"Has he gone?" Elladan hissed to his brother.
"Yes," replied Elrohir, peering gingerly over the banks.
With identical sighs of relief, the sodden twins clambered out of the lake.
"Oh Elbereth, wait a minute, he's back!"
With frightened squeaks and splashes, the twins disappeared again into the lake.
"Got her, Haldir?" perked up Rúmil
"Oh, I've got her alright!" grinned Haldir, holding onto Zu.
Upon seeing Haldir stride up, Erestor put on his best 'welcoming' face.
"Welcome to Imladris, Captain," he said, smiling.
Before Haldir had a chance to reply, Erestor gave a sudden yelp of pain as Glorfindel nudged him in the ribs.
"What was that for?" he gasped in outrage.
"Sorry," grinned Glorfindel apologetically, "but don't you think we should wake her up?"
He gestured down at Forest, who was miraculously still deep in slumber.
Erestor looked down to where Glorfindel was pointing. "Seems a shame," he mused. "She looks so peaceful."
"Still," replied Glorfindel. "I think she would like to meet the new arrivals."
Erestor bent down, ready to gently shake Forest awake, when he leapt back in shock.
"What the-?"
An overly-large bird had just landed where Erestor's head had been nano-seconds before. "That animal is lethal!"
Upon hearing Erestor's shout, Elrohir's head appeared over the brim of the bank.
"What is it?" hissed Elladan.
"Erestor's being attacked again," said Elrohir.
"Oh, good!" replied his brother. "Since they're distracted, let's go now. No one will spot us at the moment!"
Seizing the opportunity, the twins clambered hastily up the bank and onto the grass. Getting up from the ground, they ran as fast as their legs could carry them, back in the direction of the Homely House.
"Did anyone see us?" panted Elrohir after running at full pelt for over ten minutes.
Elladan looked back over his shoulder. "No. We're alright," he replied. "Come on. Let's get going."
"Erm...I don't think we will have to wake her up anymore!" Glorfindel smirked down at Forest, now splattered with mud.
Turning her head, Forest saw an overly large bird hopping away, scratching at the mud as it went.
"Now that's what I call a flying visit!" grinned Erestor.
A loud cough was heard from above and everyone turned their attention to Haldir.
"Yes?" asked Erestor, raising a brow.
"Who is she?" Haldir nodded down at Forest. "Forgive me, but I didn't notice her down there."
Erestor exchanged knowing looks with Glorfindel and they both stepped back.
Forest leapt to her feet, eyes glittering with annoyance.
"How could you not notice me?" she snarled. "It's not like I was invisible! I mean, there I was, lying on the ground sleeping, and being very visible indeed!"
Haldir looked over Forest's shoulder, to see Erestor and Glorfindel grinning widely.
"You two? You still haven't told me who your charming friend is."
Celeborn made his way into the Last Homely House without so much as disturbing a pebble on the walkway. It was easy for him to navigate once inside, and he took his time exploring as he wandered his way to Elrond's study.
Elrond was sitting at his desk with his head bowed, humming and mumbling a strange little tune to himself. "…and now I find you here with that sad look upon your face – I should have changed that stupid lock, I should have thrown away the key, I should have –" Elrond jumped in his seat upon hearing the audible click as the door closed and managed to knock his bottle of ink over so that it ran across his blotting papers. "Celeborn!"
"You should have learned to lock your doors if you didn't want to be seen. Or heard." Celeborn had closed the door in the manner he had to alert his son-in-law of his presence, and sat down now in one of the chairs across the desk. "I have come to inform you that I am in your realm."
"Yes, I can see that!" answered Elrond dabbing the ink with a cloth. "Why was I not informed when you arrived at the guard post?"
"Because your guards – and even my guards that happen to be here – appear to have themselves otherwise occupied with members of the fairer sex."
"You made it past all of my guardians? Glorfindel included?"
"Glorfindel, Elladan, Elrohir – even Haldir and his brothers did not notice me."
Elrond rubbed at a stain that was drying on his desk from the spilt ink. "How?"
"How? Who do you think trains the Galadhrim?! How, indeed," Celeborn huffed as he reached for the bottle of wine that Elrond had set off to the side. Pouring a generous amount into a goblet that was sitting on the desk, Celeborn set the bottle back down and took up the cup.
"So no one else in Imladris knows you are here?" Elrond tossed the soiled rag into a refuse bin.
Celeborn shook his head. "You are the only one. Perfect opportunity for me to kill you if I wanted." Elrond paled and looked slightly concerned, but Celeborn merely rolled his eyes. "Lucky for you, it is my wife who is the kinslayer." Elrond remained on guard, which caused Celeborn to shake his head once more and add, "Come now, if I'd have wanted to kill you, I'd have done so when I caught you in my daughter's bed with her at the beginning of the third age."
"You knew about that?!"
"You might think you're a sneaky one, but Sneak is MY middle name." Celeborn furrowed his brow and sipped his wine. "Or at least it would be if I had a last name and needed a middle one."
"May I ask your business in Imladris?" Elrond tidied his desk best he could, frowning at the ink stain.
"Oh, yes." Celeborn placed the goblet onto the desk and opened a sack. From it he pulled the book and scrolls. "Here we are. Returned as promised."
Elrond blinked as he took the items that were offered to him. "You came all the way from Imladris to return these?"
"Yes. Two months early," added Celeborn, picking up his wine again.
Tucking the scrolls and book to the side of the desk, Elrond looked confused. "I am confused," he said, in case Celeborn had not noticed his confusion. "The messenger arrived just today with the rest of the books."
"Did she now?" mused Celeborn.
Elrond gave Celeborn the famed one-brow raise for a good long time. When Celeborn said nothing, Elrond stood abruptly and went to the window, throwing the shutters open.
"Oh, come now, Elrond! Stop that, don't talk to her, she knows I'm here." Celeborn slumped in his chair with a sigh when he received no response from Elrond, who was standing at the window looking out, saying nothing as he conversed. More than once he glanced over his shoulder, scrutinizing Celeborn. Finally, Elrond came back to the desk, rubbing his forehead.
"Is my wife well?" asked Celeborn more sarcastically than he had expected. "Did the two of you enjoy your little talk about me?"
"She says she is aware of the fact that you came, and that you should stay until you find what you are looking for." Elrond looked at Celeborn carefully before saying, "Whatever that means."
"Do I have your permission to be in your realm?" asked Celeborn.
"Stop it, Celeborn, you know you are welcome here always." Elrond folded his hands upon his desk. "I can't help to think you are up to something, but I will leave that to you and your lady."
Celeborn gave a nod. "If you like. I would prefer that it not be made public that I am here, I'm sure that will be discovered soon enough."
"I assure you that I am not about to announce your presence to one and all."
"Good. If you should have need for me, I will be in the library." Celeborn refilled his glass before heading to the door. "One final request, Elrond. I do not want you to plan one of those outlandish feasts you are so fond of when someone of high regard comes to visit, noble as I may be."
"Actually, there will be a feast-"
"Elrond." Celeborn turned and gave his son-in-law a disdainful look. "Elrond, I do not wish you to plan such an event."
Elrond crossed his arms. "Be that as it may, there is to be a feast-"
"Well, feast all you want, I'm not coming." Celeborn left the room before Elrond could finish his sentence.
