Adult-FanFiction.org : Lord of the Rings

Truth Be Known	By : LisaC206 Category: Lord of the Rings Movies > Het - Male/Female Views: 3817 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own the Lord of the Rings book series and movie series, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 2
- 3
- 4
CHAPTER 3

Party Preparations

Narninium awoke, feeling strangely out of place, until she realized she was in the palace of the Mirkwood King. A thrill raced through her body as she remembered her conversation with King Thranduil and the offer of his son Legolas, to help find her sister Thalia. She lay under the warm covers and let her mind wander to the other person upper-most in her thoughts, Astaldo. Seeing him last night had given her hope that she would eventually meet with him again, maybe at the party the King was planning. Again, a surge of excitement went through her at the mere thought of his handsome face. Wishing the fire was lit, she snuggled under the blankets further and a huge grin spread across her face. Oh to see Thalia again and introduce her to the King and Astaldo, would be just so wonderful. She hugged herself tightly, giggling to herself.

At that moment, a knock was heard on the door. The maid from last night could be heard through the heavy wooden entrance.

“Breakfast is ready, Narninium. Would you like some?”

<I hear you, wait a moment> She climbed out of bed and wrapped one of the blankets around her nightgown. Opening the door a few inches, she peered out and saw the maid standing there with a breakfast tray in her hands. The maid smiled and pushed the door open wider with her foot. She moved past Narninium and placed the tray on the small table by the bed. Quickly she made the bed that was still warm from Narninium, and opened the heavy drapes wide, letting in the morning light.

<Thank you for that> She told the maid, who merely nodded to her. After the maid had shut the door, Narninium sat on the bed and looked at her breakfast. It looked delicious. Two buttered bread rolls with a cup of hot tea and a small dish with bright red jam in it. There was also a bowl containing freshly cut fruit, and a tiny pot of milk that looked so cute, Narninium immediately though of herself as an elfling again, serving her sister, milk and sweet biscuits, with their dolls propped up beside them with tiny cups and plates of their own.

After eating all the food provided, Narninium went to the small bathroom and cleaned herself up. She was surprised to see that her face had a warm glow to it and she hummed to herself as she set about her task of combing her hair out (which had quite a few tangles and small twigs, much to her embarrassment) and washed her face with the cloth hanging by the sink. She found her clothes strewn on the end of the bed. Dressing quickly, incase the maid should reappear; she was now ready to speak with the King. There was another knock on the door and expecting the maid to be returning for her, Narninium threw the door open wide, only to have Legolas almost walk straight into her. Feeling somewhat stupid, Narninium blushed. Legolas looked surprised but smiled and greeted her in Westie.

<Good morning Narninium, I hope you slept well>

<Good morning Prince Legolas and yes thank you, I did> She was still embarrassed by the grand entrance she had given him.

<If you have eaten, we had best get going, we have a lot to do today. I have to arrange the party for my father and that takes time to set everything up>

<Oh surely you have plenty of people to help with that, what of the search for my sister? I wanted to start that right away. > Narninium really was excited at the thought of possibly finding her soon.

<You may start- I will send some scouts with you, but for today I need to set up for the festivities- especially the weaponry competition. > Replied Legolas.

<Wouldn’t your guards be able to do that? > Narninium enquired. She was more than a little peeved that the prince didn’t consider her task more important. In fact, he seemed far more interested in the party than helping her, she thought miserably. She knew it was rude of her to ask, but she couldn’t stop herself. <I thought the King offered your assistance with my search for Thalia? > She tried and failed to keep the hurt from her voice.

<He did…and I also offered, but for today, my scouts will have to do> they had walked out of the palace into the brilliant sunshine. The gardens looked beautiful in the morning sun. He gestured towards three elves up ahead with their backs to them, patting their horses. A cheeky grin was on Legolas’ face when she turned to him.

<Are you sure you can spare them? > She replied rather haughtily. He is so proud of himself, not doing what his father wishes.

