Summary: I always wondered what Legolas would be like if he ever fell in love, and what he would be like if that love was
ever threatened. I had a feeling after reading the book and seeing the movie and then looking into his serious yet playful
eyes that he would be a fierce falcon to tangle with! Enjoy this little bit of romantic mushiness!

I'm not really sure when this would take place. Perhaps during the time of the Company's stay in Rivendell or, daring a
different ending to the books if, after the Ring was destroyed, and all the Companions were to come back to Rivendell for
resting.Or just forget all that hullabaloo and enjoy it! Besides, I get utterly confused, so my history is probably incorrect as
to the Ethwaine line. I made it up! Okay, done babbling now!

Rating: PG-13 for sensuality, language, and violence.

Disclaimer: Don't own them, would like a Legolas in my backyard, wish I did, and THANK YOU Mr. Tolkien for leaving Legolas SINGLE for our hormonally-spastic minds! (Anyone who thought he was probably hot before the movie gets extra snaps!)

ON WITH THE FIC!

PART ONE
Orcs.

"Lanat, I fear we are not going the right way. I fear that we're going to get lost, and freeze to death in this wicked forest!
And what of the Orcs? Lan, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" the impatient female whispered angrily at her companion.

The dark-haired elf impatiently held up a hand, silencing her. Out of instinct and habit she trusted him, listening intently to
the forest around them. Something could be wrong. Lan, being an Elf, had the keenest eyes and ears she had ever seen.
Still, he was an outsider from the other Elves, and he lived off the land in the forests. Which totally discounted the fact that
she could tell him he was lost. Of course he wasn't lost.

And yet her body ached with cold, and her limbs grew weary from the long chase. She did not know why Orcs would be after
them, but they were, and that was the cold hard truth. They had been evading them for two days, since they had traveled
up into the mountains to collect healing herbs and such for stockpiling during winter.

Being human, she was not nearly so fleet of foot as Lan, though she could match him at a run for quite some distance. Her
frame, however, was much like that of an Elf Lady, only curvier and just a bit taller than most. Unlike the platinum blonde of
most Elf maidens, she had long golden hair, burnished so that it fairly glowed like a golden coin in the sunlight. Her eyes
were a vivid green, visible from quite a distance, and shooting fiery sparks when she was angry.

Thankfully, when they had gone into the mountains she had neglected to wear a dress and instead had chosen a short tunic
of leafy green, and a pair of duller green pants to go beneath it. Her hair she twisted into thick ropes and piled them on top
of her head, securing it with two Birchwood sticks that she had smoothed so much so that felt like satin sliding through her
thick silky tresses.

She knew soon they would have to run again, once Lan got his bearings and spotted where the Orcs were coming from.
Time to run, like the last two days. She wondered if they would ever get a moment's peace.

When she was but four years old Orcs had murdered her parents while coming home from a party. It was she who had
stumbled over their maimed bodies in the road, bloody and torn apart under the early morning light. Lan had taken her in
after finding her, curled into a tight ball up in a high tree, as far away as she could have gotten from the Orcs. She had been
very young, and as such, hadn't known that Orcs could climb anything. Why they hadn't found her, no one knew.

After he took her in, the other Elves began maintaining a great distance from him, Lan had told her. The only other Man to
be raised in Rivendell had been Aragorn, and only then because he was a King by birth, heir of Isildur. So Lan had left the
beautiful city rather than give her up, and since then he had become her most trusted and only friend, confidant, and
brother. Most folk probably suspected they were in love, and they were, of a kind. She felt bound to this tall, sturdy Elf,
bound by heart and soul in a friendship that could not be broken.

Shivering more violently, she pulled her shawl tighter around herself and steeled her mind against the unpleasant memories
of her parents' murders, coming unbidden to the surface. They growled in her stomach and made her feel nearly sick at the
unwanted thoughts. She fought them back harder, almost exhausting much-needed energy in the process. In the end, she
won the battle, though tears slipped silently down her cheeks in the dark night air.

Lan's blonde hair wavered slightly in the breeze as he shook his head, his handsome countenance grim.

"Coralynne, love, I want you to run. As fast as you can. That way." He indicated with his slender hand the direction he had
chosen for her. "There are Orcs about. And they're right behind us." He gave her a reassuring look and nodded his head,
slowly reaching for his delicate yet sturdy bow that he always kept with him. "GO!" he growled at her, and she exploded into
movement just seconds before the woods behind her exploded with eerie screeches and sounds, the likes of which she
wished never to hear again.

Never looking back she ran, her long legs eating up the distance. Coralynne had no idea of where they were going, or when
they would get there, all she knew was that she needed to go as fast as possible. Lan would hold them off to give her a
start, and then follow her tracks to catch up. It was risky to leave tracks for him, but she had no choice. Perhaps there would
be aid or shelter ahead somewhere.

After what seemed like years, though was really only about an hour, she spied a long winding road that led to a beautiful
city nestled in a small valley. Rivendell. That was the place, she was almost sure of it. It had to be! If not.It was too
distracting to think about, with the sounds of Orcs not far behind her, sending terror throughout her entire frame and
making her trembly, careless. She had to keep running, keep moving. But Lan.he might have caught up with her by now, she
knew.

It was nearly impossible to not look back and see if he was gaining on catching up with her, but she dared not. If she were
to stumble or fall, there would be no going back.and Orcs loved to torture, for certain.

Her breathing was beginning to come hard and short, yet she refused to give into the heavy fatigue. The city grew closer
and closer and, had she not been running for her life, she would have nearly wept at its beauty. She also did not realize
that the Orcs had ceased following her after the first mile of running, and that she had been continuing along, lost in
thought, at her quickest pace, for nothing.

At last she stopped and knelt down, head down, fighting for breath. Her sides ached so that she could barely breathe, and
her head felt dizzy, her vision wobbly. Daring to look back, she saw that nary a leaf stirred in the peaceful place. The Orcs
were gone. Thank the Light, they were gone!

Nearly weeping with relief, she struggled back to her feet, gasping when they would barely support her, and grabbed onto
the nearest support she could find.

When the support grabbed back onto her, she screamed, and the world went black.

Part Two
Awakening.And Lessons.
 

Slowly, the world came back into focus for Coralynne. Her head ached like blazes; her body protested the slightest
movement. Yet, she felt peace, knew that she was safe from the Shadow that had been chasing her.

A tall man stood before her. No. Not a man. An Elf, she realized, as she looked closer. His eyes were kind and gray, deep like
a lake after a summer storm. His hair was brown and long, and a circlet of silver was upon his brow. She trusted him at
once, felt as though she knew him, though in her mind there was no flicker of memory.

"Welcome to Rivendell," the man said, his voice soothing and yet strong. "You are safe in the House of Elrond."

Slowly, Coralynne sat up from where she had been resting. Her mind was still a little unclear, and her limbs felt leaden. "How
came I to be here?" she asked softly, for some she knew this Elf was of great importance, likely an Elf Lord, though she
knew not how she knew.

"One of my scouts found you upon returning, though he tells me that you did not even know he had come to stand beside
you, and you screamed when he caught your arm to prevent a fall." Elrond's lips give a small smile as he finished his
sentence. "You have been asleep for nearly half a day."

Coralynne's eyes widened. Half a day! What of Lan? "Please," she insisted urgently, her eyes suddenly growing wide with
fear and alarm. "A friend of mine! His name is Lanet, and he was traveling with me! Has he come to Rivendell? I must know!"