"It's not for you, you egotistical old Elf, it's for the- oh, bother." Elrond slammed his fist onto his desk, causing the ink to jump and tip over onto the desk. Elrond closed his eyes and rubbed the bridge of his nose, reaching for the bottle. Finding it was empty, he pushed his chair back and left to find more wine.
"Oh, really, you shouldn't have!" The Elleth plucked one of the two baskets Elladan was burdened with as she dashed past.
"We didn't," answered Elrohir, grabbing it back as the Elleth tried to dodge around him. She spun around to the other side of Elrohir and pulled the basket he originally held.
"There. Now I have one and you have one and he has one. What do we have?" she wondered aloud, reaching for the cloth that covered the basket she held.
Elladan yanked the basket away before she could find out, and if he had had a free hand, he would have shook his finger at her. "You know what they say about curious Elleths, don't you?"
"No, I don't make a point of listening to 'them'." The Elleth tried once again to grab a basket, but the twins were standing next to each other in a defensive position now, so she crossed her arms instead. "And by the way, good day and I missed you."
"We missed you, too," grinned Elrohir, "but these are not for you."
"Just a peek?"
"No."
"What if you let me reach in and feel my way around a bit?"
Elrohir was about to answer in the negative once again, but Elladan held out one of the baskets. "Here, then. Go ahead."
The Elleth reached for the basket, then stopped. "Why are you smirking like that?" she questioned.
"Oh, no reason."
"No reason at all."
The Elleth drew back. "Never mind. I can tell you're up to something."
"Us?"
"Never."
"Right. And I'm a dwarvish owlcat."
"Well, you're quite fit for a dwarvish owlcat," said Elladan, "and don't let anyone tell you otherwise," he added with a wink.
"If you're not telling me what is in those baskets, I'm going to tell your father-"
"Hey!"
"Very unfair!"
"I was going to say," began the Elleth again, "I'm going to tell your father that the two of you are up to something, unless you'd be so kind as to escort me to the art gallery."
Elladan and Elrohir exchanged glances. They were running late as it was, and did not need any further distractions, but what they needed even less was their father hounding them for picnicking and such when they still had orders to find and rehearse the play.
"There, but not back again," warned Elrohir, hoisting his basket into his arms. Elladan was stuck with two of the woven wicker containers, and the Elleth pulled on the handle of one of them.
"Please, I promise not to look," she said. Elladan let go without hesitation, knowing that no Elf made a promise without intending to keep it. "Oh, wait. I need something from the library."
The twins looked at one another, and Elrohir gave a low and barely audible whimper. "I shall retrieve it," offered Elladan, handing his other basket to Elrohir. "What is it you need?"
"That book on Rohan the two of you showed me when last I was here. The one with the maps." Elladan stared back blankly, and the Elleth tried again. "Third shelf, top row, fourth book from the left."
"How do you recall such things?" mused Elladan as he headed down the hall.
"How can you not? You live here!" called the Elleth as he walked away.
"Librarians..." sighed Elladan, shaking his head as he walked to the library.
Emmi rolled her eyes as she envisioned Forest's reply. Muttering something to herself about arrogant elves, she turned and started to walk back up the path to the city. Seeing his lady leaving, Rúmil rushed to follow.
"Where are you off to now? Things were just beginning to get interesting!" he said with a grin. "Haldir was finally going to get his comeuppance."
Turning to glare at Rúmil, Emmi stomped her foot, "Don't you elves ever think of anything except yourselves? It was perfectly clear that Zu didn't want to stay, yet she is being held against her will! That is not the act of the elves I have come to love. Maybe that is why you are called COLD!"
Whirling around, Emmi continued to stomp up the path. Rúmil, mad himself, glared after her and then went back to join the others. At a curious glance from his brother he simply stated, "You know how women are! Darned if I can figure her out! I think she is just being silly!"
Zu struggled in the arms of her captor, Haldir. "Let me go! I don't want to be here!" she yelled at him.
Haldir had taken her down from her horse, then carried her back to the picnic site. He still didn't understand what would make her want to leave.
'Why won't they let me leave?' wondered Zu. All she wanted to do was get away from Haldir and leave this Elven city, but she could not. She was forbidden to leave. 'Elrond will pay for this... He will pay dearly...'
Zu watched as Emmi stormed off. She heard Rúmil's comment to Emmi and grumbled to herself. 'Emmi wasn't being silly. She knew that I would be forced to stay here.'
She remembered that first she had to deal with Haldir. She looked up at the Elf, still holding her in his arms, one under her upper back and around her shoulder, the other arm under her knees. "I think you can set me down now." She said seriously.
He set her on the ground and crossed his arms in front of him. "Why did you try to leave?"
She turned away from him and tried to ignore him. She couldn't tell him. She couldn't reveal the reasons behind her hatred of Valentines Day.
'She refuses to answer me! Well, I'll just have to convince her to tell me, even if it takes all day,' Haldir decided. He was supposed to try out a few different techniques, gift-giving, poem writing, and the like, on Zu and then report to Elrond what her reactions were. He wondered which things would work for this maiden.
Zu looked up at the lush green trees and the colorful flowers in the nearby garden. Her gaze was drawn to a particular group of flowers. They were the brightest red roses in the entire garden. Then she thought back to her past...
She remembered one time when she was in Lothlórien. She had just returned from her Sindarin lessons and she went to her room. She had sprawled out on her bed, and just as she was about to take a nap, she heard a knock on her door.
She got up and opened the door. A messenger Elf was at the door. He was holding a bouquet of the largest and reddest roses she had ever seen in her life.
"Mae govannen, my lady," the messenger said, bowing to her.
"Are those for..." Her eyes were about to water, but then a she-Elf from the next room ran up to them, distracting her.
"Oh, he sent me roses! How sweet!" She stood in front of the messenger and took them. "He said he was going to give me a gift for Valentines Day, and this must be it!"
Zu's eyes glazed over with tears, and she did her best to hold back a sob.
"The silly Elf, he forgot which room I was in..." The overly excited she-Elf continued to ramble on.
The messenger looked at Zu and saw how she was obviously hurt by this mistake. "My lady? I'm terribly sorry about the mix up. I hope I haven't-"
"GO AWAY!" She screamed at them both, causing the Elf wench to finally quiet herself. "JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!" She slammed the door on the two stunned Elves.
That was the last time she had allowed herself to be so hopeful on Valentine's Day. She would never get a gift. No one cared enough for her, nor did anyone remember her on days like this one.
Just one rose...
That was all she had wanted...
"My lady?" Haldir set his hand on Zu's shoulder, bringing her back to reality. "Are you alright?"
She tried not to look at him. "I want to be alone..."
Haldir watched as she pulled away from him so she could walk back to her room. She looked like a dark shadow sweeping over the grass and the stone paved walkways. He had to find out what was wrong. He just had to find a way to bring a smile to her face.
Haldir wouldn't stop following Zu all the rest of the day. He had tried to ask her why she was upset, but she repeatedly denied conference with him. He had offered her flowers and candies and other Valentine's Day gifts, but she turned them all down and finally demanded that he leave her alone.
"The mounts are ready?" questioned Elladan as the brothers stepped out of the house.
"And have been for some time," answered Elrohir as they walked to the stables.
"The baskets will be secure?" asked Elladan, giving his twin a worried look.
"They will," nodded Elrohir.
"The Elleth won't cause us any trouble?" Elladan set the baskets upon the ground and mounted, helping Elrohir attach one to either side of his horse. The third he held while Elrohir mounted, passing it to his grinning brother.