<Oh they have nothing they would rather be doing> his grin widened as they arrived behind the elves.

“Good morning this is Narninium whom you will be assisting today. The search for Thalia is to include the outer edges of the forest on the Northern border.” All three elves turned at the Prince’s voice, they bowed low. One of the elves’ seemed to be staring  towards the ground- finding something curiously fascinating before his feet.

<Narninium, this is Telufen, Melostern and Astaldo. > Narninium’s eyes had grown huge at the mention of Astaldo, an aqua pool with never-ending depths.

All the elves nodded to her and bowed to Legolas. Astaldo was finding it hard to look into her liquid eyes.

“Once again we meet, Narninium” Some of Astaldo’s original shyness, dissolved. Desperately trying to understand his words, she nodded to indicate she got the general idea.

<Legolas could you please tell him I’m very happy to see him again>

“She has missed you Astaldo, and is pleased to see you again.” Legolas winked at him. “Maybe the three of you could split up, with Astaldo accompanying Narninium. Now, as a general description: her name, as I have said, is Thalia and she is an elf from the Western Woods. They have beautiful singing voices, which anyone who knows her would recognize. They have curious coloured eyes and hair. If she is here, somebody must know her. So, good luck, and I’ll see you this afternoon, hopefully you will have some information.” With that, Legolas turned around and strode off towards the archery range.

Astaldo took Narninium by the arm and set out the directions for the other two scouts. "Telufen, you go west and Melostern, you go east of the northern outskirts. We will go dead north.” The elves nodded, waved and were off on their mounts. Astaldo held Narninium’s horse for her and offered to help her up. After settling her on her mount, he lightly sprang onto his own horse and they moved off at a leisurely pace.

Narninium couldn’t believe her luck at having Astaldo as her scout. It was too much of a coincidence. “Astaldo… did Legolas send for you?” She spoke in broken Sindarin.

Surprised to hear her speak his own language, he looked to her, his face of pure innocence- only a slight blush to his ears to give him away. “ He chose three elves to help his guest but did not name you Narninium. I had a fair idea it would be you as I knew you were in the palace and were looking for your sister.” He felt too uncomfortable to tell her about him and Legolas at the Oak Inn the previous night. Anyway, he was here with her now and that was all that mattered.

She grasped some of the conversation, although most of what he said was lost on her.

They rode for some time in silence as Astaldo scanned the elves they passed. Most stopped what they were doing to admire the couple, who both seemed to be glowing. They looked so content together, riding through the trees.

*****

“Bedlusewen!” roared the King.

“Yes my Lord” Bedlusewen appeared in the doorway.

“Why is Legolas still here and not searching for Narninium’s sister as I asked him? I can see him walking around the target range.” The King’s face was darkening by the second.

“He is helping with tomorrow’s festivities my Lord. Three scouts have accompanied Narninium on her search today.” Bedlusewen replied.

“I see… who replaced him as escort and in command of the search?” His eyes glared into the guard's.

“Astaldo is in charge of today’s search, my Lord.” The King’s features softened.

“Really?” He said slowly. “Well that is fascinating news- thank you Bedlusewen. Bedlusewen left the King to his thoughts. Tomorrow’s festivities should be interesting. Astaldo will be stiff competition for him, I think.

*****

Legolas strode around the target area checking the distances between the targets and moving seating around the start of the range. He helped set up the huge green and gold banners around the palace gardens and made sure the flags were placed high in the breeze. Extra seating was put around the gardens and a huge area was set up for the band and dancing. He told the servants to arrange the food and wine tables around this, within easy reach for everyone. His sister Harmony helped- skillfully placing vast flower arrangements about the entire vicinity. The rest of the day he spent organizing everything to his father’s liking- down to the goblets they were to all drink from. It would be an excellent party he thought, as he left to meet the scouts and Narninium.