Elrond's eyebrows came up at the young woman's urgency. "Lanat? But he has not come to Rivendell in an Age!" He
remembered the Elf, and suddenly he knew who this young woman was. Suddenly, many things began to make sense, and
he was quick to soothe the young woman into a calmer state. "He has not come to Rivendell, young one, but if he does you
shall be alerted at once. I give you my word." He bowed his head slightly to her, and she wondered why.

There were so many questions she had! What of Lan? What of the Orcs that had pursued her so relentlessly? What of-

"Friend of Lanat, I must know your name." There was sudden light in the Elf's eyes, and she wondered at it. Still, she was
not fully convinced of the safety of speaking her name to this stranger. "To whom do I reply?" she asked softly, once again.
Though she was not afraid of this Elf, that did not mean that he would get information without giving her a bit of her own.

The Elf lifted his chin but a bit, just enough so that one who was not studying him intently would see it. There was
something familiar about him.

"I am Elrond, young one, and Lord of Rivendell."

Had Coralynne been able to drop her entire chin to the floor, she would have fought not to. Her flawless cheeks flamed
scarlet, and her gaze immediately dropped from his noble face. "My apologies, Lord, I did not see you."

Elrond lifted her chin with a finger and spoke gently. "Be not weary, friend of Lanat, for you are welcome always in my
home."

At this Coralynne felt urged to speak. "Forgive me my ignorance, master, but was it not Rivendell that shunned Lanat for
choosing to give me a home, and providing for me all my life, simply because I was of the world of Men?"

Elrond's eyebrow went up, and he spoke after a moment. "It appears there is much you have yet to learn." He turned and
went for the door.

"You will find clothing upon yon table, and a hot bath waiting through that door. Seek me out when you are ready, and I will
reveal much to you."

Pausing before he went out, but not turning back to her, he said softly. "Lady Coralynne."

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Coralynne closed her mouth after the Elf Lord left. How did he know her name? She had not yet answered his query as to
her name. Something was afoot, she knew that for certain.

She only had to figure out what.

Shaking her head, she slid from the elegant bed she had lain in, only now taking notice of the beauty of the gown she wore.
It was white as snow, softer than anything she had ever felt against her skin. The material of the topmost layer was wispy
and almost translucent, with long flowing sleeves and a small train in the back. Beneath this was a simple white shift, cut in
an elvish fashion, sleeveless and silky. Both layers combined felt lighter than whipped air, and cool against her skin.

Moving through the door indicated by Lord Elrond, she gasped at the beauty of the room. It was a bathing area, with a large
stone pool right in the ground, as though the room itself had been built around it for that purpose alone. Although she
doubted it would be uncommon in a place like Rivendell, with its richness and elegance exposed throughout every beam,
stone, and elvish footfall. There was no place alike to it, she was sure.

Slipping off the beautiful gown, she gently laid it upon a table nearby, and slipped into the water with a sigh. It was hot, and
took some getting used to, but eventually her muscles unclenched, her mind cleared, and the weariness fled from her bones.
Life returned, and with it, curiosity and a vigor to see all of this amazing place.

After a long while of putting off getting out of the luxurious pool, she forced herself to stand and wrap up in an absorbent
sheet. She dried herself and went to fetch the clothing Elrond had promised her, thinking it would be her old clothing, newly
washed.

It wasn't.

She gasped at the exquisiteness of the dress she unfurled, holding it against her and smiling brightly. It appeared the
buildings were not the only things in Rivendell that were elegant and rich, as the dress' hem was lined in bright white stones
that winked and sparkled many different colors in the bright sunlight.

It was the color of fresh spring grass; a lush, deep green that made her eyes snap and sparkle. The sleeves belled at the
ends and hung below the waistline, where the bodice came to a point like a V, and met the skirt. Ever so gently the skirt
flared, until it just brushed the ground.

Eagerly, she attempted putting the dress on, but couldn't tighten the bodice on her own. At a loss for what to do, suddenly
there was a knock on the door. "W-who is it?" she called, hoping it wasn't Elrond. What a situation to be in before an Elf
Lord!

"I am Arwen, daughter of Elrond, come to bid you welcome."

Arwen! Light, could it get any worse?

"Just one moment, I.I."

The door opened, and a beautiful Elf maiden came through, with the light of stars in her eyes. She looked so much like
Luthien that Coralynne caught her breath. "Lady, please forgive me, but." she dropped her arms to her sides and sighed. "I
cannot put on this dress."

Arwen looked amused. "Whatever for?" Then she saw the open back of the dress and smiled. "I see. Allow me."

Coralynne balked. "But Lady, there is no need."

Arwen shook her head. "Turn 'round." Then Coralynne knew that Arwen was indeed the daughter of Elrond, for her voice
had the same commanding presence that brooked no argument, but was ever-gentle. Coralynne did as she was bade.

Arwen spoke while tightening the strong cords of the bodice. "My father tells me that you are the child matured into woman,
raised by Lanat, in the woods beyond my home."

"Yes, I am the same." She wondered where this was going.

"I wish to know how he fares. Is he well?"

Coralynne closed her mouth as she realized it had dropped. It worked soundlessly for a moment and she was thankful that
her back was to the Lady Arwen. "I.I do not know. We were being chased by Orcs, and he told me to run on ahead.then I
came here, and I have heard naught of him."

There was a pause as Arwen seemed to think on this. "We will send scouts to look for him, then. My father wishes to hold
council with you, in the hall. I will see you again soon." Then she was out of the room without another word. Coralynne
wondered at the Elf's sudden somber mood at the mention of Lanat.was he not well? Had evil befallen him? Surely she
would know...would her heart not tell her if he was dead? She was nearly certain of it.

Sighing, she turned and set out for the large hall, hoping it was the right one, as Rivendell was strange and unfamiliar to
her. She followed a path of beautiful stone, past building upon building, and lastly came to what she decided must be the
right place.

Upon entering, she saw Lord Elrond seated at a small table across the room. He nodded and raised his hand, gesturing her
over. "Please sit," he said gently, "There is much I must tell you," and waited as Coralynne did so. Then he looked her in the
eyes and began.

"When you were but four summers old, your parents were murdered upon the road home, were they not?"

Coralynne nodded.

"What were their names?" he asked slowly, purposefully. When she opened her mouth to reply, no answer came. She
closed it, and drew her brows down. "I.I cannot remember."

"Of course you cannot. They were not your parents."

Coralynne jerked her gaze up and met his cool gray one. "What?"

Elrond continued. "There is much that you have been deceived about, Lady Coralynne, though not with cruel intent. Much
about your childhood, and your past, that you need to see."

Coralynne gazed hard at him, the wheels in her mind turning. Of course those people who were murdered were her
parents! She could remember them speaking kindly to her and teaching her.No. No, she could not. She could remember only
that night, that horrible night. Something was very wrong.

"I am no Lady, Lord Elrond. I am simply a girl, who is lost, and wishes to find her friend."

He shook his head, his dark hair swaying with the movement. "Alas, Lady, you are much more. You simply have not learned
it yet. I will tell you what I can, and believing it I will leave to you." He leaned forward. "Yet know this. Destiny has chosen
you, Lady Coralynne of Lord and Lady Ethwaine, King and Queen of Ethwaine, ancient kingdom, long gone, far kingdom to
the East. It is you who will carry on the name and the lineage." At this he paused, and watched her intently.

Coralynne's face was devoid of emotions for long seconds. Then they all came flitting across her face like butterflies at play:
Shock, fear, excitement, confusion.everything was there, plain to see.