"I led her around the house eight times in twenty different directions. I don't expect she knows left from right, up from down, or south from east anymore." Elrohir said, settling the basket in his lap as both he and his brother drew their dark hoods over their heads and headed out of the stable away from the Last Homely House.
Forest looked from Rúmil's fuming face to the retreating back of Emmi.
"Forgive me, Captain, I must take my leave," she said quickly to Haldir.
"Where are you going?" Erestor asked.
"I am going to see what is wrong with Emmi," she replied. "I disagree with Rúmil. She is not being silly. It would take something serious to upset her like that." Rúmil just stared at the ground.
"Do you want us to come?" suggested Glorfindel.
"Nay. I'll be fine. You stay here and finish the picnic. I'll be back when I can."
With that, she hurried up the hill after Emmi. Finally, she caught up with her in the dining hall of The Last Homely House.
"Emmi?" she said, putting a hand on her friend's shoulder. "What is wrong?"
"Wrong? How can anything be wrong?" Emmi asked sarcastically, "While I personally don't have a problem with being here, it is also perfectly clear that Zu does. I don't understand all this, Forest. The elves are missing the whole true meaning of Valentine's Day. valentine's Day is supposed to be spent with someone because you want to not because you were forced to! What good is Valentine's Day if you hate everything about it and the elves are just making it worse?" With a shake of her head, Emmi turned and started up the path. "This is not like the elves we know. I would dearly love to get my hands around the Elf that thought up this crazy idea!"
All of a sudden, Emmi stopped. As she turned, Forest could see the mischievous light that lit up her friend's eyes. "Unless..." she started. "Unless...we could turn it around and show them exactly what the true meaning of Valentine's Day is! They have the false idea that all it takes to win a lady's heart are flowers, pretty speeches, and material things. They have no idea that what it should really involve is friendship, listening, and sharing. Maybe, if we scorn their gifts and praise the time spent just getting to know each other more, maybe they will understand. What do you think? Of course, it could be fun making them think, on our part." With eyes lit up, Emmi began to pace back and forth, plotting what could be done.
Legolas was frustrated. He adored all of the maidens here in Rivendell and took great pleasure in getting Emmi all riled up, but it seemed that all of the maidens had an Elf or two already giving them their Valentine's Day attention, leaving Legolas with no one. Since when did the prince of Mirkwood have trouble wooing a young maiden? This frustrated Legolas to no end.
Sitting on the railing of a high balcony, Legolas noticed a lone horse and rider approaching the city of Rivendell. The rider was covered by a black cloak with the hood pulled over its face. But Legolas did not need to see the rider's face to know who it was for he recognized the rider's horse easily. The great Friesian stallion cantered gently toward the city gates. His black coat gleaming in the sun and his long black mane and tail flying in the gentle breeze. He wore only a bridle, as his rider sat upon him bareback. This was Knight, the horse of the Lady Kristin.
Legolas had met this maiden once before at a recent Elving. It was her first time in this area and he found himself very intrigued by her. She was quite tall and thin, her skin was fair, and her hair fell to the small of her back in long red curls like none he had ever seen before. But what intrigued him most was her eyes. They were of the deepest sapphire blue, a color of which he had never seen on someone with red hair, and they contained a sparkle of mystery and mischief!
The prince's spirit rose as he saw Kristin approach. Maybe this would be a fun Valentine's Day for him after all. He quickly jumped down to the floor and headed off to greet the newcomer.
Kristin rode swiftly toward the city gates of Rivendell, Knight's long legs eating up the ground beneath him. She was late as usual and had no idea why she had been summoned to the city by Lord Elrond, but he had assured her in his message that friends would be here to greet her. Upon reaching the outskirts of the lovely city, Kristin slowed Knight's pace down to a slow airy trot.
As she approached the gates to the city, she noticed the guards were becoming uncomfortable, and she was not really sure why. Then it dawned on her what an impression she was probably making on them, all dressed in black, hood over her face, on a huge black horse! Quickly, she pushed her hood off of her head, long red curls spilling everywhere, and smiled as she slowed Knight to a walk. The guards at the gate relaxed and one approached her as she brought Knight to a halt.
"Ah, you must be the Lady Kristin," the Elf smiled at her. "We have been expecting you."
"Yes," Kristin returned his smile, "I am Kristin Antillies. I was summoned here by Lord Elrond, though I know not for what."
"I'm sure you will find out in due time, my lady. I am Dorindil, Captain of the Guard, and I welcome you to Imladris!" Dorindil stepped aside and gestured for her to enter the city.
Walking slowly into the city still atop Knight, the confused maiden looked around in wonder. She had never been to Rivendell, but had heard stories of its beauty. The stories did it no justice. Closing her eyes and taking a deep breath, she could smell a large variety of flowers perfuming the air.
"And what a majestic site my eyes are blessed to behold. A truly lovely maiden astride a very beautiful animal. The Valar have certainly blessed me this day!"
Slightly startled, Kristin stopped Knight and turned toward the direction the voice came from. She smiled in recognition when she saw the Elf who had spoken them. "Legolas, it is good to see you!" she smiled.
"And good to see you as well, Lady Kristin!" Legolas returned the smile, a mischievous sparkle in his eye.
Legolas walked over to horse and rider, smiling brightly. Knight was tall. Taller than most of the Elvish horses, but Legolas was able to slip an arm up around Kristin's waist and helped her slide gently off the animals back and to the ground.
"Thank you," Kristin smiled.
"You are welcome," Legolas replied as he took her small sack from her back. "You travel lightly."
"I do not need too many things when I travel. They are only a burden," Kristin said as she pushed back her cloak and took off her gloves.
Legolas was a bit surprised at her manner of dress. Most of the ladies wore beautiful gowns all the time, while this one was dressed in riding attire. Black leggings, and tunic, and tall black leather boots. Legolas smirked, "One would think you were a Nazgul dressed such as that upon a black horse!"
Kristin's eyes danced, "Yes, I believe I gave the guards a bit of a start when I approached! But this is much more comfortable for traveling on horseback than a gown." Noticing the mischievous glint in Legolas' eyes, she added, "But don't worry my dear prince, I have brought a few gowns with me for my stay! Speaking of which, do you know why I have been summoned here by Lord Elrond?"
"You will find out in due time," Legolas grinned.
"Hmm. Funny, Dorindil told me the same thing," Kristin said with frustration.
Legolas glanced over at the Captain of the Guard and found him watching their every move. Legolas glared back at him.
Kristin followed Legolas' gaze and noticed the tension between the two elves. "Did I say something wrong?"
Legolas looked back at Kristin and smiled. "Let's just say Dorindil and I have a mutual dislike for each other. Come, I will find one of the stable elves to take care of your horse."
"Thank you, but I prefer to see to him myself," she said.
"The stable elves can take care of him," Legolas offered again.
"Legolas," Kristin said, slightly exasperated, "I always make a point to take care of my own horse. Then I should enjoy a nice bath and a change of clothes."
"Very well then," Legolas replied, signaling another Elf over to him. "Terlin will show you to the stables. I will join you momentarily, after I have had your things taken to your room." With that, Legolas sprinted off in the other direction.
Terlin smiled at the young lady and offered his arm, guiding her toward the stable, Knight following beside his mistress.
Legolas entered the stables and found Kristin offering her stallion a drink of water. The beautiful horse drank the cool liquid gratefully. When he was finished, he stood relaxed as Kristin began brushing his gleaming coat. Turning his head around, he nuzzled her softly, and received a gentle pat on the neck.
