RPG: Sword From the Sheath

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane
~ It was night, and she was in his arms. They were dancing to music only they could hear. Eamane smiled into Glorfindel's eyes and, laughing, he whirled her around the dancefloor. When she came back to his arms, the warmth in his eyes turned to flames and he kissed her.~

"Wake up my lady," a soft voice said.

~He pulled back from the kiss and though she smiled, he looked stricken and stepped back.~

"Lady Eamane, it's morning," the voice came again.

~He bowed to her then turned and ran. As her heart shattered she cried out~

"Eamane!" She was shaken awake by a worried Ninde. "My lady, you are weeping," she said touching Eamane's damp cheeks.

"No matter how many steps forward we take, my fear drives us apart," she murmured it, but Ninde heard.

"Does this have anything to do with the fact that Lord Glorfindel stayed late again last night?" Ninde asked.

"Lord Elrond was here almost as late as the Marchwarden, so don't look like that," Eamane said, sitting up. She winced as her foot gave a twinge.

"Ah but I heardthat the Lady Daewen was here until evening, and the Marchwarden much later. Care to share?" she asked.

"Not particularly," Eamane said. The dream still had her in it's grip and she could not smile yet.

"Did he hurt you?" Ninde asked, suddenly. "You've cried more tears for him than you did for your parents, and he doesn't even know it."

"He didn't hurt me Ninde," Eamane said. "He kissed me." There was a note of wonder in her voice.

Ninde stared. "And this brings tears? Why? You should be laughing with joy."

"I was, last night," Eamane answered. She shook herself and forced a smile. "The festival begins today. We have a lot to do, even if I am not going to be doing any dancing. I want Lisse, Ohto and Tulcandil to be taken to at least part of the festivities. It will do the elfling good to get out of the wards. Lisse too." Shw wondered how her patients were doing without her.

"I will get you some breakfast and then head over to the wards to tell them," Ninde said. She went along with the subject change, but she was going to find out what the Marchwarden was wearing if she had to ask him herself. Itshould not be that hard however. It never was.
************************************************** ******
Sarna

Sarna woke just as the sun was rising. Tumbled dreams of facing the Lorien Marchwarden in battle, bound princesses and facing down her king had made the night unrestful. She rose and dressed quickly. Grabbing up a cloak to ward off the morningchill, and the letter for the king, she slipped from theapartments. She'd figured out that the building was full of Mirkwood ambassadors. Knocking on the first door she came to, she waited.

"What do you want?" It was one of the Ambasadors she had seen the day before with Legolas. The stupidest one really.

"I want to send a letter to the king. I know you have messengers waiting atyour beck and call. Where would I find them?" Sarna asked politely. She managed to keep her sneer to a minimum.

"I'm not one of your troops to be ordered about Lady Sarnatelme." He sneered.

"When the orders come from me, they come from the king you pompous idiot," Sarna said. "Where are the messengers?"

He looked like he was about to explode. A dagger was suddenly in her hand. Lazily, she twirled it around her fingers. And waited. His eyes were big as saucers as he pointed her down the hall. "last door..." he managed before slamming the door.

Sarna laughed. "Thank you." She hurried down the hall. Within moments, a messenger was on his way to the king. She bid him safe journey and returned to her quarters. She wondered if she would recieve an invitation to the festival or if she would simply be expected to attend.

[Charmander]

The cool morning breeze brushed across the prince of Mirkwood's face. Legolas slowly opened his eyes and sighed. He was having the most pleasant memories from the night before; the garden of Imladris with the princess of Lorien. It had been a beautiful evening. The night sky had made the princess more stunning than ever. He could still feel his skin tingle at her slightest touch.

He smiled as he got out of bed. He had only heard in passing about the festival, but knew he needed to look like a prince. He dressed in a tunic of silver blue hue. He placed his circlet over his brow and had a light breakfast before leaving his guest house.

[Ladypain]

CELEBRIAN

It was morning again. She didn’t want to wake up from the slumber that the night had granted her. There was no more than the one-hour of peace where she fell into senseless darkness. The remainder of the night was plagued by nightmares where she lay motionless too powerless to even scream; silence exploded around her. She was more wrecked than before going to sleep. She dreamt she was lost in an empty dark void that muffled all cries. No matter how far she traveled there was no one to answer her and the void was endless. Celebrian wrapped arms around herself and closed her eyes pretending there was someone hugging her. She sniffed helplessly.

**********
GLORFINDEL

Bang! The March Warden was up on his feet holding a sword that he somehow found before his eyes opened. Realizing the sound came outside his bedroom Glorfindel quickly flung the door open ready to deal with any intruder who dared to pay him a visit. A shocked she-elf stared at him. “My Lord?” Glorfindel felt a prick of guilt. It was a maid who came every three days to clean up his quarters. She was sitting on the floor with the brushes around her. The maid must have tripped over the shoes he carelessly left last night right at the entrance. “Let me help you up.” He said making a step towards her. The maiden’s eyes widened farther as she bolted up on her feet. “I am fine, thank you. There is no need to help me. I didn’t know you were still here. It is past early morning hour.” She licked her lips. Did he oversleep? Normally the March Warden was one of the first to wake up. She was staring too expressively at him for his liking. Glorfindel looked at himself checking if anything was wrong. ~Halls of Mandos.~ He swore in his thoughts. Last night he felt emotionally drained which affected him physically as well. He managed to pull off the clothes but didn’t wear anything. Now he was naked. “Please return in one hour.” He said. “I’m sorry, I am recruited to help with the celebration later. This must be done now.” Glorfindel didn’t care that much about not wearing clothes but that stare was unnerving. “Very well. Do what you must.” He returned to the bedroom pulling the door shut.

Throwing a light robe over his shoulders Glorfindel went to prepare a bath doing his best to ignore the maiden. He decided to get dressed for the festival before going to check on Elrond. The long experience told March Warden the second he goes outside something would keep him occupied preventing for returning to his quarters. He chose a blue outfit, few shades darker than his eye color with silver additions on it. Next he plaited his hair into complex warrior braids weaving some silver blue ribbons into them.

Satisfied with such appearance Glorfindel went in search of his friend. He didn’t really believe Elrond would still be in his rooms however checked anyway and found half-elf there. “Morning mellon nin. How are you today?” He asked careful to keep his face emotionless. His friend looked like he was a victim of a significant disaster.

[Elfdaughter]

CELEBRIAN AND HALDIR

Haldir walked past Celebrian's door, and stopped. Tilting his head slighty, he heard the sounds of sniffing. He knocked gently on the wooen door, and called softly to Celebrian.
"My lady? Is there aught wrong?" His concern for Celebrian drove all thoughts of Sarna from his mind, but there was still a niggling doubt. There was something about Sarna that unnerved him - she was not all she seemed, but for now, his concern was for Celebrian.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian was starled hearing Haldir's voice. She wondered how he entered their house when the door was locked and why he chose to speak to her first after their last conflicting conversation. Never the less she welkomed the opportunity to make peace. "Haldir, come in please." She welcomed him as a friend. Celebrian set up in bed wiping the tears away. "I just had a bad dream. That's all." She smiled guiltily. "It was so vivid and I continued to cry after I woke up. I know it is silly."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

Sleep had not come and he had not expected it to. Elrond was up before sunrise, making his way through the quiet compound that was his house, as stealthily as Glorfindel would. Since restful slumber was beyond him, he thought, he might as well go and prepare the presents for the prince and-his heart gave an audible pang here, as it did every time her thought came into his mind-the princesses. ~I may not be there for the feast, but I need to do what I must~ he thought wearily, as he made his way to a small chamber that was always kept locked.

It was a small room and he lit several candles that he always left by the doorway. The soft light was reflected upon gold and priceless gems and mithril: the small treasure room of Rivendell. Elrond paused to look around him, as he always did when he came here. There were truly invaluable items in this room, but their value-at least to him- lay not on the gold and precious stones, but in their history that reached across all Ages of Middle Earth than had passed. Yes, some of the objects in here would make the most beautiful presents for the guests he had so recklessly insulted the day before, he thought guiltily...and he would have to go and apologise to them in the morning, before the feast. Celebrian's thought swam, as it always did, in his mind, but he brushed it aside determinatively. He would have to live with the pain of knowing she was lost to him, he knew that very well, but he would not allow himself to think of her.

Slowly, he walked along the room, looking at the artefacts all around him. His eyes stopped on a long knife, elegantly wrought in mithril; tunes of power adorned its blade and hilt, while, in their midst, a vine, wrought out of smalt, climbed along the thin, but deadly blade. With the blade came a sheath, elegantly embroidered with mithril and gemstones itself. Elrond picked it up, recognising the craftmanship of the smiths of Gondolin upon the subtle knife.He took it aside, deciding that this would make a gift fitting to the Prince of Mirkwood.

As he carried the knife over to the small table near the entrance of the room, he noticed something, a single blue stone reflecting the light of the candle nearest to it in the most radiant manner he had ever seen a gemstone do. Setting the sword down carefully, he turned to the dazzling glimmer. There, and partially hidden by a few other pieces of jewellery, lay a circlet. It was wrought of mithril, it seemed, and it was made by elven craft; silver leaves composed the setting upon which a flower sat; a flower made up of the smallest white diamonds, in the center of which a single stone was embedded. A stone that was of crystal blue and reflected all the light in the room. Somehow, it reminded him of Celebrian's eyes. ~A wedding gift fit for a princess~ he thought bitterly, as he picked it up. It belonged to Aredhel herself, he recalled, unless his memory failed him; it would be his farewell present to Celebrian...Moments later, he came across a necklace, also wrought in the shape of leaves, set with dark blue gemstones; a beautiful present for the Princess Ithildiel, he thought, it would fit the maiden perfectly.

Content with his choices, he was about to leave, when he caught sight of something else. He picked up a pendant, an eagle with his wing spread out and his eyes set with saphires. He took that with him, along with everything else as he left.

He had barely returned to his quarters-it seemed he had lost all track of time as he sat in the treasure room, lost in thought, when Glorfindel arrived, already dressed for the feast.

“Morning mellon nin. How are you today?”

Elrond tried to smile, but his lips refused to obey him. "I am fine, as I told you I would be, my old friend", he said, though the weariness in his voice betrayed him. "I was just down to find some suitable presents for our guests, according to the customs..." He paused, as he went over to the small desk in the sitting room that he had placed the artefacts and returned with the eagle pendant. "And this...for you, my old friend", he said, with a soft smile. "The Eagle of Gondolin...none but you deserves this".

*******************************
Ithildiel

It was sobbing that woke her up from a deep sleep and the dream of a certain elven prince that held her heart; Ithildiel, with reflexes honed in many a practice-and not only that-battles literally sprang on her feet. She was not wrong; there was sobbing coming from Celebrian's room. Her cousin was crying...Ithildiel dressed hastily and was about to step out when Haldir's voice came to her ears. She wondered how he had managed to come inside, when the door was locked, but did not stop to ponder, as she went outside in the living room.

"...It was so vivid and I continued to cry after I woke up. I know it is silly."

Celebrian was saying. Ithildiel looked at her worriedly, before turning to Haldir, nodding hello; she was not sure if he was still upset with her. "Cele, what happened?" she asked, seeing her concern mirrored in Haldir's eyes. "I heard you sobbing..."

[EamaneSilimaure]

((OOC: *grumbles* Let's try this again shall we?))

Ninde hurrield through the city. It was bustling with pre-festival business. She had dropped of her message at the healing wards and had to be back quickly or Lady Eamane would wonder. The healer would be pleasantly surprised at the number of people who asked after her health. The city cared for her as she cared for it. Ninde stopped in front of the laundress'. Going inside she found Fanye, maid to Lord Glorfindel holding five she-elves captive with some tale. Curious, she listened.

"He burst through the door, sword held high and completely unclothed. He seemed unconcerned with the fact at first and even offered to help me up. Gorgeous, and polite. Ladies Lord Glorfindel is perfect. He looked down at himself, realised he was naked, and he blushed! Actually blushed." She smiled secretively.

Ninde cleared her throat. "Don't you all have anything better to do than gossip?" she asked, all the power of her position as lady's maid to the chief healer come to bear in her voice. Lady Eamane would have been organizing much of the festival, had she not been injured. She had done so for Elrond for near a century. The ladies scurried to their duties. Ninde stopped Fanye. "The usual question girl and I and want none of your tales of his secret affection for you." Ninde said.

"Did you not hear my tale Ninde?" Fanye preened.

"I heard it. But I do no put as much stock into it as you obviously do. 'Tis no wonder he slept so late, for he was at my lady's home until well after moonrise." She got a hint of pleasure at the look Fanye gave her. She refrained from saying that Lord Elrond had been there as well.

Fanye sighed. "When he left he wore dark blue and silver." She looked at Ninde. "I don't know why you insist on this. Neither of them have done anything about it since you began, or even remarked on it to my knowledge."

"That shows how little you know," Ninde said. "You scheme for yourself too often of late."

"That's not true! I wish them both happiness," Fanye protested. "If I didn't I certainly wouldn't be helping you to dress them to match."

"That's true," Ninde said. "Thank you. Now go on about your business. We've a very busy day ahead of us. Aren't you to help with the decorating?"

"Yes," Fanye said. She paused. "Will they be dancing in the competition this year?"

Ninde shook her head. "Sadly no. The Lady Eamane's ankle is broken. She will not be dancing at all."

"That is a sad thing. They always do so well together," Fanye said, but there was a secret light in her eyes. She turned to hide it. "Good day to you Ninde."

Ninde watched after her. There was something about that girl... But no matter. She had what she had come for. She hurried back to Lady Eamane's home. She found her mistress once again immersed in paperwork.

Eamane smiled at Ninde's return. "I had to straighten these out. They were completely disarrayed after yesterday."

Ninde smiled back. "I can understand that," she went to the wardrobe and opened it. Pulling out a dark blue gown, shot through and embroidered with silver, she held it up. "You'll wear this tonight my lady."

"It's not very summery," Eamane said.

"It's a summer sky," Ninde said. "At night of course." She laid the dress over the back of the only chair in the room.

"What about that green one?" Eamane asked, pointing to a dress in the wardrobe. Her other hand touched the pendant at her neck.

"No, it's blue tonight my lady. You wore green at the welcome feast. Wouldn't do for our guests to think you wear only the one color," Ninde said.

"Very well," Eamane said. "You know fashions best I suppose." She smiled at her maid. She had a suspicion that Ninde had done it again, and that she would match the Marchwarden tonight. That was something she would not fight. "Don't you have things you could be doing to prepare for the festival mellon nin?"

"If you're sure you need nothing else?" Ninde asked.

"I am perfectly fine." Eamane said.

"I will return to help you get ready my lady," Ninde said. She bowed and left.

Eamane smield after her and looked at the dress. It was a lovely thing. One of her favorites. It twirled magically when she danced. She sighed and looked down at her foot. It wouldn't tonight of course. It was mech better this morning. The poulice Elrond had used had done wonders, but it was not healed yet. She sipped her tea and went back to her paperwork.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel doubted whether to voice his concern again about his friend's looks, next his breath was caught for a moment looking at the inspiring symbol, too familiar to him. Glorfindel involuntarily held the pendant in the palm of his hand admiring the skillful worksmanship. "I didn't know I qualified as a visitor. The only present I can win is for nagging." He attempted to joke to hide his unease. "Elrond I can't possibly take it from you. This has a historical significance. What will I do with it?" He became serious.

[Aletheia]

Daewen awoke feeling ill and out of sorts, her head throbbing uncontrolably.
Had she drank heavily the night before? She couldn't even remember. A slew of curses fell from her lips as she struggled to raise herslef up off the....couch? What in Arda was she doing there, instead of in her bed? Her eyes lighted on the deep purple bruises that bracleted her wrists, and memoey came back to her like a strong current.
Elrond had tended her, then he had drugged her.
A thousand curses on his miserable head! Would that she could make him feel the sort of pain she felt now.

~Soon enough~

Am erie voice soothed her from within. Daewen righted herself, and called for Lossiel to help her prepare herself. The maid poored hot water for a bath and made Daewen a stout tea that would help with the medicinal hangover, then she left Daewen to finish dressing by herself.
Going to the wardrobe, Daewen pulled out a finely embrodered gown of black silk. Not the sort of dress most would pick for a summer festival, but the richness of it only served to enhance her beauty, making her stand out with an exotic seductiveness. Elaborate jewelry completed her ensemble, and Daewen allowed Lossiel to come back and weave a tapestry of amythysts and rubies into her hair. She looked stunning, despite the slightly bloodshot look in her eyes.

~Now to see to our ambassadors from Mirkwood,~ she thought to herself. She had been neglecting her 'duties' towards them of late, and tonight would offer the perfect opportunity to dig her claws in a little deeper. They had but to fall a little further into her trap, and then all would be set.

[Elfdaughter]

Ithildiel
Ithildiel looked at her worriedly, before turning to Haldir, nodding hello; she was not sure if he was still upset with her.

Haldir nodded back, but briefly - his eyes held something that Ithil did not want to see. He was still furious, but his concern for the welfare of the Princesses over-rode his anger. He turned back to Celebrian, and as he moved, Ithil noticed a ring of keys hanging from his belt.


"It was so vivid and I continued to cry after I woke up. I know it is silly."

"Not always. Some dreams are so real, they seem like truth." Haldir thought back to the images that had flashed through his mind as he had walked, and almost laughed. Am I a fool? He thought to himself. How could that have been Lady Sarna? No, my mind must have been playing tricks on me - she fought well in the practice ring against Glorfindel - how I would like to dance with her in that ring! Some dreams do seem like truth indeed.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

Haldir still seemed furious with her, Ithildiel thought, frowning; she knew him too well not to notice the irritation in his eyes as he looked at her briefly. He seemed oddly preoccupied, though; something else was bothering him, as well; he seemed lost in thought as he addressed Celebrian.

"Not always. Some dreams are so real, they seem like truth."

"That is true, I fear", she said neutrally, not wishing to reveal she knew anything more about the reasons behind her cousin's moodiness. "And you seem a little out of sorts this morning, as well, Haldir", she addressed him, before he got the chance to ask anything more. "Is something the matter, mellon nin?" she asked softly, seeking to bridge the gap their previous fight had wrought in their friendship.

*****************************
Elrond

"I didn't know I qualified as a visitor. The only present I can win is for nagging.""Elrond I can't possibly take it from you. This has a historical significance. What will I do with it?"

Elrond smiled at the comment. Now that he had resolved-for all the good it would do him, since he couldn't really stop the painful thoughts rushing through his mind-that he needed to forget about the fair, but inaccessible to him Princess of Lothlorien, he found he felt just a little better...as long as he didn't think or saw her. "You can also claim-and it is rightfully yours, the present of the best possible friend any elf could have, mellon nin;this is just a very small way for me to thank you for that..." He paused and his expression changed into one of grim seriousness, before he spoke again. "As for what to do with it", he said and his tone, almost humorous, contradicted the shadows ever present in his eyes, "I think wearing it to the feast might be a good start; it definitely seems to match your clothes nicely enough", he jested, knowing Glorfindel hated dressing to match; he was never one for protocol. "It does have a historical significance, mellon nin, and I think you are more aware of that than me...and it is yours now to do with as you please". Glorfindel looked at the shimmering eagle, stretching its wings as if ready to fly away and Elrond smiled, a little wearily. "I should also like to ask you another favour...I think you should be the one to present our honoured guests with their presents in my stead", he said lightly. "What do you think?"

[Ladypain]

Celebrian
Haldir was angry enough with what Ithildiel did to upset him even farther. Celebrian cradled her face in her arms to avoid looking at Haldir. What she said was almost a lie. "Perhaps the ambush and the trip to Rivendell unnerved me more than I thought." She said.

Glorfindel
"I am honored to accept this pendant however I needed no present to know about our friendship that I value more than all treasures of the first age." Glorfindel placed the pendant over his neck.
...I think you should be the one to present our honoured guests with their presents in my stead", he said lightly. "What do you think?"
~I think you cannot avoid your problems forever.~ He thought sadly. "What kind of presents." He asked slowly wondering how he can get Elrond to change his mind. "It is not really my place to do so." ~Would he ask Erestor if I don't agree.~

[Charmander]

Although it was still early, it was warm in Imladris. The sun shone brightly on the surrounding areas of the guest house. Legolas turned to make his way towards the Mirkwood guest houses. He had been placed in a location of far more importance than his entourage. He knew Sarna would be awake this early, he needed to be sure the entire group was to be on thier best behaviour at the feast.

The city was coming alive. Preparations for the feast had seemingly begun overnight. Tables and chairs were being moved across the grounds at a rapid pace. Legolas watched with interest as decorations for the feast were being hung throughout the city. This feast was indeed a mainstay of Imladris, one that all came to particpate in.

As he walked towards the Mirkwood guest houses he saw an elf maiden dressed all in black. She looked greatly like Eamane, the healer, but she was certainly not walking on that ankle, thought Legolas, it must be the lady ambassador. He called out, 'Lady Daewen! Do the preparations for events never end here in Imladris?'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

"Perhaps the ambush and the trip to Rivendell unnerved me more than I thought."

Ithildiel avoided looking at Haldir at those words;the sorrow in her cousin's voice was too obvious to see, at least in her eyes...She wondered if the Lord of Rivendell felt the same way.

**********************************
Elrond

"I am honored to accept this pendant however I needed no present to know about our friendship that I value more than all treasures of the first age."

"I know, mellon nin", Elrond said, as the Marchwarden slwoly put the pendant around his neck. "And your friendship has been priceless to me through all 3 Ages of our world".He stopped, as Glorfindel checked the effect of the jewel against his choice in wardrobe for the feast.

"What kind of presents?" "It is not really my place to do so."

Elrond pointed to the small study. "Tell me what you think", he said, leaving the Marchwarden to examine the artefacts. "And you shall be at the Summer Feast in my stead today, so yours and Erestor's will be the place of the host; if you do not wish to present the gifts, I'm sure Erestor will be more than happy to deal with protocol, if you ask him to", he said seriously,right before a small,playful glimmer came into his eyes. "I take it you will be escorting Eamane?" he asked, smiling tenderly at the thought of the two of them together at the Summer Feast-and this year there was much more between them than their friendship, if the fleeting image he had caught in Glorfindel's mind the night before had any truth to it and was no more than a mirage...or a dream.He hoped it was the truth; those two deserved some happiness.

[Elfdaughter]

Ithildiel

"Is something the matter, mellon nin?" she asked softly, seeking to bridge the gap their previous fight had wrought in their friendship.

"Perhaps the ambush and the trip to Rivendell unnerved me more than I thought."

Ithildiel avoided looking at Haldir at those words;the sorrow in her cousin's voice was too obvious to see, at least in her eyes...


Haldir blinked, and looked up at Ithildiel. Seeing the concern in her face, and realising it was not all for Celebrian, his heart began to soften. He was still angry, but less so than before. He sighed - Sarna had moved something inside him, and now he could understand what Ithildiel was feeling. He rose, and put his hand on her arm.

"No, nothing now. You understand what I had to do? But forgive me - I may have acted rashly."

He turned to Celebrian, and knelt by her side once more. Doubt crept into his face as he heard her words.

"Rest may not be the easiest thing to seek right now, but seek it you must. If you need me, just call."

He took Ithildiel to one side, and whispered so Celebrian could not overhaer them. "She's not telling the whole truth. What's wrong with her?"

[Charmander]

'Lady Daewen! Do the preparations for events never end here in Imladris?'

Daewen turned to find the Prince of Mirkwood hailing her. She made her way to him, courtseying elegantly as she graced him with a fair smile.

"My Lord Legolas, you are exactly the person I was looking for. Indeed, we take great pride in our work here in Imladris," she said, answering his question. "And where is the Lady Sarna, for I desired to meet with both of you. I fear I have been lax in my duties as an ambassador and a councilor, and I would seek to recommend myself to Mirkwood more adamantly."
She extended her arm to him, offering him to take it.
"Come, shall we walk together, my friend? Perhaps our paths may cross with Mirkwood's lady as well."

************************************************** ********

Daewen immediately recognised the prince and said, 'My Lord Legolas, you are exactly the person I was looking for. Indeed, we take great pride in our work here in Imladris. And where is the Lady Sarna, for I desired to meet with both of you. I fear I have been lax in my duties as an ambassador and a councilor, and I would seek to recommend myself to Mirkwood more adamantly. Come, shall we walk together, my friend? Perhaps our paths may cross with Mirkwood's lady as well.'

Legolas offered her his arm and led her towards the Mirkwood guest houses. The breeze was refresehing as he responded, 'I believe Lady Sarna is within her quarters. I was just on my way to find her and would be honoured if you would join me.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"No, nothing now. You understand what I had to do? But forgive me - I may have acted rashly."

Haldir finally spoke to her, much to her surprise; she would not have expected him to address her...let alone be suddenly so understanding. "I know what you did and why, mellon nin...and there is nothing for it now. So there is nothing to worry about, I suppose", she shrugged, trying to smile, though she was still concerned for her cousin.

When the Marchwarden of Lorien took her aside, she tried not to act surprised.

"She's not telling the whole truth. What's wrong with her?"

Ithildiel avoided his gaze. "I do not know", she said neutrally, trying not to let him know she was lying. "She...I think that the journey here wearied her as she says and the ambush, as well...She is out of sorts, it seems, but she'll be fine in a few days, I think". She hated herself for lying to him twice in only a couple of days, but Celebrian's secret was hers to share...and she was not sure how Haldir would react to the news of her cousin's emotional attachment with the Lord of Rivendell.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel
"I'm afraid I am not the best choice for a host. I simply don't have the patience to deal with the ambassadors especially that it was my idea to escort Eamane. I can't change that. Erestor and Daewen will make fine hosts. You should ask them. Otherwise it would look odd that I'm asking Erestor to play host." Said Glorfindel. He believed Erestor would be able to come up with undoubtful diplomatic reasons that would change Elrond's mind about not going to the feast.

He examined the artifacts with curiosity. "These gifs are worthy of the ones they will be given to." He placed the pendant back into the box and held the delicate tiara. "Somehow I always imagined this to be worn by a Lady of Rivendell one day." He said thoughtfully.

Celebrian
Celebrian understood why Haldir might pull Ithildiel aside. She didn't want her cousin to lie for her and quickly got out of bed wearing a silky robe. "Haldir thank you for coming to check on us and you are certainly doing more than guarding us from visible foes." She managed a bright smile. "I feel better now that you came and interrupted the bad dream."

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

"Haldir thank you for coming to check on us and you are certainly doing more than guarding us from visible foes." She managed a bright smile. "I feel better now that you came and interrupted the bad dream."

Ithildiel smiled faintly at her cousin, thankful for the rescue; she could plainly see Haldir was not satisfied with her, admittedly, vague explanation. She took advantage of Celebrian's intervention to change the subject. "I think that, since we're awake, we might as well start getting ready for the feast we were told about...What do you think, Cele?" she asked, seeking to distract her cousin from the pain she knew was welling up inside her.

*********************
Elrond

"I'm afraid I am not the best choice for a host. I simply don't have the patience to deal with the ambassadors especially that it was my idea to escort Eamane. I can't change that. Erestor and Daewen will make fine hosts. You should ask them. Otherwise it would look odd that I'm asking Erestor to play host."

Elrond smiled reassuringly. "I am sure you will make a great host in my stead, mellon nin...I have little patience with ambassadors these days, as well; yesterday provd that beyond any doubt", he added a little grimly. "And I do not want Erestor knowing beforehand I will not be attending", he said after a short silence. "You know him, he will never abide with such a violation of protocol; he will insist I am there". He saw Glorfindel looking at him intently. "I shall take a bath and sleep", he said, before the Marchwarden had the chance to ask. "I was unable to rest last night", he sighed, "and feel the need for resting more than ever now..."

"These gifts are worthy of the ones they will be given to." Glorfindel changed the subject, as he went over to look more closely to the glimmering artefacts that lay on the table.He fingered the delicate headdress, tracing the designs with his fingers.
"Somehow I always imagined this to be worn by a Lady of Rivendell one day." he said, a touch of sorrow in his voice. Elrond looked away, pretending to busy himself with some papers that he had carried up from his study in the sleepless hours of the night, wishing to busy himself with something. "I thought it would make an excellent wedding present for princess Celebrian;she will be marrying Rivendell's Chief-of-Arms, after all", he said, but all the cool neutrality in his voice was unable to conceal the bitterness in its depths. He avoided replying to Glorfindel's comment directly. ~I, too, dared to dream of a Lady of Rivendell for the briefest time, mellon nin~ he thought instead, ~but that is not meant to be.~

[Aletheia]

'I believe Lady Sarna is within her quarters. I was just on my way to find her and would be honoured if you would join me.'

Daewen smiled charmingly as she placed her hand on his extended arm.
"The honor would be mine, Lord Prince."

They walked through the gardened courtyards towards the Lady Sarna's appartments, and Daewen talked of Rivendell and past festivals as they went.
Soon they had arrived at the lady's quarters, and Daewen waited for him to knock on the door.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel
I am sure you will make a great host in my stead, mellon nin.
Glorfindel could not agree to the task that would make both of them miserable. "We don't need to decide right now who will be the host. The circumstances might change. It doesn't matter who tells Erestor he will come looking for you either way. As you said it's a good idea for you to take a bath and get some sleep before he shows up. Let's postpone this decision."

I thought it would make an excellent wedding present for princess Celebrian;she will be marrying Rivendell's Chief-of-Arms.
The shuffling of papers made the unease even more evident. It was useless to argue about soundness of that conclusion once Elrond convinced himself it was so. "If I agreed to give these presents in your place what kind of message would you have me saying to the Princess?"

********
Celebrian

I think that, since we're awake, we might as well start getting ready for the feast we were told about...What do you think, Cele

Celebrian was quick to play along. "I think we should. I am curious to see how it is celebrated in Rivendell. I understand it will start some time afternoon and last all night." She recalled all the joy such festivals brought to summon as much cheerfullness as she could. Haldir was still regarding her mood with suspicion. "So, mellon nin. Have you met any worthy dance partners who would accompany you during the celebration?" She teased him.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

"I think we should. I am curious to see how it is celebrated in Rivendell. I understand it will start some time afternoon and last all night."

Ithildiel heard the forced tone in her cousin's voice and looked sideways at Haldir, to see if he had noticed. He frowned a little more, but Celebrian's next words made her smile at the strange expression on the Lorien Guard's face.

"So, mellon nin. Have you met any worthy dance partners who would accompany you during the celebration?"

Ithildiel exchanged a smile with her cousin; unless she was direly mistaken, she would say Haldir was blushing.

***********************
Elrond

"We don't need to decide right now who will be the host. The circumstances might change. It doesn't matter who tells Erestor he will come looking for you either way. As you said it's a good idea for you to take a bath and get some sleep before he shows up. Let's postpone this decision."

Elrond raised an eyebrow. "I can assure you I am not going to change my mind about this Feast, my old friend", he said, sounding much more cool and collected than he felt. A strange sense of emptiness was settling in his chest...right into his heart, but he did not speak of it."As for Erestor, he will not be able to convince me otherwise either, try as he may; he should not know about my absence till well after the start of the festivities and he will be too busy with the guests then to have the time to come to bug me".

"If I agreed to give these presents in your place what kind of message would you have me saying to the Princess?"

Elrond looked at Glorfindel darkly, his eyes almost black from the shadows dancing in their depths. There was so much he would wish that he himself could say to her...but he knew he never would."What makes you think I have a special message to give to the Princess of Lorien?" he asked, masking his pain behind a facade of coldness. "Just greet her like you would any other dignitary and extend my apologies for my absence from the festival; I shall see to it that I apologise for yesterday's events before I rest".

[Elfdaughter]

Ithildiel
"So, mellon nin. Have you met any worthy dance partners who would accompany you during the celebration?"

Ithildiel exchanged a smile with her cousin; unless she was direly mistaken, she would say Haldir was blushing.



Haldir tried to control his face, but, undeniably, he felt the heat rising into his face, and knew he was blushing. Quickly, he bowed.

"I will leave you to get ready." He said quickly, and left at a fast pace out of the room, hearing the suppressed giggles of Ithil and Cele behind him.

[Charmander]

Daewen took his arm and said, 'The honor would be mine, Lord Prince.'

It was a short distance to Sarna's quarters from were he met the lady ambassador. Daewen told Legolas of the different kinds of festivals that had taken place in Imladris. They reached Sarna's guest house and Legolas knocked on the door.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Thalion woke up slowly; he realised he had no idea what had happened after he had stabbed the assassin attacking King Thranduil. A small malevolent smile bloomed on his lips.His perfectly orchestrated plan seemed to have worked perfectly so far, apart from the fact that the fool he had hired had struck at him to kill. He felt anger well upinside him, before allowing himself the privilege to relax; the elven assassin was dead, just like planned. Thalion would never risk anyone exposing him to the King of Mirkwood.

He tried to get up to find he couldn't. As soon as he tried the tent around him started to spin and he had to lie back down.~Well, a small sacrifice, if the bigger plans are to be realised~he thought wickedly, as he lay back down.

[Charmander]

Thranduril watched from a distance as the party from Lorien hastily left. He had no words to speak to the lord of Lorien. Not after the attempted assasination on his life. He grimaced as he thought at what high a price he had to pay to discover the truth. He was thankful that Thalion had insisted on sending the letters to Sarna at once. She would ensure that Mirkwood would have the edge.

Thranduril stalked through the camp towards the make-shift sick-bay. The opening to the tent was folded shut and a pair of elves stood guard outside. They bowed low to the king as he opened the tent and walked in cautiously. On a cot lay his advisor. He seemed to be breathing more easily. And colour was returning to his face. It had been a day since the attack and the healer that tended Thalion had informed the king that though the hurt was grievous, it would heal. Thranduril moved to the side of the cot and sat down heavily on a stool. His eyes adjusted to the decreased amount of light in the tent. He looked at the still sallow face of his advisor and said, 'Thalion, mellon nin, can you hear me? You have added another great service to the land of Mirkwood. We are ever in your debt.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Thalion, mellon nin, can you hear me? You have added another great service to the land of Mirkwood. We are ever in your debt.'

Thalion had been watching the king of Mirkwood from the moment he had entered the tent, though he pretended to be too weak to notice; in truth,his strength was returning swiftly from the moment he had regained consciousness.

"I am afraid my services to Mirkwood and you, my king", he said, his voice weary on purpose, as he slipped into the facade of the worried councillor, "have not been too great; I should have anticipated such a sly and cowardly move from Lothlorien...The Lady of the Golden Wood and her consort know no boundaries in their quest for domination in this war", He paused, gasping for breath. "What became of the Lorien party, then?Are they still here?" he asked, contemptuously. "what did Lord Celeborn have to say about his assassin?" he asked testily.