At long last, she spoke. Her words were measured, and she was very careful to conceal any of fear or doubt in her voice.
"Lord Elrond," she began softly, "then why am I here? Why was I brought here? I still do not understand.I do not know
those of whom you speak."

Elrond smiled sympathetically. He could sense the girl's confusion. He could not imagine how everything must seem to her.
Perhaps it was something like Aragorn, in that what she thought was true was not.

"And what of Lan? Why did Arwen ask me of him? And why is he still not here?"

At this Elrond's smile faded. That news would come later. It was not the time for it now. "Child, I will reveal these things to
you, if you will give me time. My home I open up to you, for a child of Lord and Lady Ethwaine is well come in this place. Their
nobility was known well by me, as Lord Ethwaine saved my life once. But that is also for another time. For now, I will tell you
enough that you might be satisfied as well as I might, until we have another chance to speak." He seemed to think for a
moment, organizing his thoughts, and then he spoke.

"Lord Ethwaine fought with me at the Battle of Dagorlad, in front of the gates of Moria. If not for him I should have been
killed by an Orc, unseen in the chaos. He lunged in front of me, and the arrow took him in the heart that would have been
mine. With his last breath, he bade me take care of his wife, Glenwynne.your mother."

"So how came I to be here? And the people who were supposed to be my parents?" Elrond nodded at her questions, but
was troubled by a fact that she was strongly overlooking.

"I will come to that. After the battle, after I returned home, I traveled to this city, and found Glenwynne, sick and pale,
having lost all desire to live at the news of her husband's death. She was with child, and nearly at the birthing time when I
reached her. We took her to Lorien, seeking the wisdom of Galadriel, who counseled us that the child must be hidden away
from the eyes of Sauron, for so long as he knew naught of the child, no Shadow could touch it. And so we hid you, and
handed you over to be raised by the human couple you saw last, murdered by the Orcs."

There, he had told her. Yet, as she gazed at him, she still did not seem to understand fully what he meant. Then light began
to dawn in her beautiful face, and again her delicate brows drew down. "You mean."

"Yes. You were Princess of Ethwaine, yet I fear the kingdom that should have been yours was destroyed. Shortly after we
brought Glenwynne to Lorien, it collapsed into shadow, and now all that remains are the soil and the rock." He allowed her
to digest it all, and continued. "You are an Elf."

Her mouth dropped open, yet she snatched it closed again just as quickly. "I am.descendant of a King?"

Elrond nodded. "An ancient King, known no more except to myself, for I am one of the only Elves who have dared travel so
far East as to reach it. Durmond, your father.his good deed shall ever be remembered by me, and by Arwen."

Coralynne did not know what to say. If what Lord Elrond said was true, and of course it was true, she had been once
Princess, then Queen, and now.What was she now? "But I don't understand. Why did everyone shun Lan for taking me?
And how does he fit into all of this?"

Elrond nodded and began to answer her. "Lanat Spearhawk was Arwen's close friend for a long time, before I sent her to
live with her mother's people. Long after Glenwynne died four years after for that matter, which was shortly after we
brought her back here and she gave birth to you, Lan volunteered to find you and raise you as an Elf, teaching you
everything you would need to know. It was only luck that made him find you before the Orcs did. And it was a tragedy that
the humans were killed. They were two noble people, and had much heart with which to pass on light, happiness, and love
to you. Then, Lan took you in, and hid you away from the rest of the Elves, and there you stayed, coming of age."

Coralynne shook her head. "So it was all on purpose. Lan didn't find me by chance, he tracked me down. It makes sense,
yet it doesn't seem real. I do believe you," she added hastily, "but I'm having trouble sorting it all out."

"It will come in time, young one."

Coralynne shook her head and grimaced. "I have seen twenty winters, my Lord, I do not consider that young for a human."

"But it is young for an Elf."

"An.Elf.I had forgotten that. But," she protested, "I do not look anything like an Elf! My hair is golden but my eyes are green!
I am not fleet of foot like an Elf, and my eyes are not so keen, nor my hearing so perfect and sharp."

"You are only hindered by the human body. Be that as it may, the disguise is still in place.it cannot be lifted by any other
than Galadriel herself."

"Galadriel? She would lift this guise from me?" Coralynne asked, still confused.

Elrond nodded.

"So, how old am I, then? Something must have been done to hinder time, or some such thing!" She was grasping
desperately onto any unlikely story she could think of.

"Lady Galadriel kept you in Lorien, using her magic to bind you in body and mind until such a time came that the human
aging process would make you equally the age you would be for an Elf when we brought you back to Rivendell."

"Brought me back to Rivendell? I came here by chance! Not on purpose!"

"Lan was bringing you back to us, to be shown what your true self is," Elrond explained patiently.

So the herbs had been an excuse to go on the long journey, and it was simply bad luck that they had encountered the Orcs
on their detour to Rivendell. How clear things were becoming.

"I understand now, Lord Elrond.I understand everything." She closed her eyes as a wave of emotional pain gripped her, and
she clenched the chair's armrests in panicked fingers. Elrond's eyes widened as she cried out in anguish. Surely it was not
because of this news!

"Lady, speak! What troubles you?"

"Lan! Lan, oh Lan.No!" Tears streamed from her eyes and dripped onto the elegant dress. A group of people had come
springing into the room, and Elrond was relieved to see that it was the Fellowship. "She is deep in grief," Elrond said sadly.
"She knows."

Another elf sprang to her side, Aragorn close behind him. Elrond shook his head as the girl's tears continued. He did not
know the extent of her relationship to the trusted Elf, one of his best archers, scouts, and friends, but he knew that she
grieved deeply over his death. He did, too, and he knew something of what she felt.

Elrond closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them and spoke decisively. "Let us take her back to her room. She must
rest, and I will speak with her." Limply, her eyes devoid of emotion, having stopped tearing, though they were still red with
her pain, she allowed herself to be picked up in Aragorn's arms, Legolas leading the way, the rest of the Fellowship following
behind.

They knew naught of what Elrond had been speaking to the young human woman about, but at her anguished cry had come
as quickly as possible, which was very fast considering they had been seated just outside the hall on the other side of the
building, enjoying the fragrant flowers and warm sunshine.

Now, as they watched the grief-stricken young woman being laid on her bed, completely silent, they remembered the grief
they had felt when it seemed Gandalf had sacrificed himself after he had confronted the Balrog in the mines of Moria. They
understood.

"Come, friends," Elrond said sadly. "I must tell Arwen of this news, and she will be deeply grieved." He didn't see Aragorn
flinch at his words. "I will tell you all of what I have been speaking. Come," and he led them out of the room, leaving Legolas
slightly behind, still watching the sorrow- filled creature in the elaborately decorated bed, sleeping, while occasionally a tear
slipped down her velvety cheek.

He shook his head, and followed after the others.

Meanwhile, Elrond had seated the Fellowship in the hall, and was waiting to explain while Legolas sat down on a chair to
Aragorn's left and Frodo's right. Elrond cleared his throat and retold the account of the young woman, and what she was
doing in Rivendell, who she was, who she knew that she was, and what had happened to cause her so much grief.

They all sat enthralled, yet saddened for her and what she had lost. Though, they each reasoned silently, she hadn't even
known what she had stood to gain...

Yet, suddenly, as Elrond told of the place of her mother and father, and its goodness and richness, all lost.

It seemed like the saddest part of all.

