothlorien to go visit her mother and father and other family who live there. Along the way her party was attacked by small band of wolf riders. They were fought off, but she was grievously wounded. They brought her to Lothlorien where she stayed and it became apparent the wounds would trouble her greatly for many long years to come, and so it was decided she must sail. My father went to see her in Lothlorien and then she left for Rivendell where she wintered before heading the Grey Havens and I joined her there for the winter ere she departed. I have not seen her in nearly five hundred years."

"That's so sad!" Jennifer said.

Legolas smiled and said, "It is, but I shall see her again. And there you are. What do you think?"

Jennifer turned her head from side to side and admired his braiding skills as much as she could then said appreciatively, "It shows off my new ears nicely."

Legolas smiled. "I had not considered that! And I am glad to see you can keep your humor even now." He paused a moment then added, "For what it is worth, I think elven ears suit you rather well."

Jennifer blushed then felt a little embarrassed and silly at how much weight his compliment carried with her. Just then there was a knock at the door and Estelneth entered and said with a curtsy, "The king requests you join him now for breakfast in his chambers."

"Thank you," Legolas said, then he offered Jennifer his arm and asked, "Shall we?" she nodded and took his arm and then walked out with him to breakfast.

King Thranduil's chambers were at the end of the hall behind a very impressive pair of carved doors. They opened gracefully and silently at a word from Legolas and Jennifer gasped. The anteroom was rather large. The floor was beautiful polished stone with the occasional rug tastefully placed. The fireplace was impressive and made out of hewn stone and had a modest blaze going in it. Near the fireplace, just a little to the left was set a large wooden table that Jennifer figured large enough to seat six people comfortably. At the head of it was a large carved chair with two chairs set on either side of it, the other end laid out with covered serving dishes. Natural light filtered into the room from a window opposite the large chair and one from the other end of the room. The room gave off an art nouveau vibe she really loved, especially as it seemed to balance out the pomp and formality of royalty with an inviting and more down to earth feel.

She and Legolas were only standing a moment or so when one of the other doors in the room opened and Thranduil entered. He wore no crown this morning, but let his head be bare. He was wearing a rather simple outfit of a long silken looking green robe over a soft grey tunic and a belt. Of course the silk robe was embroidered around the neck and hem and the tunic clasped with tiny silver clasps and the belt looked made of silver as well, but compared to the yards and yards of fine woven, jacquard, and embroidered stuff she had seen him in yesterday, this was very plain.

"Good morning Legolas, Jennifer," Thranduil said with a slight nod of his head. "What business has – oh," he began and then he noticed Jennifer's ears. "I see. Let us sit down," he said, gesturing towards the table.

Servants had appeared from a separate door when Thranduil had entered the room and helped seat them and then began to serve them. This was a rather new experience for Jennifer and just added another layer of odd and mildly awkward to her morning. Though they were excellent at remaining quiet and out of the way, as breakfast went along, Jennifer kept finding her cup and plate being attended to as if she were being served by magic.

As they sat the king said, "Let us begin by resuming the conversation we had yesterday. Jennifer, you said you had a series of dreams over six months. Do you remember the first one?"

"It wasn't terribly dissimilar to the last one. I don't really remember the details very well, but I remember each time there was the same stranger with the same voice and the same face. Sometimes it was blurry, sometimes it was more clear. And I think it was always Legolas," she answered. "I do remember though, the first time he was playing a song and it was so lovely it made me want to cry; and what was really strange about it, is that I knew the song. I haven't heard it before and I can't really sing it but I know it," Jennifer answered.

Thranduil glanced at Legolas who seemed to have the same thought. "We also began having dreams about six months ago. I heard a voice telling me that we would be receiving a guest and that we would need to bring her here. Later I had a dream instructing me to send Legolas, then last I had a dream telling me when to send him."

"In my dreams," Legolas said, "I was told the same, but I also saw you walking in a wooded place and then later reading a book near a window. My last dream was similar to yours in that we were in a clearing in a wooded place. You seemed anxious about something and I was trying to tell you I was coming for you soon."

Silence fell for a moment and Thranduil carefully studied her face. "Have you noticed anything else changed besides your ears?"

"My vision. I used to have to wear glasses to help me see, but when I woke up this morning, my vision was perfect. Better than perfect! I've never seen so clearly in my life," she answered.

"I did not see you wearing anything to help you see yesterday," Thranduil said.

"We have these tiny lenses made out of a flexible material that are put directly on the eye to help people see. I was wearing those."

"She showed them to me," Legolas said. "They account for that circle we noticed around the edge of the brown in her eyes."

"You could see that?" she asked, rather stunned.

"Of course," Thranduil and Legolas said in unison. "Have you noticed anything else?" the king asked.

"Well, I don't know. I've only been awake for maybe an hour," she answered.

He nodded and silence fell again as they ate and drank some tea. Every so often Thranduil and Legolas would glance at each other and it seemed to Jennifer like they were holding a silent conversation. After a few minutes Thranduil said, "I believe that you were brought here for a purpose. That much has been plain to me since the first dream. What that purpose is, I do not know, but I think perhaps part of the reason is why your vision has improved and your ears have changed. I do not know how, but it seems to my eyes you are at least part elf, therefore, I think it would be wise to send you to Imladris, that is Rivendell, with Legolas. I am sending him as a messenger to Lord Elrond who is half-elven and may have some knowledge and wisdom to see further into this situation." He turned to Legolas and said, "I shall have you leave in one week. Now that we are sending Jennifer as well, I shall see to having an armed escort take you through the forest. I believe it would be best to leave sooner than later as the days are growing shorter and you shall wish to travel far by daylight as much as possible once you leave the forest."

"How long does it take to get there?" Jennifer asked.

"That depends on how far we travel each day and if we go on foot or by horse," Legolas said. "But I expect you should not slow us down too much and we should make it there in four weeks."

"That's – wow! That's a long time to travel," Jennifer commented. It suddenly hit her just how far Bilbo must have walked going from Bag End to the Lonely Mountain. Of course in the books, weeks on end are glossed over in a sentence, but now that the prospect of either riding or walking all day for three or four weeks – that was a bit daunting.

The overwhelming realization was plain on her face which caused a quick series of looks to be exchanged by Thranduil and Legolas.

"I take it you have not traveled far before?" Thranduil asked.

"Oh, I've traveled far, the problem is we have significantly faster means of getting places, so I've never traveled long," she answered. "But that doesn't matter. I think you're right – I need to go to Rivendell. I can see that plain as plain. If the only way to get there is to walk or ride, then that's what I'll do, and I'll do my best to not slow anyone down. You said yesterday it's the end of August?" she asked looking at Legolas, who nodded in response. "Well then, we don't have much time to spare."

"What do you mean by not much time to spare?" Thranduil asked.

"Well, I don't know how it is here, but back home September usually has some of the better weather. In any event, it's only going to get colder, not warmer and I really don't want to be walking in the cold. Besides, I for one don't want to get to Rivendell only just in time for the council," she said.

"Council? We have not been called to a council, though we bear news that we think must reach Rivendell," Thranduil replied, studying the girl more closely.

"Oooh… well…" she realized too late she had said too much and was trying to figure out a way to satisfactorily and truthfully explain things without saying more than she should. "You see – well, obviously I'm not from Middle-earth, right? So there are these books where I'm from that are about Middle-earth and subsequently, I'm familiar with current events."

"Such as?" Thranduil asked, his face inscrutable.

"Well, not too long ago Gandalf asked you to watch that wretched creature Gollum. And not too long after that his guards were attacked by orcs and he escaped and that's the news you are taking to Rivendell," she answered.

"How much are the affairs of my kingdom mentioned?" Thranduil asked, his face and voice still betraying nothing to her of his motive for asking.