[Charmander]

Thalion slowly opened his eyes at Thranduril's words and said, 'I am afraid my services to Mirkwood and you, my king, have not been too great; I should have anticipated such a sly and cowardly move from Lothlorien...The Lady of the Golden Wood and her consort know no boundaries in their quest for domination in this war. What became of the Lorien party, then? Are they still here? What did Lord Celeborn have to say about his assassin?'

Thranduril smiled to hear Thalion's voice again, he still sounded weak. He looked at Thalion gravely and replied, 'Nonsense, you have ever served the crown of Mirkwood and your actions will save you a place with high honour.'

He got up slowly and continued, 'As for the coward from Lorien, he has left and taken his dead assasin with him. A clear admission of involvement in my eyes, though he denied it vehemently It would seem that the Lady, although not here, was able to have her will done. It is unfortunate, Celeborn was so much more reasonable in his youth. I knew that alliance would prove ill.'

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna wore a gown of green and silver. She hadn't worn such frippery for a long time. She braided her hair with care, careful to make the style elaborate with being a tell-tale warrior braid. Because she had no jewelry, she wove ribbons of matching green and silver into the braids, even tying one green ribbon around her white throat. She had just finished when there was a knock at the door. Checking that she still had her dagger at her ankle she went to answer it.

She met Toron, in his own finery in the main room. She smiled with approval at him, even as he stared at her. She knew he had probably never seen her like this. She couldn't remember the last time she had worn a gown in Mirkwood. She opened the door to reveal the Prince, and the lady ambassador of Rivendell. The Lady Daewen was clothed all in black. Something that would surely make her stand out at this summer festival. Sarna curtseyed to them both gracefully, remembering how as she did so.

She nearly laughed at Legolas' expression. "Good Morning your highness," she said. "How can I help you?" There was shock in his eyes. She grinned at him.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Nonsense, you have ever served the crown of Mirkwood and your actions will save you a place with high honour.'

Thalion smiled a little shyly at the king's words, but did not speak.

'As for the coward from Lorien, he has left and taken his dead assasin with him. A clear admission of involvement in my eyes, though he denied it vehemently It would seem that the Lady, although not here, was able to have her will done. It is unfortunate, Celeborn was so much more reasonable in his youth. I knew that alliance would prove ill.

"Yet we had to make one final effort, my liege", THalion said, his voice benign and velvet soft; Thranduil did not see the dark fire dancing in the advisor's eyes. "If anything, we should feel less grief about our plans now...I hope Captain Sarna will do as she's bidden. The sooner we have the princesses in our hands, the sooner we can end this war".

[Charmander]

The door opened and to Legolas' utter shock was the captain of the Mirkwood guard dressed in her finest. She looked absolutely amazing. If he did not know that she was a soldier, he would have mistaken her as a courtier. She curtseyed and said, 'Good Morning your highness, how can I help you?'

Lady Daewen returning the curtsey and Legolas recovered quickly saying, 'My Lady, I was coming to seek you out, as was Lady Daewen. Since our paths met with you, I asked her to join me.'

Lady Daewen smiled at both of them, very much surprised at the beauty of the lady ambassador, 'My Lady, I was just telling the prince, I have been most remiss with my attention to Mirkwood. Please allow me to escort you both to the festival and also enlighten you to the customs and traditions here in Imladris.'

************************************************** ********

Thalion nodded at the king and said, 'Yet we had to make one final effort, my liege. If anything, we should feel less grief about our plans now...I hope Captain Sarna will do as she's bidden. The sooner we have the princesses in our hands, the sooner we can end this war.'

Thranduril looked at his advisor upon the cot in disgust and said, 'I am just glad that this final effort did not mean the end for you. We must trust that Cpt. Sarna will do as she is bidden. She has never failed me, equally as loyal to Mirkwood as you are.' He looked around the room in dismay and said, 'How do you feel? We must make for Mirkwood as soon as we can. Any messages that may have come from Imladris would be there. I hesitate to move you, but I think the need is great.'

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Celebrian was amased to see the March Warden blush. She never saw him involved in any relationship that would make him react as he did. The distraction worked too well. "Haldir, mellon nin. We will see you at the feast." She called to him suggestively sure that she will see during the festival someone new with him. She and Ithildiel snickered watching Haldir retreat.

Glorfindel

It was possible for Glorfindel to be every inch as stubborn as his friend. "Erestor will undoubtedly have questions about the feast before it begins. He will ask for some kind of official confimation for the plans he will have which I'm not authorised to give him. I respect him too much to lie or withhold something he considers important such as your presence. As for the Princesses it would be the best for you to give them the presents along with the appology."

[EamaneSilimaure]

'My Lady, I was coming to seek you out, as was Lady Daewen. Since our paths met with you, I asked her to join me.'

Sarna nodded. "You've found me," she said with a smile. She wondered why the ambassador would be looking for her.

'My Lady, I was just telling the prince, I have been most remiss with my attention to Mirkwood. Please allow me to escort you both to the festival and also enlighten you to the customs and traditions here in Imladris.'

"Such an escort would be most welcome my lady," Sarna replied. Turning to Toron still in the room, she added, "I will see you at the festival." Then smiling at both the ambassador and the prince she joined them in the hall.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Thalion

'I am just glad that this final effort did not mean the end for you. We must trust that Cpt. Sarna will do as she is bidden. She has never failed me, equally as loyal to Mirkwood as you are.'

"I'll be fine, my lord; but even if I died, it would be worth it, for your life would be spared", Thalion said fervently.He was not sure as to the loyalty of Captain Sarna, but he did not say anything about that; he would deal with Sarnatelme when the time came...for now, she was useful to his plans.

'How do you feel? We must make for Mirkwood as soon as we can. Any messages that may have come from Imladris would be there. I hesitate to move you, but I think the need is great.'

"I think I shall be able to ride with you to Mirkwood, my lord", he said swiftly, and he tried to sit up, stifling a moan of pain, that was not alltogether false. "We need to set our plans in motion as soon as can be...and prepare for the arrival of our guests", he said, with a cool smile.

****************************
Ithildiel

Ithildiel had never seen Haldir blush, nor depart from thier presence in such a hurry. Celebrian called after him, as he left hastily.

"Haldir, mellon nin. We will see you at the feast."

Ithildiel laughed; her cousin also, she noticed, not without relief. "Do we really need to start getting ready?I think it is too early for that..." she said after a while, as they both tried to catch their breath.

**********************
Elrond

"Erestor will undoubtedly have questions about the feast before it begins. He will ask for some kind of official confimation for the plans he will have which I'm not authorised to give him. I respect him too much to lie or withhold something he considers important such as your presence.As for the Princesses it would be the best for you to give them the presents along with the appology."

Elrond frowned at this apparent unwillingness on Glorfindel's part. "Fine", he said,a little testily " I shall deal with Erestor myself, if he comes asking; all I ask is that he does not know of this till after the feast starts. As for the presents...you know that it is tradition for them to be given at the feasting table. I cannot break tradition, can I?" he said, trying to not pay too much heed to the fact that he would soon have to face Celebrian again.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Do we really need to start getting ready?I think it is too early for that..." Ithildiel said.

"I would like to take a walk through the city. So far I only know a way to Eamane's home and a path through the gardens. It might be useful to learn more plus I would like to see how the preparations are coming. Maybe we can take part in the as well." She smiled. The main reason was that she didn't want to stay locked up in the house. Celebrian would have agreed to doing anything that would take her mind off the Rivendell Lord.

Glorfindel

Fine", he said,a little testily " I shall deal with Erestor myself, if he comes asking; all I ask is that he does not know of this till after the feast starts. As for the presents...you know that it is tradition for them to be given at the feasting table. I cannot break tradition, can I?"

"Hypocritically says someone who is breaking the tradition by refusing to play host." Glorfindel couldn't resist saying. "All right I will give the presents to Lady Ithildiel and Lady Celebrian unless you change your mind. I will come pick them up later from your office. I promised to visit Eamane as well as there are other things to attend to. I'm afraid of having to carry these artifacts around. They will be safer in your hands for now." As much as he wanted to postpone on the promice to play host and give gifts he also wanted to make sure Elrond was not worse. The darkness he saw in normally stormy grey eyes scared Glorfindel. ~What will I do if this becomes worse?~ The thought chilled him because he had no answer. He wondered whether he should discuss this with someone, Eamane perhaps. He didn't want to trouble her farther. She is a healer but even the best healers had were limited when the concern was emotional. ~What heals the broken heart?~ He wondered.

[Charmander]

Sarna smiled politely at both the prince and ambassador and said, 'Such an escort would be most welcome my lady.'

She joined them in the hallway and Legolas offered her his other arm as Lady Daewen walked them through the grounds of Imladris. She pointed to a building to their right and said, 'And this is the library of Imladris. Some of the most treasured documents of Middle Earth can be found here. If you have not had a chance to go within, please allow me.' She opened the double doors and led them in. While she had their undivided attention she wanted to study the prince and ambassador. There was more to this lady ambassador than met the eye. There was a way about it her, she seemed to walk in her attire in a manner that was strange and unfamilar.

She continued in a sugary voice, 'I am certian that there are such places in the lands of Mirkwood?'

************************************************** ********

Legolas walked with Sarna at his side only a step behind Lady Daewen. She led them into the library, which the prince was already familiar with. He tried to hide the pleasure he recalled from being with the princess of Lorien. He tuned back into Daewen explaining the significance to the library, 'I am certain that there are such places in the lands of Mirkwood?'

He smiled at her and repied, 'We do have such places, but there are none as impressive as this one.'

************************************************** ********

Thalion replied, 'I think I shall be able to ride with you to Mirkwood, my lord. We need to set our plans in motion as soon as can be...and prepare for the arrival of our guests.'

Thranduril could see the grimace that crossed Thalion's face as he spoke. He turned and said, 'I will ensure that all is made ready. We will leave as soon as we can. Please, take as much rest as you can.'

He left the tent and gave instruction to the soldiers to make sure that Thalion was to rest and have refrestment brought to him immediately. He then went back to his makeshift tent and informed his manservant to have the men be ready to leave for Mirkwood at dawn.

[EamaneSilimaure]

He smiled at her and repied, 'We do have such places, but there are none as impressive as this one.'

Sarna nodded. She stared around her at the many books and parchments. The history within these walls moved her, even as the sheer amount of knowledge contained within this room made her uneasy. With this much material at his disposal, Lord Elrond probably knew as much if not more about this world and the next than the Lady Galadriel did. Certainly more than her king. She smiled at Lady Daewen. "It is quite impressive." The lady ambassador was appraising her, she could tell. She knew that calculating look all to well. It would surprise her however if this Daewen underestimated her, as so many who had faced her before had. "Do you spend much time here my lady?" It would say a lot about her tactics, if much of her work was done in a library. Sarna was always ready to learn the tactics of others.

"Thank you both," Daewen said. She saw a flash of uneasiness flash through the lady Sarnatelme's eyes and wondered at it. Why would a library make a diplomat uneasy? "I spend enough time here to fulfill my duties of course, though I prefer the open air." She lead them through the libraries, chatting about some of the artifacts on display there. They came to a stop in front of two murals of the Last Alliance.

"So much was nearly lost then," Sarna said softly. The murals of fighting men and elves moved her as nothing else could have. They were elves from all three realms, fighting side by side.

Daewen's eyes darkened slightly and her voice had a previously hidden edge as she spoke. "Much was lost my lady." Abrubtly she turned away from the paintings. "Come," she said her tongue honey-coated once more. "There is still much to see before the festival."

[Charmander]

Legolas listened as Sarna and Daewen spoke of the history of Middle Earth and the vastness of the library. Sarna in inquired, 'Do you spend much time here my lady?'

Daewen responded, 'I spend enough time here to fulfill my duties of course, though I prefer the open air.'

She led them through rows of books, murals were interspersed with sculptures and statues. Sarna stopped at a mural of the last alliance and said, 'So much was nearly lost then.'

Legolas could hear the remorse in his friend's voice. She was a soldier and any life lost in battle to her was truly a waste, as she had told him time and time again.

Daewen responded, 'Much was lost my lady.' Abrubtly she turned away from the paintings. Daewen knew the loss was grievious, but the look in the Mirkwood ambassador's eyes was most telling, she would have watch her very closley.

She smiled and said, 'Come, there is still much to see before the festival.'

She led them back into the sunlight. The preparation for the feast was moving quickly. What had seemed only partially completed before was now virtually finished. Daewen led them through the heart of the city, stopping at certain buildings giving them an account of each's significance. Daewen kept a close eye on the ambassador, the prince seemed to be the usual royal-type, nothing to be concerned over with him. Thalion had been right, the prince would prove to be of little use and little danger. She thought darkly, but this ambassador, she was another story entirely. Perhaps Daewen could find some time alone with this ambassador, find out what her purpose really was.

She smiled sweetly and said, 'I hope that I have not taken up too much of your time, but I have wished to learn more of Mirkwood, in an effort to hasten a resolution to these talks.'

Legolas smiled back, very impressed by Lady Daewen's actions to make them at ease, 'My lady, it has been a pleasure. I still feel there is much to learn of Imladris, but you are correct that the purpose for our visist should not supercede our thirst for knowledge.'

Daewen nodded and said, 'I have taken all you all over the city, please let me sit down and have some refreshment with you. I know of a restaurant that has excellent Imladris cuisine, would you care to spend some more time with me?'

Her words were soft and encouraging. Legolas responded, 'I am certain we would both be delighted, I just hope we are not wasting your time needlessly.'

She shook her head and said, 'My Lord Prince, my time is but to serve you.' She turned and led them back into the city.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Thalion

'I will ensure that all is made ready. We will leave as soon as we can. Please, take as much rest as you can.'

Thalion nodded. "I shall be ready to ride whenever you call for me, my lord", he said, his voice kind and proud, as Thranduil left him alone. As soon as the king of Mirkwood left the tent, another, purely malicious smile bloomed on his lips. ~The plan is going as it should, indeed; Daewen will be pleased~ he thought, as he lay back down; much as he hated the thought, he needed the rest...the assassin's -his assassin, he thought coldly-blow had gone much more deeper than it should and it would take some time to heal.

*************************
Ithildiel

I would like to take a walk through the city. So far I only know a way to Eamane's home and a path through the gardens. It might be useful to learn more plus I would like to see how the preparations are coming. Maybe we can take part in the as well."

Ithildiel nodded seriously. She knew Celebrian well enough to know the real reason behind her cousin's desire to get out of the house; she needed a diversion from the grim thoughts and sorrow in her heart. "I think you are right", she smiled, not uttering these thoughts. "We need to find our way through Rivendell a little better...and I would really like to see the preparations. It seems this festival is of great importance in Rivendell".

************************
Elrond

"Hypocritically says someone who is breaking the tradition by refusing to play host."

Elrond looked at Glorfindel darkly. "Your testy comments will not change my mind either", he said coolly. "I shall not attend this feast and that is my final decision".

"All right I will give the presents to Lady Ithildiel and Lady Celebrian unless you change your mind. I will come pick them up later from your office. I promised to visit Eamane as well as there are other things to attend to. I'm afraid of having to carry these artifacts around. They will be safer in your hands for now."

Elrond sighed. The Marchwarden refused to give up, that much was obvious. "I will not change my mind", he repeated, exasperated. "You and Erestor will have to handle this festival; Daewen too, if she is feeling better. As for the presents..." he paused to look at the priceless artefacts and his eye stopped on the circlet he had prepared for none other than the princess of Lothlorien who had hold of his heart. Glorfindel's words a few moments before echoed in his ears. "Somehow I always imagined this to be worn by a Lady of Rivendell one day." He tried to ignore it. "...you can leave them here till you are ready to go to the festival; it would not be safe for you to carry them around", he said neutrally, hoping the Marchwarden had not noticed his momentary distraction.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel
"...you can leave them here till you are ready to go to the festival; it would not be safe for you to carry them around", he said neutrally, hoping the Marchwarden had not noticed his momentary distraction.

"Of couse." Glorfindel agreed quickly before Elrond changed his mind. "I will be back in a few hours." He retreated towards the exit with a smile.

The very first place he ventured to was Erestor's office. The advisor usually spend his mornings there. "Lord Erestor a moment of your time please." The councillor questionably looked up from his work. "I hate to interrupt however Lord Elrond have mentioned some plans for a new garrison he scetched yesterday. Since I did not receive them he must have given them to you in as a general routine work that needs to be distributed to apropriate places. I would very much like to complete all my paperwork before the festival begins so I can enjoy it and not think about it." Glorfindel spoke half truth. Erestor had a plan that was revised and approved by Marchwarden. It was among that pile of Elrond's work that he fixed the night before.

The councillor looked at him with some suspicion. The Marchwarden never trully cared about paperwork however he opened one of the desk drawers and handed Glorfindel the familiar pages. "I trust you to find what you need yourself. I have not read half of these reports. The festival preparations have interfered." Glorfindel's face was a complete blank as he picked up the pages showing no emotions under penetrating stare. "I appreciate this very much." He said. "I understand how busy you are especially now that you will be a Main host during the festival." In the corner of his eye Glorfindel noticed an alarmed shift in councillors position behind the desk. "What was that?" Asked Erestor. Glorfindel pretended to be baffled. "Oh, nothing." He said quickly. "Here is the plan I was looking for. Thank you very much." He returned the papers to Erestor before sliding out of the office with a sly grin. He trusted Erestor to figure out quickly what he meant.

Celebrian
Celebrian went around the room getting dressed. She pulled out a light yellow dress with red and orange embroidery of leaves and flowers on it. She weaved heavy hair locks into several braids. The wind gusts mercilessly was playing the the curtains near the open window. Celebrian didn't feel like constantly removing disarrayed hair hair out of her face. "I wonder what nana (mother) and ada (father) are doing right now? What would they think about my actions?" She said unexpectedly. Celebrian was never away for too long from her family and she missed them.

[EamaneSilimaure]

She shook her head and said, 'My Lord Prince, my time is but to serve you.' She turned and led them back into the city.

"It has been a most enlightening morning," Sarna said as they walked. "Thank you very much." She had scoured the city as they went, searching for some way in or out of it that would avoid the sentries. So far there was only one. The gardens of the city were immense and one such came right to the border of Rivendell. A low decorative wall was all that had separated it from the forest. As they had passed it though, a sentry walked by alert for danger... from the forest, not the city.

Daewen watched them both, a cold glimmer in her eyes at their obvious appreciation of the city. ~Fools. They really have no idea.~ She smiled, "I am curious, you seemed so moved by the murals my lady. Did you fight there?" She knew many of the elves then, like Elrond had turned to nonviolent pastimes afterwards. Perhaps this lady Sarnatelme was the same.

Sarna looked sharply at her. "Alas no my lady. I was otherwise occupied at the time." She wondered if Lady Daewen suspected...
************************

Eamane sighed and set down her quill. She'd finally caught up on her paperwork. She looked out the window. It wouldsoon be noon, and Ninde had not yet returned. Knowing that it would be difficult to dress alone, she decided to at least style her hair, so that she would be nearly ready when the Marchwarden arrived. She had no ribbons within reach, but resolved to add them later as she braided her hair into an elaborate updo. She left some copper curls to trail down her back.

"Where is she?" Eamane asked the empty room. She tried to figure out how she would manage to get into the dress, without putting any weight on her foot.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

"I wonder what nana (mother) and ada (father) are doing right now? What would they think about my actions?"

Ithildiel had watched her cousin braid her hair. She, as well, had gone to dress, choosing a reddish gown with a simple golden vine design climbing from the hemline and up to the corsage elegantly. She had braided half of her hair with a golden ribbon and in a way that kept the rest of it out of the way in a simple but elegant way.

"I'm sure they're just fine, mellon nin", she replied to her cousin softly. "and you have done nothing wrong...In fact, you have done exactly what you came here to do, though I wish...I wish you would heed your heart rather than your duty".She paused, before speaking again. "But I also find myself wondering...they'll both be furious at me when Haldir's letter reach them..."

**********************
Elrond

Glorfindel departed hastily, leaving Elrond a little puzzled at his sudden retreat. He was in no mood to think about it, though. Instead, he went to take a bath, as he had said he would, hoping the warm water would refresh his weary body; it did. When he emerged a while later, he found himself feeling much better, at least physically. He decided he would not sleep; instead, he got dressed, as if for a feast. He chose a silver gray outfit, with simple silver traceries along the shirt's neck and sleeves; following Glorfindel's example, he braided his hair with thin silver ribbons. He observed the result critically, before heding down to the study. Barely had he got to sit behind his desk, when there was a knock on the door."Enter", he said startled.

Erestor stormed in, not even bothering to greet him. "What's that about you not attending the summer festival?" he snapped at Elrond. "Mind your tone", the lord of Rivendell said sternly. "And you mind your duties", Erestor retorted sharply. "You cannot miss the feast!!" "Who told you I was?" ajsed Elrond, his eyes narrowing. "Glorfindel said I was to play host at the festivities...but he ran off to his work before I could ask anything more. And I am not letting you get away with this; and don't you dare say you need to rest, I see you are perfectly well to be sitting here, working". Elrond motioned him to keep quiet.~I'll kill Glorfindel~ he thought, half- furiously, half- amused. "I thought I would indeed stay and rest", he said calmly, ignoring the look on Erestor's face. "If you recall, I was almost lethally injured a couple of days ago". Erestor snorted. "Well, you can rest all you need by the afternoon; then, I shall come to escort you to the feast; you cannot be absent, with the distinguished guests wer have in Imladris right now", the advisor said, with a tone that would take no argument, before storming out. Elrond sighed. He stepped out himself and caught sight of one of Glorfindel's men, carrying some decorations for the festival. He motioned him over. "when you're finished, tell your commander I wish to see him", Elrond said coolly. The elf nodded.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

Leaving Erestor to take care of Elrond Glorfindel had to find the Lorien Marchwarden. He found out from the sentries that Haldir was in his quearters. Several minutes later he was at the door knocking.

Celebrian

Celebrian looked at herself critically in the mirror. "So far I followed neither path. I will not have Altenen as my partner because I don't love him neither do I have an opportunity to join the one whom I love but he does not love me." She was surprised that her tone was so calm. The decision to avoid union with Altenen at all cost lightened her heart even when the guilt for disobeying her family remained. "We are not in Lorien anymore. Their anger will not last and they will not be able to act on it immediately. I feel safe in Rivendell, even safer than at home. Despite the recent troubles the atmosphere is peaceful like a true sanctuary." She confessed.

[Elfdaughter]

Haldir studied his wardrobe carefully. What on earth should he wear? Discarding item after item, he finally chose a pale green tunic, with a silver vine pattern following the seams and down his front. He brushed and combed his hair, finally braiding it up into an intricate knot. Studing himself in the mirror, he nodded. "It'll do."

Hearing the door knock, Haldir turned. "Enter!" He called. He nodded as Glorfindel walked in. "Ah, Glorfindel! What can I do for you?"

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel nodded respectfully. "Yesterday we agreed to have both Lorien and Rivendell sentries working together in guarding the Princess' residence. I would like to install the new security as soon as possible. Since we have some time before the feast I was wondering whether you would work with me." He smiled. "Hopefully you have quill and paper and will to do the task."

[Elfdaughter]

Haldir nodded, and turned to his desk. "Very well." He gestured to a seat beside him. "Please, sit down. This may take some time." He pushed papers to one side, and cleared a space on the mess that was his desk. Taking a clean quill and dipping it in ink, he smoothed out a clean sheet of paper. "Tell me, had you anything in mind?"

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"So far I followed neither path. I will not have Altenen as my partner because I don't love him neither do I have an opportunity to join the one whom I love but he does not love me.""We are not in Lorien anymore. Their anger will not last and they will not be able to act on it immediately. I feel safe in Rivendell, even safer than at home. Despite the recent troubles the atmosphere is peaceful like a true sanctuary."

Ithildiel nodded. Eamane had also rtold her something along these lines and she felt it too...there was peace here and tranquility; nothing could harm them. "So", she asked after a while, "will you try to speak to the lord of Rivendell at the feast?I shall be glad to...divert Lord Altenen to give you the chance to do so", she added, smiling mischievously; she knew she and the Prince of Mirkwood would be more than able to keep Altenen away from Celebrian if need be.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

Glorfindel sat down across from Haldir. "So far you told me that your sentries are working in two shifts and this is mostly because you could only bring limited numbers here. I would like to change that to four shifts, only few hours each. I'm sure your kin would appreciate to be able to do most than keep watch night and day." He picked up another quil and wrote down a list of names he previously planned to use. Next he drew a chart splitting the day into sections and leaving blanks for the names who should be on duty during those times. "Also I overheard that some leave their posts as soon as their shift is over. Please try to convince them that they must wait for a replacement before leaving even when the other is late." He looked up in concern not sure how Haldir allowed such breech in discipline. Only the calamity of their arrival could have being responsible.

Celebrian

Celebrian looked at herself again in the mirror grimly. "There will be no need to distract Lord Altenen. I will make it very clear to him that I do not welcome his company. Otherwise Haldir will be the one distracting the Lord." She closed the window to make sure the wind gusts did not rip the curtains. "I will need to find Lord Elrond and appologise. Besides I will not be able to avoid him. According to tradition he must dance with me." Celebrian failed to hide how much she was looking foreward to dancing. "Perhaps it would be better if I ask Haldir to handle Lord Altenen so you could dance with someone you like." She teased keeping attention off herself.

[Elfdaughter]

Glorfindel

Glorfindel sat down across from Haldir. "So far you told me that your sentries are working in two shifts and this is mostly because you could only bring limited numbers here. I would like to change that to four shifts, only few hours each. I'm sure your kin would appreciate to be able to do most than keep watch night and day." He picked up another quil and wrote down a list of names he previously planned to use. Next he drew a chart splitting the day into sections and leaving blanks for the names who should be on duty during those times. "Also I overheard that some leave their posts as soon as their shift is over. Please try to convince them that they must wait for a replacement before leaving even when the other is late." He looked up in concern not sure how Haldir allowed such breech in discipline. Only the calamity of their arrival could have being responsible.


Haldir stood up and walked behind Glorfindel as he spoke, looking over his shoulder at the chart he was drawing. He nodded as Glorfindel explained, and frowned at the last comment he made. "I shall inform them of that indeed. That is serious breach of discipline. Any sentries found leaving their shift early will be severly reprimanded. I thank you for your help, Glorfindel - this will be most useful." Haldir paused, and taking another clean sheet, wrote down a series of names. "These are the sentries we have at the minute. Combined with your sentries, we should be able to provide the Princesses with full cover, and give each sentry a decent rest between shifts. You have my gratitude, Glorfindel."

[Ladypain]

They quickly made two copies of the charts. "We should be able to implement this system tomorrow. It's a pleasure working with you Haldir." Glorfindel said truthfully. The Loriend Princess' would be at the festival so there was no point in changing the security around their house this night. "We should hold training sessions together some time later or maybe spar on the training field and not in the dark forest." He grinned reminding Haldir of the incident when both of them sneaked out of Rivendell to check the ambush site and mistook each other in the dark for enemy. Luckily neither got hurt. "I must leave. We will probably see each other during the festival having fun." He checked whether the ink was dry before folding the chart they have made. "Good day."

[Elfdaughter]

"We should hold training sessions together some time later or maybe spar on the training field and not in the dark forest."


Haldir laughed, and bowed to Glorfindel. "It is a pleasure working with you also, Glorfindel. I would love to spar with you - in daylight, this time, perhaps!" He laughed. "Good day to you also."

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel left his mood slowly improving. He didn't expect the meeting with Lorien Marchwarden to go so well considering all the frictions between their realms. They both had a lot in common and understood each other well. Glorfindel made a brief stop by his office to leave the chart there. He checked for any messages. Finding none he went to pay Eamane a visit. He didn't notice one of the sentries came in looking for him soon after he left.

Again no one bothered to answer. Following the experience Glorfindel entered the unlocked house wondering where all the maids were every time he came to visit Eamane. He felt like a villain entering someone's home without their permission first. He stopped before her bedroom to knock. "Eamane can I come in?" He asked. Glorfindel didn't need to name who he was. She always recognised his voice.

[Charmander]

'It has been a most enlightening morning. Thank you very much,' said Sarna.

Daewen smiledand asked, 'I am curious, you seemed so moved by the murals my lady. Did you fight there?'

Sarna looked sharply at her. 'Alas no my lady. I was otherwise occupied at the time.'

Daewen had led them to a table in the back of an open-air restaurant. The lady ambassador had answered rather quickly, too quickly. She was hiding something. She heard that she had fought with the MarchWarden and held her own. Here was one that has certainly seen battle. She smiled sweetly, 'I am glad that you were able to avoid such a battle. I fear too many lives have been lost in such unwise endeavors.' She knew it was only a matter of time before she trapped the lady ambassador into revealing her true self.

Legolas watched with interest as this exchange progressed. He did not dare speak over Sarna, she was always able to hold her own, but her secret seemed closer to the surface than it should be. He watched Sarna closely as he responded, 'Indeed that is true my lady, and we are here to do what we can to avoid such an ending. Tell me, is there any wine that you would recommend?'

Daewen smiled at the prince and said, 'I will be happy to recommend some wine.' She motioned to an elf and glasses of wine were quickly brought to the table.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Daewen smiled at the prince and said, 'I will be happy to recommend some wine.' She motioned to an elf and glasses of wine were quickly brought to the table.

Sarna smiled at them both, but her unease did not fade. Lady Daewen was entirely too good at her job. She resolved to remain relatively quiet for the remainder of this... meeting. She looked out the window, wanting some distraction from her near blunder.

Daewen poured the wine for them both. "This is a lovely white from our best orchards. I believe there will be more varieties available at the festival, but it won't hurt to sample this now," She smiled encouragingly. She was watching Lady Sarnatelme. The Mirkwood ambassador shifted her weight in the chair and seemed to be watching out the window for something.
************************************************** ********

"Eamane can I come in?"

Eamane went perfectly still at the sound of Glorfindel's voice. That in itself was a feat, considering she was balanced on one leg, holding onto the bedpost with one hand and trying to button her dress with the other. For a split second she could not speak. Then before she could question herself, she called out, "Yes, come in."

She had her back to the door. As it opened, she looked over her shoulder at him. The dark blue of the dress set off her pale skin. With the buttons undone, her back was bare to her waist except for the few curls of hair she'd left down. She felt her cheeks go pink, but asked softly, "Could you help me? I can't get the buttons fastened." Breathlessly she waited for his reaction.

[Ladypain]

His first reaction was to jump back into corridor with appology at the sight. Glorfindel was sure the tips of his ears turned red. Eamene looked over her shoulder. Could you help me? I can't get the buttons fastened." An eternity passed before he answered. "You would trust me with such task?" He composed his voice as a joke. "I haven't tried this before." He crossed the room keeping out of Eamane's view so she wouldn't see him blushing. "You should be sitting down. What happened to Ninde?" When did his fingers became so clumsy? Glorfindel slowly buttoned the dress trying to touch the flawless, alebaster skin as little as possible. Small pulses ran through him every time he touched her.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"There will be no need to distract Lord Altenen. I will make it very clear to him that I do not welcome his company. Otherwise Haldir will be the one distracting the Lord."

Ithildiel's eyes darkened. She was certain that Haldir would be more than glad to handle... Altenen on Celebrian's behalf.


"I will need to find Lord Elrond and appologise. Besides I will not be able to avoid him. According to tradition he must dance with me."

Ithildiel smiled at her cousin's barely concealed enthusiasm at the prospect of dancing with the lord of Rivendell. "Do you really think that custom also applies here?" she asked, still smiling. "If so, such a dance would make a perfect opportunity for the two of you to talk; I think Lord Elrond has some apologising of his own to make; his behaviour yesterday was entirely unacceptable!" she exclaimed, wondering at the same time, if there was a way to make that ceremonial dance last for some moretime than custom allowed.

"Perhaps it would be better if I ask Haldir to handle Lord Altenen so you could dance with someone you like."

Her smile turned to laughter at her cousin's gentle tease. "Well, I'm sure I'll find the chance to dance with that someone", she returned the jest, "if Haldir is otherwise engaged..but after his crypticism this morning, I think Altenen will be the least of his concerns", she said, a little mischievously.

[EamaneSilimaure]

It seemed forever passed before he spoke. Because of where they both stood, she could only see him out of the corner of her eye. He wore blue, as she had suspected.

"You would trust me with such task?" He composed his voice as a joke. "I haven't tried this before."

Eamane smiled at the humor in his voice and pulled her hair out of his way as he approached. Inwardly she was shocked at her own boldness. As he stepped up behind her she trembled a little. Gripping the bedpost, she resolved not to fall, no matter how weak her knee became. She looked up and saw their reflection in the mirror. His cheeks were as pink as hers. She stared and her heart stuttered in her chest.

"You should be sitting down. What happened to Ninde?"

His fingers were warm when they did touch her back. It sent bolts of fire through her. "I'm..." her voice failed her as he touched her once more.. "I'm not standing on it. That's why I needed your help. I have to hang onto the bedpost so I don't put my foot down. Ninde had to go help with the festival preparations, since I could not." She watched in the mirror as he bit his lip in concentration over the tiny buttons. She couldn't stop the shiver that went through her. He was so beautiful. Her head felt light and her heart was pounding.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

"Isn't that Lady Sarnatelme and Lady Daewen?" Celebrian asked. She blushed involuntarily at the thoughts of the dance tradition. "Do you think we should greet them?" She didn't want others to see her blushing but they didn't hear the previous conversation and would not know why.

Glorfindel

"That makes sense." Glorfindel bit his lower lip in concertration. "Why are there so many buttons?" He complained finishing the last one. He straightned the dress and couldn't resist rolling his eyes left with extra button and no hook. "Great, I messed up in the middle." He began to unbutton the dress to finish the job properly. "Who makes these things anyway." He muttered. When he began to unbotton he felt Eamane shiver. "I didn't know you were ticklish." He remarked.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"That makes sense." Glorfindel bit his lower lip in concertration. "Why are there so many buttons?" He complained finishing the last one.

Eamane smiled. She was oddly relieved and saddened that his was finished. He pulled on the fabric a little, straightening it. She saw him roll his eyes in the mirror.

"Great, I messed up in the middle." He began to unbutton the dress to finish the job properly. "Who makes these things anyway." He muttered.

Eamane bit her tongue to keep from laughing, then shivered again as he began to unbutton the dress. She felt light-headed again, and gripped the bedpost harder. She focused on his face in the mirror, and felt a little better, though she shivered.