PART THREE
Healing, Love, and a Wondrous Future.

Coralynne awoke slowly, her eyes aching and her heart in pieces. She knew instantly, remembered; yet tears did not come.
Her mind was calm, for she knew much more of herself now than she had yesterday, had dreamed things that allowed her
to put everything together. She didn't know if the dreams were true, but they had given her a handhold.

"Lanat is dead," she spoke aloud, softly, thinking to find Elrond nearby, waiting.

"I know," the voice replied, but it was not Elrond. A man stood from his place in the corner near her bed, and she sat up
quickly, covering herself and her nightgown. He shook his head. "You have naught to fear from me, Lady of the Kingdom of
Ethwaine." He stopped a few feet from the bed and bowed his head to her. "I am Aragorn, son of Isildur, and heir to the
throne of Gondor. I bid you welcome to Rivendell, home of my adopted father, Master Elrond."

Coralynne quickly closed her opened mouth once again, for Lan had told her the story of Aragorn and his being raised in the
Elf city. He was indeed noble-looking, with a proud and strong face, albeit unshaven. She liked him immediately. "My
apologies, Lord Aragorn, I fear my mind is weary from recent experiences, along with many a shock.forgive me." She inclined
her head but lifted it when he laughed.

"No, Lady, forgive me. I am but a Ranger to such a beautiful Queen, robbed of her heritage and kingdom, and I am at your
service." He kneeled before her and took her hand. "You are safe here, Lady, from whatever despairs you face. Lan was a
noble Elf, and he died a noble death, for he knew he was protecting someone who had been chosen by Destiny. He is well
where he has gone, and he watches over us now from that sacred place where all elves go when they die."

Coralynne found the heart to smile at his words, as they did seem to warm her now-icy heart. "I thank you, Lord Aragorn of
Gondor, but you may call me Coralynne."

Aragorn turned over the name in his mind. "It is a bit of an Eastern name, I see. Yet beautiful. In such case I insist that you
call me only Aragorn, for that is how I am known in this place."

Smiling again, they felt the beginnings of a friendship. "I must take my leave, then. Elrond asks that you eat something, and
Legolas has volunteered to guide you through Rivendell until you get your bearings. You'll not find a better companion in a
thousand Ages." He smiled again, anxious to be off to see Arwen. "Until then, farewell."

"Farewell," she replied brightly, wondering whom Legolas was. Somehow, the pain of Lan's death was fading at Aragorn's
fine words, and she felt much better. Also, she knew that Elrond had been in her dreams, though quite real, consoling her,
and reassuring her that everything was as it was meant to be. Through sleep, she had been healed of her grief and despair,
and had managed to put Lan and his death behind her.

Just then her stomach growled loudly, and she roused herself from the bed. Another dress and a thin cloak were hung
nearby, and with great joy she splashed cool water on her face, then dressed. This time an Elf maiden named Dhalaldriel
helped her dress, seeming to come from nowhere. She was gone just as suddenly when Coralynne was finished dressing.

Coralynne admired this dress, made of a soft grayish white and bearing more white stones, its neckline lightly V-ed and
ringed in a small strand of lace. The sleeves and bottom of the gown were also trimmed in the delicate snow-white lace.

With a wry smile she had a fleeting thought. No wonder the dresses had been so intricate. Elrond had known whom he was
dressing.

But she had not, and wasn't entirely sure she knew now.

Nearby, there was a table and chair she had not noticed before, with a large mirror mounted on top of the table. A comb lay
there, and she could not resist picking it up, nearly sighing at the feel of it sliding through her thick locks. She always felt
best after combing her hair in the mornings, loving the feel of it after the small tangles had been unknotted, and letting it
swing nearly to her hips in all its silky splendor.

Since she was old enough to appreciate it Coralynne had delighted in her hair. Lan had told her it was like the finest and
richest gold, spun from the sun into the thinnest threads and planted to grow from the head of the most beautiful human in
all of Middle-earth. He had not stopped telling her the story when she reached fifteen, nor sixteen, or seventeen, or at all.
He told the story to irritate her, and it normally worked. He had always enjoyed teasing her, she remembered, his young
and handsome face laughing in the sun that streamed through the trees.

She found that remembering him brought no pain, only happiness at the fond memories. It warmed her to know that he was
happy where he was now, and watching over her like the guardian he had always been. Guardian to a Queen.

She shook her head. A Queen. Well, not a Queen anymore. She wondered if, since the city had fallen, she was still
considered Queen of Ethwaine. Altogether, she as not sure she wanted to be. Coralynne knew nothing of what a Queen
should do, or be, or how she should act. Of course, when your city is gone, and all your people dead, it's not really important
to know how to hold your head when at Court.

It was time for breakfast, her stomach decided for her. As she took the beautiful stone pathway to the hall, she realized she
had no idea where she was going. She knew not how to find the kitchen, and resolved to ask the first person she saw.

Continuing her walk along the path, she realized something still bothered her. What of her 'disguise,' as Elrond had called it?
Who, or what, was she truly? Not knowing unnerved her. Likely, she was an elf, but how.? Oh well. It didn't matter, the
how's and why's of it. That was what was, and it was what always would be. That was the important thing.

And she would have to accept it.

Coralynne was thinking so hard that she didn't see the Elf in front of her before she ran into him. "Oof!" he said, as they
toppled to the ground. Her knee struck something hard, and there was the sudden gush of exhaled air as though from a
blow. Too late she realized she had kneed him in the stomach trying to get her feet under her in the fall.

Mortified beyond belief, she looked dazedly down at the Elf that she was sprawled across.and lost her breath.

He was beautiful, beautiful being only one of the alternatives to describe what he was to her heart and soul as she looked
upon him. He was astonishing to behold, his face strong and yet sensitive, the line of his jaw stubborn yet soft, his eyes.

His eyes. Deep, beautiful pools of blue that bore through her, straight to her soul. She felt like they could search her soul,
learn everything about her, and still shock her to her toes. The strength had left her arms, and she felt as though she could
not breathe. She didn't know how long she looked into his eyes, nor how long he looked into hers, and realized that she
didn't care.

Legolas felt like he had been shot through the heart with an arrow. As he looked upon the surprisingly beautiful human
woman, sprawled atop him in a very ungraceful pose, he felt that she had pierced him to the soul. Her hair was long and
golden, thick, falling about her shoulders and around his face as well, concealing them from the view of anyone outside.

He looked into her eyes and lost his breath. And, he realized, he would have relinquished breath for all of eternity to simply
gaze into the lush green forests of the orbs he beheld. She was exquisite. He'd never felt anything like what was happening
in his heart and soul just then. It made his pulse race, and meadow butterflies rose up in his insides, toppling him to his
knees.

Then he realized he must look like a cad, lying there staring at her like that. She was, after all, a Queen. Whether or not her
city still stood, she demanded respect. "Coralynne." he whispered, and her eyes widened as he brought a hand up to her
cheek. They closed, and she inhaled softly, yet his elf ears picked up the sudden intake of breath, and he smiled. He could
hear her heart beating wildly against his chest where she lay, and feel it as well.

Then he decided he had better stop things where they were, lest somebody get embarrassed. "Are you alright, Lady?" he
asked politely, still unable to tear his eyes away from hers.

She started to speak, but stopped, and his gaze was finally drawn to her mouth. Not much better territory, though lovely to
observe, her lips were full as though she had just been thoroughly kissed by a long-gone lover, returned home to claim his
love and beauty. They were a rich light red, and he wondered if she berry-stained them to achieve such a color. She must
have Royal blood indeed to be so lovely, even in human form.