Legolas smiled. "You have a way with horses."
Kristin startled slightly. "Legolas, you should not sneak up on people like that!"
Legolas looked hurt. "I was not sneaking."
Kristin shook her head. "You elves are far too quiet, whether you are sneaking or not!" Going back to her task of brushing Knight, she spoke softly to the horse.
Legolas busied himself with bedding down a stall for the great horse, all the time watching the young woman brush the animal from the hair of his mane at the top of his head, all the way down to the long hairy feathers around his feet.
When she was finished, Kristin put Knight into his stall and bid him farewell as he lay down to roll in the wonderful fresh bedding.
Kristin shook her head. "So much for brushing."
Legolas smiled and offered his arm. "May I escort you to your room?"
Kristin picked up the cloak she had set aside, laying it over one arm and taking Legolas' offered arm with the other. "Yes, I think you may."
The twins were darkly robed in black riding gear and black hooded cloaks. They rode swiftly along the west side of the mountains and headed for a large cave. There, they halted and let their horses graze on a short-grassed rock. It was early in the evening and the hills shone resplendent in the sun. Far above in the sky, they saw three eagles flying in wide circles over the mountainous country.
"He is late," said Elladan. "We agreed to meet before dusk," he sighed and let his gaze wander around the landscape.
Elrohir shrugged his shoulders and looked up to the sky. "He will arrive soon. Would you like to have a cookie in the meantime?"
"Don't you dare touch the cookies!"
"I didn't touch them," said Elrohir, acting innocent. "I just offered them to you, that's all."
Elladan grimaced and then both brothers laughed. The twins looked up to the sky and watched the eagles silently. After a while, one of the great birds swept down to where the twins stood while the other two were still circling aloft. A huge black shadow fell down on the twins when the Lord of the Eagles landed before them.
"All hail! Gwaihir, Lord of the Eagles!" said Elladan as he and his brother bowed.
"I greet you," returned Gwaihir. He paused for a while and gazed at the twins. "Did you bring the cookies?"
"Oh yes," said Elrohir as he placed three wicker baskets in front of Gwaihir.
"Three baskets full of chocolate cookies - king sized - just as requested," said Elladan.
"It is always a pleasure to deal with you," Gwaihir responded as he examined the three baskets carefully. After a few minutes, he nodded his head and gazed at the two brothers again. "As for my part of the deal, I think I found what you were looking for. It is waiting here in the cave. Follow me!" The twins followed Gwaihir into the cave. There he pointed with his head to a corner of the cave.
"By the Valar! What have you brought us?" shouted Elrohir, gasping at the sight. His brother was neither able to say anything nor able to move, he just stared at what Gwaihir had showed them.
The Lord of the Eagles had his face sunken with disappointment. "I am deeply sorry young master Elf, but you wished me to bring you something for your enjoyment." He sighed deeply. "I thought you would be glad to receive such a gift. It shone so bright in the light of the morning sun, I just could not resist to bring it to you."
"But...but THIS is not what we had in mind!" replied Elrohir, pointing his finger to the right corner of the cave.
Gwaihir shook his head. "But you DID ask me to bring you something you would have fun with, did you not?"
"Yes, we did," answered Elrohir in desperation. "But that did not include THIS! It does not belong to us. Ada will kill us for...err...borrowing it without permission!" He gazed at Elladan in hope of receiving some assistance in this matter. "Say something, brother!"
"Ada will kill us!"
"You are not much help in this, brother," Elrohir said, shaking his head.
"...but you said you would like to have something..." repeated Gwaihir.
"YES, I heard you already, Gwaihir!"
"...to have fun with..."
Elrohir’s face went pink. "Do I look like I am having fun now?" he grumbled with his hands at his hips.
"I am not sure..." answered Gwaihir, bending his head slightly to the left side. "Elves very often behave in a strange fashion..." He paused for a few seconds. "So you do not like what I have brought you?"
"I do," sighed Elrohir, "but we can not keep it here in Imladris. Anyway, where did you find it?"
"I found it at Lothlórien's borders," said the Lord of the Eagles.
Both brothers paled. "Grandfather will kill us, too..." they said simultaneously.
"I really do not understand why the both of you are so much bothered by what I have brought to you," said Gwaihir, shaking his head again. "I had watched you many times, whenever I circled up in the sky far above the borders of Imladris. You always seemed to enjoy the time you spent with one or two of those..." He pointed to the right corner of the cave where a young Elven maiden lay asleep, silently watched by two guards of the eagles.
Elrohir rolled his eyes. "You do not yet know anything about 'privacy', do you?"
"No," answered Gwaihir slowly. "Should I?"
"Oh, never mind!" said Elrohir. "Anyway...you must take her back."
"No," replied Gwaihir. "I did what you had asked me to do and my own business lies far away from Lothlórien's borders."
No matter what Elrohir said, he could not persuade Gwaihir to take the Elleth back to Lórien's borders to wherever he had picked her up. The Lord of the Eagles ordered the guards to leave, and after a brief farewell to the twins, he followed the others outside. Elladan and Elrohir watched them as they seized the wicker baskets in their claws and flew away.
The twins went back into the cave and looked at the Elleth that lay on the ground. Her hair was of a light brown and skillfully braided with little Elanor blossoms. Her face was pale, but the color of her cheeks was of a light pink. She wore a golden-colored gown with wide sleeves and a plunging neckline on which a golden brooch, a fine work of art of the Noldorin, was fastened.
Elladan kneeled down beside the Elleth. "We must take her to Imladris, then," he said to his brother while he still watched the face of the maiden.
"Ada will kill us..."
"And so will grandfather..."
Elrohir nodded. "We shall take her to Imladris and leave her near the Last Homely House. Someone will find her there and..."
"We can not just leave her there and go away!" interrupted Elladan.
"No, we will not go away...we will ride away."
"You may do so, but I will not leave her there alone, not even within the borders of Imladris," said Elladan visibly annoyed.
Elrohir gazed at his brother and both went into a pondering silence.
Legolas and Kristin talked and laughed as they walked toward her room. Legolas had assured her that several of the other ladies were here, including Emmi, Forest, and Zu, though she had not seen any of them yet.
"They had a picnic earlier today, though I fear you did not arrive in time," Legolas said.
"Hmm. Well, that is typical of me to be late for everything," Kristin laughed.
Arriving at her room, Legolas opened the door and led Kristin inside. The room was truly beautiful, just like everything she had seen in Rivendell so far. "Will you walk with me in the gardens tonight?" Legolas questioned. "After you have bathed and changed, of course. The moon is nearly full tonight and the gardens are truly amazing in the starlight."
"That sounds wonderful," Kristin smiled at the handsome Elf.
"Good." Legolas returned her smile. "I will come by your room later this evening to get you. There is a bath just down the hall you can use and dinner should soon be served downstairs, if you care to join me. Otherwise, something can be brought to your room."
"That may be a good idea, as once I get in a bath, I may not want to get out anytime soon," Kristin smirked.
"Very well then. I will have something brought up here for you. Go enjoy your bath, and I will see you later this evening." Legolas leaned forward and kissed Kristin's forehead, then headed out the door.
"Legolas," Kristin called after him, "do tell the others I have arrived."
Legolas nodded his head and started on his way again.
"Oh, and Legolas," she called again, "Please don't torment Emmi too much!"