"To be honest – not much. The affair with Thorin's company here is mentioned, as is the Battle of Five Armies after Smaug was killed, and then that bit about Gollum, but not really anything of great detail. I mean, it's mentioned you all have a good trade system going with Lake Town, well, not anymore, but you did. And with Dale. And presumably you do with the Lonely Mountain again. There's a little back story too on how your father Oropher came here and established this kingdom and what happened with the Last Alliance, but no great details. Just general history sort of things," she answered. "Actually, now that I think about it, there's not a lot of detail given for most elf kingdoms in the third age."

Thranduil nodded and seemed rather satisfied with that answer, though the only indicator was that he didn't press for details.

Breakfast with the king and the prince proved to be far more than bacon and eggs with toast, though they did happen to have all three of those things. In addition to that was a variety of seasonal fruits, cheeses, and vegetables along with bread, scones, butter, and jam. The conversation had moved on from the business at hand to business of the realm between Thranduil and Legolas. Jennifer ate quietly and listened with passive interest until Thranduil turned his gaze to her again.

"Jennifer, I believe it would be best if we spent this week preparing you for the road ahead. Traveling within my realm is safe, but there is much in Mirkwood that is not, to say nothing of the road between here and Rivendell. Today we shall see about outfitting you with proper garments and gear for the road ahead."

"Thank you very much," she said, feeling very humbled at his generosity.

"You are welcome. I shall not keep you any longer this morning, but I should very much like you to join Legolas and I this evening for supper," he said.

"Certainly," she replied. "I would be honored." Though truth be told, she mostly felt overwhelmed. The king was courteous, and certainly gracious to her, but for as reserved and calm as he seemed, he also seemed incredibly overwhelming to her. She had a very hard time reading his face and there was just something about his presence that seemed to fill up the entire room.

After breakfast Legolas escorted her back to her room and told her to wait there as he would be sending a tailor and a cobbler to her room. Estelneth was waiting and Legolas repeated the day's plans to her and left. A few minutes later came the first knock. Estelneth bade enter an elf entered carrying a small wooden case. He introduced himself as the royal tailor and wasted no time having her stand up on the footstool and pinning her dress. He had her change into her hunting outfit inside out, without the outer tunic and then with, pinning as he went and making marks with chalk. Then he had her change into the dress she had worn last night and complimented Estelneth on the quick hemming job she had done and then proceeded to make a handful of pins and marks for further alterations. He then pulled a very neatly folded green garment out of his box and told her to change into that until he was able to return with something that actually fit her, and then very quickly took a comprehensive set of measurements, bowed, and left.

"That was the fastest dress fitting ever," Jennifer said from behind the screen as she put on a very simple and light green dress with a woven grey belt.

"He is the royal tailor," Estelneth said. "I think he will probably have at least one of the dresses returned to you by this evening. He knows the king has requested you join him for dinner, so he shall be certain to have you properly attired by then."

Just then there was a knock on the door and the cobbler came in. He had Jennifer walk around the room barefoot, then try on her shoes and walk around. He was pleased with how the slippers fit, but not terribly happy about the boots. He took a string of measurements as well, thanked her and left with the boots.

Jennifer sat down on the couch and said, "Well, that was fun. So Estelneth, what is there to do around here?"

"Can you read elvish?"

"No."

"Do you play an instrument?" Estelneth asked.

"Yes, but I am very certain you don't have it. However, if there's a stringed instrument lying around, I could at least pluck on it for a while," Jennifer answered.

"I shall see what I can find," she said as she went over to velvet pull cord and gave it a tug. Very shortly another servant came, Estelneth said something to him and he was off again. A few minutes later he returned with a lute which was given to Jennifer.

She sat around plucking and strumming on it for a while then started picking out some simple tunes. Estelneth gave her a few pointers every now and then and so they passed an hour or so. Legolas showed up a little while later holding a bow and with a quiver slung over his shoulder, and asked Jennifer to accompany him.

He took her out of the palace, into a clearing, not too far from the palace and still inside the walls. On the far side, against a tree, was a hay bale with a target painted on it.

"As we shall be traveling through dangerous places, I thought perhaps it would be well to see if you can defend yourself a little as we travel. I would not have you weaponless in the wild. Archery first," the elf said. "Have you ever used a bow?"

"Yes, but I'm not very good," she replied.

"I shall judge," he said, handing her an arm guard and a shooting glove.

Jennifer put them on and handed her the bow and quiver of arrows. She fitted arrow to string, pulled back and thwap! She lodged the arrow in the tree.

"Again," the elf commanded. This time she hit the bale. The bottom of the bale.

"Again, if you please." She loosed the arrow, and this time hit the painted target. The elven prince asked her to loose arrows three more times. Each time she hit the painted target, just never in the same spot, or near the bull's-eye.

"Well, there is work to be done here," the elf said. She nodded in agreement. She could have saved some time and told him that, but then it occurred to her that he may have wanted to see just how much work. They spent the better part of the morning on archery. Before it was over she was consistently hitting the target and though not the bullseye, she was much closer than she had been.

They paused for lunch and then returned to the clearing.

"Let us try something else now. Though I hope we shall not be in a position where you need to fight hand to hand, I think it would be best you can at least block strokes long enough for aid to reach you," the prince said as he handed her a pair of long knives. He taught her how to do basic blocks and attacks. She picked up on it quickly and soon they were doing some slow motion sparring. They practiced this until about two hours before supper. As they were walking back towards the palace the elf spoke. "You are learning quickly Jennifer. Tomorrow you shall start learning elvish and how to ride a horse. In fact, that is what you shall be spending most of your time practicing until we leave."

"Really? I always thought it would be fun to know how to ride a horse, and I have always wanted to learn the elvish. I would try sounding it out in those books, yes there was elvish in them, and it was beautiful sounding to me."

"I am glad to hear you think our tongue is beautiful. Would you like to learn a few more words now?" he asked.

"Yes! Please!" she exclaimed with a large grin.

He smiled at her eagerness to learn. "First word, nin," he said.

"Nin," she repeated.

"It means "my"."

"Nin, my. Got it. Next word please!" she requested.

"Um… mellon," he said.

"Mellon," she repeated.

"It means friend," he informed.

"What comes first in elvish, the possessive pronoun or the adjective?" she asked.

"The what or the what?" he asked with a confused look.

"Sorry! Would I say mellon nin or nin mellon?" she clarified.

"Mellon nin," the elf answered.

He taught her a few more words on the way back and soon she began stringing together basic sentences. He told her that she would need to know some basic directions to give the horse she would be riding, as elven horses responded to vocal commands and didn't often use bit and bridle. She was like a sponge, all information absorbed quickly. They reached her room and parted company.

Estelneth was waiting for her and said, "I have taken the liberty of drawing you a bath."

"Bless you," Jennifer said as she kicked off her shoes.

"I have everything laid out for you in the bathroom. Shall you be wanting any assistance?" Estelneth asked.

"No, that's – actually, yes. If you could undo my hair for me, that would be great," Jennifer replied.

The elf woman began undoing the carefully done braids and then helped undo the ties in the back of her dress and promised she would be waiting in case Jennifer needed anything.

Jennifer closed the door behind her in the bathroom and saw that Estelneth really did have everything laid out. The little table was put near the side of the tub and on it were arranged soaps and cloths and a scrub brush. The chair from her vanity was set in there and on it was her robe neatly folded. Jennifer undressed and draped her loaned dress and things on the back of the chair and climbed into the copper tub. She spent a minute or two appreciating just how lovely the room looked in the candle and lamp light and how perfectly warm the water was. She didn't let herself sit idle too long though, as she realized her long, thick hair would take forever to dry, especially without a blow dryer. This train of thought abruptly led her to her first serious check when it came to life in Middle-earth – with what should she wash her hair? Suddenly a lifetime of shampoo commercials came into question and she found herself in a serious quandary.