"I.I'm sorry!" she suddenly exclaimed, as though she had just figured out where she was, and who she had knocked to the
ground. Scrambling to her feet she put her hands to her mouth in dismay. The Elf's.oh no.! The Elf Lord's Royal robe had
been terribly soiled from where they had fallen, in the garden soil. Likely, she would be punished for this.

"Oh, my Lord.I am terribly sorry! I wasn't watching where I was going.Your robe." She looked again at the large patch of dirt
and mud that covered the left side of his body from the hip down. He followed her gaze, and smiled. "Nothing that can't be
washed out," he said pleasantly.

Coralynne's mouth dropped. "But, my Lord."

Legolas held up a hand. Obviously, she didn't know who he was. Yet. "Lady, first of all, I am no Lord." He grinned when she
looked as though she would continue, but she stopped and closed her mouth. "Allow me to introduce myself," he said,
taking her hand delicately in his hands and bowing over it. "I am Prince Legolas Greenleaf of Mirkwood, son if King Thranduil.
Welcome to Rivendell. I am at your service." He kissed the back of her hand as he rose, and she nearly swooned, which was
something she had certainly never done!

Coralynne regarded this striking Elf, and spoke softly, her voice suddenly gone traitor on her. "I am Coralynne." She didn't
know what else to say, so she stopped there.

Legolas took her hand again, and looked her in the eyes. Distracting as it was, each managed to maintain sanity, and he
went on. "No. You are much more than that. You are and forever will be Lady Coralynne, Queen of the fallen city of
Ethwaine. Though your city has fallen, your blood starts and finishes there." Unable to help himself, he kissed her hand once
more, and touched her cheek.

"You know who I am?" she asked, incredulous.

He nodded.

"But do you not find it strange that I am not an Elf? Or even Half- Elven?" She had to know. And how did he know who she
was? Was he a confidant of Elrond, or had he simply overheard something?

"It is true, I don't know what to make of this, but, as Destiny wills things, so must they be!" He grinned, and she gasped at
the brightness of the Light surrounding him. Such a change, so fast. From deep, somber-spoken Elf Prince to bright, cheery
Elf boy the next! She was, she feared, getting in way over her head.

"I was sorry to hear of your companion, Lady," Legolas said softly, and Coralynne fought not to look around for the
whirlwind that changed him so quickly. "I was, too. But if we are to be friends, and good ones, then you must call me
Coralynne, or whatever name fits your liking! I have lived my life not knowing that I was a Queen, and I shall not be
changed! Lan knew and didn't give me any special privilege, and so it shall remain."

Legolas raised his eyebrows. What a creature she was! All light and smiles, and bright, flashing eyes! He was nearly
overcome by a need to hold her close to his shoulder and protect her from all the harm in the world. "Agreed. You must call
me Legolas, or," he added with a grin, "any name that fits your liking! Come, I will show you around." He took her hand and
began to lead her, and Coralynne wondered if he would allow her to call him 'Love.'

Just then, her stomach growled so loudly that Legolas stopped and looked at her. REALLY looked at her.

He frowned as he studied her closely. She had not been eating well for quite a few days, it seemed. There were circles
under her eyes, just barely discernible yet present, and her skin was a bit pale. And, it seemed to him that she should have
more weight on her, curvy and soft though she was.

It appeared that she was no regular female human, for her eyes spoke volumes of hurt and anger; yet they radiated
joyfulness, hope, laughter, and another feeling, one that he was almost certain he wasn't supposed to see; one that nearly
brought him to his knees. "Coralynne." he whispered. Her eyes widened slightly as he leaned close to her.

"I think we'd better get you something to eat."

Her mouth dropped open. Again. Now he was teasing! What next!?

Laughing, Legolas tugged her along with him toward the kitchen, enjoying the feel of her elegant hand in his own.He was
still holding her hand! Quickly and gracefully he dropped it, his heart already missing the contact. He dared not look at her as
he bent to smell a large blossom, covering up for his ill manner.

"There are no other flowers in the world that smell so good as the ones in Rivendell," he told her, smiling brightly.

Soon she was caught up in his bright mood, and she laughed along with him while he showed her the halls, the hearths, the
flowers, beautiful benches where one could sit and simply listen to the river flow until nothing else filled your mind but the
singing of the water over the rocks.

Unseen, Elrond watched from above, and smiled approvingly. There was a wondrous future in store for the young Elf that he
was so fond of.

Wondrous indeed.

PART FOUR
A New Queen.

Coralynne sighed, bidding her stomach be silent. She had decided to wait until the evening dinnertime and, upon returning
from her tour with Legolas, she had been delighted to find a very fine gown laid out for her in the most beautiful shade of
silver she had ever seen. It was of dark silver, nearly matching that of the Elf Lords' Royal Robes.

Yet why was she being given Royal colors, Royal clothing? She didn't understand why she was still being treated as a
Queen, though her homeland had fallen into destruction and ruin half an Age before. And how old was she really? It seemed
no one knew. Yet perhaps...

There was a light rapping upon her door. "One moment," she called politely, as the young Elf maiden rushed to finish
hooking up the silver clasps on the back of the beautiful dress. A white belt went around her waist and was secured with a
silver hoop, wrought of the finest metal from the Elves themselves. The two ends were pushed through the loop and
allowed to hang in front of her.

Dhalaldriel had brought more Elf maidens with her tonight, and Coralynne had found them quite pleasant, laughing and
talking of the male Elves and how impossible they were. It reminded her of the many times she had grumbled to herself over
Lan, and how hardheaded he could be at times.

Still, there had been work to do. Coralynne's face had been pampered, and then a light fruity-smelling oil was given to her to
rub on her temples, wrists, and neck, which was given to her by a maiden with a blonde hair, bright blue eyes, and a smiling
face. "It will make him crazy for you," she confided, and the other Elves giggled loudly.

"Make whom crazy?" she asked distinctly. At this the maidens had grown quiet, forgetting that this Queen was not in touch
with emotions the way Elves could be. They remained silent until one of the younger girl Elves spoke up brightly, unafraid to
say what the others were. "Why, Lady! Prince Legolas, of course!"

Another fit of giggles had broken out, amidst pleas from Coralynne that she didn't know what they were talking about.
When she was told that the place she had slipped and fallen onto Legolas had been right in front of the maidens' quarters,
she closed her mouth and protested no more.

Eventually, Coralynne's hair was finished, left straight and shiny, half of it pulled back on top and secured with a silver clasp
over a thin flexible wire, save for two braids in the front, one on either side of her face, tucked behind her ear. Into the
braids they threaded white stones that glinted every time she moved but a little.

The girls giggled amongst themselves as she bid them goodnight, rushing for the door and flinging it open, only to find a
wizard who could only be Gandalf, waiting patiently outside. He leaned on his staff, and he looked quite regal in his dinner
robes.

She bowed her head to him as she spoke. "The Wizard Gandalf! I am...I am surprised to see you!" She had no other
response, feeling rather dumb and clumsy in front of such a person.

Yet he greeted her warmly, held out a hand and, when she placed her hand in his, kissed her knuckles. She smiled and
stood straight.

Gandalf studied her, this Queen of Ethwaine. "Lady, I have come to escort you to dinner. Follow me, please." He offered up
his arm and she took it, inclining her head as he bowed slightly.