Legolas gave her an evil grin. "I wouldn't dream of it." He then turned to hurry on his way.
“‘Tis a beautiful evening, is it not?"
"Lindir?" she said, surprised. "What brings you here so late in the eve?"
"I was wondering how you are faring with the new...uhm…guidelines."
"I shall not pretend that I am overjoyed with the arrangements, however, I feel that to a certain extent, I can cope with them. I am beginning to worry about my friends, though. I see no reason, Lindir, why we should be held here against our will."
"Forgive me, my lady," he said apologetically. "I meant not to pry".
"Nay, Lindir," she smiled. "You were not prying. Not in my mind, anyway."
"If I were higher in rank than I am, my lady," he continued, "I would certainly help as much as I could. However, being only a minstrel and a poet, I am afraid I have neither the power, nor the means, to bring about any change."
"You need not worry, Lindir," she replied. "The simple fact that I have your friendship is enough."
"May I share the sunset with you?" he asked hesitantly.
"If you wish," she replied, gesturing at the second seat.
Lindir helped himself to a goblet of miruvor and took a small sip, smiling as he watched the sun sink behind the mountains.
"Indeed Lindir," Forest finally answered quietly, "it is a beautiful evening, indeed."
Emmi strolled across Rivendell wondering if there was any Elf not affected by this mad contest that Lord Elrond had thought up.
As she contemplated the idea, she remembered the fight she and Rúmil had. As she looked back, she couldn't really blame him for his attitude. After all, he had no clue that Valentine's Day could be a painful one for some and uncomfortable for many. She, herself, had some very unhappy memories of the holiday. One such memory revolved around being sent a dozen roses, only to find out her loved one was seeing someone else on the side at the same time. From that day forth, she had believed that Valentine's Day shouldn't be celebrated with gifts of material value, but with gifts from the heart. But the elves had no knowledge of this, so she couldn't blame them for their high handed attempts at romance.
She was lost in thought and had no idea she had wandered to the gates surrounding the city, until a stern voice commanded her attention.
"I am sorry, Lady, but I believe you were told by Lord Elrond about the restriction placed on you and your friends," came the sound.
Startling, Emmi jumped and proceeded to fall over the cart sitting at her left. With an exasperated sigh, the guard stepped out of the shadows and caught her before any real harm could be done.
Upon seeing the guard's face, she gasped and stepped back. Here was one distinct Elf that she hadn't seen before and was almost as certain that he was an Elf she would never forget. He was taller than most elves and of stockier build. Although he was as poised and lithe as any Elf she had ever encountered, he exhibited an air of danger about him that radiated to all those who fell in his path. The smoky depths of his eyes seemed to mesmerize and looked rather cold - for an Elf. As she took note of all these things, she realized he was regarding her the same way. Although she was shorter in height, she possessed the same smoky colored eyes as he and was of the same fair coloring. Her hair fell longer and curlier but was of the same tone as his.
"Where in Sauron have you come from?" the Elf angrily declared.
"Why, Middle Earth, I believe," she answered flippantly.
As she continued to gaze at the Elf, she realized that he possessed a scar that ran from his eye up to his eyebrow, where it parted this fair feature, and continued into his hair. This only added to everything about him that screamed danger. He was undeniably the most sensual creature that lacked any softness that she had ever seen. Here was an Elf that would not be lumped in the "pretty boy" category by anyone.
Shaking her head, Emmi backed up and away from the gates. Dorindil regarded this strange female with a sense of familiarity. Who she was and where she came from was in question, but as she backed away, he felt ashamed because he thought she found him ugly and uncouth.
"Go back to the hall and your games, Lady. Do not let me find you here again. That way I will not offend your delicate nature with my presence." With that, he turned to stalk away.
Realizing he thought she was offend by his face, Emmi hurried after him. "Wait! I do not know who you are. Why have I not seen you before? Your features do not scare me, how shallow do you think we are?" she asked before thinking better of it. "Never mind. I take that last question back."
Catching up with him and having to run alongside of him in order to keep pace, Emmi kept glancing sideways into his face. Catching sight of a streak of brown in his hair, she gasped.
"Where did you get that streak of brown?" she asked, stopping in her tracks.
Turning to glare down at the young lady, he simply said, "My Father was dark haired and my mother was fair. Nature's compromise."
With that, he left her standing in the rain that had started to fall gently down.
Kristin tossed her cloak onto the nearest chair. All she wanted right now was a bath. Rivendell was a long ride, and she was tired and felt filthy. Digging through her small sack, she took out the few gowns she had brought with her and hung them up. She then chose a beautiful blue one for her evening attire. Gathering what other few things she would need, she headed for the bath down the hall.
Quickly entering the room and shutting the door tight behind her, Kristin turned around and froze in shock, looking around. The bath was already drawn, the hot water steaming in the air. The air itself was filled with a wonderful smell that seemed to be coming from the water. A glass and small bottle of Elvish wine was sitting beside the tub, along with a single beautiful purple flower. Towels were warm and ready to be used. And several bottles of soaps and lotions were arranged around the room.
Kristin looked around in wonder. "What in Middle Earth is that Elf up to?"
Remembering her tired and filthy body, Kristin quickly removed her clothes and tested the water with her hand. "Mmm...nice and hot! Just perfect!" Slipping down into the water, she stretched out and made herself comfortable. It had been far too long since she had been able to relax like this. Closing her eyes, she rested and enjoyed the hot water massaging her tired muscles and settled in for a nice long soak. No, she would not make it to dinner tonight. This was far too nice.
Legolas strode down the hall, a smile on his face. He knew by now Kristin had discovered the bath he had prepared for her and he began to imagine her laying there in the steaming water.
Quickly he shook himself back to reality as he entered the dinning hall. But something was wrong. Most of the ladies were missing. Making his way over to a table where Haldir and Rúmil sat talking, Legolas sat down. "Where is everyone?" he asked the Lórien brothers.
"They all seem to have locked themselves in their rooms this evening," Rúmil muttered.
"Oh." The prince looked confused. "What did you do to them?"
"That's what we're trying to figure out. They don't seem too happy with us right now," answered a somewhat miffed Haldir.
"I take it the picnic did not go well?" asked the still confused prince.
"No," Haldir explained, "Lady Zu tried to leave when she found out about our little Valentine's Day experiment. I managed to catch her and bring her back to the picnic. Then, Emmi stormed off and now she won't speak to Rúmil. Forest got upset and dragged Glorfindel and Erestor away, then Zu retired to her room. We have no idea what is going on. They have never acted this way before around us. And where have you been?"
"Lady Kristin arrived just a bit ago. I met her at the city gates and helped her take care of her horse. She is upstairs now enjoying a bath, and will not be down for dinner," Legolas explained. "So the other ladies now know about our plan?"
"Yes," Rúmil said, "all but Kristin I'm sure, unless you told her."
"No, I have not," Legolas replied, "though since the others know, maybe I will tell her tonight, as she has agreed to walk with me in the gardens. I do not think she will have the same reaction as the other ladies. I must go now." Legolas excused himself from the table.
"Arrogant Elf," Rúmil muttered as Legolas left. "I do not know this Lady Kristin very well, but I fear that red head will have as fiery a temper as some of the other ladies. Legolas may get more than he bargained for!"
"Would serve him right!" Haldir smirked.