"Of all the stupid things they don't cover in history class…" she muttered to herself then heaved a sigh and called out, "Estelneth – I have a question!"

Estelneth only opened the bathroom door a crack and said, "Yes, milady?"

"At the risk of sounding stupid – what do you use here to wash your hair?"

"The white bar of soap or the little jar I set out would be suitable," she answered.

"Thank you," Jennifer replied as she looked over the soaps on the table again. There was a white bar, a yellow bar, and a purple bar of soap along with a little earthenware jar with a spoon that reminded her of a honey pot her mother had. She picked up the lid and looked inside. There was something white that had no smell. Curious, she spooned a little onto her wet palm and immediately turned into a familiar paste. "Baking soda?" she wondered aloud. "Alright, I'll bite," she said as she got a little more in her wet hand and then rubbed it into her hair then rinsed it out. Well her hair certainly felt lighter after that! She quickly washed up the rest of her with the purple bar of soap that smelled floral and her face with the yellow one that smelled like honey, then pulled the plug on the tub and got out. Wrapped in her robe, she left the warm bathroom and braced for the inevitable cold slap of air one gets upon leaving a warm bathroom. It wasn't as bad as she anticipated, because Estelneth was a very thoughtful elf and had stoked up the fire in the hearth to make it comfortable for her.

"Your dress for this evening came while you were bathing," Estelneth said, gesturing towards the open wardrobe and a new silver grey and green dress hanging inside. "The tailor shall return in a little while to make sure everything fits properly. In the meantime, if you please, come sit by the fire and we shall dry your hair." Estelneth had turned the sideways so one arm was close to the fire. She had Jennifer lay down with her hair draped over the arm of the couch and carefully blotted and combed her hair as she sang. After a while there was a knock on the door and Estelneth answered. The tailor had returned. Jennifer got up and changed behind the screen with Estelneth's help. The tailor had her walk a little and turn slowly and then he smiled.

"I believe that looks much better," he said. "And how does it feel?"

"It feels fine. I think it fits very well. And it doesn't seem to pull weirdly or anything," she answered.

"Excellent! I was hoping to have this dress to you when you first arrived, but unlike the other two which are more forgiving, this one demands to be fitted properly. The other dresses and your traveling clothes I shall have returned to you as they are finished," he said. "I have also brought you some other things which I was simply unable to have finished for you without first taking your measurements. My deepest apologies I could get them to you no sooner." He bowed and presented her with a bundle of different colored fabrics, folded neatly and tied together with green ribbon.

"Oh, it's fine. I understand. And I'm sure I didn't feel like I was missing anything," she replied as she took the bundle from him. A look of mild horror crossed his face. "What's in here anyway?" she asked.

He composed himself and answered, "Two pairs of hose, an extra shift, and an extra under dress that should work with all of your dresses."

"Oh, thank you!" Jennifer said. He informed her that by morning he would have an outfit suitable for travel and then bowed and bade her have a good evening and left. As soon as he was gone Jennifer turned to Estelneth and asked, "How necessary is it I wear hose?"

"Being warm still, perhaps less than usual. But you shall want it soon," she answered.

"Before I leave, I must have you show me how you wear hose," Jennifer said.

"But you were wearing it when we first met," Estelneth said, sounding confused.

"Trust me, not the same," Jennifer answered as she turned and took a good look at the new dress in the mirror. The under dress was silvery grey and soft feeling and had full sleeves and the outer dress of green was of a light material that flowed easily with her movement. She spun around and watched the dress twist and flutter down like leaves in a breeze. It reminded her of a silver birch.

"Shall I do your hair now?" Estelneth asked, changing the subject.

Jennifer felt her hair, and was surprised it only felt slightly damp in places. "Probably should. Do you know how long until supper?"

"I imagine the prince shall be calling for you in half an hour or so. He is usually quite prompt," the elf woman answered. She fetched the chair from the bathroom and set it down in front of the vanity for Jennifer and began brushing and arranging her hair. "A package came for you from the king this afternoon while you were out," she said as she began separating Jennifer's hair. It is on the table just there."

Jennifer took the package and opened it up. At the top was a card written in a strong and flowing hand, which she could not read. She picked it up and gasped. Underneath there was a silver circlet braided and strewn with tiny white stones and gems and a necklace that looked like a slender lace of stars.

"My word!" Jennifer said at last. "It's beautiful! Estelneth, what does the card say?"

"Jennifer, I thought this would look well in your dark hair. I would like to see you wear this tonight to supper. It belonged to my mother and has not been worn in many years. Enjoy it with my compliments. Signed, King Thranduil."

"That is extremely generous of him to let me wear something that belonged to his mother," Jennifer said.

"Indeed, for he loved her dearly," Estelneth said.

"What happened to her?" Jennifer asked.

"She sailed West after King Oropher died. I was not serving here yet, but it is said she loved him dearly and would have perchance died of grief if her son King Thranduil had not begged her to sail. I know there are some who think our king is a little ill-tempered, but I was a servant to his wife for many years and saw much of him. If he is distant or short, it is out of pain. He has lost much and borne much grief and sorrow. I know why others may say such things, but I cannot hold that opinion. Yes, at times he is perhaps a little short tempered, but he has never been anything but kind to me. I have seen him when he is with his kith and kin and his crown is set aside. I cannot think of him as ill-tempered," Estelneth replied quietly. They fell silent and Jennifer thought over the note and admired the circlet until Estelneth took it up and placed it on her head. "There! You look as if you are crowned with stars. Shall you wear the necklace tonight as well?"

"I think so. What do you think?" Jennifer said, turning this way and that to see how the circlet looked on her head.

"I think it would look very well with your dress and circlet this evening," she answered. Estelneth put the necklace on her and said, "There, you are ready and look like a young elvish princess. Let us put on your slippers and then you shall be ready for the prince to escort you to supper."

Estelneth insisted on helping her put on her slippers and then Jennifer took a twirl in front of the mirror in the wardrobe. "I really do look elvish, don't I?" Jennifer said, taking a long look at herself.

Estelneth nodded, "Indeed. Yesterday to my eyes you looked like any daughter of men I may have seen in Dale or Laketown, but since this morning you have looked more and more elvish as the day has grown old. It is a mystery to me how this can be, but so it is."

Just then there was a knock on the door and Estelneth let Legolas inside.

"Jennifer – you look wonderful this evening!" Legolas said.

"Thank you," she answered, blushing slightly.

"Are you ready?" he asked.

"I am," she answered.

"Then let us go," he said, offering her his arm.

They turned and headed down a few passages until they reached a dining hall. It was a little smaller than what Jennifer expected, but it was beautifully decorated with wall hangings and carved pillars and doors. The table was a beautiful, massive slab of wood that had been shaped only just enough to make the edges even and sat on legs carved to look like tree trunks with branches upholding the board. The chairs were also carved with a tree and branch motif and covered with rich green cushions on the seat.

"This is a beautiful dining room," Jennifer said, "Though to be honest, a little smaller than I would have expected."

"This is not the main dining hall," Legolas said. "It is a smaller one. We only use the larger one in winter when it is too cold to eat outside. Besides, this one has the better view."

"Better view?" Jennifer queried. Legolas looked over at the one wall which seemed to have a very large wall hanging. A servant was pulling a cord and the hanging split down the middle to reveal a wide view of the tree tops and Erebor in the distance. "Oh my," she muttered, walking towards the opening. "What a stunning view!"

"I am glad you approve," Thranduil said behind her.

Jennifer spun around. "Oh, good evening, sir!" she said.

Thranduil gave a nod of his head and replied, "Good evening."

"Thank you for lending me this gorgeous circlet! It is very kind of you," Jennifer said.

"You are welcome. I thought it would look well in your dark hair and it does. Let us be seated and you can tell me about your day," Thranduil said. They went over to the table and the king sat down at the head of the table first, with Legolas on his right and Jennifer on his left. Immediately an elf off to one side began playing a harp and they were served as the king said, "Tell me, Jennifer, what you did today?"