"I didn't know you were ticklish." He remarked.

"I'm not," she said warily, and a little too quickly. On the one hand it was good that he assumed that was why she shivered, and on the other hand, since that was part of it, it could be dangerous. She was ticklish... extremely so.
***************
Sarna

Looking out, she saw the Princesses of Lorien strolling past. Without escort. She smiled warmly as Celebrian looked over and waved them over. It wouldn't do to have her future charges harmed before she could complete her task. Better they were with her than alone.

[Charmander]

Daewen poured the wine and Legolas felt the warmth spread through him. He noticed Sarna's eyes stray from the lady ambassador and into the walkway near their table. He followed her eyes and saw the princesses of Lorien. Princess Celebrian smiled warmly at them and Sarna motioned them to join the party.

Daewen turned to see who Sarna was looking at when she saw the princesses of Lorien. The were attired as for the feast. She quickly signalled for additional chairs to be brought forward as the princesses made their way to the table. She couldn't believe how easy her work had become, all those she wished to befreind were being dropped in her lap.

Legolas watched the princesses move towards the table and could not keep his eyes off of Princess Ithildiel. The sun shown richly off the red gown she wore. Her hair sparkled with gold. She looked ravishing. He quickly came back to himself as they approached the table and stood quickly. Chairs had been brought for both princesses. He pulled the chair closest to him futher out and bowed slightly saying, 'Good Morning Princesses. I hope you will join us? Lady Daewen was telling us of feasts in Imladris, and also sharing some vintage wine.'

Lady Daewen nodded for glasses to be brought for the princesses and more wine. She would discover all she needed from this women. She just had to think of a way to relieve them off the rather dull prince.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel bit a tip of his tongue finishing the buttons. "Don't worry I do not have any plans to tickle you." He assured her. "Done! You can let go of the bed post and sit down." He announced triumphally. "You don't need me to do anything else like tying your shoes do you?" He finally noticed their reflection in the mirror. Meeting Eamane's glace in it he grinned happily. "There is no reason to stay inside anymore. The festival will begin soon. Where is the wheel chair?"

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Isn't that Lady Sarnatelme and Lady Daewen?" Celebrian asked. She blushed involuntarily at the thoughts of the dance tradition. "Do you think we should greet them?"

Ithildiel nodded and as they walked up to the place the ladies were sitting, she noticed they were not alone. Legolas sat with them, though he could not be seen from the distance, half-hidden, by a small alcove where their teble was. Ithildiel cast him a tender glance, though she had to quickly compose herself, her breath stolen by the fact he looked so irresistably handsome, dressed as he was for the feast. She followed Celebrian mechanically, her gaze still fixed upon her prince. He offered them a hearty explanation of what had brought him and the ladies out here at this hour and motioned them to join them. Ithildiel cast him a conspirative smile, as she took a seat right next to him.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian glanced at the table joyfully. "You are starting the celebration early?" She pulled her chair between Lady Daewen and Legolas giving Ithildiel more room to sit near the Prince. Celebrian jestured away a wine filled glass. The cool wind from the mountains was winning the battle against the hot sun. She was not thirsty.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Glorfindel bit a tip of his tongue finishing the buttons. "Don't worry I do not have any plans to tickle you." He assured her.

Eamane felt it again, that peculiar relief and sadness all together.

"Done! You can let go of the bed post and sit down." He announced triumphally.

She laughed softly. He sounded like someone who has finally completed a very difficult task, after much trouble.

"You don't need me to do anything else like tying your shoes do you?" He finally noticed their reflection in the mirror. Meeting Eamane's glace in it he grinned happily.

Eamane shook her head and let her hair fall back again. "No shoes," she said. "I'm not walking, so why bother? I could only wear one anyway." She smiled back at him in the mirror.

"There is no reason to stay inside anymore. The festival will begin soon. Where is the wheel chair?"

She felt excitement well up within her. Even without their dance, this festival was sure to be the best yet. "It should be back in the main room. Orecalo brought it from the wards a while ago." She turned. The bodice of her dress was fitted, the sleeves long and full, as were the skirts. The dark blue fabric was embroidered in silver with stars and flowers. With her hair braided, but without ornament, the leaf pendant at her throat was accented as her only jewelry. She sat on the bed and looked at him. The dark blue and silver of his clothes was quite dashing, but none of it had the glory or the shine of the pendant around his neck. "The Eagle of Gondolin," she whispered, in awe.
******************************************

The Princessesof Lorien approached. Daewen smiled at them. "My ladies, please, join us." When the glasses were brought, she poured them wine.
"Do you know the Lady Sarnatelme?" If they were acquainted, then all the better.

"We've met," Sarna said, smiling. She hope they would not say where. that would be all she needed. Have one of them say she had been at the healers. This ambassador would just love that little tidbit.

[Charmander]

Legolas watched as Celebrian sat closest to Lady Daewen, leaving her cousin to sit nearest him. He helped her push her chair in and he sat down. He pulled his chair margnially closer to hers. He watched as Daewen poured wine for the princesses wine and she said, 'My ladies, please, join us. Do you know the Lady Sarnatelme?'

Sarna answered, 'We've met.'

Legolas tried to not stare at Ithildiel. Being this close to her and not being able to be open with his affection was difficult. He kept his right hand on his wine glass, sipping it slowly. With his left hand he reached under the table and lightly brushed his fingers across Ithil's knee. He knew the table-cloth was hiding his actions from all. His eyes strayed over to Sarna and her words quickly fell on his ears. A slight look of distress crossed her eyes. He looked at Lady Daewen and said, 'We were all acquainted at a breakfast with Lord Elrond. I am sorry to say you were not in attendance.'

She smiled sweetly and responed, 'I was otherwise engaged. As I am sure you know my Lady, an ambassador's work is never done. I hope you are ready for a great feast this evening, as there is none in Imladris greater than the summer feast! You will enjoy great food and drink, as well as dancing and singing. The minstrels of Imladirs are beyond renound. Are the feasts in Lorien of the same magnitude?' She wanted to lull them into a false sense of security.

[Elfdaughter]

Haldir stepped out, looking around. Seeing Sarna, he moved towards the table, then paused. Biting his lip, he watched for a few moments, then took a deep breath, and started towards the table again. He bowed low to the occupants of the table, and turned to the princesses.

"My ladies - is there anything you need?" His eyes strayed to Legolas, and his eyebrow lifted slightly, but he refocused his attention on Ithil and Cele.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel saw Legolas move his chair as close to her own as he possibly could, without arising any unwanted questions. Moments later, she felt his hand upon her knee, under the tablecloth; she looked at him, reprimandingly, but he gave her a sheepish smile in return; she barely kept from laughing at his audacity.Legolas turned courteously to Lady Daewen, not releasing her knee.

'We were all acquainted at a breakfast with Lord Elrond. I am sorry to say you were not in attendance.'

'I was otherwise engaged. As I am sure you know my Lady, an ambassador's work is never done. I hope you are ready for a great feast this evening, as there is none in Imladris greater than the summer feast! You will enjoy great food and drink, as well as dancing and singing. The minstrels of Imladirs are beyond renound. Are the feasts in Lorien of the same magnitude?'

"Well", Ithildiel replied, surprised her voice sounded as calm and composed as it should, "I'm afraid we'll have to tell you after the feast here, my lady", she jested. "The Summer Feast in Lothlorien is magnificent, indeed, but our greatest festival is the Spring one, while I hear tonight's celebrations are part of the most favoured feast in Rivendell...We're looking forward to it, though", she smiled looking over at her cousin. "There is such...a beautiful atmosphere in the city today, full of cheer and anticipation". She was about to say more, when she saw Haldir coming towards them, though he paused for a brief moment, before approaching. She moved her hand under the table and brushed Legolas's off her knee swiftly; he was stil smiling, a downright mischievous grin Ithildiel prayed the already frowning Haldir had not noticed, as he greeted them all.

"My ladies - is there anything you need?"the Marchwarden of Lothlorien said politely, though he cast a dark look towards the Prince of Mirkwood. Ithildiel beamed back at him, seeing his clear blue gaze stray towards Lady Sarnatelme."I do not think we need anything, mellon nin", she ventured to say, "though we would be happy if you were to join us. The Lady Daewen was telling us about the upcoming feast".

[Charmander]

Legolas listened attentively as Ithil spoke to Lady Daewen, 'Well, I'm afraid we'll have to tell you after the feast here, my lady. The Summer Feast in Lothlorien is magnificent, indeed, but our greatest festival is the Spring one, while I hear tonight's celebrations are part of the most favoured feast in Rivendell...We're looking forward to it, though. There is such...a beautiful atmosphere in the city today, full of cheer and anticipation'

She brushed his hand aside when the Lorien MarchWarden approached. She and Celebrian had spoken of a letter he had sent to Lord Celeborn. Legolas knew he need to be on his best behaviour.

Haldir approached the table and said, 'My ladies - is there anything you need?'

Haldir seemed some what uncomfortable, but he was keeping a close eye on his charges. Ithil said, 'I do not think we need anything, mellon nin, though we would be happy if you were to join us. The Lady Daewen was telling us about the upcoming feast.'

Legolas knew he would have to follow her lead and watched as another chair was brought to the table and a wine glass. The intimate surroundings were quickly becoming cramped. He smiled across the table as Haldir sat between the princesses and said, 'It would seem that this feast will surpass all others. I am anxious to see, as our welcome feast was memorable indeed.' He dared not look at Ithil as he spoke, he shifted back in his chair, further away from her.

[Elfdaughter]

Haldir watched Legolas shift away from Ithil, and slight smile came to his lips.

"Forgive me for interupting you, my Lady. Please, continue." He looked at Sarna, and smiled slightly, his eyes pleading with her to give him an excuse to be alone with her.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Celebrian with her foot touched Ithildiel's under the table to get her cousin's attention. She expressively looked at Haldir and the Mirkwood ambassador when neither saw her do it. 'We will not need Lord Altenen to keep him occupied.' Said her expression.

Glorfindel

"The Eagle of Gondolin," Eamane whispered, in awe.

Glorfindel touched the pendant. "Lord Elrond gave it to me today. I wasen't sure whether I should use it this way. The pendant is more of an artifact than a decoration. You can see it closer if you like." He smiled. Glorfindel removed the pendant and handed it to Eamane. "I'll be back." He disappeared in the living room. He soon came back with the wheelchair. Glorfindel offered his hand to help Eamane.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel followed Celebrian's gaze, as Haldir, apparently entirely oblivious to them looked at Lady Sarnatelme as if she was the only one present. She glanced at her cousin conspiratively, having interpreted the look in Celebrian's eyes right, as ever. "All we have to do is keep Haldir close to Sarna throughout the feast", she smiled, more mischievously than ever.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna was glad Legolas had spoken. She hoped that his words had deflected the ambassador a little. She noticed the warmth of Legolas' smile as the Princesses sat down, and wondered at it. She listened to their talk of feast, but did not comment herself. She had been to few feasts since she became a captain. She glanced up at a movement towards their table. The Lorien Marchwarden was approaching. She could not stop the smile that spread over her face. He joined them and the table became more crowded.

"Forgive me for interupting you, my Lady. Please, continue." He looked at Sarna, and smiled slightly, his eyes pleading with her to give him an excuse to be alone with her.

Sarna watched him, and was suddenly nervous. The way he was looking at her... as if it were only the two of them. Or as if he would wish it so. She could not seem to look away. Out of the corner of her eye she saw the princesses exchange glances and smile. To her horror, under Haldir's warm gaze, her cheeks bloomed pink. Struggling to regain control of herself, Sarna asked, "Lady Daewen, could you tell us why the Summer Festival is so important here in Imladris?" She forced herself to look away from the Marchwarden. Were she to do as she wished... it would be night again, and they would be standing alone under the stars.
************************************************** ******

Glorfindel touched the pendant. "Lord Elrond gave it to me today. I wasen't sure whether I should use it this way. The pendant is more of an artifact than a decoration. You can see it closer if you like." He smiled. Glorfindel removed the pendant and handed it to Eamane. "I'll be back."

Eamane stared down at the Eagle. It was beautifully wrought, and the sapphires sparkled. When Glorfindel came back with the wheelchair she smiled at him. "This was made to be worn Glorfindel, not locked in a room where no one can see it." He offered her a hand and she used it to lever herself to her good leg. Reaching up, she put the pendant back around his neck, brushing his silken hair with her fingertips. "None but you has the right to wear it." They were standing close, scant inches separating them. Eamane fixed the pendant so that it hung correctly and smiled up at him again. "There."

[Aletheia]

Daewen watched the enterchanges that played around her through keen eyes. ~What did they think they hid?~ she scoffed, leaning back in her chair as she sipped the heady wine elegantly.

"Lady Daewen, could you tell us why the Summer Festival is so important here in Imladris?"

Daewen glanced over at Sarnatelme, the alluring smile once more in place.

"We rejoice throughout the glory of all the seasons, milady. Each one of the festivals holds a special significance in Imladris, though if you would wish to hear the lore and heraldry that 'oft accompanies it, I would direct you to speak with Lord Elrond, for he is of all the elves the most knowledgeable in such matters."

Daewen leaned causually back towards the table, setting the crystalline goblet on the table as she stroked her long, slender fingers across the rim absent-mindedly.In all truth she had never cared for the summer festival; it's joyous merriment nausiated her to the core.

[Elfdaughter]

As Dawen spoke, Haldir strained to take his eyes away from Sarna, and looked intently at Daewen. But his mind was not focussed on the description of the Summer Festival, or on what Dawen was saying. He was fervently wishing that night would come, and he could be alone with Sarna.

[Charmander]

The fort looked utterly undisturbed. Thranduril's men had packed all they had brought neatly and were ready to leave. Thalion still looked ill, much to the king's dismay, but further delay could not be allowed. Thalion stood wearily near his horse as Thranduril approached, 'All the men seem ready Thalion, we will leave at once. I must insist that should you need to rest you must alert me. I fear your wound could benefit from some more rest.' He tried to smile encouragingly at Thalion as he spoke.

************************************************** ********

Legolas watched as the Lorien MarchWarden seemed to be staring at Sarna, and she indeed seemed to blush. He tried to hide his surprise, although he noticed that the princesses seemed to take note also. Sarna broke the tension by asking Daewen, 'Lady Daewen, could you tell us why the Summer Festival is so important here in Imladris?'

Daewen responded, 'We rejoice throughout the glory of all the seasons, milady. Each one of the festivals holds a special significance in Imladris, though if you would wish to hear the lore and heraldry that 'oft accompanies it, I would direct you to speak with Lord Elrond, for he is of all the elves the most knowledgeable in such matters.'

Legolas sipped his wine and thought of the Imladris ruler. His behaviour the day before had been very strange. He listened to Daewen's explanation and asked, 'Each season does have a special significance. Princess, 'he did not dare address Ithildiel directly, he knew his emotions would get the better of him, 'I have heard that in Lorien the trees show no signs of the changing seasons, save for turning gold, then blooming again in the spring, is that not so?'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

Princess, 'he did not dare address Ithildiel directly, he knew his emotions would get the better of him, 'I have heard that in Lorien the trees show no signs of the changing seasons, save for turning gold, then blooming again in the spring, is that not so?'

Ithildiel was barely able to keep from smiling at the detached formality in Legolas's voice. She looked at Celebrian, who was smiling at her cosnpiratively, then shifted her gaze upon the Prince of Mirkwood. "It's true", she said, her voice as formal as his own, though there was a tiny hint of tenderness in its depths, "such is the power and beauty of the mallorn trees that can only be found in Lothlorien. In the summer, as it is now, their leaves are silver, as if wrought of mithril and their golden flowers' scent is as intoxicating as the gardens on Rivendell. Lothlorien is beautiful in the summer...but I find Rivendell is not less so; and I am sure that Mirkwood has its beauties, as well", she added, a teasing little smile on her face.

[Charmander]

'All the men seem ready Thalion, we will leave at once. I must insist that should you need to rest you must alert me. I fear your wound could benefit from some more rest.'

Thalion smiled dauntlessly at the King, "It is but a scratch, milord. I have endured far worse for lesser causes. To bear this mark now is a badge of honor, for I have stood fast by my liege lord and king."
Thalion bowed low, but halted midway as a grimace of pain spread like fire across his features. Out of the corner of his eye Thalion noticed concern register in Thranduril's features, and he bent, feigning injury to hide the triumphant smirk that played about the corners of his lips.
Holding up his hand as if to ward of the pain, he regained his composure and stood tall, "I am fine, mellon nin. We must not let Lothlorien think they have defeated us with a mere blow. They must pay for their trickery and deceit."

************************************************** ********

Thalion responded, 'It is but a scratch, milord. I have endured far worse for lesser causes. To bear this mark now is a badge of honor, for I have stood fast by my liege lord and king.' He seemed to double over with pain but regain himself and continued, 'I am fine, mellon nin. We must not let Lothlorien think they have defeated us with a mere blow. They must pay for their trickery and deceit.'

Thranduril looked concerned for his advisor, but nodded in agreement, 'We can not allow Lord Celeborn to believe he has found success.' He placed his hand on Thalion's shoulder and said, 'We will have them taste their own deciet, soon enough. Come let us ride as far as we can today.'

He signalled for the men to follow the his lead and mounted his steed.

************************************************** ********

Ithildiel smiled and replied, 'It's true, such is the power and beauty of the mallorn trees that can only be found in Lothlorien. In the summer, as it is now, their leaves are silver, as if wrought of mithril and their golden flowers' scent is as intoxicating as the gardens on Rivendell. Lothlorien is beautiful in the summer...but I find Rivendell is not less so; and I am sure that Mirkwood has its beauties, as well.'

Legolas replied, 'It sounds like a romantic place. Perhaps in more peaceful times I should gain the favour of Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn and see the majesty with my own eyes.' He smiled tenderly at Ithil wanting to reach out and take her hands in his, thankfully he realised that it was only his words and not his actions that were getting too intimate for such a surrounding. He could not conceal the slight blush that reached his cheeks as he looked nervously across the table at Princess Celebrian. He quickly rushed to fill the silent void, 'Mirkwood indeed has beauties, but I fear Lord Elrond has bested my land by a great margin with his garden.'

[Aletheia]

Daewen pretended to ignore the small exchange that had taken place between the Prince of Mirkwood and the Princess of Lorien. Yet she made mental note to keep a closer eye on the two of them; an alliance between the their lands would be most unwelcome indeed.

'Mirkwood indeed has beauties, but I fear Lord Elrond has bested my land by a great margin with his garden.'

"The gardens are indeed one of our most prized possesions," Daewen purred, her hand resting lightly on the decanter, "We are very proud of them. But surely in Mirkwood and Lorien you have other things which have no comparison in their renown and beauty?"

Daewen refilled everyone's glasses graciously, a cheshire smile playing about her scarlet lips.

"Lady Sarnatelme, you are also an ambassador. Surely you know much about the merit of your own land?" Daewen asked coyly.

**************************************
'We can not allow Lord Celeborn to believe he has found success.' He placed his hand on Thalion's shoulder and said, 'We will have them taste their own deciet, soon enough. Come let us ride as far as we can today.'

"You are wise my lord," Thalion agreed, mounting his steed gingerly, "and just. I will trust in your judgement, and wait to secure my retribution on Lorien." ~And when I do secure it, you will bow to me right beside Celeborn~

[Charmander]

Thalion looked pained but responded, 'You are wise my lord, and just. I will trust in your judgement, and wait to secure my retribution on Lorien.'

Thranduril instructed the entourage to move forward. The kept their horses at a slight gallop, Thalion riding by the king's side. The scenery quickly passed by as they made their way back to Mirkwood. Thranduril's mind reviewed the meeting over and over again. There was indeed no other way. If Celeborn meant to kill him, then he must use the same malice to have his needs met. He hoped that Sarna was close to her task. If he had the princesses, there would be no recourse for Celeborn, but to relent to his demands. He smiled as he thought of the beauty of the Silmaril, so close and yet so far.

[Ladypain]

Glrofindel

Eamane accepted his hand moving to the wheelchair as she spoke.

This was made to be worn Glorfindel, not locked in a room where no one can see it." Reaching up, she put the pendant back around his neck, brushing his silken hair with her fingertips. "None but you has the right to wear it."

He leaned closer allowing her to plance the pendant on his neck. Glorfindel was close enough to the maiden to inhanle her scent. It struk him as something familiar. The freshness of a morning breeze but he could not remember where he experienced it before. The tender memory lingered in the subconciousness. The sea, the experience related to the sea. He could imagine the waves brushing against the shores before retreating with the song. ~Song?~ Glorfindel rapidly moved to open the window. He was met by a distant laugher and chorus of voices. "The festival begins!" He exlaimed happily. The morning sorrow drowned in the day light. He resisted an urge to pick up Eamane and dance across the room with her in his arms laughing. Instead Glorfindel moved both of them outside. "Let's join the party." He beamed. The Summer Festival was his favorite event of the year.

*******
Celebrian

Lady Sarnatelme, you are also an ambassador. Surely you know much about the merit of your own land?" Daewen asked coyly.

Celebrian didn't hear the answer her attention was drawn to a noisy procession. The elves and elflings crowded around a wooden platform on wheels that was pulled by well groomed horses decorated with ribborns and flower garlands. Upon the platform played orchestra. The other elves added their voices to the music. Celebrian couldn't help the radiant smile seeing her kin laughing bathed in the sunlight. The ribbons and Imladris banners fluttering in the wind. "We should join them." She was the first one to stand pulling her cousin along. Celebrian was certain that in this crowd everyone would be to occupied to gape at her. She much needed to absorb the happiness, to allow her heartache dissolve in the sunlight.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

As she looked up at him, she breathed deeply. He smelled of the forest and of wood. Something shifted in his eyes, an emotion she could not read. Yet she was transfixed. Slowly laughter and singing came to her ears. Before she couls say anything, Glorfindel moved to the window and looked out. "The festival begins!" He exlaimed happily.

Eamane smiled. The music made her want to dance, but she resolutely lowered herself into the wheelchair. She would have cursed her clumsiness in breaking it, had so many wonderous things not happened because of that injury. Glorfindel came back to her, grinning hugely. "Let's join the party." He beamed.

"Yes, let's," Eamane laughed as he pushed her out of the house and into the sunshine. She knew this was his favorite of their festivals. She shared the sentiment. It was unfortunate that she had not been able to participate in the planning, nor would she be dancing. They joined the procession to the courtyard in the center of the gardens, where the main attractions were to begin.
************************************************** ********
Sarna

Lady Sarnatelme, you are also an ambassador. Surely you know much about the merit of your own land?" Daewen asked coyly.

Sarna was saved from answering by the start of the festival. She followed the Princess out into the crowd, as much to protect her as to get away from the Lady Daewen and her questions. She felt more than saw the Lorien Marchwarden fall into step beside her, a safe distance from the joyful Princess. She quickly lost sight of both the Lady Ithildiel and Legolas, but worried not for them. She knew the prince could defend himself, and she had seen the Lady Ithildiel in battle. The music and laughter brought a radiant smile to her face. One she had not worn in many years.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

They soon mixed with the crowd in the gardens. In a few hours the party would relocate into the Lady Homely House where large verandas were open for dancing and tables were served with delicacies. Many elves approached Eamane and Glorfindel to give and receive good festival wishes before disappearing in the crowd again.

Glorfindel spotted a figure away from the noisy groups. Cladded in inalienable black robes like a knight in armor the advisor observed everyone with a satisfied smile. "May this season be prosperous and the sun kind to you my friend." Mirth played in Glorfindel's eyes. "Lord Erestor you have done outstanding job as always."
The advisor returned the sincere, unofficial smile as one of the rare moments. "All the same to you Glorfindel and thank you."
"Did you happen to see Lord Elrond today?" Glorfindel wouldn't allow to worry to return but he had to know.
The advisor grinned openly. "Yes I have but I would not recomend you to look for him. He will be attending the festival when it moves indoors."
"Glad to receive the warning in advance. You couldn't avoid not telling?" The March Warden seemed disappointed. Eamane's words prevented him from sulking.

[Elfdaughter]

She felt more than saw the Lorien Marchwarden fall into step beside her, a safe distance from the joyful Princess.....The music and laughter brought a radiant smile to her face. One she had not worn in many years.

"The festival is quite something, is it not, my Lady?" Haldir stood at her side and smiled.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

"The gardens are indeed one of our most prized possesions," Daewen purred, her hand resting lightly on the decanter, "We are very proud of them. But surely in Mirkwood and Lorien you have other things which have no comparison in their renown and beauty?"
"Lady Sarnatelme, you are also an ambassador. Surely you know much about the merit of your own land?"

Ithildiel looked over at the ambassador of Mirkwood, along with everyone else, but lady Sarnatelme never got the chance to answer...or, if she did, her reply was lost in the start of the festival. Elven voices rose into the early afternoon air in song, mingling, it seemed with the fragrances of the summer flowers in an intoxicating combination. The sun fell almost vertically, filtered softly by the dense foliage of the trees, creating an almost surreal, magical effect. "We should join them."Celebrian said joyfully and got up, gripping Ithildiel's arm, eager to run towards the singers. Ithildiel smiled. "I'm surprised we have not followed them already", she said, as they dashed down to join the procession. She glanced behind her, to see Legolas and Sarna following them closely, as they joined the already celebrating elves of Rivendell. She felt Celebrian's grip loosen and, moments later, realised her cousin had moved away, towards the orchestra; relieved, she saw Sarna follow her and turned around looking for Legolas in the dancing crowd.

**********************
Elrond

The chorus of song and music made Elrond lift his head from the paperwork he had been busying himself with all morning. "That'sa great", he frowned, "the festival is starting". He had been trying to come up with another excuse to skip the festivities his heart had no room for right now, but had been unable to come up with anything...and Glorfindel, as expected, had not turned up. ~Undoubtedly, Erestor has already warned him to stay clear of me~ Elrond thought, more vexed than amused. He got up from behind his desk and went to the windows. most of the elves of Rivendell were already out, dancing and singing for the sheer merriment of the Midsummer. Elrond went outside, as well, heading in the opposite direction of the festivities and towards Eamane's healing ward.

Lisse had, as he had expected, remained indoors when even most of the staff of the healing wards had gone out to celebrate. Her baby held on to her, babbling merrily, as ever; little Ohto turned to look at the Lord of Rivendell when he entered, beaming at him. Elrond managed the first genuine smile in days at the sight of the little one...a smile that faded when the young mother also turned to face him. Her eyes were blank and emotionless and filled with pain. "Is there something the matter, my lord?" she asked, her voice flat and unemotional. "Everyone else has gone to the festival..." Elrond approached and Ohto reached out for him, wanting the lord to hold him...elrond obliged with a soft smile, as the baby proceeded to toy with the ends of the silver fastenings of his shirt. "I thought I would check on you...and Tulcandil", he said seriously. "I thought it would be a good idea for the both of you-Ohto, as well- to step out today...the fresh air and cheerful mood will do you good". "Tulcandil went out", Lisse replied, avoiding the Lord's eyes, "the healers got him to go with them...but I had not the heart to do that...There is no room for joy in my heart any more,my lord..." "Well, Ι am here to take you and your baby out to the feast, Lisse", Elrond said calmly, "and I shall not take 'no' for an answer; you need to get out of here for a little while". She started to protest, but he looked at her, his gaze an odd mix of tenderness and sterness. "You need to start living again...shutting yourself out of life will not bring your husband back...and you have Ohto to live for; don't you want him to be happy?" Lisse hesitated before nodding shyly. Elrond looked at her compassionately. "Very well, then; I shall keep an eye on this little one" -Ohto had proceeded to munching on his hair- "while you get ready for the feast". Lisse got up slowly.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian soon lost track of all her companions among other elves. It was what she wanted. She joined hands with a chain of elves who danced around the moving platform until the circular motion made her dizzy. Celebrian withdrew from the crowd gasping lightly for breath. She escaped crumpled, the braids lay in disarray and her cheecks were red. Celebrian licked her lips with a pink tongue. She spotted another platform with the drinks and picked up a glass of crytal water. Slowly she drank the refreshing liquid. Her throat became dry again as soon as she turned away from the platform and noticed the Rivendell Lord with a familiar she-elf. Gathering her courage Celebrian approached them. "Lord Elrond." She didn't know what else to add besides a curtesy. She smiled at the elfling in his arms holding on to the shirt and staring around with a wide open mouth. Celebrian recognised Ohto first and then his mother. "Lissen, it is good to see you again." She was happy to see the she-elf who was so depressed joining the celebration. "Do you remember me? We met in Lady Eamane's ward."
"You are not easy to forget Lady Celebrian." The she-elf managed a smile. "I am here for my son. Lord Elrond was most persuasive to have me join." Both of them were looking at the elf-Lord.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond literally had to walk ahead, Ohto still in his arms, to make Lisse follow him. Even after he had persuaded the elven maiden to step out into the celebration, she had remained reluctant, unmoved even by the melodious voices of the elves filling the air and the bright sunlight, that she had secluded herself from ever since her husband had passed away. Ohto, on the other hand, looked around with wide blue eyes, startled by the panorama of new sounds and sights that enveloped them. Elrond looked at the baby tenderly, as its little fists held on tightly to his tunic, when he heard footstpes approaching them. "Lord Elrond." He turned around, his heart skipping beats at the sound of her voice, though he did not show it. "Lady Celebrian", he said as formally as he could with a baby elf clinging to him.

"Lissen, it is good to see you again." "Do you remember me? We met in Lady Eamane's ward."
"You are not easy to forget Lady Celebrian." The she-elf managed a smile. "I am here for my son. Lord Elrond was most persuasive to have me join."

Elrond kept silent throughout their exchange, observing the both of them looking at him. "Well, you look much lees pale now that you are here, Lisse", he said, trying to enhearten the maiden; she seemed just about ready to run back to the healing wards. "Lady Celebrian", he turned to the princess, his tone deliberately formal and cool to conceal his sorrow and pain on seeing her, "I hope you are enjoying the festivities...It seems your escort has arrived", he added,his tone colder than ever. Over her shoulder, he could see Altenen approaching them.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian searched the stormy grey eyes for warmth but they remained like a clouded sea and not the silver, starlit sky that she remembered first night they arrived to Rivendell. Lightning crossed the stormy depths.
"I hope you are enjoying the festivities...It seems your escort has arrived.
Celebrian turned to look at her 'escort' expecting to see Haldir. The smile she had vanished. "My Lady it is a pleasure to see you again." Celebrian wished she could pour a glass of ice cold wated down his throat to keep him from nearly shouting. "Lord Altenen what brings you here?" She asked icyly. She had no wish to be anywhere near him. Altenen grinned at her stupidly. "I feel we need to speak more about that incident in the gardens. I have something you might be interested to see. If I may borrow you for a while?" Celebrian looked at the Rivendell Lord pleadingly. He would be cruel to leave her in such company. "I'm afraid it would be rude of me to abandon the present company."

[Charmander]

A great commotion of the feast saved Sarna from responding to Lady Daewen. Legolas feared that his friend, although a great soldier and captian, would perhaps be caught in some trap by the fair-speaking ambassador. The last thing he wanted was for the princess to realise that he had deceived her with respect to Sarna.

The whole table was swept up by the celebration and Legolas quickly lost track of Sarna and the Lorien Marchwarden. He fixed his gaze on Ithildiel, who was only a few paces in front of him. She and her cousin were quickly parted and she seemed to look about her quickly. Legolas turned to see that Sarna was not to be seen and moved silently to her side, taking her hand in his. He gently pulled her into the mass of elves and said, 'Would you care to take a turn with me princess? It seems we have lost all our companions.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

Elrond watched the exchange between Celebrian and Altenen in silence, pretending to be more occupied with the elfling in his arms, than with them.He cast a smile of reassurance to Lisse, as Altenen's words came into his ears. Elrond avoided looking at them altogether, rage welling up inside his heart, mingled invariably with pain.

"I feel we need to speak more about that incident in the gardens. I have something you might be interested to see. If I may borrow you for a while?"

Celebrian glanced at the Lord of Rivendell, before replying, somewhat reluctantly.

"I'm afraid it would be rude of me to abandon the present company."

Elrond was quick to reply, a touch of bitterness in his voice. "BY all means, princess, if you need to be discussing something with your betrothed, there is no need for formality...This is an open festival, after all". He watched Altenen lead her away sullenly; he would have to tell Erestor off for making him come here...for forcing him to bear witness to this, he thought grimly.

**********************************
Ithildiel

She felt a hand gripping her own and turned around startled to see Legolas; she smiled at him, as he pulled her right in the middle of a group of dancers.

'Would you care to take a turn with me princess? It seems we have lost all our companions.'

Ithildiel smiled at him. "I had rather thought this would be a little more...formal occasion; but this is far better", she added mischievously. "It does, indeed, seem we have lost everyone else...should we be looking for them?" she asked innocently, already knowing the answer.

[Ladypain]

~He is Not my betrothed!~ Celebrian wanted to scream. Why did he insist he was? Did elf-Lord hate her so much he would gladly have her tied to another forever? Tears were building in her eyes that she barely supressed. She numbly allowed to be pulled away from someone who hurt her so much yet she would not voluntarily walk away from. "My Lady? Can you hear me?" Altenen looked at her half upset half unnerved. Apparently some flattering phrase he was saying was ignored. Celebrian noticed he motioned her away from other elves into the tree shades and behind the jasmine bushes for more privacy. Celebrian dug in her heels slowing their progress. She didn't want to be alone with him. "What is it you wanted to show me?" She asked barely disguising hostility. "I do not wish to be so persistant however I feel the need to influence your judgement. I hope Lady Celebrian forgives me for I am motivated by love." Altenen ceremonially produced a small box with two silver rings in them. "All I need is one word My Lady." Celebrian glared openly at him. "No. I regretfully but firmly must decline your flattering offer Lord Altenen." Her tone dripped in sarcasm. "I believe on our last encounter I have not made my feelings as clear. I do not share your affection." Altenen's grip on her hand hardened the his pupils became tiny black dots that indicated threat. "I urge you to reconsider Celebrian. Perhaps you do not have any feelings for me but that may change. Having me as ally would benefit your father and I do believe he send you here for me. You don't want to disapoint him do you?" Celebrian tried to brush his grip away with her free hand but it tightened. "The only way my feelings might change for you is only into worse direction which is happening right now. As for my father, I doubt he ever saw you for never would he wish such a poor fate for me." She said bitterly. Altenen's face distorted in anger and eyes flashed dangerously like that of a predator. "We shall see about that!" He hissed pulling her into rough embrace. Sharp nails dug into his cheek before he completed the motion. Celebrian crushed a shoes heel on his foot. Altenen gasped in pain wavering the hold which was enough for her to slip away. Celebrian collecting her long skirts bolted away, running where other elves were. She didn't stop until she was sure he did not follow her. The thought that the elf will probably be limping for a few days didn't satisfy her anger and embarassment.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond watched Celebrian being pulled away by Altenen, beyond the crowd and somewhere out of his sight...apparently to talk in private, he thought sullenly. And yet...he had seen Celebrian's reluctance to follow the lef. ~A lovers' quarrel, maybe~ a little bitter voice whispered in his mind. Tulcandil came up to them, apparently surprised to see Lisse outside. Elrond greeted him, still keeping an eye out for the fair-haired maiden of Lothlorien."What...how come you're out in the festival, Lisse?" the elf asked, unable to conceal his surprise. "I insisted", said Elrond, before she had the chance to reply. "The both of you have spent too much time grieving...time to start living again". ~I should be taking my own advice~he thought grimly, as he handed Ohto to Tulcandil, as the babe struggled to go to him. "I cannot forget", said Lisse grimly, still detached from the joyous atmosphere all around the city."You should not", said Elrond, "but you should also not allow memory to keep you from life". He caught a glimpse of Celebrian storming out from wherever it had been she was with Altenen; she appeared greatly distraught,he thought, but turned to Tulcandil. "I want all of you to try and enjoy yourselves...even a little bit;and no going back inside...stay in the sun for a little while". The elf nodded and Elrond donned him a soothing smile, the smile of a healer. "I shall be right back", he said, setting out after Celebrian, surprised there was no sign of Altenen.