When Kristin had finally managed to pull herself out of the wonderful bath, darkness had already fallen. Dressing quickly, she returned to her room and carefully combed her hair, watching it dry into the long wild red curls she was known for. Once dry, she pinned the sides back behind her head with a small silver barrette.
Her dress was of a sapphire blue that matched the deep blue of her eyes, and was trimmed in silver. The sleeves were long and billowing, with silver cords laced around her upper arms and a matching cord around her waist as a belt. The neckline was low cut and the skirt was full and to the floor.
Walking around the room waiting for the Prince of Mirkwood to arrive, Kristin glanced at the few books that were on the shelf. Selecting one that caught her interest, she seated herself on the cushioned bench in front of the window and began to read, pulling her legs up beside her under her skirt.
Kristin was lost in the paragraphs of the book when she heard a faint knock at the door. "Come in," she said without lifting her gaze from the words.
Legolas slowly opened the door and found Kristin in front of the window reading, the evening breeze catching her red curls and bouncing them lightly around. Legolas stood and stared at her. She was a beautiful sight.
Kristin felt a smile pull at her lips when she realized the prince was staring at her. Finishing the paragraph she was on, she closed the book, then turned her face toward the window, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath of the wonderful Rivendell air. "There is rain in the air," she said, then opened her eyes and looked at Legolas, "I can smell it."
Legolas smiled. "I believe you are right. Will you still join me for a walk? I do believe the rain will not start for a while. I fear the clouds are beginning to shadow the moon and starlight, but the gardens are still beautiful and well lit."
Kristin smiled brightly. "I would love to! This is my first time in Rivendell and I fear the beauty of the view from my window has left me longing to see more!" She untucked her legs from under her skirt and stood up, walking over to replace the book on its shelf. Moving nearly with the grace of an Elf, the blue gown flowed gently around her.
The prince watched her in amazement, then smiled and offered his arm as she approached. "Shall we?"
Kristin took his arm and let him guide her through the beauty that was Rivendell.
When night fell, Zu realized that Haldir was not following her anymore. She swiftly, yet quietly, returned to the room she was staying in.
Once there, she locked the door behind her and moved towards her bed. Someone had been here and had lit several fragrant candles to illuminate the room. She breathed in the scent; it carried the fresh and gentle smell of lilacs, the kind that bloomed in the first few weeks of spring, announcing the change of the season.
She lay herself on the bed, with her back to the ceiling, and noticed that a tray of assorted treats had been set on a table to one side of her bed.
Zu looked at the tray, narrowing her eyes at it. It may have been getting dark in the room, but she knew what they were. There was a plate of a half dozen sugar cookies with a thick layer of red and pink frosting and tiny white sprinkles. Beside them were a bottle of red wine, a bowl of juicy red strawberries and cherries, and a small bowl of melted white chocolate.
She had to resist the urge to indulge herself in the wonderfully sinful snacks, but declined. She went into the bathroom to ready herself for bed, but saw that even more candles had been lit, and that the bathtub had been filled with hot water and had a layer of rose petals covering every inch of the water's surface. Who had done all of this for her, and why?
After looking around to make sure no one else was in either room, she shed her garb and slipped into the tub. She let all of her lengthy brown hair hang over the back of the tub as she sank deeper into the water. It was so nice to finally relax after being bothered all day with memories of her past.
Zu closed her eyes and tried to think of what she had eventually planned to do to Lord Elrond, when her thoughts were interrupted. All the candles in the bathroom had gone out! She squinted her eyes and looked around, trying to see what had caused all of the lights to go out. One lone candle near the tub was left on, giving off just enough light for her to see things right in front of her.
"Who's there?" she hissed as she held her arms across her chest to hide herself from whomever it was.
"Did you miss me?" whispered a deep, sensual voice behind her.
Shivers crawled all along her spine as she listened, trying to match a name with the voice. "Who are you, and what do you want with me?"
"Close your eyes..."
She unwillingly obeyed. Zu was soon breathing in the sweet scent of another flower. "What is it?" she asked softly.
The presence behind her moved to the side of the tub. "Open your eyes and see for yourself, my lady..."
Zu fluttered her eyes open and gasped. "Haldir!"
Haldir was on his knees, holding up the largest, reddest rose she had ever seen before. It carried the most wonderful scent and was in full bloom.
"How...how did you..."
He cut her off by placing a finger against her lips. "You are quite the poet, my lady." he smirked.
Her eyes went wide. "When did you...how did you find my poetry?" She had written a poem long ago. It was about how the only gift she ever wanted was a single red rose, and how everyone else seemed to get them, but she never received one for herself.
"I also saw you staring at the rose bush earlier today. Your thoughts were quite open to me, and I heard everything."
She blushed and turned away from him.
"I hope you can forgive me for invading your privacy. I understand now why you were so unsettled by everything today..."
She sighed and spoke again. "I am truly sorry for making you worry about me. I just couldn't force myself to tell you how I really felt. I forgive you, Haldir." Turning around to face him, she smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck. "Thank you," she whispered delicately into his ear.
Haldir smiled and leaned his head over her shoulder. "The pleasure is all mine." He had also brought over the wine bottle from the other room and opened it. He poured the red wine into two silver goblets, then handed one to Zu.
At the window, a figure covered in a deep blue velvet cloak pulled out his notebook and a quill and started scribbling down notes. "The quarter Elf-maiden hates Valentine's Day. She protests against it by wearing as much black as possible, and tried to avoid remembering her past."
He dipped the quill in more ink and continued, "She enjoys scented candles and flowers, especially large red roses. She also likes drinking and taking hot baths." He shivered, but continued writing and talking to himself. "Also seems to have a great interest in Lórien Elves. Conclusion: She hates Valentine's Day, but doesn't mind the romance at the end of the day..."
After the ink dried, he carefully closed his notebook. He watched the pair for a while, but then decided to give them their privacy. He silently and stealthily crept away from the window and gracefully jumped down from the roof he had been sitting on.
"What was that?" Haldir could hear the faintest sound of someone outside the room.
"Who cares..." Zu said, pulling the Marchwarden close to her in the tub.
Legolas and Kristin spent several hours strolling through the numerous gardens of Imladris, talking and laughing about many different things.
Kristin sighed. "What a beautiful place and a beautiful night!" Then she giggled, adding, "And what better way to spend it than with a handsome prince."
Legolas smiled, but before he could respond the rain finally came and it came all at once. Rain came down by the buckets and the prince grabbed Kristin's hand. "Come, there is shelter back this way."
But Kristin pulled her hand away from Legolas and when he turned back to look at her, she was standing in the rain, hands on her hips, giving him a very cocky smile. "What, do you think you are going to melt?" she questioned him.
Legolas laughed. "No, but you might!"
"No, my dear prince, I am not sweet enough for that!" With that, she laughed, and spread her arms out, turning her face to the sky, and began to twirl slowly around. "Do you know how long it has been since I have played in the rain? Even the rain here is wonderful, nice and warm, not cold as ice!"
Legolas just stared at her, his hair now thoroughly matted to his head. "You are mad!"
Kristin stopped and looked at him. "Hmm. So I've been told!" She gave him a wicked giggle, then grabbed his hand. "Shall we dance?"
Before Legolas knew it, the two of them were twirling 'round and 'round the paths of the garden in the rain, laughing like crazy. 'Yes, this one is mischief! Mischief indeed!' Legolas thought.
Lindir set down his goblet and stood up, ready to leave. Taking Forest's hand, he lightly kissed the back of it.
"It has been a pleasant evening," he smiled. "Thank you."