She told him about archery practice and how that went and how she improved with having an actual teacher, and told him how she had a lovely little recurve bow at home but only ever was able to practice occasionally and with very little tutelage. They discussed archery through the first course and different kinds of bows and how to compensate for differences in arrow heads, wind direction, moving targets, and so forth. Then Thranduil asked her if she had ever had any training with other weaponry or fighting, to which her answer was no. Then Jennifer surprised them by asking about current affairs in that corner of the world and what exactly had happened since the dragon fell. The conversation meandered away from current events to a discussion about autumn and winter holidays and how they are celebrated. That lasted them through after supper drinks, during which Jennifer finally got the nerve up to ask what exactly they had been serving her.

"What exactly have we been drinking tonight?" Jennifer asked, eyeing her cup.

"Apple wine," Thranduil answered.

Jennifer got a peculiar look on her face and looked a little pale.

"What is wrong?" Legolas asked.

"Well, I'm under aged," Jennifer said.

"Under aged?" Legolas asked.

"Legally, I'm not allowed to drink until I'm twenty-one years old," she answered.

"Legally, I am the law and whatever I say goes," Thranduil said. "And I say you are allowed to have whatever I serve you. Does that ease your mind?"

Jennifer thought it over a moment then said, "I suppose that makes it legal, but there's a lot of people I'm never going to tell."

"Like whom?" Thranduil asked.

"Everyone I know," she answered.

"And why ever not?" he asked.

"Because they're all teetotalers," she answered.

This new word piqued the curiosity of the elves. "What is a teetotaler?" Thranduil asked.

"It's someone who doesn't drink any sort of alcoholic beverage. No beer, no wine, no ale, no whiskey – nothing," she answered.

"Do they do this voluntarily?" Thranduil asked.

"Well, yes," Jennifer answered.

Thranduil and Legolas looked a bit befuddled at this. "What do they drink?" the king asked.

"Water, tea, coffee, lemonade, and we have these drinks where I'm from called pop – they're fizzy, bubbly drinks that are mostly carbonated sugar water with flavoring," she answered.

"What do they drink during feasts or celebrations?" the king asked.

"Well, mostly that," she answered. This seemed to flummox the elves a bit as they could not fathom a world where no alcohol was consumed ever. Jennifer could see they were having trouble wrapping their minds around the concept so she explained a little further. "It's sort of a newer trend, I guess. Teetotalers only sprang up in the last one hundred and some odd years. Before that everyone used to drink wine and beer and what not. Somewhere around the turn of the last century though, there was a rising problem of alcoholism, er, drunkenness and a bunch of people got it into their heads that liquor was to blame, so they started a movement to make it illegal and were successful. It didn't last long though and alcohol was made legal again, but there are still a lot of people who don't drink at all for various reasons."

"And what do you think?" Thranduil asked.

"To be honest, I'm not entirely sure. I have a really hard time blaming a drink for someone having too much of it, but at the same time, people can and do terrible things when they drink too much. And I know that people used to drink all the time and not everyone was a drunk, so I suppose it's like anything else – A little self-discipline goes a long way, and too much of anything is a bad thing. And if you can't control yourself, you should abstain. And boy I'm a slow coach… apple wine today, what was I drinking last night?"

"Mead," Legolas answered.

"I didn't get drunk, did I?" she asked.

"Not that I noticed," Legolas answered again.

"Well, there's that anyway," she said mostly to herself. "All things in moderation, I guess."

"You have certainly not been excessive," Thranduil said then called for dessert to be served. Dessert that evening was wonderfully light flavored apple cake that had the texture of an angel food cake. It was topped with apple slices and dusting of cinnamon and then each slice was served with a very generous amount of an apple cinnamon and nutmeg sauce.

After dessert and after Legolas escorted her back to her room, as she lay in bed with only a low fire in the hearth and the starlight coming in the window for light, she mulled over the day and the parting invitation from the king for her to dine with him every evening until a farewell feast at the end of the week.

"Sheesh!" she thought. "These elves just love to throw parties, don't they?" And with that thought she fell asleep.

The next morning she was awoken early by Estelneth who had opened up the window wide to let in the barely rising sun and had lit several lamps.

"Good morning, my lady. The prince bids you up early this morning to begin your horse riding lessons. I have brought you breakfast," Estelneth said as she lightly shook Jennifer's shoulder.

Very groggily, Jennifer rolled onto her back and pried her eyes open. "Do I want to know what time it is?" she mumbled.

"Probably not. I have brought you tea and have stirred up the fire and laid your clothes out before it so that it may be warmer for you."

"You're a saint, Estelneth," Jennifer mumbled gratefully as she forced herself into a sitting position.

"What is a saint?"

"Never mind."

Jennifer looked at the outfit laid out and saw a green and brown outfit of a thicker material, possibly some sort of suede something, that had long sleeves and the way it was cut reminded her of leaves. It had an under tunic that was a soft grey that seemed to be about four inches shorter than the outer tunic, and had a pair of greyish green leggings that went with it.

By the time Estelneth had her dressed and fed, Jennifer felt like she was properly awake and ready to begin whatever tasks the day had for her. Then Legolas came in.

"Good morning!" he greeted with a wide smile, looking and sounding altogether too awake and cheerful for Jennifer's sensibilities at that hour.

"Mornin'," she muttered into her tea.

He looked at Estelneth and said in elvish, "I see she is not a morning person."

"Not at all," Estelneth replied.

"Are you ready to head out?" Legolas asked Jennifer.

Jennifer looked down at herself and saw she was in fact dressed for the day then looked back at the prince and said, "Yup." She stood and would have walked right out the door, but Estelneth stopped her first and made her put on a riding cloak with sleeves.

"You shall want this," the elf woman said. "It is chill this morning."

"Thanks," Jennifer said, tiredly but gratefully as she fastened it under her chin.

"Let us go," Legolas said, opening the door for Jennifer. As they walked towards the outside of the halls of Thranduil, Jennifer began waking up the rest of the way and noticing just how cool it was in those carved caves. They went outside and the temperature was about the same, though there was a breeze that morning rustling the tree tops. They headed towards a small fenced in paddock where an elf stood beside a glossy brown horse with a black mane and tail. It bore no bridle, only what looked to Jennifer like a cloth saddle. Legolas lightly hopped the fence, while Jennifer quickly climbed over it.

"Good morning, Prince Legolas," the elf said.

"Good morning, Brenion," Legolas replied. "This is Jennifer, your student this week."

Brenion bowed and said, "It is a pleasure to meet you, Jennifer."

"Likewise," she replied.

"Have you ever ridden a horse before?" Brenion asked.

"For all intents and purposes – no."

"Do you know anything about riding horses?" he asked.

"Well… I know the secret to horse riding is to hold on with your knees. And you shouldn't ever jerk hard on the reigns," she answered.

"That is something, anyway. You do hold on with your legs, and if one uses reigns, one ought not to pull hard on them. However, the latter is unimportant, as there is not one bit or bridle to be found in the whole of the Woodland Realm. You are fortunate we even had a saddle pad with stirrups, as we customarily do not use stirrups and some do not even use a saddle pad. Come, we shall begin by having you practice mounting and dismounting."

She headed over and after being introduced to the horse, whose name was Galion, and some instruction, she struggled to mount then was told how to dismount and instructed to do so. After mounting and dismounting a few times Brenion said, "Very good. It is very important that you remember three things while you ride – heels down, toes up, knees in. If you wish to have any hope of making it to Rivendell on that horse before winter, you must remember that. Heels down, toes up, knees in." He walked over to her and adjusted her foot in the stirrup a little and then walked around to make sure she had it correct on the other side. "Now say pada."

"Pada," she repeated and the horse began to walk.