*****

Astaldo and Narninium had been riding a couple of hours. Every new group of elves that neared them, were told of Thalia and if anyone had seen her. They shook their heads and were moved to see how sad Narninium was at this. They reached up and touched her hand in a comforting gesture and whispered gentle words to her. Most words she did not catch but was thankful for their kindness.

Narninium stole a glance at Astaldo while he was explaining their quest once again to a crowd of elves. She couldn’t help but blush at how handsome she found him. Her hands trembled as she rode on. Tangling one of them in the horse’s mane, she stroked the mare’s neck with the other. He had the same warriors look she had noticed on her arrival, but his eyes were softer (she supposed because he was now more acquainted with her). He motioned towards her, locking eyes for a second, and she quickly looked away, feeling her ears tingle. Maybe Legolas should have come instead, as this is just too distracting Narninium thought to herself. She began to sing to take her mind off him. This of course caused an immediate reaction in Astaldo and the rest of the elves. More came over to listen and smile up at her. She was oblivious to them, as her song began to work its magic.

Astaldo was having a hard time keeping his mind on the task- especially when Narninium kept singing all the time. Is she trying to make me crazy for her? He had to steel himself against his emotions. Did she know the effect it was having on him? Most likely he concluded. Once again his mind had doubts of her true task- was she leading him on a wild chase that would end in nothing only to succeed in ensnaring him with her beauty and voice...and for what reasons?

They neared the end of the Northern track to the border and decided to turn back. They had not met anyone who had seen Thalia, or even heard of her, this mysterious elf. Narninium was looking totally deflated on their return ride. She was sure she had felt her sister’s presence in Mirkwood. Astaldo took her hand in his and rubbed it soothingly. "We still have the rest of the forest to search the day after tomorrow.” Narninium thanked him, squeezing his hand in reply. Sweet sensations rippled through her conflicting with how she felt about not finding Thalia. Then they met up with the other two scouts, who also had no luck in finding her although some elves told Telufen that they had seen a stranger with unusual hair colour, shooting targets in the forest. Narninium realised then that all was not lost and she brightened up considerably. Their trip back made pleasant by her constant singing, which uplifted their spirits.

Legolas was waiting at the palace grounds and quickly asked if there was any news. Hearing Telufen’s news, he thanked the scouts and dismissed them except Astaldo. Asking them back for refreshments, Astaldo gave Legolas a grateful look and they headed towards the table set up in the gardens.

<You’ve done a great job, Legolas> remarked Narninium, looking at the flags, banners and flowers displayed around her.

<Thank you but I mostly ordered others about- they did all the hard work. Let us have something to eat and drink.” They sat and had a pleasant break, Legolas translating for Astaldo and Narninium. He was surprised at how much she was already picking up and her sentences although broken were quite easily deciphered. A message came from the King, that both Legolas and Narninium were required at the balcony of the palace. Sadly, Astaldo excused himself.

“I’ll see you both at the party tomorrow. Don’t forget you have to teach me that song Narninium and maybe I’ll have the first dance with you, if I may?

Legolas laughed. “You know the King always dances with the most beautiful elf maidens at his parties first. Then his son follows!” Seeing Astaldo’s face drop, he laughed again and put his arm around him. “I will gladly let you take my place, my friend.”

“That I would much appreciate Legolas. And I will repay you.” He bowed to the Prince with a look of relief on his face.

“And does this maiden have a say in any of this?” Narninium grinned at the two of them. Astaldo grabbed Narninium’s hand to his heart before gently kissing it. Winking at her he replied,

“Until tomorrow, my enchanting new friend” Narninium giggled, sending electric shocks through Astaldo’s body and warming his heart.

“I can’t wait” she murmured. “Thank you for helping me search for Thalia today”

“Was my pleasure to be in your company” and with a parting look at Legolas, he left the garden.

<You both seem fascinated with each other> Legolas smirked. <I hope you don’t have this effect on everyone at the party. > Secretly he was pleased with how successful his day of matchmaking had been. Now, if they could just find the missing sister.
  <I don’t seem to have this effect on you> He could hear her saying, her voice taking on that haughty quality again.