Coralynne soaked up the night air, fresh and crisp, smelling of fruit and flowers on the soft breeze. From a distance she
could hear the laughter and light-hearted talk of the Elves, already sitting down to eat and visit. Hoping they wouldn't be
late, she forced herself to make her steps elegant, for as Elrond said, she was a Queen now, whether she liked it or not,
and with that came forced habits. She might as well start then.

Unfortunately, she found that gliding along wasn't so easy as she thought. It was hard, when walking with a wizard who
hurried along everywhere, to place her feet just so that they barely swept the ground. She nearly laughed at herself.

Suddenly, things began to make sense to her. It was just like Lan had taught her, about walking in tree limbs and on the
forest floors to not make any noise! Her soft shoes allowed her the movement, and she lifted her chin, proud of the
recognition.

"Ah, Lady, we have arrived," he told her, stopping before two grand doors that led to the hall where she and Elrond had
held secret council. Gandalf took her hands in his and smiled, his wizened eyes smiling brightly in the balmy night air. "You
have been lost to the world as the Queen you truly are, and now reborn again in the likeness of a divinity. Destiny has many
things in store for you, young one. How will you hold them?" he asked softly, cryptically.

Coralynne thought for but a moment. This was a test, she knew. And were she not to pass...Sighing, she shook her head.
"To my heart, as Destiny has wings greater than any bird of flight, and she sees much of what must be. I am at her mercy,
and I will make her proud."

Gandalf looked shocked, and then smiled so brightly she thought he would set off fireworks. "That will do, my dear, that will
do." Then he took her hand and turned, leading her into the great hall.

Lord Elrond was seated upon a dais, some members of the Fellowship around him. Coralynne noticed that Arwen was sitting
on Aragorn's left side, then Legolas on his right. Arwen was smiling at something that Frodo had said, settled comfortably
into the seat next to her. She didn't see the rest of the Hobbits, but spotted Gimli at the far end of the table, sipping on a
mug of mulled wine.

The chair across from Legolas sat empty. She fought to keep her heart in line as they moved toward the dais, and suddenly,
she realized they meant for her to sit up there! With the Royalty and special guests...her heart began to beat faster and
faster in her chest, and Coralynne resigned herself to the fact that she would never again know fear when she was with
him.

Something about him cried out of solidity, strength, and a nobility of heart and soul that fair tore her own in two. His eyes
were like the bluest sea, the clearest summer sky. Something unbelievable was happening to her, like Life had suddenly
tossed her wings and told her to fly.

She only wondered what would happen if she took them.

"Ladies and Lords of Rivendell," Elrond addressed, finally taking notice of them and standing. The room grew instantly quiet
upon his commanding presence. "Tonight is special indeed. For today a land got back its Queen, though long forgotten and
hidden away by the keepers of Elf knowledge. She has Galadriel's blessing partnered with mine, and it shall be known that
Rivendell will always be open to her, no matter what troubles come to pass."

There was murmuring as the room digested this. Coralynne stood in the middle of the room, clutching Gandalf, feeling as
though she would faint. Legolas seemed to see this for he nearly leapt out of his seat, hurrying down to her. He fiercely
whispered something to Gandalf, bringing a shocked look upon his face. Gandalf bowed slightly to her and proceeded to his
seat upon the dais.

"Breathe deeply," he whispered to her, as he stood at her side, supporting her. "You have nothing to fear."

"Lord and Ladies of Rivendell, I present to you Lady Coralynne of Lord and Lady Ethwaine, rulers of the fallen city of
Ethwaine, gone over a thousand years." Elrond looked at her and smiled reassuringly, and though she tried, she could not
smile back.

The people gasped, and then began to speak in hushed tones, all looking at her, analyzing, critiquing... It was too much.

She allowed Legolas to lead her up to the dais, trying not to notice how a very reverent silence fell upon the room, or how
heads bowed as she walked past. Coralynne shook her head and looked at Legolas, so confident yet quiet. He pulled out
her chair and swept her into it with such gallantry that a few soft sighs from the Elven women were heard.

Coralynne allowed him to push her close to the table, but caught his arm before he moved to take his own seat.

"What is he doing?" she demanded softly. "I do not know these people, nor do they know me! I do not even know how to
be a Queen! All I know how to do is be me," she said, her voice filled with distress. She was overwhelmed, and Legolas
wondered if Elrond shouldn't have waited for another day or two. He wasn't sure if she was ready for this.

He leaned close and whispered in her ear. "That will be enough, Lady. That will be enough."

PART FIVE
The Birch Grove...

All through dinner Coralynne sat, not knowing what to do. She was polite, she was well mannered, but she was terrified.
People bowed to her, looked at her with reverence and awe...but for what? Was this Ethwaine something more than she
imagined? Her history, she feared, was poor at best. Lan, Light keep his soul, had done his best to teach her everything he
could about archery, sword fighting, tracking, hunting, and surviving in general, they had not struck upon the more precise
and slight details of history.

But they had covered singing. Oh yes, they had covered singing. Coralynne had so loved to do nothing but sit and sing with
Lanat. His deep, melodious voice had flowed over her like the waterfall of a hot spring, delving into her most secret self and
showing her things she never knew. During the worst of times he could bring a smile to her lips with but a verse, and all
would be right again with the world.

Thinking of these things made her miss him more than anything, and quickly she dipped her head, concentrating on the
lovely soup set before her, trying to shield her face and the sudden moist gleam in her eyes. She could not bear the
humiliation of being caught weeping over something that could not be changed.

Yet, as she remembered more and more the way he made her feel safe, the way she knew that nothing could harm her
were he but to put an arm around her and hold her close, whisper reassurances in her ears. So many memories...

Her pain did not go unnoticed.

Across from her, Legolas watched the sudden movement, her immediate withdrawal from the scene around her. It was
happening, he knew. The grief was past, and now the memories were assailing her senses, trapping her in a web of pain
that the largest spider could not weave. He had to do something, for he was certain that she would be embarrassed to be
seen as such.

Quickly, yet not so as to draw too much attention to himself, he got up and circled the table. Leaning down, he spoke softly
into her ear, not noticing how Elrond watched them intently. His only focus was on the wounded and disheartened woman
before him.

"Come," he asked, placing a guiding hand upon her arm. "Let us take a walk, you and I, and you may tell me what you wish,
Lady." He felt the air rustle as she nodded slightly, and was caught by her scent, a blend of fruit and nut essences that took
his breath away.

Elvish perfume. Where had she gotten that? No doubt from one of her handmaidens while she was being dressed for dinner.
It was a special scent, one used for attracting love and desire.

It was working.

Shaking his head, he pulled out her seat as she stood, fighting back the urge to brush her up into his arms and kiss her.
They were strange, these feelings. Strange, yet wholly welcome. He couldn't be sure that he didn't like them; for they
evoked a warm tenderness in his heart and a serenity in his mind that he couldn't remember having. Love had been part of
his life growing up, but not this sweet pain of longing.

Coralynne sighed as she slipped her arm through his, allowing him to guide her. She knew not where she was going, and
she didn't care. She wanted to cry, to scream, and wail at what had happened to her lifelong friend and, Queen-like or not,
she did not care.

Orcs were not swift killers. If given half the chance they would torture you, slowly, the only escape from the remembered
pain of the tortured ones from whom they were created...she felt like weeping for them, yet at the same time wished to
strike down each that came into her path.

If only the memories would fade and give her but a moment's peace...