"Back straight," Brenion called. She immediately straightened up and found balancing a bit easier. "Now say harvo."

"Harvo," she repeated and the horse turned left. "So harvo means left?"

"Left hand or left side, but yes. We have found short words easy to yell and hear in battle are best for commands, even if it means they are slightly less than literal," Brenion answered. "Now I want you to focus on keeping your heels down, toes up, knees in, back straight, and balance. If you are getting close to the fence, tell him to turn left."

"She is looking promising in the saddle," Legolas said in elvish.

Brenion laughed. "I think we are a bit early for any assessment. Though she does follow directions, even if she looks a bit rigid." He paused a moment then added, "You are welcome to stay of course, my prince, but I assure you that I have everything well in hand should you have business elsewhere."

Legolas laughed and said, "I had no intention of staying all day. I just wanted to see how she started. I shall take leave of you now and return for her two hours past midday so I can work on archery with her again." Brenion gave a slight bow and Legolas strode off.

After a lap or two around the paddock, Brenion gave her the command for trot and stop along with some instructions and critiques. After a few laps more he told her to give the command for walk again. The remainder of the morning was spent with her practicing keeping her seat with walking and trotting and Brenion critiquing her. Around noon he told her to stop and dismount. She was very stiff and sore from using muscles she didn't know she had. She was grateful though that volleyball season hadn't ended that long ago, because she was still in shape from that, and that helped her a little.

"You have done well today," Brenion said. "Of course, it would be silly to think you could master horse riding in a week, but if you keep progressing as you have today, you shall at least keep your seat through the forest and the plain between here and the Misty Mountains. If we are very fortunate, we shall be able to teach you how to keep your seat when riding up and down hill, but I fear some things you may need to learn on the trail."

"Well… I guess I somewhat expected that. Learning on the trail, I mean. I'm just glad I'm getting some practice now. With a teacher," she said.

"As am I. I would hate to send one of my horses out on a completely green rider. Now, caring for your horse is as important as knowing how to ride it. Tell Galion aphada. It means follow."

"Aphada," she repeated to the horse, and off the three walked.

"We shall return to the stables now and you shall take off his saddle, brush him down, and put him in his stall, then see to it that he is fed and watered. On the trail you, of course, shall have to have him graze, as there is plenty of grass and water, you need not carry any with you. But here, you shall need to give those things to him," Brenion said.

They reached the stable and she was instructed in what to do and given a little help here and there where it was needed. Brenion was a patient teacher, though very matter-of-fact in his instruction. Once Galion was very taken care of and very happily eating his oats, Brenion led her out of the stables and into a separate building which was basically a mess hall for all the horse hands and anyone working outside. But what a mess hall! The wooden pillars were all carved with leafy designs, and the walls were painted a leafy green and had large windows that looked out towards the stables and towards the palace. The shutters, wide tables, benches, and ceiling were all stained oak and the floor was paved in colored stone. The tables were arranged in a broken rectangle and in the middle was an open fire pit which was long and narrow with spits going across it and stands holding pots and kettles over the fire. They washed their hands at the table closest to the door then sat in an empty spot where plates, bowls, and utensils were already laid out. Before them, on the side of the table near the fire, were platters and tureens that were being filled as things finished cooking and there was space. They helped themselves and Brenion gave her some critiques to be mindful of when she rode tomorrow and informed her she would be saddling the horse herself so to head straight to the stables for instruction on how to do that. He also gave her some exercises he told her he would demonstrate for her after they finished lunch that she should do later that night and in the morning to help her muscles not be as stiff and sore.

They finished and Brenion took her to a little grassy space away from the main bustle of activities and showed her the exercises as promised then had her quickly try each one as Legolas walked up and patiently waited. With a very brief, "Good. Do not be late tomorrow, we have very little time," Brenion walked away, leaving Jennifer with Legolas.

"He's not big on conversation, is he," Jennifer asked, watching him walk away.

"Not unless it is about horses," Legolas answered. "Come, we must practice a little archery before the afternoon is done. I imagine you shall want to wash up before dinner?"

"Probably, unless your father likes his guests smelling like horse," she said, suddenly noticing she was rather dusty she began brushing herself off.

Legolas chuckled, "Your clothes shall have to be beaten out each night. Do not worry much about it now. Your bow does not mind if you are dusty."

They donned their shooting gloves and arm guards and strung their bows, then Legolas had her stretch out a bit before they loosed several arrows into the targets. "I can tell you are still a little stiff from yesterday," Legolas said, "but you are still doing better than before. Let us try some moving targets." He gave a signal and an elf appeared with a wheel barrow full of sacks stuffed with straw with targets painted on them and some small, bright colored bags filled with sand. It was then that Jennifer noticed there was series of ropes and pulleys strung between trees. It was to these that the elf attached a couple of targets. At Legolas' signal the other elf began pulling the rope to make the targets move slowly across the field. Jennifer shot and mostly missed, but she did hit them a couple of times. Legolas gave her some critiques then she tried again with some success. Then they tried having her hit the brightly colored bags as the other elf threw them into the air. After a few rounds of this she began to do progressively worse, at which point Legolas said, "I believe that is enough. Your muscles are tired and your hands are shaky. At this point practice is unproductive."

"Thank goodness," Jennifer said, quickly returning her arrow to the quiver. Legolas unstrung her bow for her and gathered their things and carried them back to the armory then led her back towards her room.

As they were approaching the hall where their rooms were, Legolas said, "I have a salve I think will help your sore muscles. The next couple of days are bound to be hard on you. You need not suffer with sore muscles on top of it."

"Thank you," Jennifer said tiredly. "How long until your father, er, the king expects us for dinner?"

"A couple hours," he answered. "Time enough for you to wash and rest beforehand."

"Oh good," she said. They walked in silence a few paces then she added, "I just realized I've been rather bad about remembering to call your father the king and your majesty and all that. It's not that I mean to be rude, it's just that, well, we don't have a king or queen in my country. We have a totally different system of government, so I'm not really in any sort of habit when it comes to referring to monarchs. He's not upset about it, is he?"

Legolas shook his head. "Not at all." He opened the door to his room. "Come in while I fetch the salve for you." He held the door open for her and they went in and he shut the door behind her. "Actually, and I ask you not to repeat this, but father said he rather enjoys how you speak with him."

"Really? I just talk to him how I would anyone's father, I think," she replied as she watched him disappear through the door to his bed chamber.

He emerged again a moment later holding a small brown jar with a lid. "That is what he enjoys I think. All of my friends growing up had to call him your majesty or my lord and so forth, and though my cousins referred to him as uncle, it is very, very few who can speak to him in plain terms. I think he permits you to do so because he can without losing face or reputation. You are, it seems, an exception to the rules." He looked at her ears again and wondered how many rules she was an exception to. "Here you are," he said handing her the jar. She took off the lid and sniffed it and was surprised at the herbal scent. "You may wish to have Estelneth help you," he added.

"Yeah, I probably will. Thank you!"

"You are welcome," he said.

"You're not upset that I don't call you your highness, or your majesty, or whatever, are you?" she asked.

"No, I am not. I must say, I understand why my father enjoys your manner. You are not disrespectful in word or spirit, yet you speak to us with a familiarly. It is very nice to converse with someone who is free and artless in their manner," he answered.

She got a very funny look on her face. She felt deeply complimented and that somehow made her feel nervous and embarrassed for reasons she could not fathom. The contradictory string of emotions hit her so hard and simultaneously, she didn't have time to process them and began feeling very frustrated, which resulted in her looking embarrassed and confused with increasingly red cheeks.

Legolas wanted to ask her why she looked so embarrassed, but thought the better of it, and said, "You must be tired, let us return you to your room."

He left her at her door and returned to his room where puzzled long and hard at the memory of the look on her face and thought he would pay gold to know what exactly was going through her head. One thing was obvious though, he had somehow flustered her significantly.