<Come, the King awaits us> He decided to ignore her comment, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

*****



<So, no sign of your sister? We will continue with the search after the party. > The King’s eyes flashed at the two of them. Didn’t they look flushed and happy?

<Thank you my Lord. I have hope yet because of what Telufen has told me>

<If she is here, mayhap she will turn up at the party, > suggested Legolas to her.

<Perhaps, but she might know I’m here now, looking for her. So, she may decide to stay away. > In her heart, Narninium had hoped she would turn up, but she also knew how clever an elf she was, not wanting to be found-yet.

<If she does show herself, you are not to scare her off, Legolas. > King Thranduil’s voice warned.

<How so, father? Surely I would be more than gentlemanly towards her? Am I to avoid all elf maidens tomorrow? Would certainly make for a boring party- except in the archery competition. >

<You need to watch how you treat her; we don’t want her running out of the celebrations before Narninium has even spoken to her. >

<I’m sure Legolas will treat her just fine, my Lord. She’s quite a tough elf you know. > Narninium told him.

<There you go father, we may even get along quite well. > Legolas grinned at Narninium, who was unconvinced by Legolas’ self-assurance. She could see her sister making a stand for herself should Legolas try anything on her.

<Yes, yes I can see everything should be fine then. Let’s hope she comes along. Now Narninium, we need to sort some fresh clothes for you. > The King summoned the maid who had given her breakfast that very morning and asked her to show her to the rooms where Harmony’s clothes were. <There should be something there that fits you, my dear. >

With that he waved the two of them away, saying he would see her at dinnertime.



Excitedly, Narninium and the maid, whose name was Tinet, raced off for the room on the opposite side of the palace to where she was a guest. What could be better than getting a dress for the Royal festivities? Tinet opened the door for them, and showed Narninium the huge assortment of dresses hanging up. Narninium’s eyes lit up when she spied a beautiful burgundy dress with blue panels and gold trim. Indicating the dress to Tinet, the maid retrieved it from the closet and laid it out on the bed for her to try on. They were both giggling like little girls, when the door opened and Legolas’ sister stepped into the room. Surprised to find the two of them in her room, she frowned at Tinet and turned to leave. It was Narninium who spoke first.

<No, please stay, I’m sorry to be in here but the King told me to pick a dress for tomorrow, I hope you don’t mind? >

<Well, if the King said so, then that’s fine by me; I will leave you to your privacy. I'm the King's daughter Harmony & I see you have already met Tinet? Would you like us to help you with the clothes and your hair tomorrow? Tinet is very good you know> Tinet blushed.

<My name is Narninium and it’s wonderful to meet you Harmony. I would be honoured if you would both help me, I feel so privileged to be staying here with you. Please talk to me in Sindarin, because I need to learn it as quickly as possible. >

“Okay, let’s see. That dress would look superb on you as it matches your hair and eyes. I haven’t chosen mine yet either, so we shall have some fun. Come on Tinet; help me find a dress too. Maybe that creamy one with the gold embroidery on it would be just perfect.”

  So they spent the next couple of hours trying on Harmony’s clothes and some more just for the pleasure of it. Even Tinet got to pick one of Harmony’s older dresses. After all, what fun was it being a maid to a princess if you didn’t get to join in with her? Not that she would ever expect anything from Harmony. Later when Narninium returned to her room, she struggled with the weight of the dress draped over her arm, but she hadn’t wanted any help, as she was so excited about it all. She couldn’t wait until tomorrow when Harmony and Tinet were to help her with her hair and clothes. She pushed the door wide open and was pleased to see another servant had lit the fire. Something scraped lightly under her foot in the doorway. Bending down, she could see it was a letter addressed to her in her Westie speech. Closing the door, Narninium carefully placed the dress on the bed and sat beside it to open her note.

It was from Villia, asking after her and saying she would see her at the celebrations tomorrow. A little disappointed that there was no mention of Astaldo and no message from him, she placed the note on the nightstand. Grabbing the clean towel off the bed, she disappeared into the bathroom. She needed to freshen up before dinner.