He lost her, as he might have expected, in the crowd, but as he returned to Lisse and Tulcandil, still glancing around looking for her, he caught sight of someone else:Glorfindel, sitting at his ease next to Eamane. He made his way towards them,followed by the young elven mother and the elf, still holding the beby in his arms, his eyes glinting; he had been wanting to talk to the Marchwarden for a while.

[Ladypain]

Erestor stayed with Glorfindel and Eamane for a friendly chatter and for some bickering the stern councillor and warrior who were very much unlike and disagreed on many things enjoyed to exachange. No one bothered the trio until Erestor unexpectedly ended their conversation. "Well...Lord Warrior and Lady Eamane it was pleasure speaking with you but I must go over certain details before the festival moves indoors." Some elves already moved towards the Last Homely House and Erestor with a light bow followed them. The advisor expressively fixed his glance on something over Glorfindel's shoulder before leaving. The March Warden turned realising he should have being more careful. The first reaction was to duck behind a bench they were sitting on however the fiery glance was firmly fixed on him left no doubt that Elrond found him. Glorfindel jealously thought of retreating councillor who had that option. ~He might as well have said. 'It was nice knowing you.'~ He settled comfortably on the bench preparing for retaliation. Friendly smile played on his lips. A ridiculous thought made him laugh. "An eagle of Gondolin is also a chicken." He repeated it out loud grinning at the elf-Lord.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Glad to receive the warning in advance. You couldn't avoid not telling?" The March Warden seemed disappointed. Eamane's words prevented him from sulking.

"Warning? What...? You mean you two managed to convince him to come? That's marvelous!" Eamane smiled at them both. "How did you do it?"

She listened as Erestor as Glorfindel and Erestor explained what had happened. She could not help her gentle smiles for them both and a soft laugh now and again as the explanation became a friendly argument between the two on various subjects that they did not see the same way. As a healer, she had a third view on them as well, but was enjoying their sparring so much that she was reluctant to interject.

No one bothered the trio until Erestor unexpectedly ended their conversation. "Well...Lord Warrior and Lady Eamane it was pleasure speaking with you but I must go over certain details before the festival moves indoors." Some elves already moved towards the Last Homely House and Erestor with a light bow followed them.

"That was done rather quickly." Eamane said. She saw Glorfindel look over his shoulder. She followed his gaze and met that of the Lord of Rivendell. There was anger in those grey eyes.

"An eagle of Gondolin is also a chicken." He repeated it out loud grinning at the elf-Lord.

Eamane looked at him and grinned. As Elrond arrived she saw that he had a trail of elves following him. "Good day my lord. Lisse! I'm so glad you decided to join us." She smiled warmly at the she-elf who made no response. "Tulcandil and Ohto as well!" The baby's eyes were huge as he took in his surroundings. He laughed when he saw her, and waved his little hands in the air. She laughed back. To her inner surprise, the baby did not want to leave Tulcandil's arms. A thougt bloomed in her mind and she began to ponder it. She smiled up at Lord Elrond, hoping to ease the anger from his eyes. "Isn't this wonderful My Lord? Erestor did splendidly."

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel smiled greatfully to Eamane for speaking first however his attention was occupied not even with Elrond's anger but with the melancholy of a she-elf beside him. He recognised her as one of Emane's patients whos husband was killed not too long ago. Glorfindel's heart went out to the sad she-elf who could not enjoy a beautiful day like this even for a brief moment. The ancembly was preparing to play first notes of one of the favorite Imladris songs that was perfect for dancing. Using Eamane's distraction Glorfindel easily lifted the sun kissed body off the warm bench. "The Summer Fields is playing and I am without a partner." He exclaimed with absolute regret. Lisse brifly looked at him which was all Glorfindel needed. He elegantly bowed to her. "Dear Lady I would be most obliged if you would gift me with this one dance." Azure eyes adopted pleading, almost naive expression. The maiden hesitated but then reluctantly accepted the offer. Glorfindel led her closer to the musicians with a charming smile and contageous enthusiasm. He looked over his shoulder once snickering at other's diverse expressions.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel was momentarily startled before replying, 'I had rather thought this would be a little more...formal occasion; but this is far better. It does, indeed, seem we have lost everyone else...should we be looking for them?'

Legolas smiled at her and said, 'This is almost perfect. Perhaps we should go looking for our companions, I think they may be in the gardens.' He led her towards the gardens where they had first met, their movement un-noticed by all the celebration.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'This is almost perfect. Perhaps we should go looking for our companions, I think they may be in the gardens.'

Ithildiel laughed; they both knew there was no way the others had gone towards the gardens. "I think we should be heading back to the feast", she said, only half-seriously. As Legolas led the way into the gardens, towards the very place they had first met, she spotted Altenen going away from the festivities, it seemed; he did not seem too happy, she thought, frowning and wondered where Celebrian had disappeared to. Seeing as they were the only two people in that part of the gardens, she stopped abruptly. "Well, looks like noone is here", she said a little mischievously,releasing her hand from the prince of Mirkwood's.

****************************
Elrond

Elrond saw Glorfindel making a hasty departure as he approached. Glorfindel turned to face him, and Elrond almost smiled at the momentary glimmer of panic in the Marchwarden's eyes."An eagle of Gondolin is also a chicken." Glorfindel said, a teasing smile upon his face. "Indeed", Elrond retorted sharply, but Eamane, observing the Lord's companions, intervened swiftly.

"Good day my lord. Lisse! I'm so glad you decided to join us." She smiled warmly at the she-elf who made no response. "Tulcandil and Ohto as well!" "Isn't this wonderful My Lord? Erestor did splendidly."

Elrond replied, his gaze, still sharp as a lance, fixed on Glorfindel; this little deception of his he would not forgive so easily. "Erestor did a fine job in preparing the feast", he said coolly. He turned to the Marchwarden again, but Glorfindel was faster. "The Summer Fields is playing and I am without a partner." he addressed Lisse, a soft, pleading almost expression in his face, his blue eyes glimmering. "Dear Lady I would be most obliged if you would gift me with this one dance." Lisse hesitated, but could not resist; she followed Glorfindel to the dance floor. Elrond found he could not keep from smiling at the Marchwarden's timely and artfully executed escape. He turned to Eamane. "Chicken indeed", he jested, finding the Marchwarden's cheerfulness highly contagious; even Tulcandil was smiling. He glanced around and finally spotted Celebrian again; his smile faded. The princess of Lothlorien seemed lost and somehow...sad, despite all the joy all around her. Seeing Eamane, the maiden seemed to slowly make her way to them.It was apparent she had not seen him yet.

[Charmander]

Ithldiel allowed Legolas to lead her to the gardens, saying, 'I think we should be heading back to the feast. Well, looks like noone is here.'

She released her hand from his and moved across the path towards a flowering plant. She walked softly, her footfalls barely touching the blades of grass. Legolas watched her movements, so graceful and light. He followed her across the path as she touched the flowers. He placed his hands on her shoulders and said, 'We are indeed alone, no prying eyes to see us.' He brushed her hair away from the back of her neck and kissed her softly, pulling her closer to him and wrapping his arms around her.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'We are indeed alone, no prying eyes to see us.'

Ithildiel was about to tease him some more, when he drew her in his arms, catching her unprepared. His kiss stole her breath away, but she did not stop him for a while. Laughter was heard down the path and heading in their direction. Ithildiel pushed Legolas away swiftly, as a small company of elves came towards them,then past them, singing gaily as they went. "It would seem we are not as alone as we'd like to think we are", she murmured to him softly. "We had better be more...careful, meleth nin", she smiled, enjoying the sound of these words.

[Charmander]

The sounds of other elves came around the corner and Ithildile gently pushed Legolas away from her saying, 'It would seem we are not as alone as we'd like to think we are. We had better be more...careful, meleth nin'

She took a few steps away from him as the crowd of elves passed by. He sighed and offered his arm to her, 'It would be too much to hope for some time alone together. Come let us join the festivities then.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'It would be too much to hope for some time alone together. Come let us join the festivities then.'

Ithildiel moved close to him gain, as the elves left, walking down the path merrily and took hold of his arm. "I think we should go back...but the feast is far from over yet, I think", she smiled. "We may yet get more time alone together".

[Lady Galadriel]

From the acme of their flet, Galadriel anxiously awaited her husband. He had sent word before him to prepare her to receive him. When he arrived, she immediately discerned from his visage that all was not well.

"My lord, it is good to have you back," she warmly greeted. "I have missed you," she quietly admitted.

Celeborn smiled. It was the first time he had done so since his departure from Lorien. "And I you," he reciprocated, pulling her close to him.

After he had rid himself of his cloak, the two settled down to talk. He related to her all that had unfolded without neglecting minute details. He knew her sharp wit and the most insignificant of details might prove useful in her determination.

"King Thranduil was as equally astonished as myself; it was evident in his reaction," Celeborn said. "He is obviously blinded to his own precarious situation; his greed blinds him. The curse of the Sil is already upon us. Woe be unto them who harken not unto my words."

"Indeed I am troubled by your disclosure," Galadriel remarked. "The proud king of the shrouded wood will undoubtedly seek retaliation. We must send word to Haldir. Celebrian and Ithildiel must return at once. I shall not be easy until they return safely. We must do this expeditiously, my lord."

"All will be executed immediately" Celeborn promised emphatically. His mind was darkened by what he now perceived to be an ominous threat to his kin. Galadriel had planted the seed and it had flourished rapidly.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel took his arm and said, 'I think we should go back...but the feast is far from over yet, I think. We may yet get more time alone together.'

They walked back towards the main area of celebration and he said, 'I was serious earlier, when I said I would love to visit Lorien. I do not fear what my father will think of our love so much as I worry of what the Lord and Lady of Lorien will think. The situation between our realms makes loving you so much more perilous.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I was serious earlier, when I said I would love to visit Lorien. I do not fear what my father will think of our love so much as I worry of what the Lord and Lady of Lorien will think. The situation between our realms makes loving you so much more perilous.'

They were walking back towards the festivities slowly, when he spoke. Ithildiel smiled, a little sadly at his words. "I am sad to say you might be right; Haldir has already notified the Lord and lady of Lothlorien...and I daresay that the Lord, my uncle, more than the Lady, will not be pleased with the tidings Haldir has bidden them...There is...no great love lost between him and the king of Mirkwood", she sighed. "I do not think your father will be too happy with us being together, either...I am starting to think all this is but a cruel dream, Legolas; a frail dream that is not meant to last...but I do not want it to end", she concluded, pulling him aside from the main path for one last, stolen kiss, before rejoining the crowd celebrating but a few metres away.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"The Summer Fields is playing and I am without a partner." He exclaimed with absolute regret. Lisse brifly looked at him which was all Glorfindel needed. He elegantly bowed to her. "Dear Lady I would be most obliged if you would gift me with this one dance."

Eamane smiled. Part of her laughed at Glorfindel's hasty escape, while another cheered the fact that he had gotten Lisse to participate in the festival. Perhaps she would begin to see that life could go on.

"Chicken indeed", Elrond jested, turning back to her. Eamane laughed. "Ah,but he does his duty my lord." She said watching as Glorfindel and Lisse whirled around the floor. The she-elf moved a bit stiffly but Glorfindel managed to draw a smile from her. His obvious enjoyment was irresistible.

"I'm glad you decided to join us my lord," Eamane said, feigning innocence as to how that had come about. She glanced at Tulcandil, but the healing warrior was surprisingly occupied by Ohto, who was babbling about something that was apparently very important. She looked up at Elrond, her eyes serious for a moment. "Had you not come mellon nin," she said softly, "I would have treated you no differently than you did Lisse."

Hoping that he understood, she looked away and saw Celebrian approaching. "Lady Celebrian! What do you think of our Summer Festival?" She smiled warmly at the maiden. This would be interesting to watch.
*****************************************

"The festival is quite something, is it not, my Lady?" Haldir stood at her side and smiled.

"Yes it is my lord," Sarna responded smiling at him. Everyone was so full of joy that she could not help but feel the same. Her foot was tapping to the music, but she dared not ask him to dance. She should not be cultivating a relationship of any sort with those from Mirkwood. Especially this elf. No matter the wishes of her heart.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel spoke quietly as they walked back, 'I am sad to say you might be right; Haldir has already notified the Lord and lady of Lothlorien...and I daresay that the Lord, my uncle, more than the Lady, will not be pleased with the tidings Haldir has bidden them...There is...no great love lost between him and the king of Mirkwood. I do not think your father will be too happy with us being together, either...I am starting to think all this is but a cruel dream, Legolas; a frail dream that is not meant to last...but I do not want it to end.'

She pulled him aside and kissed him, her lips were soft and her scent surrounded him, sweet and floral. She turned to pull him back towards the festivities but he slowed her movement, gently pulling her back towards him. He whispered softly, 'It will not end if we do not let it end.' He brushed her hair away from her face and turned her face up towards his, 'Princess, this is not a cruel dream.' He could see the concern in her eyes, he wanted to say something to ease her mind, 'It is a dream come true.' He loosened his grip around her as the celebrations were getting ever closer.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

Glorfindel spinned his partner in a breath catching musical rythm. All his attention was given to Lisse as he engaged her besides dancing in a humorous story about some previous summer festival that was enough to make the statue of a suffering saint laugh. Lissen was smiling however soon she stopped paying attention to his words and the smile faded. She seemed to be pondering a difficult question that she wanted to ask him. Glorfindel continued leading their movement despite inner chill at guessing what it was about. Staying with scolding Elrond seemed easier. He prepared the answer before Lisse said. "I am sorry to bring the shadows into this day but I must know. What are the Halls of Waiting like? When you died there must have being friends and family lost. Did you remember them? What did you think?" Her grip on his shoulder unconciously tightened. The she-elf desperately looked at him.

He would not describe the dark, empty halls that are forever cold and where many souls lose their memories and feelings to save themselves from old attachments and pain, the perverted bliss to feel nothing. Glorfindel answered. "The fall of Gondolin was a bloodbath so I had no idea whether I had any relations left in this world. However I did think about those who survived the devastation. I praised them to have the courage to live after they suffered so many losses for being able to pick up broken pieces and mold them into something new and to have joy again. Otherwise the sacrifices of those who had died protecting life would have being meaningless." She was connecting this to her husband who died in a line of duty protecting life as well and mourning or giving up on happiness would be betrayal of his memory. "Would you dance with me more?" She asked. They continued in silence until the next two songs were over before Glorfindel returned them to the bench. Lisse was silent and still sad but the darkest shadows have retreated from her eyes. Glorfindel instinctively sat down very close to Eamane whos presence healed him.

********
Celebrian

Celebrian wondered lost in the crowd abandoned to gloomy thoughts. The joy repelled off of her. She saw Eamane alone on the bench smiling. Celebrian guessed the March Warden somewhere nearby. She wanted their comfoting company. Celebrian reluctantly moved towards the healer but as she got closer the doubts became stronger whether she should spoil their enjoyment with her poor mood that she was not likely to conceal. Celebrian was about to retreat back into the crowd when Eamane called her. Lady Celebrian! What do you think of our Summer Festival?" She smiled warmly at the maiden. The Princess forced a smile looking mostly under her feet and didn't notice who was standing next to Eamane. "The festival is lovely. I was looking for Ithildiel." She made up an excuse to leave as soon as possible. "Have you seen her?"

[EamaneSilimaure]

The festival is lovely. I was looking for Ithildiel." She made up an excuse to leave as soon as possible. "Have you seen her?"

Eamane smiled up at her, aware that Elrond was standing as still as stone at her side. "I haven't yet my lady. Perhaps she is walking in the gardens, or dancing." ~probably with the Prince~ "Please join us," she added. gesturing to the other bench, on the other side of Elrond. Tulcandil and Ohto were standing at the other end of her bench. She saw Glorfindel and Lisse returning over Celebrian's shoulder.

Happily, Eamane noted that there were fewer shadows in the she-elf's eyes, and there was the bloom of color in her cheeks from the dance. The pallor that had been cast over her features for near a year had lifted. However, there were hints of clouds in the blue eyes of the Marchwarden, though he still smiled. He nodded at the Princess, before returning to his former seat beside the healer. To her surprise and inner joy, he sat close to her, their shoulders near to touching. Something was troubling him. She knew it without conciously thinking about it. In the same manner, almost unaware of her movements, she put a soothing hand on his arm. When he glanced at her, she smiled. Leaving her hand where it lay, she looked back at Lisse. "You see my dear, you are enjoying yourself." She smiled at her. Lisse actually smiled back, with only a little of her usual hesitancy.

It was strange she realised suddenly. The only one not in some kind of pain in this little circle she had gathered around her was Ohto. The urge to heal them all was as great as it had ever been. She looked at the elfling. He was grinning at his mother, clinging to Tulcandil's rather soggy looking hair. Tulcandil was watching Lisse as well, an unmistakable tenderness in his eyes. Eamane smiled as the burgeoning idea came to bloom in her mind. Perhaps... perhaps he would dance with Lisse today.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'It will not end if we do not let it end.Princess, this is not a cruel dream.It is a dream come true.'

The festive crowd seemed to be pouring out into the gardens, as all the elves made their way slowly indoors, for the next part of the celebrations. Legolas released her hand, staying close to her, though, as the crowd swept past them. "I hope you're right", she whispered, so that only he could hear her; still, her good mood had evaporated. Neither of them wanted this to end, but was it really in their power to prevent that from happening?She did not speak these dismal thoughts; instead, she reached for his hand, drawing a little comfort from its warmth. "Let us get back to the festival...we are probably missed by now".

*******************
Elrond

"Ah,but he does his duty my lord."

Elrond looked towards Glorfindel, seeing him dance with Lisse; the elf maiden seemed stiff and uncomfortable, but she was smiling a litle, much to the Lord's delight; Glorfindel's good spirit was apparently getting to her, as well. "His duty?" he looked back at Eamane. "His duty was to play host in my stead today, not have me attend by means of deceit!" he said, realising he was jesting and no longer really mad at Glorfindel. Eamane looked at him innocently. "I'm glad you decided to join us my lord."Had you not come mellon nin," she said softly, "I would have treated you no differently than you did Lisse."Elrond looked at her sternyl, but had no time to reply, as Eamane looked away greeting Celebrian, gaily; the princess had made her way to them, not without a lot of hesitaton, it seemed. Unnoticed, Elrond had watched her every move, even as he spoke with the healer.

"Lady Celebrian! What do you think of our Summer Festival?"

Celebrian saw him; her face turned from flushed to pale upon looking athim and Elrond looked away hastily, concentrating on Tulcandil, playing with Ohto. Glorfindel also returned, Lisse with him; the lord of Rivendell noticed a darkness he had not seen for a long time in the Marchwarden's eyes, as he went to sit by Eamane's side.

The healer motioned Celebrian to sit by him after their brief exchange, but the princess avoided to look in his direction."And where is Lord Altenen, my lady?" he asked casually, seeking himself an excuse to extricate himself from the company.He glared at Glorfindel. Had it not been for him, he would not have been forced to attend, he thought grimly.Celebrian refused even to look at him and he wished he was not here to make her this sad and uncomfortable.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

I haven't yet my lady. Perhaps she is walking in the gardens, or dancing." ~probably with the Prince~ "Please join us

Celebrian looked up and saw the Lord of Rivendell. She asked why she didn't see him before as the color drained from her face. She hoped it was not too noticeble. Before she could decline Elrond asked.

And where is Lord Altenen, my lady?

"I don't know. Home I hope." She didn't care where Altenen was as long as it was nowhere near her. "I must go find my cousin." She said. "She must be in the house." Celebrian quickly left the group before anyone could stop her and blended into the crowd.

*********
Glofindel

The warm hand was comforting. It felt like there was a steam of vibrating pulses transmited with the touch. Glofindel fought off the urge to lean even closer so they would touch more. Occupied with these thoughts he only heard Celebrian's last words before the Princess left them. "We should also go inside." The sun was beggining to set and cold wind from the Misty Mountains became stronger. Most went into the safety of the house that was lit with lamps and candles. Glorfindel rose. "The dancing will continue inside." He continued holding Eamane's hand.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"I don't know. Home I hope." "I must go find my cousin." She said. "She must be in the house."

Elrond knew there was something amiss here, as Celebrian darted up and disappeared in the crowd, under the transparent pretense of looking for her cousin. He glanced over at Glorfindel, as she disappeared from his sight; the Marchwarden held onto Eamane's hand, and Elrond smiled to himself."We should also go inside."The Marchwarden seemed oblivious to all around him, save for caressing the healer's hand...and the lord of Rivendell was not sure his friend was aware of doing that. He got up swiftly also, a twinge of pain in his ribs reminding him he should be more careful. "You had best go on inside...I shall have to find Erestor and have him send for the presents for our guests of honour". He ignored Glorfindel's last comment; once he joined the festive banquet inside, he would have to dance with Celebrian, as customs commanded...his heart froze at the thought; how could he keep her from seeing what he felt, when he would be holding her in his arms?

[Charmander]

They walked slowly back to the main area, Ithil said quietly, 'I hope you're right. Let us get back to the festival...we are probably missed by now.'

She absently reached out for his hand and he closed his fingers around hers. He watched the festivities around them and said, 'We are certian to be missed at this point. Although it seemed like a few minutes, I fear it may have been much longer that we strayed away. I think, also,' he looked around, 'we should keep an eye out for that toad Altenen, he has a look about him that is most unappealing.' He stopped and said, 'I did not mean to offend! I...he seems, less than savoury, not worthy of your cousin's hand.'

[Ladypain]

You had best go on inside...I shall have to find Erestor and have him send for the presents for our guests of honour.
"Erestor is not likely to agree to another breech in customs." His words were ignored and Elrond left them. Tulcandil and Lisse were also gone taking Ohto with them. Glorfindel didn't notice he was alone with Eamane as they entered an open veranda. Music slipped into it from the next indoor room but the natural evening sounds were also around them. He did not speak since Elrond left them and Eamane also kept quiet. "Would you like me to get you a drink or maybe a dessert." He asked to fill the silence.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'We are certian to be missed at this point. Although it seemed like a few minutes, I fear it may have been much longer that we strayed away.

Ithildiel sighed."I'm actually surprised your Lady Sarna or Haldir have not been loking for the both of us already", she said, inwardly wondering if those two were actually together right now and if Legolas, as well, had caught them looking at each other earlier. "But I hope they're otherwise engaged", she smiled.

I think, also,' he looked around, 'we should keep an eye out for that toad Altenen, he has a look about him that is most unappealing.' He stopped and said, 'I did not mean to offend! I...he seems, less than savoury, not worthy of your cousin's hand.'

Ithildiel smiled at his hesitation; were they not surrounded by so many elves, she would have hugged him. "I couldn't agree more", she said coolly. "Altenen is nowhere near deserving of someone like my cousin...I cannot understand why my uncle promised her to him..."As if summoned by the mention of her name, they saw Celebrian walking towards them...she seemed lost, as if not sure where she was going. Ithildiel left Legolas, casting him an apologeting glance, and stepped forward to meet her cousin. "What is it?" she asked anxiously, not wasting time on pleasantries.

[Charmander]

Legolas feared he had said to much, to be so judging of her cousin's betrothed was rude. Ithildiel held squeezed his hand gently as if to reassure him and said, 'I couldn't agree more. Altenen is nowhere near deserving of someone like my cousin...I cannot understand why my uncle promised her to him...'

He was relieved that she did not take offence by his comment, and said, 'I am sure there is a much better suitor for her, some one far more worthy.' He would have said more, but Ithldiel quickly released her grip and stepped away. He looked up to see a clearly distraught princess Celebrian. Ithildiel moved towards her and he stayed some steps back, not wanting to intrude on their conversation.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Glorfindel moved his arm until he was holding her hand in his. Eamane felt as if an electric current were passing between them. She fought the urge to lean towards him. He was tracing circles on the back of her hand. Her pulse picked up and she wondered if he could feel it. With an effort, she kept her smile, and her face calm.

."And where is Lord Altenen, my lady?" he asked casually,

She heard Elrond ask Celebrian. Frustration welled up within her. She want to smack Elrond and then tie him and Celebrian in one place for the rest of the day so they would have to talk. The pain came off Celebrian in waves as she replied, "I don't know. Home I hope. I must go find my cousin." She said. "She must be in the house." The maiden hurried away and soon disappeared into the crowd. Eamane frowned slightly at her back. Since most of her attention was focused on her hand, she could not come up with anything to keep Celebrian there, with Elrond.

"We should also go inside." The sun was beggining to set and cold wind from the Misty Mountains became stronger. Most went into the safety of the house that was lit with lamps and candles. Glorfindel rose. "The dancing will continue inside." He continued holding Eamane's hand.

Eamane smiled up at him. Using his arm as a lever, she moved back into the wheelchair. She was saddened that she could not walk with him. He still caressed her hand. Her skin had never felt so sensitive.

"You had best go on inside...I shall have to find Erestor and have him send for the presents for our guests of honour".

Eamane looked at him, but he was gone before she could reply. Tulcandil and Lisse had already gone inside and she was suddenly alone with Glorfindel. Reluctantly, she released his hand so he could push her chair. His hand trailed up her arm to her shoulder. He rested it there, as if he couldn't bear not to touch her. One-handed, he pushed the chair onto an open veranda. It was quiet after the excitement of the crowd in the gardens. Music flowed from inside, and the sounds of the falling night mingled with them. "Would you like me to get you a drink or maybe a dessert." He asked to fill the silence.

She smiled at him, torn between not wanting him to leave her and the fact that his touch made her mouth and throat dry as dust. "Something to drink would be nice I think," she said softly, her gaze warm on his.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond made his way through the crowd, in search not so much of Erestor, but of Celebrian. He could not see her anywhere, though, and there was no sign of Erestor either...He assumed the Councillor was buysying himself with the last minute preparations for the indoors feasting. After a brief hesitation, he turned towards his own quarters, deciding to go and fetch the gifts of honour himself; that would certainly keep him away from the feast and its unpleasant encounters, he thought.

As he proceeded down the path leading to his own compound, that last thought was evaporated.He found himself literally face to faceto Lord Altenen, who bowed low hastily on seeing him. "MY lord", the Chief said, a flattering tone in his voice that made Elrond frown, "I had no idea you were in attendance to the feast; I heard you were not going to be there...due to your injury". There was no sign of remorse about that and Elrond almost felt happy Erestor had made him attend, lest Altenen and some others like him might have started a new bout of rumours. "I am quite well, Altenen", he said icily, "though I have to say not thanks to you. And I would never miss the summer celebration", he added, registering a passing expression of dismay across the soldier's face. "I thought I saw you at the feast earlier, though...why are you not with the others?"Altenen smiled, a little too selfrighteously. "I had to return to my quarters, my lord", he said smugly, "to get these". He produced a small, intricately carved wooden box from one of the folds of his richly decorated tunic.Two silver bands glimmered dully uopn a small velvet pillow in the inside of the box. "Lady Celebrian has agreed to marry me at last". Elrond's heart gave a pound that reverberated on his injured ribs, but he did not show it. "That is wonderful news", he said coolly, forcing himself to smile, though his eyes turned darker than they had ever been. "I wish you all the best". Altenen beamed at him, concealing a malicious glint in the depth of his eyes. THe lord of Rivendell wished he was anywhere but here and he sought to finish the conversation as soon as he possibly could. "You had best return to the feast; I shall be along shortly, make sure you pass this on to Erestor". "As you wish, my lord", Altenen said obediently and walked away. Elrond did not see him stop and turn back to look at the lord of the city as he walked away, deep in thought. ~If I do not have her, noone will~thought Altenen malevolently and hurried off to the feast; he needed to tell of all this to Daewen.

Elrond returned to his quarters, locking the doors behind him. If it were up to him, he would merely stay here till the feast was over...but he knew Erestor and Glorfindel, as well, would come looking for him.He sighed, feeling his heart slow down to almost the point of stopping. "Running is never an option", he told himself off silently, as he wrpped the artefacts he had selected as gifts for the guests of Imladris is richly decorated velvet cloth. No wonder Celebrian had sought to get away from where he was so hastily...she had no wish to see him, he thought, as he stepped outside again, blocking her thought from his mind, as he returned to the Great Hall, for the banquet.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Celebrian had no intention to look for her cousin or for anyone as a matter of fact. She walked through elegantly decorated halls uncertain what she should do. She stopped to watch the dancing pairs on one of the verandas. More than anything she wanted to be among the pairs dancing with the one she loved. She didn't believe he would ask her after he made it clear that he would be happy to have her wedded to Altenen. Celebrian bit her lip very hard concetrating on the physical pain to overlap the emotional distress. Her heart was sinking low into her stomach. She didn't think it could sink any farther but it continued to fall until it reached the ground where it was trampled by the feet of the dancing couples. Unable to tolerate it anymore Celebrian left. She was heading home when Ithildiel stopped her. What is it?" she asked anxiously, not wasting time on pleasantries. Celebrian forced a smile as if she was relieved to see her cousin. "What is what?" She asked. "I was looking for Lord Elrond and that dance he owes me according to the tradition but he is nowhere to be found. Have you seen him?"

********
Glorfindel

"Something to drink would be nice I think," she said softly, her gaze warm on his.

Glorfindel regretfully had to let go of her hand. "I'll be back." He disappeared inside and came back few minutes later with a tray that held a glass of wine, juice and a cocktail. "I forgot to ask what you wanted." He smiled. The night deepened around them and first stars showed up. Soon the Earendil's silmaril would journey across the night sky. Stars is what he saw when he first awakened on Arda. They brought comfort. He wouldn't allow any grief to ruin this celebration.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

What is what?" She asked. "I was looking for Lord Elrond and that dance he owes me according to the tradition but he is nowhere to be found. Have you seen him?"

Ithildiel frowned.Her cousin's cheerfulness was a little too vivid to be entirely true. "I have not seen the Lord of Rivendell", she said calmly, "and I already know there is something the matter with you; you cannot fool me, Cele....what happened?"

[Ladypain]

Celebrian shrugged. "What Else happened?" She repeated sadly. "Ithil, enough things happened for me to be upset without something new happening. I didn't think I could fool you. I really was enjoying the festival." She only told half lie. She was enjoying it until that brief talk with Lord Altenen.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Ithil, enough things happened for me to be upset without something new happening. I didn't think I could fool you. I really was enjoying the festival."

"Very well, then", said Ithildiel, tryingto conceal her concern. "Shall we return to the festival...or would you like to return to the guest house?" She glanced back at Legolas, who discreetly stood a few paces behind; he looked as worried as she did.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian hugged her cousin resolvingly. "I would like you to return to the festival with your escort and I will be going back to the guest house. Maybe I will join the festival later but I wish you good night just in case I do not."

[EamaneSilimaure]

Glorfindel left and she felt the loss of his touch with her whole being. The veranda was cool, and she could see the stars beginning to appear in the sky above. The night sky bore a striking resemblance to her gown. She smoothed the skirt a little, before looking up as Glorfindel returned. She smiled, and wondered if the twilight could hide the love she struggled keep from her eyes.

"I forgot to ask what you wanted." He smiled. He offered her the tray. With a sigh, she took the juice. She smiled wryly at him.

"The wine would not do well with the potion I took earlier," she said sadly. "But feel free to enjoy it yourself." She sipped the juice, a refreshing blend of several fruits. Her eyes sparkled at him over the glass. She looked in his eyes, and was happy to see that the shadows had faded away. "Perhaps... we should go on inside," she said softly. She wondered if there was regret in her voice. She certainly felt it.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel returned her cousin's warm embrace. "Are you sure you're all right, mellon nin?" she asked again, still far from convinced. "If you are not feeling well... am not leaving you alone feast or no feast...Legolas will surely understand", she volunteered.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

"I'm sure." Certain that no one saw them Celebrian hugged Legolas as well. "I trust you to make sure my cousin forgets about my worries and enjoyes this evening Prince." She said partially teasing partially serious before leaving them.

Once she reached the guest house Celebrian changed into a nightgown and climbed into bed. She hoped to forget the trouble in sleep which refused to come. Returning to the festival was out of the question. Celebrian draped a warm cloak across her shoulders and went outside. All Lorien sentries were at the festival assuming both Pirncesses were there and she was not seen by anyone. Perphaps a brief walk would exhaust her enough to wish for rest. Celebrian walked farther into the gardens trying to get away as far as possible from the distant music and laughter.

*******
Glofindel

Glorfindel sat down placing the tray between them. He couldn't remain upset when Eamane, lovely as a summer midnight was with him. He caught himself admiring the maiden and simply accepted it. Surely others noticed something so evident as well. The wine would not do well with the potion I took earlier," she said sadly. "But feel free to enjoy it yourself. Glorfindel picked up a cocktail instead. He sipped it but he was not thirsty. Perhaps... we should go on inside," she said softly. Glorfindel noted the regret in her voice that mirrored his feelings as well. He was reluctant to dessert the peaceful atmorsphere however he agreed to do what she said. "We should." He left the tray with wine and cocktail where it was. "Perhaps we will find Lady Celebrian. She seemed lonely." He said.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"We should." He left the tray with wine and cocktail where it was. "Perhaps we will find Lady Celebrian. She seemed lonely." He said.