Jennifer was greeted by Estelneth who had everything arranged and waiting for her. Jennifer gave her a heartfelt thank you and handed her the jar, asking if she would help her rub it on her sore muscles later. Without another word, she went into the bathroom and hastily undressed and climbed into the tub where she proceeded to sink her head under the water and berate herself for being such an awkward mess. In time though, she came up for air and began trying to figure out why what he said sent her into a tizzy which eventually unraveled into more mindless musings, aided by the sound of Estelneth singing in the other room. After her bath Jennifer had Estelneth help her with the salve and then she lay down on her bed and asked Estelneth to wake her up in time to get ready for dinner.

Estelneth was working on Jennifer's hair when a knock came at the door.

"Come in," Jennifer called.

In strode Legolas who said, "It looks like you shall be ready soon?"

"In mere moments," Jennifer replied.

Estelneth tied off the last braid then carefully set something on Jennifer's head that he couldn't see from where he stood in the doorway. "All done," Estelneth said. "What do you think?"

"I think it looks wonderful! Did you make this yourself?" she asked.

"Indeed, I did," Estelneth replied.

"It looks splendid!" Jennifer said. Estelneth stepped aside and Jennifer stood and turned towards Legolas. "What do you think? Didn't Estelneth do a lovely job with the flowers?"

He was quiet a moment. How could it be she looked more elven and fair than a few hours ago? "She did indeed," he said at last. "You are a fair vision of late summer, crowned with her finest flowers."

Jennifer turned and looked at herself in the mirror again then said, "Well, I don't know about looking like a fair vision, but these little white flowers look great in my hair and smell amazing! And this dress does me a world of favors. My compliments to Estelneth and the dressmaker!" She gave herself one more twirl in the vanity mirror then turned to Legolas and said, "I believe I am ready. Oh! We match tonight! Green with silver, both of us!"

He looked down at himself as if he had forgotten what he had put on. "Indeed, we do," he answered.

"Yes, you do look rather like a set," Estelneth said. "But to truly match, you, my prince, would need to put a few flowers in your hair."

"Do you have any more?" he asked.

"I do," Estelneth said as she picked up an arrangement of the little white flowers. "Indeed, I had made this first, but then decided our guest would look better with all her braids adorned, and not just part. If you will, I shall put this on for you." Legolas smiled and sat down in front of the mirror for Estelneth who quickly put the little spray of flowers along the plaits that were holding the rest of his loose hair in place, and just a little down the single plait they turned into. "There. See how you like it, my lord," she said, holding up a hand mirror behind his head.

"Perfect. Thank you, Estelneth," he said, standing.

"My pleasure, my lord," she replied with a bow.

Jennifer took Legolas' proffered arm and they left the room. Estelneth watched them go and thought to herself, "My but they are a handsome couple. He is as strong and lithe as a young tree and she is as fair and subtle as the flower that grows at its roots. Each fair alone, but fairer together. And there I go, being as silly as an elfling again! If only he would find someone."

Dinner was in the same dining hall as the evening before, and although everything was delicious and the conversation was pleasant, there was something in the way Thranduil had looked when they entered that she couldn't place and made her feel a little uneasy all evening. Like she was wearing a shirt backwards or had her socks on inside out. Otherwise, dinner was uneventful, though pleasant.

"Jennifer, after dinner we were thinking of having music and singing in the drawing room. Should you like to join us?" Thranduil asked.

Her prodigiously sensible and practical side nearly declined immediately as she was tired and knew she had to get up early in the morning. Fortunately, she also realized that even if the offer were renewed every night for the next week, she would probably never return to the Woodland Realm, and so she accepted the invitation.

After dinner they adjourned to a room not far from that dining hall that had a series of windows on one side looking out over the trees. There was a very large hearth that had a good fire going in it and inside there were several elves already, some with instruments, some without. A couple of them she thought looked familiar from her welcome feast, but she really couldn't be sure until they came up and asked her how she was doing. The conversation was very short however, as the king sat down and they excused themselves so they could go play and sing. Jennifer felt completely out of her depth and immediately turned and looked for Legolas who was sitting near his father and went and joined him.

At first there was only instrumental music and there was some conversation to be had as a few other elves who looked somewhat important came in and greeted the king and prince and then sat down or stood in various places that seemed somewhat predetermined. Jennifer watched all this silently and began wondering if she wasn't sitting in somebody else's seat.

"Legolas," she whispered quietly, leaning towards him. "Is it okay that I sit here?"

"Of course, why do you ask?" he answered in kind.

"Because I just got a very distinct feeling that everyone is sitting or standing in a very specific place and I wouldn't want some lord or duchess or something mad at me," she answered.

He smiled and replied, "These are largely our relations. Over there are my father's cousins," he nodded towards two elven men, "and over there is my mother's brother and his wife and my two cousins," he said looking over at a second group just to the left.

Jennifer looked at them carefully then said, "I think you introduced them to me, didn't you?"

"Only my cousins," he replied.

She nodded. "Is this a somewhat regular thing you all do? Sit around listening to music?"

He nodded. "We do this often. Do you do anything like this?"

"Umm… Not often. My mom and I will spontaneously break into song, but we don't often get together with people just to play and sing," she answered.

"That is sad to me. I hope you shall enjoy this," he said.

"I think I might," she answered.

The evening proved surprisingly laid back and fun, despite the fact she only knew a handful of words in elvish. They sang a handful of songs where there were replies, so one side of the room would sing the phrase the other half would repeat and Legolas would quickly translate the phrases for her so she knew what she was singing. The balance of these songs were silly or at the very least, not serious, though one or two bittersweet ones were thrown in. A couple of them had accompanying dances which she found fun too. Mixed in with these were some ballads which took shape in her mind even without Legolas translating, and much to her appreciation, both Legolas and Thranduil sang songs they rendered into the common tongue. Still being a human though, Jennifer at last grew tired and drifted off during a particularly long and beautiful ballad. The images woven by the minstrel permeated into her dreams and lingered there.

Legolas didn't notice until the song ended that she had fallen asleep and slumped over onto his shoulder. Everyone in the room fell quiet until Thranduil motioned for them to keep playing then said quietly to his son, "Do not wake her. Carry her to her bed and see that Estelneth tucks her in. She has had a long day and tomorrow shall be long again."

Legolas nodded and carefully slipped the arm she was leaning on under her head and the other under her knees and so picked her up and carried her to her room. As always, Estelneth was waiting and had everything perfectly arranged in anticipation of her return. The fire was warm and the bright and only a few lamps were lit and the bed turned down. When she saw her prince carrying the girl in, she immediately blew out the lights nearest the bed and once the girl was laid down, she removed her shoes and covered her with blankets.

"Do not wake her," Legolas said quietly. "I shall call for her early tomorrow." He stared down at the sleeping girl.

"She looks even more like us than she did this morning," Estelneth said. "And by morning I shall not be surprised if she is fairer still."

"It is a wonder to me how these things can be. She looks so very elven, yet she is still very human."

Estelneth only nodded in response.

"I am afraid she shall be very stiff and sore in the morning. When she awakes have her do the exercises Brenion gave her and rub more salve on whatever hurts. We must press on vigorously with her training, but we need not add additional suffering if it can be avoided."

"I shall see to it," Estelneth replied.

Legolas smiled. "I know you shall. You were, I think, my mother's favorite and have been a most excellent servant all these years. Never a detail unattended. Father and I thank you for taking such good care of our guest."

"It has been and continues to be my pleasure to serve you and your family," she said with a bow.

Legolas took a last look at the sleeping girl then bade Estelneth good night and left.