"Nay," laughed Forest. "Thank you, Lindir. For my evening would have been naught but miruvor and the mother of all headaches if you had not turned up."
"So now, it is miruvor and conversation?"
Both laughed heartily at Lindir's light jest.
"As you say, Lindir," continued Forest. "It has been a pleasant evening. Goodnight."
"Goodnight, my lady," bowed Lindir, as he retreated from the balcony.
Forest watched as the minstrel became less than a speck in the distance, then too retreated to her quarters. She undressed and dressed swiftly, then blowing out the candle on her bedside table, she slipped under the covers.
Try as she might, Forest could not get sleep to overcome her. Her mind was preoccupied with what events the following day would hold, and also a considerable amount of miruvor. Finally she grew weary of tossing and turning and sat up. Her eyes fell on a small leather-bound book lying on her bedside table.
Deciding that a good read is the best cure for restlessness, she lighted the candle again and picked up the little book.
However, minutes later, Forest's head perked up from chapter seven as she heard the familiar creak of her door handle being turned.
She watched, on her guard as a tall, lithe figure stepped into the room, his ebony hair flowing like pools down his cloaked back.
Sighing, she placed the book back on the table, and focused on the Elf that had just entered.
"Erestor," she began, "what brings you here at this hour?"
"I merely wished to put my mind at ease, that today's events have not made your mind restless," he replied.
"Well, let's put it this way," she began. "I rarely have reason to stay up reading books entitled 'The Geographical Aspects of Caradhras and Celebdil'."
"Ah. They have then," was Erestor's only reply.
Forest nodded. "I have very little qualms about staying here, Erestor. However, when I am kept here against my will, and especially when others are involved..."
Erestor silenced her with a soft touch of his finger upon her cheek. "Hush. Do not anger yourself further."
Suddenly, Forest became aware of what Elrond's chief advisor was clothed in. He was clothed, as usual, in garb of jet black. However, he was wearing riding gear and cloak that was clasped with an emerald brooch at the neck. Her eyes traveled further to see ebony boots around his legs and the belt and dagger at his waist.
"Where have you been?"
Erestor swallowed hard. "Out."
"Where?"
Erestor gave a long, weary sigh. "I have been scouting the borders with Terlin on Lord Elrond's orders."
"Orders?"
"Private matter."
Forest rolled her eyes. There was no point trying to prize information out of Erestor when he was in this mood. Resigning, she let the interrogation pass, and Erestor looked all the more relieved for it.
Reaching up a leather clad hand, he gently stroked the side of her face. "I suggest you get some rest," he whispered softly. "Things will look brighter in the morning."
Forest felt her eyelids dropping as the combined scents of musky leather and sweet Elven breath washed over her.
Erestor dealt a soft kiss to her forehead, then stepped back. Bending down, he blew out the candle on the side and made for the door.
"Sleep sweet, love," he whispered.
He sat next to her on the left edge of the bed, one hand slightly resting on her waist. His gaze wandered up and down her body. Suddenly he bent down toward her, closed his eyes, and took a deep breath. 'She is sweet with the scent of the flowers and trees of Lothlórien,' he thought, smiling. He couldn't help but kiss her softly on her lips. 'And her lips...as sweet as chocolate covered strawberries with light whipped cream...' He raised his head and then looked closely at her face, wondering what color her eyes were. After a while, he leaned down again and kissed her left ear before whispering a few Elvish words into it. As soon as he had spoken the words, the Elleth moved and opened her eyes. For several moments they looked at each other.
"Hazel with a slight touch of green," said Elladan finally, smiling.
"Pardon?" asked the Elleth as she gave him a puzzled glance.
"Your eyes. I was wondering what their color would be."
The Elleth's face turned pink and she gave no answer. After a few seconds she let her gaze wander around the room. "This is not my talan. Where am I?" she asked, then her eyes went big in horror. "Oh wait! Now I remember...the eagle...he grabbed me with his claws..." She shivered and soon began to cry.
Elladan felt guilty for her unpleasant meeting with Gwaihir. "Do not fear anything here. You are safe in the house of Lord Elrond," he said with a soft voice, while stroking her tears away.
"Imladris, then? Alas! This is far away from what I call 'home'." She let her head drop.
"Don't worry! As soon as Valentine's Day is over, my brother and I will take you back to the woods of Lothlórien."
"Valentine's Day?" she asked, sobbing.
"Long story," said Elladan, chuckling. "I will have to tell you that later. Rest now and worry no longer. Tomorrow morning I will come back to bring you to Lord Elrond." With that he kissed her forehead and walked to the door. Suddenly, he stopped and turned around to face her again. "I almost forgot to ask; what is your name?"
The Elleth wiped off her tears with her right sleeve. "Eneth nîn Idhrenwen," she answered. "And what is your name?"
Elladan smiled. "You may call me El," he said and left the room.
Legolas and Kristin twirled about the gardens in the rain until they finally managed to twirl into a gazebo and out of the downpour. Kristin collapsed against Legolas’ chest, laughing and giggling. Legolas was laughing as well, and grinning from ear to ear!
Both of them were completely soaked! Kristin’s usually very curly red hair hung straight down her back, her dress clung to her, and water beaded on her ivory skin. Legolas shed his cloak, as the water soaked garment was nearly choking him, his golden hair matted to his head.
Kristin laughed. “You look like a drowned rat!”
“And you don’t look much better,” Legolas smirked, grabbing Kristin around the waist and spinning her around, both laughing again. When he finally stopped and put her down, he hugged her close. “I have never had this much fun playing in the rain.”
“Probably because you always thought you were going to melt,” Kristin giggled.
Legolas just rolled his eyes. “I have something for you. Though I hope it hasn’t been ruined by all this rain.” Legolas pulled a small velvet pouch out of a pocket and handed it to Kristin. “Sorry it’s so wet.”
“Well, that would be my own fault,” Kristin giggled, taking the pouch from him. “But what is this for?” she asked, looking puzzled.
“Just open it!”
Kristin opened the soaked velvet and pulled out a beautiful mithril choker. Stunned she held up the choker and looked at the prince, “Legolas?”
Legolas grinned wildly, “I know it is a little early, but it’s for Valentine's Day! I though you could wear it to the banquet that day.”
Kristin looked at the choker and then back at Legolas, “Valentine's Day?”
The prince only nodded.
“I didn’t know elves celebrated Valentine's Day.” Her smile was quickly fading from her face. “I thought that it was strictly a holiday of Men.”
“Well, elves don’t. Usually, anyways,” Legolas stammered, confused by the frown that was now appearing on the young maiden’s face. “But that is why you are here. Why Lord Elrond asked you to come. He held a council, and we all decided to do something for all of you beautiful ladies for this wonderful holiday.”
Kristin looked totally crushed. “So that’s why I’m here! Lovely!”
“Is something wrong?” Legolas asked, still totally puzzled by Kristin’s reaction.
Kristin just looked at the choker that dangled from her hand, lost in thought and old memories of past Valentine's Days.
Legolas gently touched her chin. “Kristin?”
“Legolas, I hate Valentine's Day!” Kristin stuttered, looking back at the Elf.
The prince just stared at her, completely lost. “But how can you hate Valentine's Day?”
Uncomfortable and not wanting to explain herself, Kristin quickly put the choker and velvet pouch back in the prince’s hand. “I’m sorry, Legolas. I have to go.”