Eamane smiled, "Perhaps." She was a little worried for her friend. That last comment from Elrond had wounded an already bleeding heart. Glorfindel slowly pushed her chair on into the main hall. It was crowded with elves, dancing and singing. A table was laden with food along one wall. She saw Tulcandil and Lisse standing together to one side. The warrior still held the baby, but they were talking now. There was a slight smile on the maiden's face. "Let's go over there," she suggested to Glorfindel. "I didn't get to play with the baby earlier." Of course that wasn't her only motive. She hoped to get Tulcandil and Lisse to the dancefloor.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel obeyed and soon four of them were talking. Beliwedat with other sentries came through the doors laughing loudly. Glorfindel noted with amusement that the group must have overcelebrated. One of them pointed where Eamane was standing.
At this moment Erestor approached him. "Lord Glorfindel a moment of you time please." The March Warden nodded. The moved few paces away from others. Erestor looked at him nevously. "I understand that during the festival it is expected to drink more than usual however our situation is delicate having so many respresentatives of other realms around. I'm afraid this might cause trouble. Since you are the best authority for certain group in this room would you please convince them to leav.." Erestor didn't finish. One of the elves picked up Eamane and attempted attempted to dance with her across the room which would not have being so bad were he in perfect control of his feet. ~I am going to kill him.~ Glorfindel thought furiously.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane was chatting with Lisse about Ohto when a group of sentries came in laughing loudly. A moment later, Erestor asked for Glorfindel's attention. The sentries approached. "Lady Eamane how lovely to see you here tonight," one of them said. She could not recall his name and made no response, beyond a slight smile. He was obviously drunk. "Why don't we go for a dance?" the sentry asked, leaning close. She bent backwards, trying to put some distance between them. "No than-" before she could refuse he had scooped her up and whirled onto the dancefloor. She suppressed a shriek, and grabbed for his shoulders. He was very unsteady on his feet, and she was sure they would both fall any second now. "Put me down," she said. He didn't seem to hear her. "I said-" She caught side of Glorfindel appraoching then. The anger in his eyes made her shiver. Her face surely showed her panic. She carefully held her foot away from the ground and the sentries' feet. "Put me down," she said warningly. He obviously had not seen his commander yet.

[Ladypain]

Put me down," she said warningly. Glorfindel heard her comment however the frightened expression was all he needed. He steadied the sentry's drunken dance by placing a hand on his shoulder and glaring down at the elf. "May I remind you Larke that you are not in the drunken dwarf tavern. Even there such behavior would not be tolerated." He kept the voice low to avoid the scandal but the threatening tone was apparent even to the intoxicated elf. "How dare you treat Lady Eamane this way? Hand her over to me right now." The elf reluctantly released the healer and Glorfindel caught her unconciously wrapping in protective embrace. The other sentries grouped around them. "All of you are drunk. Step outside in search of a lot of fresh air and prefferably go dunk yourselves into the cold river." Glorfindel growled at them in disgust. Beliwedat snickered. "All right chief. We were just joking don't lose your cool over it. We'll go jump into the river while LORD GLORFINDEL WILL KISS HIS GIRLFRIEND." He almost shouted last words. "What?!" Before he finished the word Beliwedat along with other sentries vanished from the room their laughter heard outside. The only reason he didn't follow to kill them because he was still holding Eamane. "I hope they drown in that river." He wished heartily but the anger was gone. He caught a strange look on the healer's face. "You do realize this is a petty revenge for leaving them to soak in the lake few days ago." His smile covered the anxiety. Surely Eamane wouldn't think he had this kind of interest in her. They were friends or as long as he could remember.

[Charmander]

Legolas stood quietly some paces behind the princesses as they talked. Ithildiel seemed deeply concerned and Celebrian seemed somewhat distant. He could not hear them clearly and watched as most of the celebrating elves passed them, leaving the three very much alone. The two seemed to come to some decision, or Celebrian decided something and would not have any arguement from her cousin. She said something softly and hugged her cousin, who returned the hug and lingered a few seconds longer, perhaps in some attempt to have her listen to reason.

Celebrian passed Ithildiel and affectionately hugged Legolas saying, 'I trust you to make sure my cousin forgets about my worries and enjoy this evening Prince.'

He smiled at her and said, 'I share her concern for you Celebrian, but I will make sure at least one of you enjoys these festivites.'

He bowed slightly as she departed and looked to Ithildiel, her eyes betrayed her concern for her cousin. He took her hands in his and pulled her close, though her eyes seemed somewhat vacant, deep in thought. He spoke softly, 'Ithildiel, please, I share your concern for Celebrian, but we must attend some portion of these festivites.' He softly kissed each of her hands as he spoke.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane bit her lip as Glorfindel steadied the sentry. He glared down at the elf who held her. He seemed on the verge of dropping her, or falling over himself.

"May I remind you Larke that you are not in the drunken dwarf tavern. Even there such behavior would not be tolerated."

Silent, still worried she would be dropped, Eamane held herself still, hoping to balance the elf. She agreed with Glorfindel. This behavior was entirely inappropriate.

"How dare you treat Lady Eamane this way? Hand her over to me right now." The elf reluctantly released the healer and Glorfindel caught her unconciously wrapping in protective embrace.

Larke, as he was apparently called fairly threw her at the Marchwarden. She clutched at Glorfindel's shoulders as his arms came around her. With relief and not little embarassment, she buried her face in his neck. The difference in the strength of him, and the trust she felt was near overwhelming. She felt more than saw the other sentries crowd around them and clung more tightly to Glorfindel.

"All of you are drunk. Step outside in search of a lot of fresh air and prefferably go dunk yourselves into the cold river." Glorfindel growled at them in disgust.

Eamane heartily approved. She peeked up as one she knew as Belidawat snickered. "All right chief. We were just joking don't lose your cool over it. We'll go jump into the river while LORD GLORFINDEL WILL KISS HIS GIRLFRIEND." He almost shouted last words.

She felt herself go first pale, then blush red as Glorfindel cried, "What?!" But the sentries were gone. She looked up at Glorfindel, knowing fear and hope were at war on her face. Could he really feel that way about her? Were they right? The sentries and troops knew him in a way that she did not, as a commander. Were they right?

"I hope they drown in that river." He wished heartily but the anger was gone. Eamane nodded, still looking at him. "You do realize this is a petty revenge for leaving them to soak in the lake few days ago." His smile covered the anxiety.

"Yes," she said, still unsure what to feel at this moment. "While you took care of me." He still cradled her in his arms. For a moment, she forgot her embarassment as she looked into his eyes. There was a tenderness in her own she could not hide. "Thank you," she said softly. There was a husky catch in her voice.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

Celebrian moved ahead, and went to hug Legolas tenderly.Ithildiel watched their brief exchange with a soft smile upon her lips. Her eyes followed her cousin till she took a turn round the path and was gone. Legolas came up to her again,taking her hands in his and kissing them, as he drew her near.


'Ithildiel, please, I share your concern for Celebrian, but we must attend some portion of these festivites.'

Ithildiel looked back at him, sighing. "I know...but I am so worried for Celebrian; she has..." she stopped abruptly, realising suddenly that Legolas knew nothing of her cousin's predicament...and she could not tell him, much as she hated that. He looked at her inquisitively. "She has had a difficult time since we came here, with Altenen and all", she said at last, knowing how unconvincing she must sound and feeling guilt bite at her heart for lying to the one she loved. "And you're right", she added, changing the subject, "we should be attending the celebrations; I fear Haldir will have already set the Lorien guard looking for me.Let's at least get to the banquet...ere we're missed". She kissed him softly. "Though...I would just rather be alone with you", she smiled.

***********************
Elrond

Elrond made his way back to the Grand Hall quietly, unnoticed even, in the large crowd already gathered there.Erestor was the first to see him. "My lord", the advisor said, striding through the crowd to greet him,"I was starting to wonder if you would turn up". Elrond ignored the warning tone in the other elf's voice. "You left me little choice", he said dryly. "I have brought the presents for the prince and princesses; and I was at the festivities earlier, as well", he added, frowning a little. Erestor beamed at him. "Well, it would be highly inappropriate for you to miss such an important event", he said, a little too cheerfully for Elrond's taste. He did not bother making an answer and Erestor continued. "The festival seems to be going well, except a few of Glorfindel's men who went a little overboard a while back", he chuckled. "What happened?" asked Elrond, a little disinterestedly, as he scanned the room; the one he was looking for was nowhere in sight. "They were a bit drunk and one of them lifted Eamane in his arms and tried to dance with her; Glorfindel recalled them to order..."Erestor paused and Elrodn looked at him; it was obvious the advisor had more to say."And?" he asked,geting a little impatient. "Beliwedat...said Eamane is Glorfindel's girlfriend", frowned Erestor. Elrond smiled faintly. Erestor hated all manner of lack of propriety. "He was merely drunk and possibly teasing Glorfindel about Eamane's accident the other day", he said coolly. "I wonder..."said Erestor. "Do you think there is something going on between them?"the advisor continued, smiling. "That would be incredible!"Elrond's smile got broader. "We'll see", he said cryptically."In the meantime, I need to talk to the Marchwarden". Erestor nodded.

Elrond walked slowly to where Glorfinde land Eamane now sat, observing Lisse talking to Tulcandil a few steps away. He was glad the she-elf had not retreated to the wards yet and seemed a little happier. "Is all well with you?" he asked Eamane cordially as he approached them. "Erestor mentioned a certain...incident a while back". Glorfindel looked at him, a little furiously. Elrond suppressed a smile at the jealousy he could discern in the Marchwarden's eyes. "What happened?" he addressed the next question to his old friend.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel met Legolas' gaze and said, 'I know...but I am so worried for Celebrian; she has...' she stopped abruptly. There was some reluctance in her voice, he wondered at this but did not ask.

She continiued, 'She has had a difficult time since we came here, with Altenen and all. And you're right, we should be attending the celebrations; I fear Haldir will have already set the Lorien guard looking for me. Let's at least get to the banquet...ere we're missed.' She kissed him softly. 'Though...I would just rather be alone with you.'

He looked down into her eyes and smiled, 'Princess, I am sad to say that you are right. I am surprised the entire army of Lorien has not beset us.' He pulled her into his arms and kissed her, not willing to let go. She gently pushed him away and he smiled ruefully, 'I do not like being denied any time alone with you, but we must return to the festivites.' He sighed and released her from his arms, offering her his arm to return to the festivites.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Princess, I am sad to say that you are right. I am surprised the entire army of Lorien has not beset us.'

She was about to tease him that she would not put such a concept beyond Haldir, but he did not let her.He drew her in his arms again and kissed her. "Legolas!" she protested, as soon as he let her go. "What if somoene sees us?"Not that there was much chance of that, she thought at the same time; the gardens appeared almost deserted right now.They were probably the only people out there, while everyone else was feasting at the Great Hall.

'I do not like being denied any time alone with you, but we must return to the festivites.'

Legolas complied to her chiding with a naughty smile, offering her his arm. "I think we might be the only ones not there yet", she said, more nervous than she'd have herself admit.Slowly, reluctantly, they made their way back to the Hall.

[Charmander]

Ithldiel took his arm and said, 'I think we might be the only ones not there yet.'

They walked slowly back to the main hall. The doors were open and festivites poured out of the room. There was food and drink in abundance, everything looked amazing. Legolas feared what impression they would make, entering together and without Princess Celebrian, but it did not seem to matter. He hoped that they would be able to enter un-noticed, but Lord Erestor spotted them and hurried over. He bowed and said, 'Prince Legolas, Princess Ithildiel, I am so pleased that you have made your way to the main celebration area.' He led them to a table on the other side of the room, all the elves that were not inebriated took notice.

The table was laden with all kinds of food and drink. He pulled a chair back for Ithildiel, and pushing it in as she sat down. He sat next to her and said, 'I am not sure where the rest of our entourages have gone, but it seems that both Sarna and Haldir are also missing in action.' Glasses of wine were poured for both.

[Ladypain]

"Thank you."
“It was nothing.” Eamane was both pale and blushing at the same time. He would not forget soon the pang of fear when he thought she might get hurt. “Are you well? Did he hurt you? Should we find Elrond? Do you need anything?” He couldn’t help asking concerned. She better be not hurt otherwise someone might find themselves in the river. It was Beliwedat’s idea for sure. The spy knew his worth as a friend and assistant too well. Glorfindel was not as upset with others as he wanted to be. The other elves were staring at them previously attracted by loud commentary. ~Do they really think I’m going to kiss her?~ He glared at the others and went to another room where he placed Eamane on a soft couch.
When they sat down Elrond approached them.
Erestor mentioned a certain...incident a while back". Glorfindel looked at him, a little furiously. "What happened?The Marchwarden glared at him. “I’m positive someone as eloquent as Lord Councillor would have conveyed the incident better than I would. He added the advisor to the to deal with list and somehow it made him feel better. Getting the stern advisor would be a challenge but he liked challenges. He finally smiled.

[EamaneSilimaure]

“It was nothing, “Are you well? Did he hurt you? Should we find Elrond? Do you need anything?” He couldn’t help asking concerned.

"I'm fine," she murmured, still watching him. They were being watched. She could feel eyes on them, and blushed more. Everyone thought he was going to kiss her now. Part of her was horribly embarassed, while the other part hoped he would of course. He glanced around, frowned at the watching elves, then took her to an anteroom, where he set her on a soft couch.

Before either of them could say anything, and while she still blushed, Elrond aproached. Erestor mentioned a certain...incident a while back". Glorfindel looked at him, a little furiously. "What happened?"

“I’m positive someone as eloquent as Lord Councillor would have conveyed the incident better than I would.

"It was dealt with my lord," Eamane said, trying to calm him. "And I am perfectly all right." Glorfindel was sitting next to her, and she put a soothing hand on his arm. This time to calm, instead of comfort. Why be so upset about such a comment? Was it so far from the truth that it made him angry? Or...too close to the truth for comfort? Her heart begged for the last.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond

“I’m positive someone as eloquent as Lord Councillor would have conveyed the incident better than I would.



Glorfindel glared over at where Erestor now stod, talking to the Prince of Mirkwood, who had just come in, escorted by the Princess Ithildiel. Elrond frowned; there was no sign of Celebrian.He looked at Glorfindel sterny, but the Marchwarden smiled. "Indeed, he did relate the incident", Elrodn jested moodily."I think the guards are too lax for comfort tonight", he sighed, "but do not let them get to you. I think they were just alluding to the unexpected turn their lake training took the other day", he smiled.Eamane stepped in.

"It was dealt with my lord," Eamane said, trying to calm him. "And I am perfectly all right."

Elrond smiled reasuringly at her. "I can see that", he said. "But I hope you are having a good time, Eamane", he added cryptically, seeing the maiden grip Glorfidnel's arm, as if to calm him down. He turned his attention on the Marchwarden once again. "I need you and Erestor to act as the hosts for a while; I have to go back to my study...and fetch the artefacts that are meant as presents for our most distinguished guests", the lie came suave and easy to his lips.If Celebrian was not here...there was no point to the celebration for him...and it would have been far worse if she had indeed been there, he thought grimly. It was Glorfindel's turn to frown. "I'll be back as soon as possible", Elrond said coolly, walking away before the Marchwarden had the chance to volunteer himself to go for the gifts, so that the Lord of Rivendell could remain at the feast.

***********************
Ithildiel

No sooner had they entered the Grand Hall than Erestor came over to greet them. Several elves turned to look at them, as the councillor escorted them to a long table and Ithildiel thought- with a mixture of alarm and jestfullness- that there might be new gossip at foot by morning...Erestor left them alone and she spotted Lord Elrond looking towards them from across the room; surely, he wondered where her cousin was, she thought and found her concern for Celebrian renewed.

'I am not sure where the rest of our entourages have gone, but it seems that both Sarna and Haldir are also missing in action.'

Legolas's soft words recalled her thoughts from the dark path they were slowly trailing down. "I noticed", she smiled, a little nervously. "and I think I might have to come up with an explanation about Cele's disappearance, as well".She looked at him, hoping noone was noticing them. "I'm glad to have you here with me, though", she said tenderly.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel smiled at him and replied, 'I noticed and I think I might have to come up with an explanation about Cele's disappearance, as well. I'm glad to have you here with me, though.'

Legolas hoped that they were not being watched and replied, 'I can think of no better scenario, than being here, with you. Not having to hide, our friendship, at least.' He smiled mischeviously and continued, 'Although, I would much prefer that we were here as something more...'

He followed her eyes across the room and saw Lord Elrond leave. 'Well, it looks like you have been given a reprieve, of sorts. The Lord of Imladris pays us no mind. After yesterday, I am very surprised.'

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

The Marchwarden shrugged but allowed Elrond to leave. Ohto with his escort was carried over to where he and Eamane were. They say down near Eamane. "Are you well Lady Eamane?" Lisse asked concerned.

******
Celebrian

Celebrian rushed through the gardens trying to get away as far as possible from the celebration. She only stopped when she could no longer hear any sounds nor see any lights. She slowed nearly running pace but continued walking away farther into the debths of the park. The tears threatened to spill and she bit her lip ordering them to stop. Finally she felt tired and sat down on the large rock slowing the heart beat. There was something chilling in the cold wind gust although elves hardly ever felt any cold. She wrapped the cloak tighter around her body. Darkness condensed around her and small patches of fog crept through the paths. Celebrian shuddered uncetrain it was a good idea to go so far from the city in unfamiliar place. She followed a path back that she assumed she followed when she got to the park but it eventually led her to a small, cloud filled lake. Did she even follow a path? She could not remember. Celebrian supressed any panic. It was unthinkable for an elf who grew up in the woods to be lost. She failed to guess even the right direction where the city was. She walked faster and faster until she was running, something she didn't notice. The vision of black void she had last night floated before her eyes. Black mist settled before her. Something grabbed the cloak. Celebrian gasped in fear struggling against what was really a patch of bushes but her imagination drew a monster. Unable to free herself she unlocked the broach that held the garment together and left the cloak where it was. She finally reached another garden path where she stopped gasping for air. Faint sound caght her attention like some large animal was walking just around the path bend. Celebrian jumped into the shadows but her glowing form was easily visible in the night. She didn't have the strength to run anymore. She looked in the direction of the sound in horror.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'I can think of no better scenario, than being here, with you. Not having to hide, our friendship, at least.' He smiled mischeviously and continued, 'Although, I would much prefer that we were here as something more...'

Ithildiel hoped noone would notice her blush at those words. She did not miss quite a few elves were looking towards them curiously, but she reached for his hand, under cover of the table."I would wish for nothing more myself", she whispered, so that none of the onlookers would here.

'Well, it looks like you have been given a reprieve, of sorts. The Lord of Imladris pays us no mind. After yesterday, I am very surprised.'

There was unconcealed vexation in his voice at this remark and Ithildiel bit her lower lip, once again, wishing she could shed some light on the Lord's erratic behaviour for the elven prince sitting by her side...but knowing she could not. "I guess he has much to do with such a massive festival going on", she said numbly, knowing she couldn't avoid his questions for ever.

******************
Elrond

elrond left the Hall hastily, before Glorfindel had the chance to verify his story; by the time Erestor notified the Marchwarden that the presents were already there, Elrond would have vanished in one of his favourite paths...and there was noone who knew the gardens as well as he did. Lost in thought-and mainly trying to drive the thought of a certain elf maiden from his weary mind- he walked along the paths for a little while, barely aware of his direction, though there was no way he could get lost in the realm he himself had designed to the smallest details.

Soons, he found himself walking in one of the less frequented paths, close, as it were to the northern border of the city...and the mountains, as well. He had liked the natural beauty of the nature in that part and had literally left it untouched, a wild patch of nature in the otherwise perfectly groomed land of Rivendell. He was one of the few people who enjoyed strolling there.

A sound on the path up ahead alerted him, drawing him out of his thoughts. He was not alone in this part of the city tonight; he wondered uneasily if perhaps some mountain predator had descended in this part of the borders, seeking its food.If that was the case, he had Vilya to protect him without hurting the beast, he reassured himself and moved forward cautiously. He stepped on some dried branches that creaked ominously and he stood still for a brief moment, listening ahead; there was no distressing sound and he took a turn in the path.

He stopped abruptly, frozen almost in place. Only a few metres away, stood something he could only interpret as a mirage, generated by his own desires in the secret workings of the night...or so he thought at first. He forced himself to take a few more steps forward, his eyes fixed on Celebrian. She seemed strangely ethereal in the dim light of the moon, her slender figure silhouetting against he thin fabric of the gown she was wearing...a nightgown, his keen eyesight told him, as he moved closer. He found himself too spellbound to talk, as if the night itself held him in its thrall. He suddenly realised exactly how Beren felt when he saw Luthien Tinuviel dancing in the woods of Doriath...words failed him and he remained looking at Celebrian, awestruck.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel watched Lord Elrond and replied somewhat absently, 'I guess he has much to do with such a massive festival going on.'

Legolas was uncertain that was all she was thinking, but did not press the matter. He was far to thankful to be with her. She reached out to him, taking his hand and he squeezed hers.

He looked across the table and said, 'It would seem we must find a way to entertain ourselves.' He wanted to pull her closer, but compromised on pulling her chair closer to his, with little notice of the elves around them. He rested his hand on her knee under the table and said, 'I can think of any number of things for us to do, to pass the time.'

[Ladypain]

Celebrian didn't know whether she would be more scared if he was a real ghost or maybe a monster. She froze painfully aware that she was scratched, possibly dirty and overall looked awful. Perhaps it would be if it was something that would kill her instead. He appeared so beautiful in the moon light that played in the strands of dark hair and cascaded down his shoulders and chest and slid down the robes. "I uh..." She shivered under another wind gust. "I couldn't sleep and I was walking and I'm lost." She muttered uneasily. She was too frightened to run away again or to be embarrassed. A crack in the bushes behind her made her unwillingly jump and reach out to him.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'It would seem we must find a way to entertain ourselves.' Legolas pulled her chair closer to his own, fortunately unnoticed by everyone else, who had apparently lost interest in them. Momeant later, his hand, releasing her own, was, as it had earlier, resting on her knee.

'I can think of any number of things for us to do, to pass the time.'

Ithildiel hoped she was not blushing again, as she tried to look at him sternly. "Actually..."she said, after a very brief silence, as she tried to regain control of her voice, "I can think of a few things, as well. You have yet to dance with me", she added teasingly, getting up.

*******************
Elrond

"I couldn't sleep and I was walking and I'm lost."

Elrond drew in a deep breath; the mirage dissolved into thin air at her words and he found he could move again. His eyes, no longer dazed by the vision he had encountered upon seeing her, texamined her carefully. Her night gown was torn in a few places, revealing scratches, some of them quite deep and she looked more scared now than before she had seen him. ~What did you expect?~ a little, wickedly right, voice whispered in his mind ~you have been naught but rude, unkind and mean to her all of the last times you met her~.Elrond felt a pang of guilt reverberate in his heart, facing the simple truth: he had been wanting to hurt her, in the same way he was hurting...and had been wrong; her choice was hers to make...and, according to Altenen, it was already made.

He took a few more steps towards her, slowly, so as not to alarm her further. "You should not have come to this side of the valley, my lady", he said softly. "It's the closest one to the mountains and there are sometimes wild animals prowling here after dark". A noise was heard behind her and she jumped with surprise, reaching for him. Elrond drew her up behind him, as he peered down the path, noticing,at the same time how cold her hand was, as he took it. Moments passed and no menacing form made its appearance through the brush. Elrond turned around to face the maiden again; she was shivering with the cold. "It was nothing", he reassured her. He removed his outer robe and wrapped it around her unspeaking,to protect her from the searing cold wind coming down from the mountains,his arms lingering around her shoulders for more than it was necessary, as he did so."Are you all right, my lady?" he asked, ignoring the painfully familiar note of tenderness in his voice. "What are you doing out here, dressed like this?"he asked softly. He failed to realise his hands remained on her shoulders as he spoke.

[EamaneSilimaure]

The Marchwarden shrugged but allowed Elrond to leave. Ohto with his escort was carried over to where he and Eamane were. They say down near Eamane. "Are you well Lady Eamane?" Lisse asked concerned.

Eamane smiled at Lisse and the baby. "I am fine thank you Lisse. It seems the Marchwarden has rescued me yet again." She turned her smile to Glorfindel, struggling to put the turmoil the sentries comment had caused from her mind. A lively song began and the dancing picked up in speed. Eamane decided now was as good a time as any. "Let me see that baby," she said with a grin. "I've missed him." With a glance at Lisse, Tulcandil handed the baby to the healer. Eamane hugged the gurgling baby and waited.

Tulcandil smiled slightly at Lisse. "Would you care to dance Lisse?" he asked, softly. She smiled back and nodded before he lead her out onto the floor. Eamane nodded in satisfaction and bounced Ohto on her knee. "Whose a happy baby? Whose a happy baby? You are aren't you Ohto. Yes," she cooed. The baby laughed and so did she. She caught Glorfindel looking at her and paused. "What?" she asked, half-laughing.

[Charmander]

Ithlidiel blushed slightly as his hand lingered. She turned to him and smilingly said, 'Actually...I can think of a few things, as well. You have yet to dance with me.'

She got up and he quickly followed her lead, offering her his arm and leading her to the dance floor. He stopped in the middle of the dance floor among many pairs of elves, 'My lady,' he bowed slighlty, 'would you care to dance?' He knew the answer and placed one hand on her back and the other took her hand. She placed her free hand on his shoulder. Their movement slowly matched that of the music.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

Eamane with Ohto were a blissful picture of joy that spread around them and touched the elder as well. Glorfindel asked himself why didn’t he after all the past centuries ever consider having a family? His glance must have being awkward because Eamane asked. “What?” Glorfindel also laughed. “Nothing. Both of you are so happy it is infectious. Ohto also stopped bouncing and looked at him intently. The elf shifted from leaning on the couch to fully turning to Eamane, not just the head.

Ohto reached out to him excitedly. Glorfindel leaned closer for the elfling to reach him. “What is it?” Ohto with what March Warden could swear was a mischievous grin made a grab of the golden hair that must have captivated him. The elfling was no match of elder elf’s reaction. Glorfindel shook his head with movement that threw his hair behind his shoulders and moved away. “No, little elf my hair is not a snack.” He warned laughing. Ohto pouted, his eyes filling with tears that in turn widened Glorfindel’s eyes with panic. He quickly came back with defeated sigh handing the silky locks over to the elfling. Ohto high-handedly pulled out the ribbons tugging the hair painfully. “Can we negotiate this?” Glorfindel pleaded. “Don’t you want to play with something like a spoon perhaps?” Eamane was laughing at them so much she could hardly speak. Her lap was filled with older and younger elves.

*********
Celebrian

Celebrian trustingly held on to Elrond’s arm that felt burning hot against her cold skin. When no monster stepped out of the darkness to challenge them, Elrond truend to her. He removed outer robe and dressed her in it. Celebrian felt so cold that it hardly made a difference. Soothing hands lay on her shoulders made her lounge for comfort but she was held away at arm length.

Are you all right, my lady?" he asked, ignoring the painfully familiar note of tenderness in his voice. "What are you doing out here, dressed like this?

Celebrian blinked as her blue eyes filled with tears that were held back for so long. “I, was not, dressed like, before.” She choked speaking between the sobs. “Something, chased, me… lost the cloak… don’t know where.” She stopped as hiccup shook her. Tears blurred everything making the elf near her unrealistic. Celebrian was fearful he would vanish like a mirage and she will be along again. She closed the distances between them wrapping her hands around his waist and leaning her head against his chest. The warm body reassured her that he was real but she didn’t know whether he was still angry. The uncertainty allowed the irrational fear to cease her. “Don’t leave me here.” She begged. Celebrian desperately tightened the grip holding on like her life depended on it.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

Legolas offered his arm and led her to the dancefloor. He stopped in the midst of all the other dancing couples and smiled.

'My lady,' he bowed slighlty, 'would you care to dance?'

Ithildiel didn't even need to answer, as he held her and they started dancing, slowly coming to match the pace of the others and the music. She tried hard not to get carried away, though she would like to lean her head on his shoulder...inappropriate as that might be. They had been dancing for a few minutes, when she noticed that many eyes were turned in their direction. "Do you feel like everyone in the room is watching us?" she whispered softly in his ear, leaning closer to him.

***********************
Elrond

“I, was not, dressed like, before.” She choked speaking between the sobs. “Something, chased, me… lost the cloak… don’t know where.”

Elrond was not prepared for her outburst...or her tears. He was about to say something to comfort her, when she pushed his hands aside, burrowing her head in his chest. Elrond felt her arms around his waist and her body, still cold as ice pressed against his own. Almost without realising it, he wrapped his own arms around her as well, to keep her from shaking, holding her even closer to him. She was still crying, and he felt his heart sinking; he could not bear her tears."It's all right, my lady", he said, trying to keep his own shaking voice cool and neutral, as he should, without succeeding much. "There is nothing here that could hurt you; you're safe now". Her grip tightened and Elrond felt his injured ribs burn, but he ignored it.

“Don’t leave me here.”

He could not ignore the pleading in her voice. "I am not", he said softly, wishing he would never have to let her go...and knowing he had to. He pushed her away a little,every fibre of his being protesting at this parting. He could have held on for ever."I am not", he repeated. "I'll get you back to your house...your fiance must be worried", he said, not concealing the sorrow in his voice, but hoping she would not notice.

[Charmander]

They danced with an appropriate amount of space between them, nothing unbecoming in their behaviour. Legolas wanted to pull her closer. It was difficult keeping his arms from pulling her closer. She danced lightly, never a mis-step. They danced as if they had been together for a lifetime, knowing which way the other would move. She pulled herself marginally closer to him and whispered, 'Do you feel like everyone in the room is watching us?'

He surveyed the room and noticed she was correct. He whispered back, 'I had not noticed, I was more pleasantly engaged.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I had not noticed, I was more pleasantly engaged.'

Ithildiel casted him a tender smile, despite her apprehension. "It seems we'll be the talk of Rivendell in the morning",she sighed, as they continued their dancing, ignoring the curious glances. "But, I could not care less, as long as we can be together like this", she added, her smile getting broader.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel smiled and replied, 'It seems we'll be the talk of Rivendell in the morning. But, I could not care less, as long as we can be together like this.'

Legolas could deny himself no longer and pulled her closer. Thankfully the music slowed a bit, so the behaviour was not curious, as many of the elves around them did the same. He wanted to kiss her, but he settled, for having her that close. He whispered, 'I would affirm their curiousity if it would not put you in a most inappropriate and uncomfortable situation. Meleth nin,' he leaned closer, bringing his lips only a small distance from hers. The lights around them had dimmed, and he hoped no one would notice them.

[EamaneSilimaure]

“Nothing. Both of you are so happy it is infectious.

Eamane grinned as Ohto reached for Glorfindel's hair and the Marchwarden moved closer. Glorfindel moved away, “No, little elf my hair is not a snack.” He warned laughing. The baby pouted, and his big blue eyes filled with tears. Eamane bit back her laughter at Ohto's manipulation attempt. Glorfindel's panicked reaction was priceless however. He sighed, leaned closer and handed the baby some of his hair. Eamane laughed at his expression. “Can we negotiate this?” Glorfindel pleaded. “Don’t you want to play with something like a spoon perhaps?” Eamane laughed until she could barely breath. Glorfindel and Ohto were both now in her lap. She felt the vision coming before it did and pushed it away. She wanted to enjoy the present. What would come, would come.

"Unfortunately," she said breathlessly, "there is no spoon." She giggled again as Ohto gave another tug. Carefully, she threaded her fingers into Glorfindel's hair until she could grasp the part Ohto held. By holding the hair close to his scalp, she could keep the baby from pulling quite so hard. She tried not to notice how soft his hair was in her fingers. While holding his hair, she massaged his scalp there, soothing the hurt away. "Better?" she asked, smiling at him. With her other hand, she patted the baby.

[Ladypain]

The comfort he offered was too brief. It was enough to calm her a little. At least the cursed hiccups stopped. Celebrian was pushed away but he still held her. I'll get you back to your house...your fiance must be worried. "My who?" She met his glance confused. The only one who was allowed to be in her house was Ithildiel and Celebrian didn't expect her cousin to home until next day, nor was she a fiance.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"My who?"

Elrond saw his own confusion reflected in her eyes, as she asked. "Lord Altenen", he choked the name out, still holding her by the shoulders at a safe distance, struggling against an overwhelming desire to feel her pressing against him once more; if he were to draw her in his arms again now, he would never let go...and that was the last thing he should do. He drew in another deep breath, to steady his voice before speaking. "Your fiance, my lady", he explained, not bothering to hide the pain he knew was reflected in his eyes, for it was beyond him to do so at the moment. "I was told you agreed to marry him today..." his voice trailed off, no more than the faintest whisper. To hear himself utter this phrase was painful enough, but he knew her answer would be more so. He released her shoulders unwillingly, but as he stood within arm's reach from her, he could feel the warmth her body emanated, her scent,like the most delicate perfume, enveloping him.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian suddenly noticed the pain so well hidden before and his hands heavily moved off her shoulders. Why would he be upset? Is it not what he also wanted? "Master Elrond," Celebrian allowed the tender, magical words roll off her tongue. "I'm afraid you were misinformed. Perhaps I was asked to marry Lord Altenen but I cannot bind myself to eternity of misery by agreeing to bond with the one I don't love." Her last words were barely a whisper. "Even if You asked me to do so." ~It is not even because of Lord Altenen.~ She thought. ~It cannot be anyone because I only love one, you.~

[Elfdaughter]

Haldir watched as Sarna's foot tapped to the music. "My Lady, would you care to dance?"


((OOC: Sorry for it being so short!! Just needed to get my hand back in!))

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Master Elrond," Celebrian allowed the tender, magical words roll off her tongue. "I'm afraid you were misinformed. Perhaps I was asked to marry Lord Altenen but I cannot bind myself to eternity of misery by agreeing to bond with the one I don't love." "Even if You asked me to do so.