"Alas, Lady, we have arrived..." Legolas said softly, his warm voice flowing over her, much in the likeness of Lanat's.
Coralynne was surprised to find that the honeyed baritone calmed and soothed her just as well, if not more. She felt safe
with him, as well, comforted, and yet vulnerable. She did not yet know what she was vulnerable to, though certainly it was
naught to be frightened about.

She lifted her head and looked around, nearly gasping at what she observed about her.

Trees, their branches gleaming nearly white in the moonlight, towered above her, all but speaking of past footfalls upon the
mighty boughs. Laughter echoed throughout the crisp leaves, and things past were remembered: A council of friends, a hunt
for rabbits, a legendary tale told to the young ones...a first kiss.

All this she read in the trees' powerful grace and elegance. Legolas read it in her face. "Your eyes betray you." He sat down
upon a wrought-iron bench and gestured for her to join him. She seated herself and placed her hands in her lap, nervously
toying with the beautiful white sash draped about her waist. His eyes followed the movement, and he knew he would have
to prompt her to open up to him.

"You are remembering," he said softly. Her gaze flew to his fair face, so calm and kind. It was of no use to lie.

"Yes."

He peered at her through concerned blue eyes, and she made the mistake of looking into them. Again.

Her heart opened all at once, and the words came pouring out. She spoke of the hard times, of all their happy days spent
relaxing in the woods. When she told him of the archery and sword fighting lessons his eyes widened in surprise. Of course,
he forced himself to remember that she was not simply a human; she was an Elvish Queen, bound to her human body by
Galadriel herself.

Eventually, tears came, great, wracking sobs that coursed throughout her body and made her shake. They were high,
keening, halting tears that knifed through his heart as much as they did her own, surely. Weeping was seldom heard in
Rivendell, a place of light and healing, yet tonight it fair filled the hills with its anguish and hurt.

Unable to bear any longer her hurting he gathered her to him, closing his eyes and tipping his head back as she buried her
own into his shoulder, crying softly for everything she had lost, and everything she had gained. Eventually, the sorrowful
sounds stopped, and only her halted breathing came in the silence of the birch grove.

"It's alright," he whispered against her hair, soft as satin against his face. He stroked her back, warming her chilled skin, for
she had not brought a cloak. "It's alright..."

She sniffed once more, then rested her temple against the curve of his lithely muscled shoulder. And she spoke.

"When I was sixteen, Lan told me that in all the world there would be only a precious few who would touch my heart and
make it pure. He said that those special ones would never leave my side, whether in times of pain or grief; that they would
always be there to catch me when I fall." She sniffed once more and continued.

"He told me that should I ever meet such a person, to hold them close as friends, as allies, and never allow darkness to fall
between us." With a sigh, she nuzzled her cheek against him. "I think I shall never see darkness with you nearby."

Legolas' breath fled, his blood bubbled in his veins. From his chest he felt as though his heart would burst, and yet he
welcomed such a feeling. For it to have come from such a vulnerable, divine creature as the one he held in his arms made it
ever more welcome.

He pressed a kiss to her hair and gave her a squeeze with the arm that lay wrapped around her. Somehow, his other hand
had found hers, and he found himself stroking the elegant line from thumb to index finger, feeling like satin beneath own
deft fingers.

"Come," he said with a smile, standing and tugging her up next to him. "Dinner is ended, and the merrymaking commences."

Coralynne hung back, unsure. "I cannot go in there, Legolas...I am too embarrassed." She dropped her gaze and fiddled
with her hands, making Legolas smile.

"But certainly none would fault a Queen for taking a moonlit stroll with a Prince!" Her head came up quickly, and he grinned
at her. "Alas, such a romance will fill the heads and gossip lines of the maidens for weeks!" Scandalously, he winked at her,
and she caught her breath at how easily he had made her forget her heartache and make her happy again.

"My Elf Prince, I fear you have damaged my reputation beyond repair!" she cried, as he lifted her and swung her in his arms.
She did not know if he was in jest or in earnest, and yet she did not care. Her heart was light once more, and she wished
only to have a few moments of peace and enjoyment. Even if they did not last.

There were several gasps from nearby, and Legolas put her down gently, turning to see who had been watching them. To
his chagrin he saw four young Elf maidens, disappointment and ill temper about them all. The looked upon Coralynne with
disgust yet, as was a formality among the people, inclined their heads with respect to her title. Still, they did not disguise
their contempt of her, nestled warmly in the circle of his arms.

Legolas, though not one to be known as confrontational, wrapped an arm protectively around her waist, nestling her
against his chest. The girls' eyes widened, and they gave one final glare before stalking along the path from whence they
came. There was a gleam in the eye of one, a tall fair- skinned elf who had been trying to ingratiate herself with him since he
arrived in Rivendell.

He could remember her clearly now. She was Anarwyn, daughter of Conduin and Elthrail, a very wealthy couple who had
lived in Rivendell almost since its creation. She had kept a close eye upon him for quite some time. She was younger than he
by quite a bit, and yet there was some kind of sharpness about her eyes that had always unsettled him caused him to
remain wary of her. He wondered if she would ever bring trouble to Rivendell, but dismissed the thought as he realized
Coralynne was still at his side, warm and vibrant with Light.

He looked at her, tall and graceful, barely three inches shorter than he, which was quite tall for a human woman. She had
lush curves where an Elf woman would have slender lines and angles, vivid green eyes that were highly rare among the
Elves, and hair the color of leaves freshly turned in the Autumn.

Coralynne smiled and looked up into Legolas' bright blue eyes, feeling their warmth stir her soul. Suddenly she felt very
much like flirting with this noble, warmhearted Prince of Mirkwood. "Is something amiss, my Lord?" she asked coyly, tilting
her head back to look at him and letting her hair slide over her shoulder and down across the arm that still pressed her to
his side.

Legolas absorbed the feel of her hair on his skin, like the sleek and smooth glossy coat of a well-bred and well-kept stallion.
It at once became ingrained in his memory as one of the more wondrous feelings he had experienced. "No, nothing is
wrong, it's just that I..." He paused, considering her face, eyes, lips...

"Yes?" she whispered breathlessly, knowing something was about to happen and yet being quite unsure. In some far corner
or her mind she realized that she knew what took place between men and women in love, but had no experience or
knowledge of what to do...Lan had haltingly explained that it was something sacred and special, then gone three shades of
red and gotten up, insisting he was going hunting; then he came back empty-handed.

Legolas found himself moving nearer and nearer, gently surprised that it was possible when he considered how close they
already were. He watched as her lovely green eyes drifted closed, and could no longer fight the desire to kiss her.

Everything combined to drive him to his knees...Her scent, her eyes, the warmth and Light about her, the rustle of a breeze
through the leafy trees, and the mingling scent of flowers...He would go mad if he did not kiss her.

"Legolas, there you are!" cried Frodo, tearing around the corner. He skidded to a half when he saw what lay before him, and
his mouth dropped. "I- I didn't mean to- I'm sorry!" His large and innocent Hobbit eyes were wide and stunned, his mouth
working while no sound came from it.

Legolas sighed, although softly enough the Hobbit could not hear him, and imperceptibly squeezed her hand. "Speak,
Ringbearer, why such haste?"

Taking that as a cue that it was alright to continue forward, Frodo happily came to them, with the always-jovial Hobbit gait,
smiling brightly. "The celebrations have started, Legolas! The dancing has begun! Elrond sent me to fetch you, lest you miss
them!" He looked to Coralynne. "And he also asked that you come as well, Lady. For a dance in the Great Hall of Rivendell is
not something to miss!"