The rest of the week continued on in much the same manner – early mornings at the stables, riding until midday, lunch, archery in the afternoon, wash, rest, supper with the king and Legolas, perhaps talking or singing and making music with them after, then bed. Her riding lessons and archery practice also had elvish lessons folded in, as Brenion continued teaching her how to give the horse instructions in elvish and also began giving her instructions in elvish and the common tongue. Legolas also began giving her instructions and critiques in two languages, and as the week progressed the balance shifted from mostly common tongue and little elvish to slightly more elvish than common. This carried over into evenings with the Legolas and Thranduil as well. They taught her words and phrases as they talked together, and by the week's end she was able to put together some basic sentences, much to the delight of all. Though she had already expressed interest in learning elvish, Legolas did mention to her one day during archery practice that it was somewhat necessary she learn certain words and phrases in case something should happen on the road.

"If we fall into our own tongue, I would not have you unaware of what is going on. In the midst of an attack one does not always have time to think about what language in which one is shouting commands," he explained.

She had realized from the moment her going to Rivendell was mentioned that there was every chance in the world of something happening along the way. Though nothing was mentioned in the books, that didn't mean an attack didn't occur, just that it didn't kill Legolas. What had caused her face to grow so sober however, was the realization that her very life may depend on her tenuous grasp of elvish. She took it heart then tried not to think about it too much lest she panic.

"Are we going to resume knife fighting lessons?" she asked.

"No, we shall abandon that for the moment. I do not think you possess enough sheer strength to make up for your lack of skill with hand to hand combat," he answered. "Your archery skills are good, and if we are attacked, loose arrows at the attackers and stay near me. We may practice some knife fighting on the road, but I think it more important we focus on your riding and archery before we depart."

She thought it over and agreed with his conclusion.

The day before departure, Legolas stayed to watch her riding lessons with Brenion.

"She has improved," Legolas commented.

"Indeed, she has," Brenion replied. "I am now hopeful she shall fare well on the road. Of course, I have not had time to teach her how to keep her balance going up and down hill, so you shall need to deal with that as you may, but I have done what I can."

The prince nodded. "How does Galion like her?"

"You can see for yourself. He seems to have taken to her. I believe he is truly the best choice we could have made for her," Brenion answered. "Just be sure you make her continue her exercises morning and evening. And do not let her slouch. That seems to be her one bad habit."

"I shall."

"And take care of my horse," he added.

Meanwhile in the palace, Estelneth was summoned to King Thranduil's study. She entered the study she knew so well and walked over to where he sat behind a large desk and gave a deep curtsy. Thranduil gestured for her to be seated.

"How go the preparations for Jennifer's departure?" he asked as she sat down.

"They are complete, your majesty. Everything is packed save the outfit she shall wear to travel and the weapons she shall take with her," Estelneth replied.

Thranduil gave a small smile. "Excellent. Tell me Estelneth, what do you think of Jennifer?"

"I find her to be a sober minded girl. Though she is young, she is serious, studious, and immensely practical. She also carefully and faithfully carries out tasks set before her," she answered. "I believe she shall not be a hindrance on the road. Prince Legolas reports that her archery skills are becoming formidable and she is careful to obey orders. If attacked, I believe she shall obey orders and shall not impede those trying to protect her. She may even prove useful, your majesty," Estelneth answered.

"You always were good at guessing my mind," Thranduil said.

"Is there anything else my king?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact there is. I have instructed Legolas to end her lessons early today. I wish for her to be well rested and refreshed so she may enjoy the feast tonight, as I hope to make this last evening here a most enjoyable and memorable one. Therefore, I shall send one of the healers to attend to her sore limbs. I have also sent orders for food to be sent to her room as well as a harpist."

"Elion?" Estelneth asked.

"Indeed," Thranduil answered. "Also, I would like for you to perform for her the same services and luxuries you used to give to the queen."

"It shall be done, my lord, but I shall need certain things in order to carry them out," Estelneth said.

"I have given instructions that any request or order from you shall be treated as an order from myself. Whatever you need is yours and immediately," Thranduil replied.

Estelneth smiled, "Thank you, your majesty. It shall be done. Per chance do you know how long until she returns?"

"Yes, she shall be returning near midday," Thranduil answered. "Oh, and see that she looks particularly festive this evening."

"It shall be done," Estelneth replied.

Outside the palace, Jennifer had barely gone through a quiver of arrows when Legolas told her it was enough for the day.

"Are you sure?" Jennifer asked.

"Yes. We want you to be well rested for tonight's festivities," Legolas answered.

"Oh, well, I suppose a little down time before we leave tomorrow will be nice," Jennifer said. "What time do we leave tomorrow?"

"Before first light. We shall wish to reach the edge of my father's realm as early as possible so we may travel as far as we can by daylight. The forest is growing darker again so we shall travel through it as swiftly as possible. We shall have an armed guard escort us to the forest's edge, and we shall travel steadily all day and late into the night. We hope to get to the other side in 3 days," he said.

"I'll do my best to keep up," she said, honestly feeling a bit overwhelmed.

"I shall not let you fall behind," Legolas said.

This comforted Jennifer quite a bit. They walked on and she asked him a few more details about the morning and the next couple of days. They reached her room and Legolas left her saying, "Put tomorrow out of your mind now. Everything has been arranged for the morning. Now go enjoy yourself."

"Enjoy myself?" she asked, but he was already walking away and said nothing. She opened the door and was greeted by the sound of sweet harp music. She looked around the antechamber and there was an elf sitting before the fire playing the harp. Near him was a table that looked laid out for a meal, but no food was upon it yet. Estelneth appeared out of the bed chamber.

"My lady, we have arranged a number of indulgences for your afternoon I hopes to make your final day here most enjoyable," Estelneth said. "I have a bath drawn and ready for you, but if you should like to have your noon meal first, then that may be arranged."

"No, a bath first sounds great," replied a somewhat stunned Jennifer.

The afternoon proved to be quite a treat for Jennifer. She had never been treated to a spa day before, but she well imagined any spa day back home couldn't be better than what she had. After a scented bath, lunch, a manicure and a pedicure, a massage, and an hour or two of peaceful lounging to the dulcet sounds of elvish harp and singing, Estelneth set about to getting Jennifer ready for the feast. She had her wear her hunter green dress with silver designs and the necklace and the sparkling circlet Thranduil had loaned to her. Estelneth had taken great care to weave bright little white flowers into the circlet to make them look part of the design, and then as she put braids in Jennifer's hair, she wove the flowers into it as well to make it look like one great headpiece. Jennifer didn't notice so much, but the flowers leant their perfume to her hair and the air around her, so all evening there was the soft and sweet scent of flowers following her.

Estelneth finished in good time, as always, and Jennifer was trying to see her hair in the mirror when Legolas knocked. Another servant answered (Estelneth had been given some help for the afternoon) and bade the prince wait in the antechamber then came and informed Jennifer that he had arrived.

"Now remember, we're going to do this properly," Estelneth said as she made her way towards the door. "I have not been strict on holding either you or the prince to elven manners this week, but I shall not send you off to the House of Elrond without some idea of propriety."

Jennifer nodded, following close behind. "Right. So, I wait for you to announce me and step aside, then I come in?"

"And curtsey," Estelneth said, her hand lightly resting on the door handle.

"Yes, and curtsey. Then what?" Jennifer asked, feeling something akin to stage fright sweeping over her.

"He shall bow in return and you shall take his arm if he offers it, or sit if he bids you sit because he is the prince and outranks you. If he were just some other elf, you would decide if you leave or sit first," Estelneth answered, then opened the door before any more questions could be asked. She opened the door and stepped inside and held it open as she said, "Lady Jennifer, your majesty," and bowed her head.

In the span of a breath, Jennifer pulled herself together and channeled the mass of nerves racing through her into what she needed to do next. She arranged her face into a pleasant smile and carefully paced her steps into the room and gave a curtsey as Estelneth had instructed and held it until Legolas bowed in return then straightened up and waited for her next cue.

"Good evening, Jennifer," Legolas said.