Elrond's eyes darkened.~When I get my hands on Altenen, not even Glorfindel will be able to pull me off~he thought, fury raging in his heart, though he concealed it deftly. "I was told you had already accepted Lord Altenen's proposal", he said softly, choosing his words as carefully as he could, so as not to be misunderstood again; he got a strange, queasy feeling, as if walking a tightrope; the slightest thing could throw him off into oblivion. "It seems I was indeed misinformed...and I find myself glad for it. Noone should be forced to a life without love, my lady", he said softly."I would never presume to ask that of you..."he paused, finding words were failing him. "I should like nothing more than your happiness". He wanted to hold her in his arms, but was still hesitating, waiting for a sign from her.He settled for taking her hands in his own; they were still frozen and he massaged them softly, seeking to return some warmth to them.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

Unfortunately," she said breathlessly, "there is no spoon. Glorfindel was about to pout when Eamane tangled her fingers into his hair and held them so Ohto could no longer yank them along with the scalp. He almost purred with pleasure when the massage started. Better?" she asked. He wanted to nod but the hair was still captured. “Better.” He said. “Why am I the only one whose hair he likes to play with?” Glorfindel was perfectly comfortable where he was if only his hair were not pulled out mercilessly. “Too bad I don’t have anything to bribe him with.” Glorfindel attempted to tickle the elfling cautiously. Ohto giggled and loosened the grip. The elder elf used it to become grip free sitting up and dragging the elfling onto his lap making a funny face to distract him. Ohto giggled again. Glorfindel bounced Ohto on his knee and the baby squealed with delight. “Who’s the happy elfling who does not want to play with my hair anymore?” Glorfindel played with the baby. “Eamane if I have any hair left would you please weave the ribbons back into it?” He asked.

*********
Celebrian

Her thoughts raced one after another lucidly despite recent tears and exhaustion. He thought she willingly agreed to a union with Altenen. Did Elrond also think she might have feelings for the arrogant elf? Who told him such a foolish thing? The only one capable of doing so was Lord Altenen and no one else. Celebrian didn’t think she could ever hate anyone, which she was in a brief anger flash. The news of her ‘marriage’ hurt the one she loved. “I’m afraid I had to teach Lord Altenen a lesson because he has trouble understanding what, no, means. He offended me twice. Once stole a kiss. Another time when I refused any union with him he attempted to force his affections.” Elrond massaged her hands pouring life energy into her. Why didn’t she notice before how gentle he was? She could read uncertainty, hurt and fragile hope in his eyes that made her heart flutter. Again she recalled that night when he carried her in his arms and she sensed a feeling in him she could not identify before. It was love. “There is only one I would wish to share my life with.” She whispered. Her body was cold, yet a memory of their closeness burned inside, their touch, their breath, and their lips so near but never touching. Celebrian grasped his hands bringing him closer where she could reach him. She seized the fruitful lips and was stunned with freshness. ~If you do not love me I pray you forgive me this weakness. I could not have done otherwise.~ She thought.

[Aletheia]

Thalion surveyed the group; the men looked weary and downtroden after the mishap at the council. King Thranduril rode aside the gurney Thalion had been moved too during their return journey. Thalion smiled wickedly, thinking of how cunning he had been. First he had orchestrated the attack, then killed the assasin, and after all that he had come out looking like the hero, with the King's undying grattitude. Now he continued to feign his injury to be much worse than it was and Thranduril himself had insisited on the special liter to carry him home. Yes, he was cunning indeed.

"Almost home, my lord," Thalion called up to the King, "I am sure you are most pleased to have it within sight again."

***************************************
Daewen watched the festivities unfold from a dark corner of the room. Undisturbed and unseen, the black malice that slept beneath her eyelids was unleashed as she glowered about at the merry-making. How she hated the summer festival! It was already bad enough that she had wittnessed the scene between the marchwarden and Eamane; that had been nearly enough to make her ill. Now she fumed, staring venemously into the night, projecting her hatred onto evey living thing that waltzed past. They would all pay, and soon.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'I would affirm their curiousity if it would not put you in a most inappropriate and uncomfortable situation. Meleth nin,'

Ithildiel knew that despite the dimmed to almost darkness lights, the keen eyes of all the other elves around them were watching them.she tried to push Legolas away a little, but unsuccessfully."I would say", she said, trying to ignore an impulse to lean forward and close the small distance between them, kissing him, "that we already are in an uncomfortable situation..the both of us". Somewhere near the entrance of the Hall, she caught a glimpse of Haldir,coming in, escorting the Lady Sarnatelme. Neither of them had seen them yet.

*************************
Elrond

“I’m afraid I had to teach Lord Altenen a lesson because he has trouble understanding what, no, means. He offended me twice. Once stole a kiss. Another time when I refused any union with him he attempted to force his affections.”

Elrond did not reply,though his eyes remained dark. He would have to deal with Altenen in the morning, but that seemed like it was a million years away right now. Time stood still, he felt and all that there was, all that existed was this moment.She did not care for Altenen...that was all that mattered. Elrond sighed with relief, a great burden lifted from his heart suddenly. He still held on to her hands.

“There is only one I would wish to share my life with.”

Celebrian released her hands from his and pulled him closer, before he even had the chance to react. Her lips touched his and he wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her against him, tasting her lips as he had been wanting to since the moment they had met.Finally, he allowed all the love he felt for her to pour out, as they kissed passionately, losing all track of the world around them...or of time.

"I have never loved anyone but you", he said, when they paused, catching their breath. "Were you to marry Altenen...I would much rather die than see that..."He did not let her answer; instead, he removed one hand from her waist to caress her face and wipe the traces of tears he could still see there. Then his lips touched hers again.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

“Better.” He said. “Why am I the only one whose hair he likes to play with?”

Eamane laughed softly. "Because you let him, mellon nin," she said.

“Too bad I don’t have anything to bribe him with.” Glorfindel attempted to tickle the elfling cautiously.

The baby giggled and loosened his grip on Glorfindel's hair. Eamane released it as well. With surprising ease, Glorfindel distracted the baby enough to bring him to his lap, laughing and bouncing.

Who’s the happy elfling who does not want to play with my hair anymore?” Glorfindel played with the baby.

The picture of him, playing with the baby made her heart ache. He was so good at it, without even knowing that he was. It was in him to be a father. She could see that. Other visions of that, of him she put aside as her own heart's longings. She hoped that the baby would keep him from seeing the love, and the tears in her eyes.

“Eamane if I have any hair left would you please weave the ribbons back into it?” He asked.

Eamane smiled at him. The careful warrior braids and the festive ribbons were rather tangled. It gave him a quite adorable appearance. She wanted to hug him. "Of course," she said, reaching for his hair. With gentle, deft fingers, she redid his hair. the silken strands in her hands were only a minor distraction as she watched this warrior play with a child. He managed to hold his head completely still, and still entertain Ohto. "There, I've finished." she said. His hair was done. In a slightly different manner, but no longer mussed and tangled. She let her hands rest on his shoulders as she looked over her work, feeling the muscles beneath her fingers tighten as he shifted the baby on his lap.
*****************************
Sarna

She smiled at him. "I would, yes." When he offered his arm, she found herself whirled onto the crowded dancefloor. She thought she saw the Prince dancing with the lady Ithilidiel, but she could not be certain. The light was dim, and they had been dancing awfully close together. She smiled up at Haldir. "You dance well Marchwarden," she said.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Swept by passion Celebrian explored the sweet lips. She brushed her tongue against his teeth parting them and slid her tongue past the barrier licking. They broke apart again gasping for breath. Her knees buckled and Celebrian kept her hands wrapped around his beck, otherwise she would have slid down to the ground. “I would not live without you.” She whispered melting into the cherished embrace. Elrond caressed her face and she leaned into the touch.

Another freezing wind gust made them both shiver. It must have come from the snowy mountains tops so winter like it was. Celebrian rubbed her cheek against thin shirt fabric on his shoulder. The human blood made him more susceptible to cold. Celebrian ran her hands down his back and rubbed his arms worried about taking his outer robe. “Is it possible to go some place less chilling without letting you our of my embrace?” She snuggled even closer when another crack resounded near them in the bushes. Celebrian didn’t want to return to the city but the recent fright was still vivid.

*******
Glorfindel

“I was blackmailed into letting him grab my hair.” Glorfindel protested. “Did you let him socialize with Erestor? He is the only other elf who can manipulate me into doing things I do not want to do.”

There, I've finished.

“Thank you.” He tensed when her hand remained on his shoulder.

Not willing to exhaust the child Glorfindel cradled Ohto in the crook of his arm giving up his fingers as a play toy. He testily looked at the elfling in his arms wondering who this innocent youth would grow up to be.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Celebrian clung on to him, as the wind, blowing from the mountains swept across them.Elrond knew he should feel the cold, but he did not register it, absorbed as he was in their kiss. He did not want to let her go, he was too fearful this might be no more than a dream that would dissolve the moment he released her from his arms. Yet..she was here, her warm body against his own, her lips demanding his, even as he demanded hers. A gust, smelling of snow and winter despite the warm midsummer night, swept past them. Celebrian shuddered.

“Is it possible to go some place less chilling without letting you our of my embrace?” she asked, still shaking, as she burrowed her face in his chest again, catching her breath. Elrond was about to reply, himself breathless, when there was a noise in the nearby bushes. Celebrian jumped, holding on to him tightly, almost in panic. Elrond caressed her face softly. "It's nothing, meleth nin", he said tenderly; still, he peered towards the bushes...but nothing came to alarm them. "We should return to the city", he said reluctantly, "but...I have no wish to release you from my arms either", he added, tenderly. "I thought I would never get the chance to hold you". His lips sought hers once again.

[EamaneSilimaure]

“Thank you.”

"You're welcome," Eamane said. She unconciously began to massage his shoulders, trying to ease the tenseness away. Ohto blinked sleepily in Glorfindel's arms, gripping his fingers. "Babies were made to manipulate us," she said, smiling down at the elfling. "It's a survival technique. With a look, they can invoke caring, compassion in anyone." She felt a cold gaze on them and looked up to see Daewen, watching them, cold hatred in her gaze. Eamane shivered and look back at the elfling. His innocent little yawn made her smile again.

[Ladypain]

Celebrian

Celebrian gladly returned the kiss. Her fingers tangled in the twilight hair tugged them gently. She deepened the kiss as long as possible, lost in sensation. They came so close to losing each other by foolish misunderstanding. “I am your to hold now until the end of Arda.” She said between soft butterfly kisses she teasingly placed around his mouth. “I trust you.”

*********
Glorfindel

Glorfindel protectively shuffled the elfling having Ohto lean on his body and supporting the elflings head with his arm. “Very true. Only the most malicious beings with intellect would hurt a child. The instincts are to protect the little ones.” He relaxed when Eamane massaged the stiff shoulders.

Glorfindel in the past hour tried to ignore close scrutiny, which was becoming increasingly difficult as a group of maidens came to surround him. One of the maidens, Fanya sat down on the opposite of Eamane. “Lord Glorfindel you are not dancing tonight.” Her voice was sweet as honey, which was too sweet for Glorfindel’s liking. “I was dancing during the day and my feet must be tired.” He informed them with a tense smile. Insulting a pack of lusty maidens was dangerous. The she-elves settled around him showing no intention of leaving. Fanya laughed how she considered was seductive. “You? Tired? My Lord you do not do yourself justice.” She leaned closer to him. “Perhaps I could prove to you that you are not that tired after all.” Glorfindel moved away bumping into Eamane because the maiden moved closer to him. “Fanya I am positive I would very much enjoy your company on the dance floor but Lisse have left someone in my care.” He stretched the truth a little. “I cannot in good conscience abandon this duty.” A brief annoyance crossed Fanya before she hid it under sugarcoated mask again. “Do you not trust Lady Eamane to take care of the child? Surely whoever trusted you with him never meant to deprive you of other enjoyment?” She said sweetly. Glorfindel was about to reply but Eamane was first to answer.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond removed both hands from her waist and placed them upon her face instead, keeping her still for one final, slow and passionate kiss that left the both of them gasping for breath once again. "Not even the end of Arda will be enough to part me from you", he said with a soft smile.But we do need to get you out of here, melisse", he continued, more reluctantly than ever, "before you catch your death...and I need to see to your injuries", he frowned slightly. He did not give her time to react; he swept her off her feet, carrying her in his arms. Celebrian rested her head on his shoulder and he breathed in her perfume once again, smiling at this so desired proximity.

They went through the most secluded paths, until they came to one of the hidden entrances to the compound of the Lord of Rivendell. Elrond set her down on her feet when they had reached the sitting room of his private quarters; Celebrian did not release him at once, her arms remaining around his neck, as his came to rest upon her hips."I...would have brought you back to your house", he said, finding himself a little shy again suddenly, "but there was no way to avoid being seen...and I wanted you all to myself tonight", he added,kissing her neck."But first thing's first...I need to take a look at those scratches..."he said, as he tried to let go of her...but Celebrian was quick to stop him, as unwilling to let him go as he was.

[Ladypain]

"They're nothing but scratches." Celebrian nibbled a slightly rounded ear tip and kissed it. "I forgot about them. I don't want to risk anyone seeing us if we leave this room." Her hands trailed down his body until she felt bandages through the shirt. Celebrian gasped. "The wound, why did you carry me? Does it still hurt?" She motioned him to an armchair near the fireplace having him seated down. She shuddered remembering the blood. "I was so scared when you got hurt." The thought brought tears back in her eyes. "More than anything I wanted to hold you close in my arms and offer comfort. No one was allowed to visit. I would have given anything just to see you and know that you were going to be well." Celebrian sat on the floor under the armchair placing her head on his lap. She gently placed her palm on his body where the wound was wishing she could heal it with a magical touch.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond knew he was quickly losing control...and, strangely enough, he did not mind at all; he buried his face in Celebrian's neck, coveting the exposed skin of her upper chest with kisses. Her hands trailed off down his chest and stopped on the bandages clearly discernible under the thin silk of the shirt.

"The wound, why did you carry me? Does it still hurt?" she gasped, pushing him away and leading him to an armchair near the still unlit fireplace."I was so scared when you got hurt." The thought brought tears back in her eyes. "More than anything I wanted to hold you close in my arms and offer comfort. No one was allowed to visit. I would have given anything just to see you and know that you were going to be well."

"I almost...forgot about my injury", Elrond smiled, as she sat on the floor next to him, her head in his lap;he caressed her hair. "You are the best medicine, for me, meleth nin", he said tenderly.He lifted her off the floor and sat her in his lap, instead; her head rested on his shoulder. "You were the last person I saw before passing out...and my last thought was that I was dying and I had not even had the chance to tell you...how I felt".He kissed her neck again and held her close for a while; she still felt cold. "You need to get out of this nightgown", he sighed, pushing her away a little.She was about to argue, so he sealed her lips with a kiss to prevent that.He got up, pulling her along with him; he walked her to his bedchamber.she hesitated. "You can get something else to wear and I daresay my formal robe looks better on you", he said mischievously. "I'll get a fire going out here...and I shall need to see to your scratches when you're feeling warmer, meleth nin", he said tenderly.

[Ladypain]

"Perhpas I should try on all of them and you can judge which one fits the best." Celebrian replied in the similar mischievious tone. Elrond discretely closed the door behind him. Celebrian picked a crimson velvet robe with gold embroidery. She closed her eyes deeply inhaling their intoxicating scent. Celebrian removed the torn nightgown and draped the robes over her naked body. She found a brush in the drawer and combed her tangled hair having the fall like a silk curtain down her back. She critically glanced in the mirror inwardly laughing at how she looked wearing his clothes. Despite being too long and wide they looked good on her.

Cozy flame played in the fireplace sofly illumining the room. The darkness and cold yeilded to warmth and security. Celebrian collected blankets and pillows around the quarters to arrange them comfortably on the floor near the fire. Elrond watched her with amusement. Celebrian closed her mind to all doubts fearful that once she questions her actions she will be blushing helplessly. She tripped few times over the robe's hem but managed to stay on her feet. Settling near the fireplace she commented. "My Lord I believe I am warm enough to have you look at the scatches." She slowly lifted the robe to reveal a cut on her hip.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane observed the maidens approaching with a little sadness. This would not be pleasant. She was sure he would not want to offend them... and thus would leave her. To her surprise, When Fanye asked, he made excuses. First of tiredness, then that Ohto had been left in his care. She would not correct him on that. Her heart was humming. He wanted to stay with her, even though she could not dance. Glorfindel leaned away from the maiden. Who was wearing too much perfume. Eamane fought to keep her hands from gripping his shoulders, but instead moved just a little closer to him. She had no claim to him yet, so could not say that. She cherished the 'yet' in that thought before Fanye's words came to her ears.

“Do you not trust Lady Eamane to take care of the child? Surely whoever trusted you with him never meant to deprive you of other enjoyment?” She said sweetly

"For one, when a mother entrusts her child to the care of others, she expects them to do as she asks. It's called responsibility. For another, the Marchwarden," she stressed his title, as the maiden had refrained from mentioning it. "is deprived of nothing. Had he wished it, he would have asked you for a dance." She disapproved of the maiden's forwardness. Being under the scrutiny of this many she-elves who were not friends, and in the company of one such as the Marchwarden was uncomfortable. She hoped suddenly that Fanye was not right. That he did not feel deprived by her presence. She would not voice that thought though. She kept her hands on his shoulders.

[Charmander]

They continued to dance ever closer, he tried to kiss her but she maintained what little distance was between them and said, 'I would say that we already are in an uncomfortable situation..the both of us.'

He moved his hand from her back and curled his fingers around her hand that rested on his shoulder, 'I think I have never felt more comfortable.' There was an anxious look in her eyes and he did not dare turn to look, 'but if you feel we would benefit from a change of location, then I am more than happy to oblige.'

************************************************** ********

The garrison from the fort had almost arrived back in Mirkwood. Thrandurill was relieved to see his home again. The forest and mountains that enclosed Mirkwood had an essence about them. Although there was a rumoured darkness that dwelt there, Thranduril knew his lands and knew no darkness could ever be present without his knowledge.

He slowed his steed to check on his advisor. Thalion had been moved carefully, his wound still very dangerous. He called out to the king, 'Almost home, my lord, I am sure you are most pleased to have it within sight again.'

Thranduril nodded, 'Yes, it is a great relief to return to Mirkwood, and we shall soon have you with our best healer. Just a little bit further.'

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel was not flattered by a lusty attention of the maidens who were in love with the overly glorified reputation of a balrog slayer and physical appearance while they had no idea who he was. He approved everything Eamane said. The she-elves around them unfortunately held different opinion.
One of them glared frostily at Eamane. “Lady Healer was stuck in her wards mixing herbs for so long she has forgotten proper manners, such as not interrupting a conversation when not invited to join one. Also she uses her pitiful state to pine for attention of someone who is valued by many others. He feels sorry for you. You deserve a public reprimanding.” The reprimanding sounded a lot like a catfight threat. Wistful expression appeared on maiden’s face. Glorfindel’s presence prevented her from doing so. He couldn’t rule out the possibility that she might try later.
“I will not tolerate any violence or provocative behavior in this city. Anyone who does not think so might find themselves some place uncomfortable under arrest rethinking their actions.” He warned them sternly.
“Surely you would not arrest harmless ladies.” Fanye said batting her eyelashes.
To him a pack of orcs was a little less harmless. “You are forgetting maiden you speak with the March warden of Imladris.” He emphasized the titles. “To me all normal adult elves male and female alike are equal under the law. I do not recommend you to test this conviction.” Glorfindel offered dryly.
The maiden blushed embarrassed. “I will keep that in mind.” She said furiously before stomping out of the room.
No one noticed a satisfied glance from another part of the room where Daewen stood.

[EamaneSilimaure]

One of them glared frostily at Eamane. “Lady Healer was stuck in her wards mixing herbs for so long she has forgotten proper manners, such as not interrupting a conversation when not invited to join one. Also she uses her pitiful state to pine for attention of someone who is valued by many others. He feels sorry for you. You deserve a public reprimanding.”

Eamane felt her temper, usually so calm, flare to life. How dare Vanesse, this... over-perfumed, over-exposed little chit... Really, that dress was cut much too low to be proper. Tell her, the Chief Healer of Imladris that she needed to be reprimanded. Before she could respond in kind, Glorfindel interceded.

“I will not tolerate any violence or provocative behavior in this city. Anyone who does not think so might find themselves some place uncomfortable under arrest rethinking their actions.” He warned them sternly.

Eamane refrained from looking at him in surprise, keeping her own furious gaze on the group of she-elves.

“Surely you would not arrest harmless ladies.” Fanye said batting her eyelashes.

Eamane nearly laughed at that. The maiden was so blatant in her flirtations that she could not hear the anger in Glorfindel's voice, nor see that he was not interested, in anyway.

You are forgetting maiden you speak with the March warden of Imladris.” He emphasized the titles. “To me all normal adult elves male and female alike are equal under the law. I do not recommend you to test this conviction.” Glorfindel offered dryly.

Privately, Eamane didn't either. She didn't like these maidens, but they needed to be taken in hand by someone. Preferably not the Marchwarden however.

The maiden blushed embarrassed. “I will keep that in mind.” She said furiously before stomping out of the room.

Eamane watched after her a moment before turning her attention to the other maidens still gathered around. Vanesse huffed and was gone quickly after Fanye. The others followed more slowly. One or two looking longingly at Glorfindel, but reluctant to say anything, now that he was so obviously angry. There was that lingered behind even they and Eamane recognized Oloriel for the first time. Sister to Orecalo, she had often been in the healing wards when he had started as apprentice. "You pick strange company 'Riel." Eamane said softly before the girl left them. The dark-haired maiden with eyes like blue-gray stars looked back at her, regret on her face.

"Forgive them my lady," she said her voice soft. "They cannot see beyond the next dance most of the time."

"But you can," Eamane said. At least, she had once. "Come see me tomorrow. I would like to discuss your training, if you still wish to join me in the wards, as you once did." She smiled warmly at the maiden. She hoped the girl would accept. She had talent, more than even her brother did. Perhaps the gift itself, should it be trained.

Oloriel looked at her a moment, joy warring with something else in her face. She seemed about to reply when her gaze fell on Glorfindel, and the now sleeping Ohto. Embarassment flashed in her eyes. "Forgive me my lord. For my companions," she said. She curstied low.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel

'I think I have never felt more comfortable.''but if you feel we would benefit from a change of location, then I am more than happy to oblige.'

Ithildiel smiled, though her gaze remained fixed across the room. Haldir had not yet seen them, it seemed, but Sarnatelme had; it was only a matter of time before she pointed the two of them to the Marchwarden of Lorien...and she did not wish to get into another fight with Haldir, especially not in public, when everyone was already looking at her and Legolas. "I think that if you look over there", she said teasingly, to conceal her nervousness, "you will cease to be so comfortable, meleth nin...It seems our missing entourages have turned up. I think that, unless we are willing to explain ourselves, we had best get out of here...or our evening ends here", she frowned.

**********************
Elrond

Perhaps I should try on all of them and you can judge which one fits the best."

Elrond smiled. "Well, that would indeed make a fine sight to see, my lady", he said, but he closed the door behind her nonetheless; there was no need for haste, he thought, as he returned in the sitting room, starting a fire in the ornate fireplace almost mechanically, still dazed by the unexpected turn of events of the evening.He went downstairs to his study, to gather up some medicinal herbs to tend to her scratches, still miving like an automaton, lost in dreams as he felt himself to being. when he returned, she had not yet emerged from the other room; he was about to knock and ask, when the door opened and Celebrian returned. Elrond smiled at her, seeing she had picked one of his favourite garments, a crimson robe adorned with golden embroidery; as he had already admitted, it looked beautiful on her. He noticed her golden hair cascading down her back like silk, as she gathered pillow and some blankets in front of the fire; she was making herself at home, he thought tenderly, unable to contain a smile, as she tripped up on the robe's long hem several times; he almost hastened to support her every time, but she stayed on her feet. When she had finished, she turned to him, a downright mischievous grin playing upon her coral lips.

"My Lord I believe I am warm enough to have you look at the scatches." She slowly lifted the robe to reveal a cut on her hip.

Elrond frowned, amusedly. "I think we should leave the scratches be", he said tenderly, as he kissed her lightly; unnoticed, the heavy velvet robe slipped down into place again, "and get you some rest, instead", he said playfully, as he settled on the floor in front of the fireplace, moving a little gingerly, as his ribs protested with the abrupt movement. Silently, she motioned her next to him and drew her in his arms, her head resting against his chest again. "for now...it is more than enough to hold you in my arms, melisse", he said softly. They sat there, holding each other in silence for a long time; Elrond felt Celebrian had fallen asleep, her arms around his neck, only a few minutes before Lorien claimed him, as well. His last thought, ere falling asleep himself, lulled by the warmth of the fire and the presence of Celebrian so close to him, was that she looked exquisitely perfect as she slept...

[Charmander]

Ithildiel kept her eyes fixed across the room and said, 'I think that if you look over there, you will cease to be so comfortable, meleth nin...It seems our missing entourages have turned up. I think that, unless we are willing to explain ourselves, we had best get out of here...or our evening ends here.'

He twilred her slightly around to get a better vantage point. Indeed she was correct, there was the Marchwarden of Lorien dancing with Sarna. If he had not seen it with his own eyes he would not have believed it. The captain of the armies of Mirkwood being twirled around a dance floor. He tried to conceal a broadening smile across his face and said, 'Then perhaps we should take our leave. There may be many eyes upon us but I think we can leave somewhat secretively.' He lead her to the far side of the room, further away from Sarna and Haldir, where a doorway to the gardens could be seen.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Ithildiel caught herself smiling at seeing Haldir dancing with Sarna; a quick glance over at Legolas revealed he was struggling to keep from smiling as well; apparently, Lady Sarnatelme was not usually seen dancing either.Both her and Haldir were drawing closer as they danced, though.

'Then perhaps we should take our leave. There may be many eyes upon us but I think we can leave somewhat secretively.'

Ithildiel smiled, as she followed him, still dancing, across the room..and out a veranda door, leading into the gardens. She saw Haldir look up towards them but was not sure if he had seen them or not, as they stepped out into the night. "Well, that was a good escape", she teased him. "I'm sure nobody noticed", she added innocently.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel followed him out saying, 'Well, that was a good escape. I'm sure nobody noticed'

They made their way to a veranda, scarecely populated. None of whom looked up to notice them when they arrived. They stopped dancing and he took her hand and said, 'Come, I am certain there is more to discover in Imladris.' He kissed her hand softly and led her out of the vernada onto a path leading away from the festivites.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

Forgive me my lord. For my companions," she said. She curtsied low. Glorfindel did not care much about someone offending him. He was only angry because they were rude to Eamane. The healer seemed to have better opinion of Oloriel than of others, so he would not begrudge the maiden. “I will accept your apology.” He told her seriously. Oloriel left them.

Glorfindel turned his attention to the sleeping elfling. “Amazing, he can sleep through the word fight. I was worried they will disturb him.” Lisse with her companion emerged from dissolving crowd. She was smiling shyly, uncertain whether she should be doing so. Lissen sat down where Fanye was shortly. “I am sorry,” She offered keeping her voice low. “I didn’t know we will be away this long. I hope he was not too much trouble.” Lisse apparently wanted to hold her son but she worried to wake him. “He was no trouble at all. We very much enjoyed his presence.” Glorfindel assured her forgetting about the hair. “It is good to see you enjoying this evening Lisse.” He offered carefully

********
Celebrian

I think we should leave the scratches be", he said tenderly, as he kissed her lightly; unnoticed, the heavy velvet robe slipped down into place again, "and get you some rest, instead
Celebrian ached to help him as Elrond gingerly settled among the pillows. She climbed around to avoid accidentally adding pressure to the injured side, when he gestured for her to join him, and placed her head on his chest. For once Celebrian could forget all that troubled her and surrender to the safe feeling. She gained comfort in listening to his heartbeat. for now...it is more than enough to hold you in my arms, melisse. There were only two of them in the room briefly isolated from hurt and pain, a memory Celebrian wanted to keep for eternity. “I love you.” She muttered struggling to stay awake. The rhythmic breathing lulled her to sleep.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Come, I am certain there is more to discover in Imladris.'

Ithildiel nodded, as they stepped off the veranda and took to walking one of the paths of the gardens; the garneds seemed empty right now, almost deserted, as all the elves in the city were attending the festivities and they walked silently for a while, the soft sound of their footfalls being all that was heard. They had been walking for a while,holding hands and simply relishing each other's resence, when Ithildiel heard the musical sound of the river up ahead. The path they had chosen was taking them close to Bruinen, it seemed, she thought abstractedly. "Do you think Sarna or Haldir saw us back there?" she sighed, wondering whether Haldir had already sent a search party to look for them already.

[Charmander]

Legolas did not where he was leading Ithildiel, just that they were finally together. He was unconcrened as to whether they would be discovered. The sound of rushing water could be heard as Ithildiel said, 'Do you think Sarna or Haldir saw us back there?'

He stopped and turned to look at her, astounded once more by her beauty. Her eyes and hair shimmered in the moonlight. He led her to a tree overlooking the Bruinen and sat down, pulling her into his arms, 'I think, if they did see us, they were too pre-occupied to give chase, and that is indeed a good sign.' He softly kissed the top of her, which now rested on his shoulder.

[EamaneSilimaure]

“Amazing, he can sleep through the word fight. I was worried they will disturb him.”

"It's a matter of trust." Eamane said softly, looking at the elfling and smiling. She settled herself close by his side. Lisse and Tulcandil returned then.

Lissen sat down where Fanye was shortly. “I am sorry,” She offered keeping her voice low. “I didn’t know we will be away this long. I hope he was not too much trouble.”

Eamane smiled at her. There was color in the mother's cheeks and a soft smile in her eyes.Tulcandil wore the same soft smile.

“He was no trouble at all. We very much enjoyed his presence.” Glorfindel assured her forgetting about the hair. “It is good to see you enjoying this evening Lisse.” He offered carefully

"I-I am glad I came," Lisse said with a swift look at Tulcandil that Eamane did not miss. Something had been done, or said on the dancfloor to bring that stain of color to her cheeks.

"So am I," Eamane said. "I have missed you, since my own injury has kept me from my wards." She looked at the sleeping elfling. "I missed this little guy too. It was a joy to spend time with him tonight."

"That is well my lady," Lisse said. She spoke softly, but Eamane could see that she wanted to take the baby and leave now.

"You should probably take him back with you to the wards now, if you like," Eamane said. "Would you like an escort?"

"I will go as well," Tulcandil said softly. Eamane smiled.

"Then I will see you all when I can," the healer said. "Perhaps, you could visit me, if you wish." she added, trying to encourage Lisse to leave the wards.

"Perhaps," Lisse said. She reached for her son, and gently took him from Glofindel. Ohto did not wake, only stirred a little and snuggled close to his mother. "Good night my lord, my lady," she said.

"Good night to you both," Eamane said. Tulcandil bowed and followed after Lisse. Eamane smiled again.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Legolas pulled her down in his arms, as he sat under a tree on the brink of the Bruinen, that did justice to its name,as it flowed noisily only a few metres away.

'I think, if they did see us, they were too pre-occupied to give chase, and that is indeed a good sign.'

Ithildiel laughed, as she rested her head on his shoulder where they sat."I thought I was the only one who noticed that; I have never seen Haldir acting as he was with your lady ambassador", she confessed, looking up into his eyes, that shimmered in the soft light of the moon and stars. "I hope it takes the ma while to figure out we're gone, anyway", she continued, making herself more comfortable inhis arms.

[Charmander]

Legolas wrapped his arms around as she said, 'I thought I was the only one who noticed that; I have never seen Haldir acting as he was with your lady ambassador. I hope it takes them a while to figure out we're gone, anyway.'

Legolas laughed a little and replied, 'I hope that they never look for us, but I fear they will. And then I will be forced to let you out of my arms,' he pulled her closer as he said this. 'What are we going to do? We can enjoy Imladris, for a time, but I fear the consequences of our love must be met head on. Ithildiel, meleth nin, I would not be parted with you for any treasure in all the world,' he turned her face up to his and kissed her, wrapping his arms around her more tightly, not willing to ever let her out of his grip.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel regretfully released Ohto. “Good night.” He told Lisse and Tulkandil. When they disappeared he looked at Eamane catching her distraught. “Eamane,” He wasn’t sure whether it was from what the she-elves said. He wanted to indirectly approach the subject. However the accusation was so ridiculous it might be offensive to bring it up. “I want you to know, I enjoyed this festival very much and I value the time in your company.” As he spoke he looked into radiant, hazel eyes sincerely. Pity was never on his mind. She should know without a shadow of a doubt and he hoped she enjoyed his company as much as he did hers. He found it strange that hardly any of her or his friends came to join them. Those who did quickly left.

[EamaneSilimaure]

“Eamane,” She looked at him, a little sadness touching her. They were alone again. They had spent much of this festival that way. She wondered where their friends had disappeared to, and if they were happy. Would he leave her now? “I want you to know, I enjoyed this festival very much and I value the time in your company.” His eyes were so blue it hurt to look at them, but she could not look away.

She smiled warmly, knowing that that was as close as she would get to the words her heart yearned to hear. For now. "I value the time you spend with me as well, mellon nin," she said softly. "This festival has been the most enjoyable yet." She touched his hand where it rested on the couch between them, needing to touch him. "Thank you."

[Aletheia]

'Yes, it is a great relief to return to Mirkwood, and we shall soon have you with our best healer. Just a little bit further.'

“I will not need to trouble the healers, sire,” Thalion said, “I can tend the wound myself, for ‘tis not that bad, and already it is mending well. Perhaps it would be best not to make a public affair of what happened; speaking openly of an attempt on your life may only serve to frighten the people.”

Thalion spoke cautiously; were he taken to a healer they would surely be able to tell that much of his injury was feigned. Best to let Thranduril and the rest of the company deceive themselves; word would spread through Mirkwood of his heroisms without the King’s help.


(OOC: I just thought I would set the Mirkwood deal rolling again, but Im at work :evil: so Ill try and sneak a Daewen post in later....)

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I hope that they never look for us, but I fear they will. And then I will be forced to let you out of my arms,' 'What are we going to do? We can enjoy Imladris, for a time, but I fear the consequences of our love must be met head on. Ithildiel, meleth nin, I would not be parted with you for any treasure in all the world,'

Ithildiel responded to his kiss, unwilling to let go herself."I know...I would rather forfeit life itself than be separated from you, my love;and you are right...Rivendell is no more than a passing haven. We shall have to face the rest of the world soon enough", she sighed, her thought straying to Lord Celeborn and picturing his reaction to the letter Haldir had already sent him."What are we to do, mellindo? We both know that, while this situation between our realms holds, we have no hope at all..."

[Charmander]

Thalion spoke haltingly, 'I will not need to trouble the healers, sire. I can tend the wound myself, for ‘tis not that bad, and already it is mending well. Perhaps it would be best not to make a public affair of what happened; speaking openly of an attempt on your life may only serve to frighten the people.' The pain must be increasing, thought Thranduril.