*****

Legolas and the King waited in the small chamber for Narninium to arrive so they could eat dinner. There was wine poured into three goblets and the most delicious smell of roast duck and sweet potatoes drifting up from the table. Narninium entered the room, rather embarrassed that they had waited for her. Not good to keep the King and his son waiting she knew, but somehow she had got delayed soaking away in her hot bath.

“Sorry to keep you both waiting. I had the best bath in ages and didn’t realize the time.”

“Not a problem my dear. We just drank our wine and the wait was definitely worth it.” Smiled the King. Now Narninium did go red and kept her eyes hidden as she slipped into her seat opposite Legolas and to the side of the King. Legolas’ eyes slid to his father in amazement.

“I do believe you are somewhat taken with our guest, Father?” A smirk tugged at his beautiful lips.

“Just admiring a beautiful girl when I see one” He sipped his wine and beamed at Narninium. Oh, he was enjoying this. His son seemed to be getting more jealous by the hour. But he couldn’t help thinking how gorgeous she did look, whether she had bathed or not. “Come on let us eat our food while it is still hot and enjoy the night.”

“Yes the food looks delicious.” Narninium said, trying to break the mood between the two men and distract them from the conversation that seemed to be revolving around her.

“Did you have much success with your clothes for the party?” The King asked as he helped himself to the roast duck and sweet potatoes.

“Yes thank you. I found one that was just right. Harmony said the colours matched my hair and eyes perfectly.”

“We shall enjoy seeing how perfect, one already so perfect, can look.” said Legolas, eyeing her. Never quite sure how to take the Prince, Narninium just smiled at him and got herself a helping of duck. He was always playing games, trying to make her look silly in front of others. She was never sure if he liked her or not.

“Now Legolas stop teasing Narninium and eat. Let’s look forward to a great day tomorrow.”

“I can’t wait, all those fair maidens strolling around the gardens in their fine clothes, I will enjoy the privilege of first dance- after you of course, father.” He winked in her direction.

“Yes, yes. I’m looking forward to that myself. Now, I’ve arranged a prize for the archery competition, did Astaldo tell you about it?” At the mention of Astaldo’s name, Narninium’s head looked up from her plate and her eyes widened as she tried to think what else they had been discussing. It was hard trying to concentrate on the new language, so sometimes she just drifted off, dreaming of the party to come.

“Yes, although he did not know what it was. I suppose you mean to keep that as a surprise?” Legolas was amused to see Narninium had been pretending not to listen to their conversation.

“ I will announce that during the festivities. I expect a great turnout for the archery- and the prize will make it a competition to rival most.” The King picked up his goblet, eyeing Narninium and noticing her hair cheeks colour under Legolas’ gaze.

“Astaldo is a fine archer Narninium, he and I like a tough fight.” She looked to Legolas to see him flashing her with a beautiful smile and inwardly scolded herself for feeling so very lucky it was directed at her. She nodded towards them both to indicate she understood, and to hide her eyes from him. They would surely show her body running hot and cold from the intense look he was giving her. She didn’t want to be attracted to him, as she knew it was only the heat of the moment and that soon as she saw Astaldo, all would be right again. She was angry with herself for being so weak, but she wasn’t the only elf-maiden to find the Prince so desirable.

“Yes it will be the highlight of the competition, I am sure” the King remarked.

They continued eating and discussing the next day’s events. Narninium asked where Harmony was and why she didn’t dine with them. The King had told her that Harmony liked to eat, bathe and go to her bed early before a party. Narninium suddenly feeling tired and full herself, decided it was time to go to bed. She was so excited about the party; she forgot to curtsy to them both and had to come back- to their amusement. Wearily, she plodded up to her room, got in bed and fell straight to sleep.

cla class=MsoNormal>

< lan lang=EN-US style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
- 2
- 3
- 4
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Truth Be Known