Kristin turned and rushed off into the rain soaked night, heading for her room and leaving Legolas staring after her in utter confusion.
Legolas watched Kristin leave until he could no longer see her. He was completely confused. How could she hate Valentine's Day! A day about love and gifts! Didn’t every maiden love receiving gifts of affection? And why was she running away? Legolas was totally befuddled. It appeared Kristin was having a similar reaction to this whole Valentine's Day experiment as most of the other ladies, and he couldn’t figure out why. “Rúmil and Haldir will never let me hear the end of this,” he sighed.
Somehow with his gift he had offended her and upset her. Maybe she didn’t like jewelry. Legolas stared down at the choker in his hand, moving it around with his fingers. He had hurt her and tomorrow he would do whatever it took to make things right with her. Putting the choker back in its bag and placing it safely in his pocket, Legolas picked up his cloak and headed out into the rain towards his own room.
Kristin raced back to her room and quickly entered, shutting the door behind her. She was soaked to the bone, but she didn’t care. All she could think about was this whole mess she had gotten herself into.
Valentine's Day! By the Valar, she would kill Lord Elrond for this! What was he thinking? Yes, Valentine's Day was supposed to be a day of love and friendship, but for Kristin it was typically a day for loneliness and hurt. Too many old memories floated back again. How could these elves do this to her?
Kristin swallowed hard and walked over to pour herself a glass of water from the pitcher on the table, still in her soaked gown. Sipping at the water, she walked over in front of the window and stared out into the night. In a way she felt bad for Legolas, because he truly didn’t mean any harm by his gesture, but this was just a holiday she no longer celebrated.
Finishing her water, she walked over to the mirror, looking at her soaked image. Her red hair was beginning to dry and curl wildly about. She sighed. Tomorrow she would try to explain things to the poor Elf, as she knew he was probably utterly confused by her reaction.
Removing her wet gown, she slipped into a soft nightgown and crawled into bed. Blowing out the candle that burned on the night stand, she slowly drifted off into a rather fitful sleep.
Back in Elrohir's quarters, Elladan told his brother everything that happened since they parted behind the gates of the City of Rivendell. Elrohir couldn't believe what his brother was telling him.
"You kissed her? Oh, that is just not fair," complained Elrohir, rubbing his nose nervously. "I shouldn't have agreed to share my room with you. I would rather have her in my room…"
"It wasn't really a kiss..."
"What ever it was, I want it too! We are twins - we should share all and everything!"
Elladan burst out in laughter. "You're not so eager to share when it comes to sharing Angel Food Cake - or any other food."
Elrohir shrugged. "You can not compare Angel Food Cake to the kiss of a beautiful Elleth."
"....whom at first you wanted to leave somewhere inside the borders of Imladris," Elladan pointed out. His brother mumbled some Elvish curses, but said nothing more.
"Well, that was educational and informative." The Elleth looked around, finding the gallery was now, as it was when she entered, completely and entirely empty. "They weren't really just going to leave me here, were they?" she wondered aloud, thinking of the twins.
No one answered, for there was no one to answer. Noticing that the entire room had dimmed considerably, the Elleth frowned. "Suppose I shall have to find my own way to the guest wing." She placed the book securely in a leather case she had with her and went to the huge door that led to...
Well, now that was the trick. She couldn't quite recall where it led to, for Elrohir had kept her talking about her trip as he brought her here, and she could have sworn that their were at least three extra hallways since her last visit, not to mention more doors and windows than she had ever remembered on the path to the gallery.
Once in the hallway, she turned first to the left, then to the right, right again, and up a flight of stairs. A number of twists and turns later, as well as a flight of stairs that went down two levels, the Elleth turned the corner, nearly running into the very last Elf she had expected to see in the Last Homely House. "Celeborn!" she jumped back in shock, then bowed once she managed to come to her senses. "I mean, my lord."
"Ah, no need for that. This isn't my realm, and you aren't my subject." Celeborn began to reach forward, intending to tilt the messenger back up by her chin much like he did to his own grandsons when they acted silly and bowed to him, but he shoved his hand into the pocket of his robes.
The Elleth stood straight again, missing the actions made by the Lord of Lórien. "I was unaware that you were traveling to Imladris."
"It was a sudden decision. Spur of the moment, really." Celeborn decided not to mention how truly unplanned the visit was, or for what purpose he was really there. "I intend to spend some time researching in the library. Perhaps, if you are not busy, you might assist me."
Blinking in surprise, the Elleth answered, "Is not Master Erestor a better choice? Or Melpomaen, perhaps. They are both have a better idea of what is in the collection than I."
Celeborn nodded. "That may be, but I shall be researching something very specific, and was led to believe you would be most helpful. The topic is historical ballads of the second age."
"An interesting topic, and I will admit, one that I find quite fascinating." The Elleth nodded. "I shall help you in any way I can."
"Excellent. I shall call upon you when I have need. Good evening to you."
"And to you, Lord Celeborn." The Elleth gave a nod, and the pair passed one another. It wasn't until she had turned left and wandered up some stairs that she realized she could have asked for directions.
"Can't be much further, though," she reasoned, and grinned upon seeing a familiar looking door down the hallway. Jogging to it, the Elleth pulled it swiftly open. "Oh, no!"
She entered, closing the door behind her, and slumped down onto a bench. She was right back where she started, in the gallery. With a sigh, she retrieved the book and began to read it again.
After returning to her quarters, Emmi felt strangely restless and unable to sleep. Deciding a nice hot cup of cocoa was the only thing that would steady her and take the chill out of her bones that the return walk in the rain had brought, she headed down to the kitchens. Entering the dimly lit room, she failed to notice another shadow sitting at a table. After stepping to the stove and warming some milk, she added the cocoa mix and was just turning when she saw a movement from the corner of her eye. Glancing up quickly, she was surprised to see Rúmil cautiously regarding her from the seat in front of the fire. Having tactfully avoided him since the afternoon, Emmi was shocked to find him here of all places.
Regarding him wearily, she softly asked, "Good evening, Rúmil. What brings you here this time of night?"
Rúmil was silent for a moment as he regarded the young woman. "Same as what brings you here, I would think, My Lady. Conflict does little to encourage rest," he finally spoke.
With a guilty look, Emmi crossed the room to sit at his feet. After gazing at the fire for a moment, Emmi looked up and into his eyes before speaking.
"I am truly sorry for my rash words this afternoon, Rúmil. I was wrong to take my concerns out on you in anger but I was very upset. I think you are all missing the true meaning of Valentine's Day. It is not about gifts and material things. It is rather about trust, honesty, hope, friendship and love. Gifts are easy to give but feelings are not. That is what I wished to stress this afternoon, and by my own words I have disregarded it."
Peering intently into his eyes, Emmi place her hand over the handsome warden's and exclaimed, "What we have is enough! I need nothing more. Just the friendship, love and companionship we have. The laughter we share is a hundred times more precious then any poem or song."
"Do you understand my meaning?" she asked finally, after a long silence between them.
With a gleam in his eyes, Rúmil leaned down and softly kissed her before gracefully sweeping his hands under her and lifting her into his arms.
"Why, my dear lady, you have made yourself perfectly clear. Now, your room or mine?" he asked in a very sensual voice.
As the door swung shut behind the pair, the crack in the cupboard doors widened until a dark head appeared. With a quick glance to make sure the couple was really gone, Lord Elrond left his hiding spot and sat down at the table, smiling as he began to write.