They had made up a great distance in a short period of time. The majesty and comfort of Mirkwood surrounded them. Although it was sunny out, the darkness loomed over them. Thranduril repied, 'I would have you heed my wishes and see our best healer, but if you wish to be obsitanate and not heed the words of an aged king, then have my leave to heal thyself. I will need you to be on the mend as soon as you can - we must have the prize we seek, sooner rather than later.'

The garrison had reached the front of the king's grounds. He dismounted his horse and ordered Thalion to be taken to his quarters with any provisions the advisor desired. He walked slowly back to his home and had his manservant draw a bath. He felt the stench of defeat all around him and needed to cleanse it any way he could.

************************************************** ********

Ithildiel continued their kiss before breaking off, placing both her hands on his chest and creating a little space between them, 'I know...I would rather forfeit life itself than be separated from you, my love;and you are right...Rivendell is no more than a passing haven. We shall have to face the rest of the world soon enough. What are we to do, mellindo? We both know that, while this situation between our realms holds, we have no hope at all...'

Her hair had fallen around her face as she spoke and he gently brushed it away. He put his hands over hers as a sign to reassure her, 'My beloved princess, we will always have hope. Estelio nin[trust me], we will find a way to share our love.' He could see the despair in her eyes and leaned forward and whispered softly, 'Gerich veleth nín[You have my love]' and kissed her ear softly, lingering for a few seconds, before pulling away slightly.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'My beloved princess, we will always have hope. Estelio nin[trust me], we will find a way to share our love.'

Ithildiel was about to say she was not so sure about that, her thought still lingering on the Lord and Lady of Lothlorien, and their definite objection to such an involvement between herself and the Prince of Mirkwood, when he continued, seeing the doubt and sorrow in her eyes.

'Gerich veleth nín[You have my love]'He nibbed at her ear at those words and she smiled. "And you have my love, as well; let us hope that will be enough", she said, holding him tightly, feeling his heartbeat, as she rested her head on his chest.

[Charmander]

She smiled at him and replied, 'And you have my love, as well; let us hope that will be enough.'

She rested her head on his chest and he traced her spine lightly with his fingers, 'It will be more than enough. Let us not be defeated by what has yet to come.' He wrapped his arms around her, inhaling her sweet scent. He wanted to be certain that they would be able to be together, but he knew his father would be more than displeased with his decision. That displeasure could lead to any number of consequences he didn't want to think about, not least which an ultimatum not to see the princess ever again.

[Ladypain]

She touched his hand where it rested on the couch between them, needing to touch him. "Thank you."

"Thank you too." Glorfindel worried she might be tired. "Would you like to stay long or go home?" He asked.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane smiled at him. "I have done little today besides sit in my bed my lord," she laughed. "I will not be tired for some time yet." She motioned at the dancers that could be seen in the main room. "We can move back in there, or stay here for a bit longer, listening to the music." She flushed a little. "I find myself unwilling to leave the festivities for my solitary apartment." ~Or to leave your side melindo.~ Even thinking the endearment deepened her blush. She looked at him, her eyes bright.

[Elfdaughter]

Sarna

She smiled at him. "I would, yes." When he offered his arm, she found herself whirled onto the crowded dancefloor. She thought she saw the Prince dancing with the lady Ithilidiel, but she could not be certain. The light was dim, and they had been dancing awfully close together. She smiled up at Haldir. "You dance well Marchwarden," she said.

"Thank you, my lady." Haldir smiled at Sarna. He pulled her closer as they began to waltz. "You dance beautifully also."

[Ladypain]

"Good." Glorfindel smiled brilliantly understanding he didn't want this night to end. "Let's move into another hall. We have being here too long." As they moved excited murmur caught his attention. "Lindir will sing in the Hall of Fire!" Someone exclaimed. Nearly all elves who were not dancing hurried there. Glorfindel pulled Eamane along without asking. Lindir was undoubtedly one of the most talented bards in Rivendell. Hearing him sing was a priviledge. The setting in the Hall of Fire was rearranged to have Lindir in the center of the room on a platform. The silver haired bard was playing nates preparing to sing while the crowd collected around him. Glorfindel managed to get to the front row when the elves moved out of the way seeing Eamane. He sat down on the floor next to her. Lindir looking over the crowd made an eye contanct with the Marchwarden and smiled wickedly, apparently pleased to see him. "What is he up to?" Glorfindel muttered.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

erestor looked around the Hall, looking for Elrond; not without some alarm, he noticed that neither the Prince of Mirkwood nor the Princesses of Lothlorien were in sight, either. What was worse,he was not the only one to have notice this absence; several elves came up to him, asking after their Lord. Erestor sighed, as he brushed some more of them away. His eye caught Glorfindel sitting by Eamane's side across the room and was about to go over to him ,when a voice echoed in the room.

"Lindir will sing in the Hall of Fire!"

Erestor smiled, relieved, as most of the elves moved towards the Hall, where the bard was already getting ready to sing; this would divert them and give him the time he needed to figure out where the Lord of Rivendell had disappeared off to...though he had a pretty good idea. Slowly, in his usual suave manner, he made to follow the crowd into the other room...when he saw Lady Daewen walk over to him, in her usual graceful manner. erestor could already see the question in her eyes, as he stood waiting for her to catch up.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Sarna

"Thank you, my lady." Haldir smiled at Sarna. He pulled her closer as they began to waltz. "You dance beautifully also."

It was only then that she realized they were waltzing. He pulled her closer and she was in his arms. Barely an inch separated them. Her feet remembered the steps from the last party she had attended, more than a hundred years ago. She looked at the smiling face of the Lorien Marchwarden and felt light-headed. Her smile did not falter, and her mind tried to convince her that her dizziness came from the dance itself as they took another turn around the floor. His eyes were such a clear blue. She tried to think of something to say. Something witty and bright, but could not. Years as a soldier had not taught her to flirt. Not that that was what she wanted to do. She felt the flush already a permanent resident in her cheeks deepen. So blue. She tried to turn her thoughts to what he and his men could do to hers, if it came to war. She stepped on his toes.

"Oh! Forgive my Lord Haldir," she exclaimed, embarassed down to her own toes. He would think her a clumsy oaf, not even fit for dancing. Where was her balance? The warrior's grace she knew she had?
**************************************************
Eamane

"Good." Glorfindel smiled brilliantly understanding he didn't want this night to end. "Let's move into another hall. We have being here too long."

Eamane smiled at him. Someone, she hadn't seen who hadmoved her chair into the anteroom. Glorfindel helped her into it and they started to move back into the main hall. As they did, a murmur ran through the crowd.

"Lindir will sing in the Hall of Fire!" Someone exclaimed. Nearly all elves who were not dancing hurried there. Glorfindel pulled Eamane along without asking.

She nearly laughed. This was surely going to be good. The Hall of Fire had already been rearranged. Most everyone moved out of the way of her chair and she ended up in the front row, quite close to Lindir. Glorfindel, with another brilliant smile ather, sat on the floor at her side. She did laugh then. He reminded her of an elfling waiting for a story. She looked around. They all did. She looked at Lindir. He was tuning his instrument, but then looked up and over the crowd. When his eyes lit on the Marchwarden, the bard smiled mischieviously.

"What is he up to?" Glorfindel muttered.

Eamane's eyes widened as he heard Glorfindel's comment. Lindir would ask Glorfindel to sing! She knew it as sure as she knew anything. Clearing her face carefully, she leaned down and smiled at Glorfindel. "He is a bard mellon nin. Who knows what is in his mind," she laughed. If he knew Lindir's plan, he would find some excuse to leave her, and avoid it.

[Ladypain]

The suspicion turned to certainty at this comment. Glorfindel began to search for excuse to leave when he remembered a promice to sing if necessary. "Would you like me to run or to perform?" He asked Eamane fixing his expression in a way that clearly showed he would rather hide in the crowd. Lindir however did not give him an opportunity to hide. "Citizen and guests of the fair city of Rivedell, tonight, we shall hear a ballad about the very first Summer Festival on Arda. The ballad requires two performers and Lord Glorfindel kindly volunteered his voice." Lindir quickly stepped off the stage and grabbed Glorfindel's arm pulling him along on the stage with him in one swift motion. Glorfindel smiled sweetly to gathered elves adding another name to his return the similar favor list. He was too clearly aware of Mirkwood and Lothlorien diplomates scrutinising his actions. The ballad was performed every year and he knew every word. He waited for Lindir to finish first couplet before carrying on the melody.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Would you like me to run or to perform?" He asked Eamane fixing his expression in a way that clearly showed he would rather hide in the crowd.

Eamane smiled at him still. "Running is not in your nature," she said softly. As it was Lindir gave him no chance.

"Citizen and guests of the fair city of Rivedell, tonight, we shall hear a ballad about the very first Summer Festival on Arda. The ballad requires two performers and Lord Glorfindel kindly volunteered his voice."

Eamane laughed softly at Lindir's choice of words. The bard pulled Glorfindel up on the stage. The Marchwarden smiled sweetly, but she could see his mind planning something for the bard later. She would have to distract him, or else tell him it had been her idea. Of course letting the bard in on that idea would be necessary. Her thoughts stopped completely as the ballad began. Lindir started, but when Glorfindel's voice joined his, the words came to life. For a moment she was lost in the song. Lost in his voice. She knew that the others would shift their eyes from one singer to the other as the song was passed between them, but her green-grey gaze never left the Marchwarden. She could not look away. Her lips still smiled, but she could feel herself falling ever deeper for him. She seemed to love him more with every passing day.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel did his best to match Lindir. He briefly looked over the audience checking who was present or perhaps for a sign of trouble until he stopped on Eamane. Many were watching, yet he was singing for her only. He avoided staring at her all the time avoiding to give ternous tongues more to gossip about but he thought about her.

When the melody ended Glorfindel elegantly bowed to the audience. He raised his hand to get their attention. "I would like to thank Lindir for sharing his talent with us tonight. He had not performed over several past years and we missed hearing his voice. Although I volunteered to accompany him with the first ballad he had kindly volunteered to make up for all that time he did not perform and will entertain this wonderful audience with at least several more songs." Loud applause filled the Hall. Lindir almost flinched at the 'kind volunteering' which he was not planning to do. Glorfindel quickly removed himself from the stage leaving the bard with excited audience.

[EamaneSilimaure]

He met her eyes only once throughout the song, but whether she imagined it or not, it seemed he sang for her. His eyes were a clear blue, with some undefinable emotion in them when he looked at her. She shook her head and smiled wryly as he neatly trapped Lindir into singing for several hours.The Marchwarden slipped from the stage to come to her side amid applause.

"That was wonderful," she managed, looking up at him. Her throat had gone dry as dust. He was so beautiful.

[Aletheia]

Daewen watched the festivities from her seat ammong the shadows, her cat-like eyes not missing even the slightest detail. It had been some time since she had seen either the foreign ambassadors or the Lord of Imladris, not to mention the simpering Eamane and her beloved marchwarden.
~Good Ridance to the lot of them!~ she thought bitterly, her eyes aglow with a cold black malice. Yet as a dignitary, she had certain responsibilities that she must at least pretend to attend to, even if just for appearance's sake.
Elegantly, she rose from her place among the dusky corners and made her way towards Erestor, who stod prepared to folow the others out of the room.
She caught his eye and motioned silently for him to remain behind.

"My Lady," Erestor said, bowing low as he placed a kiss on her offered hand, "What can I do for you?"

"You can tell me what has happened to our lord, and the plans for the gift-giving. Where are all our fine guests?"

Erestor frowned, avoiding the Daewen's gaze. The lady counselor was a most efficiant hostess; surely she would never have allowed things to get even the slightest bit out of hand. Yet he stood tall before her as he answered,

"I regret to say that, to my knowledge, they have all retired early."

Daewen's eyes narrowed, but her voice lost none of its honey-sweetness.
"Then you mean to say that you do not know where they are, or when they left. And the gift-giving, what of that? If those who were meant to be the recipiants are no longer wih us, then it cannot take place. "
She mused silently for a moment, he eyes boring into Erestor's as she tried to dicefer the extent of his knowledge.
"I can see that you know little of this matter. Pity, for it was your duty as host to see to such things. Yet I think I should have assisted you," she said, the ebony darkness of her eyes cooling to a milky green. Yet she would not be connented so easily; there must be something of merit that he knew. About to question him further, Daewen motioned for him to follow her out to the terrace, but she was interupted by a dour-looking Altenen.

"My lady, if I could have a word," Altenen asked.

"Actually, Lady Daewen and I were just parting," Erestor quickly said, "So I will hand her most pleasurable company over to you." Erestor smiled and bid his farewell before he nearly flew after the rest of the party.

"Fool," Daewen muttered under her breath as she watvhed him escape. Then she turned an icey stare back to Altenen, a cold furry welling up inside her.

"But here is the greater fool. Idiot! All of Imladris will be talking of your lies! What demon possed you with such maddness! Once before I warned you, and I shall warn you again. If your folly puts me or my plans in jepoardy, I will not hesitate to slit your throat. And I shall relish spilling your blood as I have no others. Is that clear?"

Altenen glared back at her, hatred evident in his eyes. Yet she read fear there also.
~Good~ Daewen thought, moving closer to him as she gripped his chin in her hands, the long fingernails digging into the soft flesh like the talons of a fell bird.
"Do I frighten you, Altenen? For I should; all should fear me, and all shall, in due time. Do not try to stop this, my puppet, you cannot change what the gods have fated. What Morgoth has desined."
She relaesed him, smiling maliciously with a cruel beauty, radiating the power she said she had. Anyone who had seen her at that moment who have believed every word that fell from her lips.

"Go Altenen, go and find what has become of our guests, and of our lord. Report back to me everything you find, and I will spare your life. Perhaps I shall even reward you with her."

Altenen started, suprised at Daewen's bold offer. Then an evil smile crept across his lips as he nodded his agreement and walked away into the blackness of the night.

Daewen watched him go, distrustful of his loyalty to her. He was a fool and would doubtless need to be taken care of before the end. Soft music fell upon her ears and she stilled, listening to the strains as the made their melodious course. Perhaps she would join the party after all.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel came to sit beside Eamane again. That was wonderful," she managed. He needed no better praise as he involuntarily smiled. "Thank you." Lindir send ungreatful look their way. Several was not a fixed number of songs and he knew audience would demand more than less. "Hopefully his voice will last until the night ends." Glorfindel smiled wickedly at Lindir and settled to enjoy the music.

"Lord Glorfindel a word please." Quiet voice reached him before Lindir began to sing again. The Marchwarden recognised the voice before he faced the councillor. "Eamane, I should be back shortly." He said and stood to follow Erestor out of the crowd. The councillor didn't seem to want others to hear what he had to say. Behind the somber facade Glorfindel caught distress in advisor's dark eyes. "I was asked several times within past hour the wareabouts of Lord Elrond. I understand he must have retired however his presence would sooth the guests who are searching for him." Glofindel took pity on the advisor who could not leave the festival. "I will try to find him for you." ~Don't worry, everything if fine.~ He didn't dare to add reading gratitude in brown eyes.

The Marchwarden first went to the Lord's private chambers. Partially he was worried for Elrond's well being and partially frustrated because Elrond left them to survive alone against Rivendell's visitors. He knocked softly on the chamber door receiving no answer. Sometimes Elrond would be lost in work ignoring everything else. Glorfindel cautiously turned the handle to peek inside. "Lord Elrond?" He leaned on the door frame released from a nasty grip around his heart at the magical sight of two elves sleeping by a fireplace. He stealthily backed from the entrance to leave when dark eyelashes fluttered open and grey eyes first unfixed quickly filled with recognition. Glorfindel had no choice but to step back into the room. He wondered how to explain his presence in the chamber without making a sound because Lady Celebrian was still asleep.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

((OOC: :whoohoo:I'm tagged!!))

Elrond's hand rested on Celebrian's back, as her head still nestled on his chest and her arms were spread out around his neck; the warmth of her body against his own, the sheer joy of holding her made him feel more relaxed than he had been in longer than he could remember.He thought he heard the door to his chambers open, somewhere between sleep and wakefulness, but he had a hard time opening his eyes. He did, though, sluggishly and was able to see someone...leaving his room, or at least, trying to, as quietly as he could. A single spark of recognition lit up in his mind, moments before his eyes, still dazed from sleep, focused to verify the notion in his mind:it was Glorfindel.

The Marchwarden seemed to stop in his tracks, as Elrond looked over at him; his thought was clear enough now to perceive the scene as his old friend saw it:the Lord of Rivendell, sleeping with the princess of Lothlorien in his arms. His heart sank a little; he carefully removed Celebrian's arms from around him, trying not to wake her and feeling sorry to be released from her embrace. Lithely- and ignoring a new pang of pain somewhere on his ribs, as he stood up abruptly-he got up and moved across the room, towards Glorfindel, who still stood by the door, more than apparently wishing he was anywhere but there. Bypassing the Marchwarden-and fully aware of the fact that he was flushing, as well as Glorfindel himself-he shut the door quietly. Silently, he motioned Glorfindel to follow him, into the small study he used when he did not want to be found; he cast one tender look at Celebrian, still fast asleep by the fire, before closing the door, behind them; then, he turned at Glorfindel.

"What are you doing here?"he asked, not bothering to conceal his embarrassment.

[Ladypain]

"Lord Erestor is also likely to come here soon, unless you chose to return to your Host duty. The guests and our advisors are looking for you. Hopefully their business is not urgent enough to track you to the private chambers. As a friend I would like nothing better than to leave you here however as an advisor I must say you should show up to present gifts to Lady Ithildiel and speak to whoever was looking for you." Glorfindel despised having to say what he had to. He pushed away other invading thoughts that finding Celebrian in his friend's arms brings them a lot closer to taking a side in the possible war.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond barely listened to Glorfindel's words; his eyes drifted towards the window...dawn was but a couple of hours away, he thought, and wondered how long he had been asleep for. His heart warmed up at the thought of Celebrian, still sleeping in the next room and the time they had spent together at last. Glorfindel frowned and Elrond diverted his attention back to the Marchwarden, feeling him watching him uneasily. He knew what Glorfindel was thinking...the same thought was creeping in his mind now that he was fully awake; he and Celebrian...that might lead Rivendell right into the middle of the war he had been trying to veer his realm away from for months now.

He avoided looking at Glorfindel, for a while. "Well, that should tell you a little something about our parties", he sought to jest. "Guests of honour try to run away from them...I do not recall seeing Princess Ithildiel or Prince Legolas at the feast before I left, were they there when you came to find me?And is Erestor really coming over here?" he added, a little nervously. He avoided mentioning Celebrian, though he knew he would not avoid questions, now that they had been seen.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane's heart skipped a beat when he smiled at her. "Thank you," He took his former seat at her side and his smile turned wicked. "Hopefully his voice will last until the night ends."

"He's a bard. It will last as long as he needs it to," Eamane murmured, settling to enjoy the music. When Glorfindel was called away she sighed. "Eamane, I should be back shortly." She looked up at the councilor's face. ~No, I don't think you will.~ They moved through the crowd together. Eamane turned her attention back to Lindir. Her mind was not on the music however. She wondered what could have made Erestor so concerned.Then she knew. Legolas and Ithildiel had most probably disappeared together. She knew Elrond and Celebrian had already retired for the night. She hoped they had found some peace in sleep at least.

The crowd was less of a crush around her when she looked up. Everyone looked tired and happy. Although she could see a few of the dreaded ambassadors looking annoyed. Perhaps they had wanted to press their points to Elrond during the festival, and he had made himself unavailable. She forced herself to smile at them. Someone brought Lindir a glass of wine. He sighed and she heard him mutter something about the Marchwarden. It seemed the festival was breaking up. The sky was lightening with the coming dawn.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

They had been sitting together for a few hours, talking and holding each other and it seemed indeed that time, heeding her pleads, had decided to stand still, Ithildiel was thinking,when she noticed the stars overhead were slowly fading.Dawn was drawing near;Ithildiel sighed, as she pushed herself away from Legolas. They had been sitting cuddled together most of the night.

"We should be getting ready to go back, meleth nin", she said softly, kissing his lips lightly. "I'll be amazed if there isn't the whole of Rivendell looking for us by now...not to mention our escorts..." She paused, already picturing the look on Haldir's face when he found her; she'd be surprised if he did not send her to Lothlorien this very day, and by force if necessary.

[Charmander]

The night had spilled into morning as they sat together. Legolas had memorised every line of her body as he held her in his arms. He had not known such peace until that moment.

Ithildiel stirred, putting her hands on his chest and lifting herself away from him. He put his hands over hers as she said, 'We should be getting ready to go back, meleth nin. I'll be amazed if there isn't the whole of Rivendell looking for us by now...not to mention our escorts...'

She kissed him softly as she spoke, then her eyes wandered. He could only imagine what both Sarna and Haldir would have to say. He wanted to wrap his arms around her but knew they needed to be getting back. As he got up he helped her up, 'I am afraid you are right my princess.' He kissed her softly and continued, 'We should head back before our absence is noticed.' He kissed her again, not wanting to have them parted, but pulled away suddenly, 'Speaking of absences, I wonder how your cousin is faring?'

************************************************** ********

Thranduril was glad to be back in Mirkwood. He had sent a servant to wait on Thalion as he healed, they had been back a day since their trip to the Dunadain fort. Much had been learned there, but the price was great.

He went into his study when a servant knocked on the door. Letters had arrived, from his son and Cpt. Sarna. He was greatly relieved to hear that both were in Imladris. He opened the letters hastily and quickly scanned them. It appeared that his letters had not arrived, as both only confirmed they were safely in Imladris. No news on whether Sarna was kidnapping the princesses, as yet. He ordered his manservant to check on Thalion, if the advisor was well, he wanted him to see these letters.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I am afraid you are right my princess.' He kissed her softly and continued, 'We should head back before our absence is noticed

"I'm guessing that, unless the festival held out till now, our absence will surely have been noticed", she smiled, as he leant towards her to kiss her again and she wrapped her arms around his shoulders. He broke off their kiss abruptly.

'Speaking of absences, I wonder how your cousin is faring?'he asked worriedly.Ithildiel's heart sank. "I...she must be so worried for me, if she has woken up..."She wondered if her cousin had slept a wink, deep in her sorrow as she was. "Let's go", she added, half-heartedly, though she was worried more with each step back they took.

[Charmander]

Legolas was surprised that she seemed to have almost forgotten her cousin in their night-long embrace. She replied, 'I...she must be so worried for me, if she has woken up...'

He took her hand in his and kissed her softly on the cheek as he led her back to the area of festivity. He spoke quietly as they reached a congregation of elves, 'I wonder if we missed anything interesting? Is this not the second event in Imladris where our presence has been lacking?' He smiled at her mischeviously as she tried to create some distance between them.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I wonder if we missed anything interesting? Is this not the second event in Imladris where our presence has been lacking?'

Ithildiel tried to walk a few paces away from him, but he kept closing the distance between them; luckily, none of the elves they met along the way, as they drew near to the Great Hall again seemed to notice this mild lack of appropriacy."I don't think we missed anything important", she replied mechanically almost. She felt the guilt well up in her heart; she had been so absorbed with spending time with Legolas, she had left Celebrian all alone...all night. In the condition her cousin was in, that behaviour was inexcusable. It seemed the celebration was over, she thought abstractedly, as she and Legolas made their way through the crowd returningto their homes for some much needed sleep. She paused, just at the doors of the Hall. "I can't believe I left Cele all alone", she sighed, catching her breath, her eyes darkened with remorse andthe hint of oncoming tears at her unusual thoughtlessness.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel continued to try to keep him at arms length as she replied, 'I don't think we missed anything important.' Her voice was monotone. Legolas tried to catch her eyes, but they seemed almost vacant. As they reached the doors to the great hall, she turned to him with tears welling up in her eyes and said, 'I can't believe I left Cele all alone.'

He noticed there were far less elves around than before, none taking notice of their stature, if not their actions. 'Ithildiel,' he said her name quietly as he took her hands in his, 'I am sure she has fallen asleep, and is not as grieved as we may believe.' He leaned forward and kissed her forehead, hoping he could ease her heart.

[Aletheia]

Thalion sat propped up against the cushioned devan that sat in balconied room overlooking Mirkwood. It was the finest room in all of the healer's wards, and Thalion was enjoying his time there. A few paces off, a young elf maid prepared a meal for him, ready to wait on his every need and fancy.
Thalion chuckled to himself, perhaps he should have made mock-assasinations his lifelong trade of this was the reward one got for them!

A hesitant knock against the door made him turn his head to face the entryway. Already the maiden had opened the door and was ushering in one of Thranduril's men.

"My Lord Thalion," he said, bowing slightly, "If you are well enough, the King asks that you review these letters."

The elfman placed two peices of parchmant in Thalion's broad hand before he turned abrubtly and let himself out.

"You may go," Thalion said, nodding to the elf maid, "Come back later."
The girl smiled knowingly and rose to leave, almost collding with Thranduril as she opened the door.

"My Lord, forgive me," the elf maid stammered as she hurried away and out of the King's path.

Thalion smiled at the king's ammused face, tapping the letters against his open palm.

"So your son and the captain send word, for I assume that is what these letters contian?" Thalilion asked, calmly opening the letters and leafing through them as Thranduril took a seat.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Ithildiel,' he said her name quietly as he took her hands in his, 'I am sure she has fallen asleep, and is not as grieved as we may believe.

His quiet tone was soothing and Ithildiel felt an irresistable impulse to hug him, as he kissed her forehead, seeking to soothe her. she did not, though; she glanced around them, a little anxiously, to notice, not without relief, there were few who would notice them about...and none looking towards them. "She is more grieved than you know", she whispered numbly. "and I know for a fact she has not slept this night...she has probably spent the whole night crying, meleth nin", she added. She started to walk towards the guest house again, but paused. "You should probably go back to your quarters, as well", she said, reluctant still to be separated from him."We cannot be seen together..."she sighed. She was wishing he could walk with her home, but that...might get the both of them in more trouble than she already felt they were in.

[Charmander]

Thranduril tried to be patient in his quarters, but instead followed the servant to the healing wards. The wards were across the compound of the king's estate, just close enough for him to visit at a moments notice. The light of the morning sun was just peaking over the mountians as the servant entered the wards. Thranduril strode towards the ward, acknowledging all those that bowed before the king.

He stepped through the doorway and made his way towards the wards, walking into Thalion's room. A young elf maid did not see the king, engaged as she was in her work and ran headlong into the king. He was taller than she was and he smiled at her as she flushed and muttered an apology before making a hasty exit.

Thranduril was relieved to see Thalion looking greatly recovered. Thalion nodded at the king and said, 'So your son and the captain send word, for I assume that is what these letters contian?'

Thranduril nodded and sat down across from the bed Thalion lay upon. He replied, 'Yes, it would seem that both have arrived safely in Imladris. More of importance is that our latest letters have not been received by Cpt. Sarna. I do not think there is any way to hasten these news from arriving. My only hope now lies with her ability to get the princesses and bring them here.'

************************************************** ********

Ithildiel still seemed deeply distraught, 'She is more grieved than you know and I know for a fact she has not slept this night...she has probably spent the whole night crying, meleth nin. You should probably go back to your quarters, as well. We cannot be seen together...'

Legolas watched her start to walk towards the guest houses. He knew she was right, but he did not want to leave her in such a state. He fell in step next to her and said, 'I can not allow you to go unescorted around Imldaris, that would be improper.'

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'I can not allow you to go unescorted around Imldaris, that would be improper.'

Ithildiel cast him a grateful and tender look, as she took his arm. "I think when it comes to the two of us and, given the current situation between our realms, being seen even walking together might be considered more inappropriate than anything else", she sighed. She tightened her grip on his arm a little, as they walked swiftly. "But I care not for that; I'm glad...you're with me now", she said, her mind still on Celebrian; the way back to the guest house seemed to be several miles long right now.

[Charmander]

Ithildiel took the arm Legolas offered and said, 'I think when it comes to the two of us and, given the current situation between our realms, being seen even walking together might be considered more inappropriate than anything else.'

She tightened her grip on his arm and he pulled her closer as she said, 'But I care not for that; I'm glad...you're with me now.'

Legolas kept their pace slow as they walked, not wanting to have their evening ended. He worried after Celebrian, what could make her so distressed that she would be grieving? He wanted to ask her, but she seemed far too distressed to be provoked with needless questions. He would ask when things were more calm, if ever there would be such a time. There were more elves about near their guest houses and he stopped where he hoped unfriendly eyes would not see them clearly. He leaned forward and kissed her softly, not wanting to be deprived of her taste and scent. He pulled away slowly and said, 'Princess, I would not want to be parted with you at any point, but your guest house is only a small distance away, and your Lorein guards are there as well.'

[Ladypain]

Well, that should tell you a little something about our parties", he sought to jest. "Guests of honour try to run away from them...I do not recall seeing Princess Ithildiel or Prince Legolas at the feast before I left, were they there when you came to find me?And is Erestor really coming over here?"

"It is good to see you back to the wry humor." Glofindel chuckled as both of them overcame initial embarassment. "Stay here long enough and they all will come here. I don't see any reason for you to go back either. The dawn is two hours away and the celebration is nearly over. Although I doubt this was a very good night for Lord Erestor." There was no reason to argue for them over the issue. Glorfindel simply waited or Elrond to make up his mind. His friend undoubtedly wanted to return to Celebrian. The Marchwarden regarded the upcoming dawn sadly because it meant he would soon need to walk Eamane home.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"Stay here long enough and they all will come here. I don't see any reason for you to go back either. The dawn is two hours away and the celebration is nearly over. Although I doubt this was a very good night for Lord Erestor."

Elrond found he could breathe again; the feeling of mutual discomfort between them was lifted all of a sudden. "Well, I was in no mood for attending in the first place", Elrond said innocently, fixing his eyes into the Marchwarden's bright blue eyes; Glorfindel shrugged, feigning ignorance. "I was not planning to return either...especially now", he added, his thought drifting off to the maiden still asleep in the next room. "And I'm sure that Erestor, first and foremost, will come looking for me; he did send you to find me, did he not?I bet he did not have a good night", he sighed, knowing that it was most likely Erestor had been plagued with questions regarding the whereabouts of the Lord of Rivendell all evening...and that, of course, meant he would not be in a very good mood today. He smiled abstractedly, as he registered the Marchwarden's thought was drifting off, as well; he caught an image of Eamane in his friend's mind. "I hope you at least escorted Eamane back to her quarters before coming after me", he sighed, pretending to be worried.In truth, he felt as if not even war itself had the power to worry him today.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel quickly snapped out of the daydreaming at the mention of Eamane. "I asked her earlier whether she wanted to go home. She declined. I left her in the Hall of Fire listening to Lindir's performance." Wicked smile flashed aross his lips. "It was a long night." He was still looking outside where scatered light was slowly gathering behind the windows as the morning came nearer. The Marchwarden felt like his body was filled with lead. He was tired just thinking about the honored guests never mind dealing with them. "Elrond, today before the festival a report came in. There is a group of orcs wondering close to our borders without entering the territory. A group was dispatched to leave today past afternoon to deal with them. It might take a day or two to track these orcs and I would like to go with them." He questionaly looked at the elf-Lord.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"I asked her earlier whether she wanted to go home. She declined. I left her in the Hall of Fire listening to Lindir's performance."

A little wicked flare passed over the Marchwarden's eyes at the mention of the bard and Elrond was about to ask...but decided he had no wish to know.

"It was a long night."

"For all of us, I think...and you look just about ready to collapse", said Elrond, suddenly feeling a little guilty for making glorfindel and Erestor take the full weight of his feast upon their shoulders. He was about to suggest the Marchwarden to go to sleep, when Glorfindel spoke again.

"Elrond, today before the festival a report came in. There is a group of orcs wondering close to our borders without entering the territory. A group was dispatched to leave today past afternoon to deal with them. It might take a day or two to track these orcs and I would like to go with them."

Elrond thought of arguing the point of the Marchwarden of Rivendell leaving the realm, even for a few days, but he decided not to; Glorfindel was one of the best trackers...and the party would need his fighting skills as well. "As you wish, my friend; but I shall insist you get some rest before going on a hunt.If you do not rest, it would go against all my values as a healer to let you go", he said sternly.

[Ladypain]

"In that case I will ask Eamane whether she would like leave with me or with someone else and get some rest." Said Glorfindel already planing the hunt, his thoughts far away. He forgot to suggest taking Lady Celebrian back to her guest house before someone missed her.

Erestor approached him as soon as Glorfindel entered the Halld of Fire. The Marchwarden shook his head negatively. "Lord Elrond was already asleep when I disturbed him." He said neutrally hopeful to avoid farther questioning. The crowd much scattered during his absense, most of the ambassadors left. "It does not matter anymore." Erestor sighed and it was difficult to tell whether he was upset with the behaviour of the Rivendell's ruler or relieved that the night was coming to an end. "I'm sorry you were left to deal with this." Erestor did not answer and Glorfindel left him as he felt Eamane looking at him. Lindir had finally finished the singing and escaped the remaining elves. He said nothing passing the Marchwarden apparently too tired to say anything. Glorfindel quickly reached Eamane. "Did you enjoy Lindir's preformance?" He asked. He learned long ago she knew when not to ask questions when necessary.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"Did you enjoy Lindir's preformance?" He asked.

Eamane studied his face for a moment. Something had happened. She smiled at him, knowing that if he wished, he would tell her. "I did, yes." She waved a hand at the swiftly departing elf. "I imagine he won't be singing in the next few days however." Her eyes laughed at him. He seemed distracted however. It seemed he was lost to her already. "I suppose since the festival is over, then we must return to our homes," she said softly and not without regret.

[Ladypain]

Glrofindel was thankful she asked to leave. He could not bring up this question the second time. Majority of the elves had laready left as Glorfindel took Eamane through the gardens. Mainly those who left were young couples cuddling to each other. "It will be a busy day for you when a crowd of patients with hangovers comes running to the healing wards to lessen their headiche." He told her.

[EamaneSilimaure]

As he pushed her chair through the gardens, Eamane could not help but notice that most of the elves still out and about were young couples, waiting to watch the sun rise together. She felt a small pang at the knowledge, but didn't mention it.

"It will be a busy day for you when a crowd of patients with hangovers comes running to the healing wards to lessen their headiche." He told her.

Eamane laughed softly. "I'm sure you are right. Such is always the case after the Summer Festival. Though there are few who will come to my home for such remedies. Most will go to the ward, and my people can handle that." She shook her head a little. "They are being tested this week. To see if they can handle things without me. I imagine Orecalo and his brother will want their own wards soon." She sighed. She would be sad to lose their fine hands at her own wards. "Ah, perhaps they will not leave just yet." She could not stay unhappy tonight. It just did not seem right. She looked over her shoulder at him. "What are your plans for this day mellon nin?"