"Good evening, Prince Legolas," Jennifer replied, feeling like she was up on stage with a giant spotlight shining on her and her next line completely forgotten unless the other character in the scene gives her the right cue.

"I am a little early this evening. Would you like to sit and talk before we go? Or perhaps you would prefer to walk a little?" he asked.

"A walk would be nice," Jennifer replied.

Legolas offered her his arm which she gladly took and he escorted her out of the room. The minute the door shut behind them she felt like the curtain had just fallen and the merciless spotlight was off her. Now that the audience couldn't see her, she took a deep breath and wished she had an ice water or something to drink.

"Estelneth's etiquette lessons can have that effect," Legolas said.

"How did you know?"

"You had me wait in the antechamber, called me Prince Legolas, and curtsied," he replied.

"I guess that would be a dead giveaway."

He nodded. "But now that she is out of hearing we may speak as friends. How was your afternoon?"

"It was nice! I've never really done anything like that before, and I must say, it was very relaxing. How was your afternoon?"

"It was very nice," Legolas replied.

"What did you do?" Jennifer asked.

"I finished up some last minute preparations, spent some time alone, then got ready. I do not get much time truly to myself, so the few hours I had alone before I had to dress for this evening were very pleasant. I think our servants are in conspiracy though," he said with a grin. "I was going to wear something else entirely but mine insisted I wear this tonight."

Jennifer looked at him and finally paid attention to his clothes. "I think you're right," she said, noticing the hunter green robes with silver belt and silver tunic peeking out from underneath.

"We do have a little time before we need to be anywhere," Legolas said. "Where would you like to go?"

"Hmm… I don't know. I've really only seen a handful of places," she answered.

"How should you like to see the river?"

"Yeah, that would be fun!"

They turned down a different passage than she had been down before then went through a door down a rather plain hallway that Jennifer suspected might be a servant's passageway. There were many doors down the passage, but they went to the very end and out the door which Legolas unlocked with a key he produced from an inner pocket, and she found herself outside, staring down a paved pathway and the abrupt end of the woods at the banks of a river.

He led her down the path to an outer wall that spanned the river and went into the forest on either side. There were several guards pacing back and forth that stopped and saluted Legolas in the elvish fashion as they walked by. The river was deep, wide, and swift and the familiar sound was like a balm to her soul. It had been too long since she had been on a river.

"Is this where Bilbo escaped?" she asked suddenly, looking back towards the palace.

Legolas got a funny look on his face. "You may not believe this, but Bilbo did not tell us precisely how they escaped."

Jennifer laughed. "Seriously? Bilbo crammed them all in apple barrels and waited until somebody pulled the lever."

Legolas laughed. "Then not only did he steal the butler's keys in front of his eyes, he escaped in front of him too! Oh, it is best my father was not told. He was quite displeased."

"Whatever happened to him anyway?" Jennifer asked.

"Father threatened to make him a scullery maid for life if something like that ever happens again and forbade him from drinking wine for a year or two, but he left it at that," Legolas said. "Then yes, this would be where he escaped. That," he said pointing towards the cave the river flowed out from, "is the only place the river leaves my father's halls." They watched the river rush beneath them for a few minutes and then Legolas said, "It is time we head towards the feast."

They reached the clearing and found it already abuzz with elves talking amongst themselves. Everything was set, everyone was finding their place, and Thranduil was already seated at the head and was waiting for Legolas and Jennifer before starting. They made their way to the table and sat down with Legolas on his right and Jennifer beside Legolas. As soon as they were seated, a note was played on a small horn and a silence fell. Thranduil stood and made a short speech in elvish, of which Jennifer only caught, "Tonight we come… before Legolas and Jennifer depart in the morning. Join us…for though we do not know if she shall return… we…friend and is welcome… Let us begin!"

Immediately dishes were uncovered and the festivities began. Jennifer wasn't sure how, but it seemed like the king had outdone himself. How it was after a week of sumptuous food they were able to put on a feast that seemed even more amazing was beyond her ken. For a while the music was soft and subdued and once the dessert was served, the music began to be livelier and elves started getting up to dance. Legolas finished first and waited patiently for Jennifer to finish before asking her to dance. This time she joined him without hesitation.

Both were singing and dancing and laughing for hours. However, she was still very human, which meant that she could still get very tired. It must have been drawing near midnight when she flung herself into her chair, half asleep when Legolas came up.

"What are you doing there? There are many hours left til dawn! You don't intend sleeping for the rest of this party do you?" the elf playfully asked.

"I do intend on sleeping for the rest of this party! I am very tired!" she yawned.

"No, I think you shall stay awake." he laughed.

"How? There isn't much you could do to keep me up," she groggily said.

"We shall see about that." he mischievously grinned. If she had been more awake, she would have been worried. The elf ran off towards the table on the far side of the partying, and returned moments later with a golden goblet in his hand. "Drink this." he said handing her the goblet. Being half awake, she just drank.

She had never had anything like it! It was a rich, golden tasting liquid with a spicy, herbal aftertaste. It jolted her awake.

"What is this?" she asked staring at the cup.

"Best you do not know," the elf grinned.

She eyed the golden liquid, took another sip and said, "It certainly has a kick. Well, I'm awake now, but if I have a hangover later, you're a dead elf!" she smiled.

"You will not!" he assured. "I need you to have your wits about you in the morning."

"Shouldn't I go to bed then?" she asked somewhat skeptically.

"And have you miss your own farewell party? Never!" he replied and took her hand and led her back to the dancing.

Long into the night, both were as merry as could be. Sometime later, Legolas and Jennifer went off to their rooms and caught a few hours of sleep. Estelneth woke Jennifer an hour before dawn. Jennifer found everything laid out for her. She changed into her hunting clothes, and flung her gear on her back then prepared to leave her room, but paused and looked at Estelneth and said, "I suspect you've been far more helpful to me than I know. I thank you for everything you did for me all week and I thank you for everything you did for me that is in my pack and saddle bags. I don't know if I'll ever see you again, but – I really appreciate everything. Really. I'm sure I've been a handful or at least a bother. And… I'm going to miss you."

Estelneth smiled and gave her a deep bow. "It has been my distinct and sincere pleasure to serve you. It is not every day one gets to serve and play host to a guest sent by the Valar. I have done my best to pack to make things most convenient for you. And you have been anything but a handful or a bother. Be careful upon the road and stay close to the prince. He shall not let harm come to you. May the stars shine upon the end of your road."

Jennifer thanked her and nodded and headed out the door. She was terrible with goodbyes. Legolas came out of his room to find her walking up to his door.

"Are you ready?" he asked.

"As I'll ever be," she replied. "I've never done a trip like this before."

Legolas placed a hand on her shoulder and said, "You shall do well, I have no doubt; and I shall help you."

Legolas led her to the horse stables where two other elves elf named Ellindë and Thinhen that were to go with them were waiting. Jennifer saddled Galion and received some help from Brenion with affixing her pack and saddle bags. Once everyone was ready, they rode up towards the main gate where Thranduil and a small armed and armoured guard were waiting.

Everyone bowed to the king who bade Legolas and Jennifer to dismount and speak with him briefly.

"I shall not keep you long," Thranduil said, "Jennifer, I am sorry we must say farewell so soon after meeting. I will caution you as you travel through Mirkwood to stay very close to Legolas and the others. My domain is safe enough, but the forest grows dark again and the northern road also grows perilous. Be careful. Legolas," he turned towards his son and spoke quickly and quietly in elvish and Jennifer would have walked away except she hadn't been dismissed, so she did her best to not pay attention. The king embraced his son then bade farewell to him and Jennifer and signaled the guards to follow them.

It was just after sunrise in open places, but was still dark beneath the trees when Prince Legolas, Jennifer, Ellindë, Thinhen and an armed guard rode away from the halls of Thranduil into the darkness of Mirkwood.