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Glorfindel left hastily and Elrond could not help but wonder if the Marchwarden was indeed going to rest. He locked the door after Glorfindel had left; he did not wish for anyone else to walk into his quarters unsought for. He silently walked over to the fireplace, where Celebrian still lay deep in sleep; the firelight touched her delicate features in a way that made them more ethereal than ever before; she looked so peaceful as she slept, he thought, softly pushing a silken lock of hair away from her eyes, as he knelt beside her.He knew he had to wake her up soon, before she was missed, but found he could not; he did not wish to let her go.

[Ladypain]

Glrofindel
What are your plans for this day mellon nin?"

A pang of guilt touched him. Riding out with partrols and scouting for orcs was the Marchwadens duty yet this time he welcomed the opportunity to simply escape the city. Glorfindel asked himself whether he would have gone if there were no pasky ambassadors in Rivendell. The answer, it would have depended on the situation was hardly comforting. "I'm leaving with one of the partrols and trackers to scout outside the Rivendell's borders. Strange orc behavious was reported there. We should be done in a few days." He could tell this confession didn't help at all in balancing Eamane's mood towards happy. "Don't worry, I will bring everyone back in one piece." The Marchwarden sounded a lot more confident than he felt.

*******
Celebrian

Celebrian lazily half-opened her eyes confused. For the first time in many nights she was warm and gained some good night sleep. Where was she? Celebrian turned her head away from the fire that was hurting the sleep sensetive eyes. She slowly looked around the room as awareness slowly sipped back into her until her sight stopped on another occupant of the room. Celebrian brushed her hand across the face chasing away illusions but Elrond did not dissappear. "What happened?" She asked feeling like cuddling up and sleeping for few more hours ghosts or no ghosts.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"It seems we both fell asleep by the fire", Elrond said softly, as he kissed her forehead lightly, pushing another unruly lock of hair away from her face. He did not mention Glorfindel's visit for fear of upsetting her. "And if I dare say this, my love...it has been a while since I slept as soundly as I did in your arms tonight", he added, a charming smile coming to illuminate his face. "I almost wish morning had not come", he added, as he sat by her side again, drawing her close to him.

[Ladypain]

He kissed her forehead and then smiled so charmingly it was like stars radiated bright light from within him. "There will be other nights." She whispered drawing into the embrace. "I need not go yet." Celebrian brushed his lips lightly. She knew she had to leave before someone found out that she was missing. Ithildiel had no idea where she was and she would needlessly worry. Not to mention Haldir would never let her out of his sight again, not without a heavily armed escort.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"There will be other nights." "I need not go yet."

She made herself perfectly snug in his arms and Elrond felt calmer than he had in a very long time. "No, you need not go yet", he agreed, kissing her hair, as she was, once again, nestled in his embrace. "It is too early in the morning for you to go", he added, though he knew it was this early that she had to go, ere Rivendell stirred from the deep sleep that would follow the all night activities. "And we must get you something to wear ere you leave", he smiled teasingly; if it were up to him, she would just stay here, with him, dressed in his own robes for the entire day...and longer.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane

"I'm leaving with one of the partrols and trackers to scout outside the Rivendell's borders. Strange orc behavious was reported there. We should be done in a few days."

Eamane felt fear prick at her heart. She held onto her calm with a little effort. This was his job after all. Were she to panic every time he went out on patrol, there would be little left of her life. All she could do was be there when he returned, to heal any hurts he, or others, may have gained. Still, she worried.

"Don't worry, I will bring everyone back in one piece."

~As long as you bring yourself back whole~ she though but did not say. What she did was nod and smile a little. "You do that my lord," Her smile turned wry. "I'll not be on my feet to aid you for another day at the soonest." She knew that he would see her worry, but hoped to ease his mind. He had more important things to think about if he would be patrolling. "I hope you plan to rest before you go," she added.
********************************************
Sarna and Haldir ((OOC: We have to move them along to keep the rp going. Sorry ED!! :blush: ))

"Oh! Forgive my Lord Haldir," she exclaimed, embarassed down to her own toes. He would think her a clumsy oaf, not even fit for dancing. Where was her balance? The warrior's grace she knew she had?

Haldir barely noticed that she had stepped on his foot, until she apologized. His eyes were too dazzled by hers. "There is nothing to forgive my lady, 'twas a mis-step on my part as well," he assured her, smiling. "There has not been much call for dancing in the Golden Wood of late." Then he could have cursed himself. Bringing their troubles into this could ruin it.

Sarna blinked at him, and the blush in her cheeks faded a little. Her blue eyes clouded for just a moment. "Nor in Mirkwood my lord Haldir," she said softly. The music ended. "Might we get something to drink?"

"Of course Lady Sarnatelme," Haldir replied. He offered her his arm to lead her from the dance floor as the next song began.

More than she could let herself believe, she wanted to give him leave to call her Sarna. It was there, on the tip of her tongue. But he had reminded her that she was there for a purpose. A friendship with this elf might aid her purpose, but it also went against her sense of honor. Another, more ambitious soldier would cultivate his interest, hoping to gain access to the princesses through it. She... she could not bring herself to mention them. Not just now. She smiled at Haldir as he offered her a glass of wine. She sipped it without asking, only then discovering that it was a Lorien vintage. Her eyebrows went up in surprise, but she kept her smile. It was lighter than she was used to, but had a good flavor. "Thank you my lord," she murmured.

Haldir smiled, absurdly pleased that she approved his choice. His eyes scanned the crowded room for his charges out of habit. Neither one was in sight. He frowned slightly, looking towards the door. Sarna followed his gaze in time to spot Legolas, walking with the Lady Ithildiel out into the gardens. "Excuse me my lady," the Marchwarden of Lothlorien began.

"I was wondering my lord," Sarna interrupted. "What are your duties in Lothlorien? You are a Marchwarden, I know, but what does that entail? We have no such position in Mirkwood." She would find out what Legolas was up to later. Without Lord Haldir in attendance. As for said lord, she did not want to see him go.

Haldir looked back at the Lady Sarnatelme. She was smiling curiously at him. He tucked his worry away. Surely nothing could happen to them on this night of nights. Everyone was here, and if they were not, then they were home, in bed at this hour. "Well my lady, my duties include the protection of the realm and those..."
~~~~~~~~~~Time passes~~~~~~~~~

An excited murmur ran through the crowd. Apparently there was to be singing. Sarna bit back her next question. If she was not careful he might find the knowledge she sought was too specific for idle curiousity. "It seems that though we have no one with your position my lord, there are those with your duties. I believe the Prince may have most of them himself as a matter of fact. The others are performed by our captains. But such is not a proper topic for a festival. Let us go with the rest to hear the singing," Sarna suggested.

Haldir nodded, smiling. He wondered suddenly how he could have spoken of himself for so long. And how much he had told her. Her questions had been carefully timed, and had been quite logical. She seemed genuinely interested in the workings of his post. He was glad to hear that Prince Legolas had similar responsibilities. To cover that relief he said, "I have heard that the bards of Rivendell are superb."

They joined the rest of the clamoring elves in time to see Lord Glorfindel himself pulled onto the stage. To Sarna's surprise he sang, and sang beautifully of the first Summer Festival of Arda. Shortly after that he was called away. But the singing continued until near dawn.

[Aletheia]

Thalion
_______________
'Yes, it would seem that both have arrived safely in Imladris. More of importance is that our latest letters have not been received by Cpt. Sarna. I do not think there is any way to hasten these news from arriving. My only hope now lies with her ability to get the princesses and bring them here.'

Thalion pulled himself into a sitting position so as to be able to face the King without looking up. He grimaced, for though the injury no longer pained him he still sought to elongate the deception, reminding the king of his heroic rescue attempt.

“I am sure the letters will arrive any day now, my lord,” he said, “And I think the captain has enough sense to carry out her duties. The princesses will be taken hostage, of that I am confident.”

With Daewen keeping such a close eye on things in Rivendell, how could he not be confident? The elf witch always got her way, and no one dared cross it.

[Charmander]

Thalion eased himself into a sitting position and a grimace crossed his face as he responded, 'I am sure the letters will arrive any day now, my lord. And I think the captain has enough sense to carry out her duties. The princesses will be taken hostage, of that I am confident.'

Thranduril stood, not wanting Thalion to expend too much energy, 'Your words are of great comfort, mellon nin. I think you are correct, when Cpt. Sarna receives the letters she will do my bidding, she has never failed Mirkwood and I daresay she never will. Please, I should not have disturbed you, rest now, I will come and check in on you later.'

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel

I hope you plan to rest before you go," she added.
Eamane was obviously concerned as a healer and briefly Glorfindel felt she cared even more about him. Perhaps he imagined it, yet it was too important to give up on the thought. He felt like a sunshine has entered his heart to stay there. "I will rest as soon as you are resting." When they reached Eamane's home Glorfindel questionably looked at her receiving the awaiting look back. He forgot to give her the keys when they left as well as as they discovered soon he also forgot to lock the door. "Everyone was too busy with the festival to pay any malicious visits." He said in a form of appology. This didn't prevent him from entering the house first and lighting the lamps making sure no one was there. The elven city was mainly safe but not all visitors to it were trustworthy. "Do you need help with anything?" He asked bringing Eamane back to her bedroom. He remembered she had trouble with the dress but somehow was shy to offer that help again.

**********
Celebrian

And we must get you something to wear ere you leave", he smiled teasingly Celebrian reached upwards to kiss his brow but the movement upset the balance and she missed kissing his nose instead. "I didn't notice you owned any maiden garments unless you have a collection hidden under you bed from previous visitors." She teased him. The imagined picture made her jealous and Celebrian laughed embarrased. She cuddled her head under his chin so he could not see her face.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"I will rest as soon as you are resting."

Eamane nodded, though she still worried. When the reached her home, she realised he had never returned her keys and looked at him expectantly. At the same time, he was looking at her to open the door. Her mouth quirked into a grin as he recalled that he had her keys. He was so cute when he was embarassed. He reached for the door to unlock it but found it already unlocked. It seemed he had forgotten to lock it as well. She raised an eyebrow at him.

"Everyone was too busy with the festival to pay any malicious visits." He said in a form of appology.

She nodded. There was only one person who would have the inclination to do so anyway, and the Lady Councilor had been at the festival. Not many people held any ill feelings for the healer. Still Glorfindel entered first, checking the rooms and lighting the lamps before moving her chair inside. She watched him, her gaze as warm as she dared.

"Do you need help with anything?" He asked bringing Eamane back to her bedroom.

She was about to say no, that Ninde would help her, but the maid was quite obviously not present. "Well I," she began. She flushed a little. She could not sleep in the gown and there was no telling when Ninde would return. "I would have thought Ninde would be here, but I did not ask her to be, and she is probably home, or at the festival still." She looked up at him, cheeks flushed a deep rose. "I... the buttons, please." she murmured. She kept her eyes on his face, waiting. She was asking him to undress her. Her heartbeat quickened just a little. It occured to her that she would need a nightdress from the dresser, but she could not send him on a fetch and carry mission. Not after he had pushed around the festival, even refusing dances with other maidens, to remain by her side.

[Ladypain]

Eamane mumbled uneasily blushing which made him blush as well. Embarassment however was not something he experienced too sharply nor too long. Glorfindel pictured them staring at each other blushing like two silly elflings. He broke into amused grin. "It's all Beliwedat's fault. I confess what he said made me uncomfortable as ridiculous as it is." He easily placed Eamane near the clothing drawer. "There, find a nightgown or whatever you sleep in." He had no intentention looking through her night clothes. She was still blushing. Undoing the buttons was easier. "Don't worry I won't take advantage." He said in a light tone trying to make her feel easier about the situation. That unfortunately had different effect. Eamane stiffened and he could see her upset reflection in the mirror that erased his smile. He thought he understood why she felt as she did. He turned her to face him. "Eamane, I'm sorry. I was not laughing at you. It was aimed at myself because I act like a fool recently. It must be frusterating asking someone for help like this. Please don't feel bad." Glorfindel felt awful knowing he upset her.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

"I didn't notice you owned any maiden garments unless you have a collection hidden under you bed from previous visitors."

Elrond sensed the jealousy behind the seeming light tease in her voice and he smiled, unable to resist the temptation to tease her in his turn. "I had never thought of that", he said, pretending to be surprised. "We might take a look...see if we can find something there". Celebrian frowned; he kissed her neck, a little apologetically. "Though I have not had that many...visitors in there", he added, hearing her almost sigh with relief.

[EamaneSilimaure]

"It's all Beliwedat's fault. I confess what he said made me uncomfortable as ridiculous as it is."

She forced a smile, not letting him see that her heart bled. Was it really so ridiculous an idea? she wanted to ask, but didn't dare. He pushed her chair towards her dresser. "There, find a nightgown or whatever you sleep in." Knowing she was close to tears, Eamane grabbed the first nightdress she saw and schooled her features into a calm smile. He moved her back to the bedpost and offered his hand to lever her up. She put the nightdress on the bed and balanced on her good foot so he could undo the buttons of her gown. With her free hand she smoothed her skirts as his fingers went to the buttons on the back of the gown. It seemed all of her attention focused on those fingers. Her skin burned where his fingers brushed.

"Don't worry I won't take advantage." He said in a light tone trying to make her feel easier about the situation.

Eamane stiffened as the tears came back. There was laughter in his voice. Was it so hilarious an idea? Part of her applauded him for the gentleman he was, while another asked 'why not?' Was she really so hideous that it was little effort for him to not touch her? He finished with the buttons and turned her around. She grabbed for the dress to make sure it didn't fall, though that part of her that asked why not was now saying, 'drop it!'

"Eamane, I'm sorry. I was not laughing at you. It was aimed at myself because I act like a fool recently. It must be frusterating asking someone for help like this. Please don't feel bad."

She blinked her tears away. "I do not think you are a fool," she said, though she thought him blind. She smiled sadly, a single tear sparkling on her lashes. "I do not wish to be a burden to you." He was so handsome in his festival garb, and she was standing now, albeit precariously on one foot. As if as a reminder, her balance shifted. To avoid putting down her injured foot, she had to take hold of his shoulder. She smiled up at him, "You see? A burden." Her heart ached for him to see her as she stood before him.

[Ladypain]

Glorfindel sat down so Eamane wouldn't need to stand and gathered her closer until she was leaning against him. To see her cry was breaking his heart. He was the one who upset her but he wasen't sure what he did wrong. "Mellon nin," He said tenderly "Remember the nightmares of Mandos plagued me after I was reborn. Then Elrond assigned you to help him. You would come in the darkness to speak and all shadows would recede. Ever since whenever I see you I feel the darkness lifted away. So tell me, how can anyone like you be a burden? Sometimes you would sing to me during those nights like this,
"You are my sunshine, my only sunshine,
You make me happy when skies are grey,
You'll never know dear how much I love you
Just please don't take my sunshine away."
This time it was he who was singing to comfort her.

**********
Celebrian

"I will have to go as I am dressed. Are there any secret passages where no one will see us?" Celebrian sighed. She picked up her torn nightgown and folded it. "We cannot allow someone to find this in your room by accident." She wished it was no big deal to have her clothes in his room. Both of them in love with each other were reduced to sneaking about like theives. She thought of Ithildiel being in the same position.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

She seemed thoughtful, even a little sad; Elrond found he felt the same way. He did not want to sneak about,like a thief in the night in his own realm. "There are a few secret passages in my quarters, but none that should take us back to your guest house", he said thoughtfully. "Had I known there would come a time I wished for one, I would have been more...insightful", he added, kissing her palm, in an attempt to ease the tension. "But you cannot go out into the gardens dressed like that and your tattered nightgown is most definitely not an option..." He stopped abruptly, suddenly remembering that there were some gowns kept in the healing wards for the patients there. "I'll be right back", he said, as Celebrian looked at him stunned. "I have an idea, meleth nin", he added with a soft smile, kissing her, as he let go of her reluctnatly.

The healing wards were empty, as he had expected, after the previous day's feast; most of the elves in the city were only now turning in. Elrond quickly found what he was looking for: a simple gown in light blue, the colour the wards used for their lady patients. He turned to leave...and found himself face to face with one of Eamane's assistants. The young elf looked at him, then the garment inhis hands, his expression just as surprised as the Lord's. "Orecalo", Elrond asked, regaining his cool, "what are you doping here at this hour?" The young healer blushed to the tips of his ears. "I...we have many patients with hangover from the feasting, my lord...and we ran out of the potion we use for that; I thought I might find some in your ward..."He held up a big bottle of a ochre coloured fluid. "Am I...intruding, sire?" he asked, his gaze fixed on the dress, clenched tightly in Elrond's grip. Elrond did not don him with a reply. "Return to your tasks, Orecalo", he said. "I have my own duties to attend, as well". The young elf was cut offby the Lord's sharp reply and left, almost running. Elrond sighed with relief as he returned to his chambers.

Celebrian was still comfortable by the fireplace; she looked up inquisitively as he returned to her side. "I think it's time for you to get dressed", Elrond said, more than a little dismayed at the prospect of letting her go. "I have no wishto let you go...but your cousin will be worried", he added, kissingher cheek softly.

[EamaneSilimaure]

Glorfindel gathered her into his arms and sat down on the bed with her. She was held close. The tenderness of it brought more tears, that fell silently.

"Mellon nin," He said tenderly "Remember the nightmares of Mandos plagued me after I was reborn. Then Elrond assigned you to help him. You would come in the darkness to speak and all shadows would recede. Ever since whenever I see you I feel the darkness lifted away. So tell me, how can anyone like you be a burden? Sometimes you would sing to me during those nights like this,
"You are my sunshine, my only sunshine,
You make me happy when skies are grey,
You'll never know dear how much I love you
Just please don't take my sunshine away."

Her breath caught in her throat at his words. She rmembered of course, but neither of them had any idea how true those words would become for her. She had stopped singing them, when they became true. She had not known that what she had said or done then had mattered. She had been learning then. To have helped him so much... it eased her heart a little. She pressed her face to his neck so he could not see her expression. She breathed in the scent she knew so well. It was just a song, though she wished it were more. It almost felt like more. Especially with his hand stroking her bare back. He was trying to be soothing, she knew. How could he know that she burned at his touch?

"I remember," she murmured to keep from purring like a contented cat. Then she sang with him, "You'll never know dear, how much I love you. Just please don't take my sunshine away." There was not even a hint of tears, nor did her voice quiver as she sang, though her heart shook and its chains rattled at her words. She smiled as she rested her head on his shoulder. She kept one hand on the front of her dress, and the other crept around his back to hug him to her. She felt that if she looked at him, it would break the spell.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

'Princess, I would not want to be parted with you at any point, but your guest house is only a small distance away, and your Lorein guards are there as well.'

She sighed. "I suppose you are right", she smiled at her own reluctance to let him go. "We cannot be seen together; and I am sure your entourage, the Mirkwood ambassadors and Lady Sarnatelme, will be looking for you". She dared not kiss him goodbye, as she would like to do. They were on the open path and many elves still walked upon it, heading for their homes. "I shall see you later today, I hope; sleep tight, meleth nin", she smiled tenderly at him, before turning around to walk away slowly, turning to look at him, as she took the next turn along the narrow path through the fragrant brush. She could see the guest house a little way ahead, through the trees.


((OOC: ED, you can have Haldir see her whenever you wish!:hyper: He'll be verymad, I think!! :elfeek: )))

[Charmander]

Ithildiel smiled at him and said reluctantly, 'I suppose you are right. We cannot be seen together; and I am sure your entourage, the Mirkwood ambassadors and Lady Sarnatelme, will be looking for you. I shall see you later today, I hope; sleep tight, meleth nin.'

As she walked away he whispered, 'Losto mae[sleep well], melleth nin.'

He waited until she was a few metres from her door before turning back towards his guest house. The morning was just starting out and he didn't feel tired at all. Almost rejuventated from being with Ithildiel. He hastened his pace back to his guest house, hoping Sarna would not have come to check on him. She seemed very interested in the Marchwarden of Lorien, but as a soldier, that did not surprise him. She was most likely gaining information from him. Perhaps part of the reason she were here in Imladris, as there was still some doubt in his mind as to what purpose his father had sent his most trusted captain to be here.

He entered his guest house and ate something quickly before drawing a bath and relaxing further. His mind wandering back to his evening with Ithildiel in his arms and he smiled thinking of her.

[EamaneSilimaure]

It was near dawn now. The singing had come to a close and the elves of Rivendell were dispersing. Sarna and Lord Haldir of Lorein had taken a seat near the wall of the Hall of Fire to hear the bard Lindir grace them with songs of the past. Songs of joy and of sorrow had been heard this night. Sarna could not help a soft sigh as the bard left the stage. It had been a long time since she had been part of something to beautiful as this festival. Her life had been patrols and hidden battles, wars and blood for so long. She had forgotten how it felt to sit, and to listen, just listen to music.

"So lovely," she murmured, blinking as the torches were lit again so they could leave with ease. She realised she was clinging to Haldir's hand and did not wish to release it. Using all the discipline she could muster, she pulled her hand from his and stretched a little. She yawned and smiled at him. "Perhaps we should call it a night, 'ere the sun rises." Her eyes were soft on his face. "Please," she asked, "Walk with me to the crossroads." Sarna ducked her head. He could not walk her to her apartments. They had surely caused enough rumors to circulate this night. The Mirkwood Ambassadors would never let her hear the end of it. Worse yet, they could very well send word to the king.

[Ladypain]

I have no wishto let you go...but your cousin will be worried", he added, kissingher cheek softly
"She will forgive me when I explain to her where I was." Celebrian accepted the dress and shyly went into another room to change closing the door behind her. She left his robes folded on the bed. Although she was curious where he found the dress Celebrian didn't ask. It didn't matter that much for the moment. Once she emerged from the bedroom Celebrian pulled him close for a long kiss. They were not likely to get another opportunity this day.

********
Glorfindel released Eamane when he felt she finally was calm. He had to go now to prepare the leave with the partrol unless he wanted to be late. He told himself not to worry and that Elrond and Ninde will soon visit her. "We will be back before anyone misses us." He smiled at her.

[EamaneSilimaure]

To distract herself, Eamane thought back to that time when he had needed comfort. She would hear him in the night, crying out in Quenya. It had broken her heart then. Only once had he spoken of his dreams to her. Only once, when his terror, and his grief had grown too large to hold inside. Afterwards he had begun to heal. She had held him then, as he held her now. She had been slightly more clothed at that time of course. She felt laughter try to bubble up. She was pretty sure that he had no idea why he was comforting her. Nor would she tell him. She stifled the slight humor of the situation as Glorfindel eased back from her.

"We will be back before anyone misses us." He smiled at her.

She smiled back at him. "I doubt that Glorfindel," she said softly. Her eyes sparkled at him with warmth and humor. "You shall be missed before you are gone unless you go now. If you are caught by one of those ambassadors then you will never be able to get out of the city sane." She was telling him that she knew he needed to be out, to be away from the politics for a time, and that it was all right. She did not have near the pressures he did, and she wanted to go with him. Aside from her friendship with the Ladies of Lorien, as well as the Prince, little good had come from the ambassadors since their first arrival, months before.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

She will forgive me when I explain to her where I was."

Elrond was about to ask how much Ithildiel knew about him and Celebrian, but decided not to; the two maidens seemed to share a deep bond, they were like sisters: he decided that Princess Ithildiel knew everything, as Celebrian took the dress and retired into his room, as she had done the night before, to change. when she came back out, she pulled him close again; Elrond did not release her for a while, as they kissed, more unwilling to let go now, that they both knew they had to be parted. Eventually, he released her lips, but kept his arm around her waist still. "Let us be on our way, my lady", he said tenderly. They walked downstairs and out into the courtyard; the paths around the compound seemed deserted, Elrond thought, frowning a little; he was hoping they would be lucky enough to get to the guest house unnoticed; he did not wish for more rumours to be started, not with a war in the making...and he would not with to compromise Celebrian's reputation in any way.

[Aletheia]

Daewen sat perched on the railing of the terraces that overlooked the well-kept gardens of Imladris. In the still blackness of the night, she was almost invisible, the only tell-tale sign of her presance was the sparkling caused by the moonlight as it reflected off the jewels at her throat. The air was thick, filled with the heady strains of elven music as it drifted out across the earth.

A cold wind blew through the trees, making the branches rustle in expectation. A solitary cold, grey cloud, carried by the ethereal wind, passed in front of the moon, and veil of utter darkness descended upon the valley.

But it was not as dark as her soul...

Glorfindal and Eamane had been missing for some time now, and her mind had had ample opportunity to come up with a thousand scenarios for their abscence. Madened by overwhelming jelousy, Daewen spoke curses into the twilight.

~They will pay~

Casting her eyes below she watched over Imladris with a demonic intensity, for the darkness only served to enhance her vision. Some distance away, she spied two figures as they walked hand-in-hand down the coblestone pathways, unaware of their audience of evil.For a moment, her heart tore as she thought it was Eamane walking with the marchwarden. But closer scrutiny showed it to be none other than Lady Sarnatelme, walking with Haldir, of all elves. Daewen's eyes narrowed to a cruel slit, and a hungry, green light filled the pupils.

~By Morgoth, they do make this easy for me!~

[EamaneSilimaure]

Eamane and Glorfindel

"You shall be missed before you are gone unless you go now. If you are caught by one of those ambassadors then you will never be able to get out of the city sane."

Glorfindel marveled at her. The clear acceptance in her gaze was a balm to his heart. She understood him well. "How accurate you are mellon nin. Are you sure you don't want to become a politician?"

Eamane shuddered delicately. "No thank you," she said. "I will leave that to those better suited to it." Her eyes laughed at him and he hugged her to his side again, smiling. As he did, he realised that his hand was on her bare back, and had been for some time. Her skin was soft and warm beneath his fingers. Very careful not to change expression, he slid his hand up her back to the safer location of her shoulder. As he did so, his hand tingled. He felt guilty. He had promised her he would not take advantage, and the first chance he had, he was touching her. This was unfamiliar territory... in a situation that was becoming more unusual by the moment.

She knew the exact moment that he recalled the location of his hand. His eyes changed from the warmth of humor shared, to a gaze that literally made her skin heat as his hand moved, and then to soft regret. She wanted to kiss him then. She very nearly did. But he spoke first.

"If you think you'll be all right on your own, then I'll go." he said. He was going to be late enough as it was. He found himself wishing he had not asked for the duty... but he couldn't say why.

"I'll be fine," Eamane told him. "You have brought me safely here, and done more than should have been necessary. Thank you." She reached up and touched his cheek. "You worry too much mellon nin." She smiled.

He had to get out of there. The sun was rising and he should have been at the preparation area several minutes before. "You will be here, alone, and unable to walk. Do I not have a right to worry?" He took her hand and carefully set it on her lap. Shaking his head a little. "Be safe Eamane," he said softly. "I will be back soon." He smiled at her and stood.

She smiled back. "Be safe," she murmured. He bowed to her and left the room, closing the door behind him. "Be safe melindo," Eamane told the fading stars, "for I could not be happy without you." She carefully removed the dress and changed into the nightdress. Her skin still tingled from his touch as she slid beneath the covers. Her mind relived the last few happy hours before she drifted to sleep.
************************************************** ******
Sarna and Haldir

"Please," she asked, "Walk with me to the crossroads." Sarna ducked her head.

Haldir smiled at her. "Why of course my lady. You cannot walk there alone at this hour." He for one did not want to be parted from her just yet. He stood and offered her his hand. "Shall we?"

Sarna could find no reason to refuse his hand now, since she had been holding it for some time now. Nor did she want to find such a reason. She smiled. "We shall." She took his hand and stood. Haldir lead her out into the pathways of the gardens. For a moment she was confused before she realised that much od thei city was composed of gardens. There could be no other way from this estate than through one.

It seemed that they had done all the talking they could in one night. Haldir did not want this to end, though he knew it must... that it shouldn't have happened at all. So he walked quietly, and held her hand.

Sarna felt no more need for talk. she couldn't have spoken had she tried. It had been a beautiful night. One she would never forget. Because of him. And now they would go their separate ways, and she would fulfill her duty, and in doing so, lose any chance there was for this. She would betray him. But for now, she walked quietly, and held his hand.

They came to the split in the path. One way led to the ambassador building, and the other, to the guest house where the Princesses slept. Sarna looked at him. "It seems we have come to a parting of the ways my lord," she said.

"So it seems," he said. He wanted to kiss her then, as the sun rose. The urge shocked him. She leaned up only a little, for they were nearly of a height, and kissed his cheek.

"Fare thee well Lord Haldir. Thank you for the dance." Sarna said.

"It was very much my pleasure Lady Sarnatelme. Good day to you," he replied, smiling at her. His cheek tingled. He stepped back and bowed to her. She smiled, and curtseyed.

She turned away before she did something else foolish. If anyone had seen her kiss his cheek...

Haldir watched her walk away until she turned a corner. Then he headed for the guest house. When he was just a few meters away he saw Ithildiel, still in her party garb, walking slowly to the door. He narrowed his eyes and hurried up to her.

"Where have you been?" he asked her sharply. Perhaps more sharply than he intended, but he could not take the question back.

[Ithildiel Noldoran]

Elrond and Celebrian

They walked around the empty paths of Rivendell arm in arm, Celebrian clinging as close to Elrond as she dared. The sudden, almost eerie quiet of the, only a few hours ago, bustling city, made her feel uneasy. "It's so quiet..." she whispered, as they walked past the Great Hall; there was no one there now, not even the sentries. "It is always so after a feast such as the one yesterday", Elrond replied, wishing he could risk holding her in his arms again...and he was tempted greatly, seeing they were all alone. "Everyone will most likely be heading off to sleep now", he continued, with a soft smile, at the memory of their sleeping in each other's arms only a few minutes ago. Celebrian gave him a dreamy smile, also lost in memory. The lord of Rivendell took a turn towards a side path, telling himself he was only trying to avoid any chance encounters, though he was really only hoping for a few more minutes alone with Celebrian.

The small path was as empty as the previous one; the song of sopme larks, invisible among the branches of the trees overhead, signalled the arrival of the new day. Elrodn could not help himself; he drew Celebrian in his arms for a kiss; he did not seem to be able to get enough of her, he thought, his heart swelling with delight and a feeling of utter relief; he had come too close to losing her, he thought. Celebrian wrapped her arms around his neck, as she returned the kiss. "I wish we could stay like this for eternity", she said, not releasing him even after the kiss had ceased; he held on, as well. Elrond looked at her, a soft light playing in his eyes; Celebrian thought they seemed to be made out of mithril, shimmering and bright...and perfect. "Were it not for this war between Lothlorien and Mirkwood, my love", he said tenderly,"I would already be writing to the Lord of Lorien". She blushed; the subject of such a letter was more than obvious to her. "Things being what they are...We have to be more careful", Elrond continued, dismayed at having to hide as they were."I know", Celebrian replied, guessing at his thoughts, "but there is no other way; if...word about us gets out, Rivendell...will have to come into this war, won't it?" "Elrond nodded. "That is true...and I hate sneaking around like this", he added and she smiled; she already knew that. Elrond released her at last; the sun was rising over the mountains. "Let us not talk about this any more right now, meleth nin...We need to get you home, I'm afraid you will already be missed", he said, as they resumed their way through the almost deserted Rivendell slowly.

************************
Ithildiel

"Where have you been?"

The sharp question made her start, as she walked towards the door of the quiet guest house. Ithildiel turned around slowly,hoping she did not seem as guilty as she felt at the reprimanding tone in Haldir's voice. The Guardian of Lorien stood across from her, a deep frown set in his brow, his blue eyes glimmering fiercely.Ithildiel was suddenly glad Legolas had not escorted her all the way back; a soft smile appeared on her lips at the memory of their evening together, though. She saw Haldir's eyes darken even more, but she had no wish to argue with him. "I might ask you the same question", she retorted, still smiling. "What time is this to be returning to your duties?" she chided him softly. "As for my whereabouts...I was over at Lady Eamane's", she lied, hoping she was not blushing; she was never a good liar and Haldir knew her too well to be fooled, anyway.

[Charmander]

Glorfindel

Glorfindel reluctantly left Eamane's house. He walked back to his quarters. He remembered Elrond's insistence upon rest, but as the sun continued to rise he knew he did not have time. He quickly changed out of his party garb and made for where the patrol should leave from.

The elves were waiting impatiently for the Marchwarden and seemed to be making some jest. One was singing, badly off-key and Glorfindel slowed his pace to hear it more clearly. Indeed the elf who was not facing the MarchWarden was mocking the song he had sung earlier that evening, while one was playing the role of Eamane sitting on a tree stump.

He cleared his throat loudly and all the elves looked dismayed and shocked. He stalked down the hill slowly and the elves cringed at the wrath that the MarchWarden would level at them. Feeling justified Glorfindel said, 'I am so happy to see that all of you have recovered from the evening's event. I think that you are most likely the most healthy of our troops, so I will be greatly relieved if you will work double shifts today - as you seem to have an abundance of energy.'

Glorfindel watched as none moved or spoke, not wavering in front of the MarchWarden. He continued, 'Let us first deal with these troubles on our borders, then you all can expend your energy on an extra-wide patrol of our borders.' He led them further into the forest, unsheathing his sword and listening closely for the sounds of enemies, his patrol falling step despondently behind him.

************************************************** ********

Haldir

Ithildiel started at hearing his voice and tone and replied, 'I might ask you the same question. What time is this to be returning to your duties? As for my whereabouts...I was over at Lady Eamane's'

He looked at her suspicioulsy, Lady Eamane had been with the Imladris MarchWarden all evening. It was possible that she had check up on her friend. They were only a few metres from the princesses' guest house. He walked towards it, opening the door and saying, 'I do not believe my whereabouts should be of great concern to you princess, as I was merely keeping an eye on Imladris, as is my duty.' It was not a total lie, he had seen much of Imldaris, and also of a certain Mirkwood ambassador.

He ushered her into the house and continued, 'I hope that you have not kept your friend up late, she is still not completely healed, I believe. You and your cousin are far too dismissive regarding your own safety, making my duty always more precarious and putting your very lives in danger!' he started, realising that Celebrian was not with Ithildiel, 'where is the princess? Did she not attend the feast with you?'

************************************************** ********

Legolas

Legolas slowly got out of his bath and dressed in some light coloured pant and tunic. He held his side a little, he was supposed to see Eamane yesterday, but had not found time. He also need to ensure that Sarna would see her as well. He ate lightly again, and decided he would go and see where Sarna was. She was not one for all this pomp and circumstance and would most likely be up early practicing with Toron.