Coralynne smiled at the handsome little Hobbit. "Very well, master Frodo, I will follow you!" With that she held out her hand,
and he smiled, grasping it happily. She grinned at Legolas, who laughed and took her hand so as to follow. "Lead on, Frodo,
and make haste! I would have a dance with the Queen!"

PART SIX
An Unexpected Journey…..

Later, in the Great Hall, there was much rejoicing, singing, and dancing. Coralynne reflected that she had never heard so
many beautiful sounds merge into one. Laughter, talking, the sounds of feet stamping the floor in dance…..all were enough
to make her body and soul sing with contentment, and a strange desire never to leave.

In the short time she had been in Rivendell, her heart had grown attached to it, to its people. Would that she could have her
way, she would stay and never wish to venture outside its surreal beauty.

Surrounded by the rest of the Fellowship, save Gimli, for he had decided to go to sleep early on, she felt a peaceful
happiness that warmed her heart and left all worries behind. Sipping on her sweet mulled wine, she watched the dancers
with longing. Sadly, she knew not the steps, and doubted she could look half so graceful as the other dancers. Legolas
danced with an elder Elf, wise in the face yet still with the grace of the youngest maidens. The woman laughed heartily at
something the young Prince had said, and inclined her head. It appeared this woman looked on him as a son, or a close
friend, for Coralynne could sense no coyness or flirtatiousness about the woman.

As she watched Legolas dance, her eyes were drawn to the elegant and rich clothing he wore, how the light shone off his
silky blonde braids…

Her lips tipped upward in a wry smile to herself as she realized that she had been taken advantage of. Whilst the happy
handmaidens had been dressing her, braiding her hair, and talking merrily, she had not paid much attention specifically to
what they were doing. Her dress was of the same material as Legolas,’ and she realized with a gasp, that her hair was
done in the same fashion! They had done it on purpose! How sneaky!

She fought the urge to get up and leave right at that very instant, for she was certain her face flamed. Dressing to match
was something none but intended couples were expected to do at dinners and celebrations such as these. Certainly,
though she felt many things for him, they were not intended! Nay, there was no betrothal in the air! Sparse as the amount
of her stored knowledge of history was, she knew how engaged couples were expected to act.

And no wonder no other had come to ask her to dance, for it was certainly bad manners to flirt and dance with another
while your own waited for you…..She smiled as she realized that Legolas had not yet noticed this cruel joke. He was
oblivious to the looks of those around him, disappointed in his dancing with the elder Elf while his ‘love’ waited back at her
table.

Shaking her head, Coralynne decided she must do something. She had danced with him but once since arriving from the
Birch Grove, and it had been something of a disaster. Her feet had not known the steps to the fast song, and halfway
through she had been laughing too hard to continue. Legolas had managed, through his own mirth, to assist her back to
their table. There they had remained for nearly an hour, until he told her moment ago that he must dance with an old friend,
who turned out to be the Elvish woman he was with now.

Boromir sat across from her at the table, gazing into his mug of mulled wine, and around him were all the Hobbits. Merry and
Pippin were engrossed in a pint of ale, and Frodo and Samwise were talking in low tones, likely about her from the sideways
glances they had been throwing around all night. Ah, well, ‘twas likely not bad, at any rate. They were friendly little Hobbits,
always smiling and making jokes. She had found, also, that Boromir had a light-hearted side as well, noble as Aragorn’s and
nearly as smart.

Aragorn had excused himself but moments ago, and she saw him move to a corner where Lord Elrond stood, and then they
had disappeared. She wondered what was so important that they were required to hold council over during such wondrous
festivities.

Over in the corner Coralynne’s thoughts had lingered on, Lord Elrond and Aragorn stood in conversation with one another.

“I have sent messengers to Lothlorien this morning,” Elrond spoke softly, “to alert Galadriel of Coralynne’s presence in
Rivendell. She will request that Coralynne make a journey there, where she will school her in many things. I ask that you
guide her there, Aragorn my son, for there are none that I would otherwise trust with her safety.”

Aragorn regarded his adopted father, wondering why he was so concerned with the young girl’s safety. He wished to ask,
but was not sure how to go about it.

Fortunately, Elrond was not called wise simply because he knew many things. He could also sense many things, many
feelings. He sensed the question hiding behind Aragorn’s eyes, and smiled. “My son, Coralynne, in her true form, may one
day rival Galadriel in her wisdom and beauty.”

“But why has she been kept hidden?” Aragorn asked, still not clear as to what Elrond was getting at.

“She possesses the ability to wield Light, Aragorn, my son. Yet for her to discover it and be unable to harness that power, it
would kill her. Galadriel will teach her the way, so that when she returns to her Elfin form she may guard this place against
the Shadow.”

“Lady Coralynne is to be the Guardian of Rivendell,” Aragorn whispered quietly, understanding. Everything made sense to
him now, and he understood Elrond’s urgency to get her to Lorien. She was to be a key to this great city’s endurance of the
Ages, and he must see to it that she made the transformation safely.

Raising his head and looking Elrond in the eyes, he spoke levelly. “I will take her, and bring her back safely, Elrond. By my life
or death I will protect her, you have my word.”

Elrond’s eyes fairly shone with pride. “I know. I know.” Sighing, he continued. “I will furnish everything that is needed. But
you must make haste, for my messengers shall arrive in less than a week with news from Galadriel.” And then he was gone,
leaving Aragorn alone to ponder this journey in the shadows.

At last he shook his head, resigning himself to another long, perilous journey.

He only hoped the Lady Coralynne had the common sense to stay alive.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Back at her table, Coralynne was still trying to decide what to do. She must change out of the dress, but into what? She
sighed and put her head in her hands, suddenly losing the sweet taste of her wine in her discomfiture.

“Lady Coralynne, I must speak with you,” said a voice from behind her. She turned around to find Aragorn standing above
her, looking rather tired. “Of course,” she replied, standing. Whatever this was, it could not be too good because of the
wary light in his eyes. “What is it?” she asked, surprised at herself for disposing of formalities.

Yet, Aragorn seemed to relax at this, and spoke more freely. “Elrond has sent messengers to Lothlorien, to alert Galadriel of
your presence here. She will wish to teach you many things, and upon their return, we leave for the city.” He waited for this
to sink in, and watched, as she fully understood. He was grateful that she was not upset or angered by Elrond’s decision.

“Why does Lord Elrond wish me to leave?” she asked curiously. Something was strangely peculiar to her, for she had
certainly done nothing wrong.

Aragorn began to explain to her what Elrond had told him, leaving out the part about wielding Light for Galadriel to share.
 “Lady Galadriel wove the spell that binds you to your human form. She will lift it, and upon doing so, will teach you many
things about being what you will be. And then, when your training is complete, you will return here, as Lord Elrond is very
fond of you, and wishes that you would stay.”

Coralynne smiled, suddenly very eager to depart for this place of Lorien. Lan had told her of it many times, and of the Lady
Galadriel, courageous, beautiful, and wise. It would be an honor to hold council with one of such esteem and rank. “I eagerly
await our departure, Lord, except…..” She paused, uncertain whether to go on or not.

“Yes?” he prompted.

“Who will go with us? The passage to Lorien, I hear tell, is perilous. Do we make this journey alone?”

Aragorn smiled, for he knew what she asked. “I will address the Fellowship, and those who wish to stay in Rivendell will
stay. Those who would prefer to travel with me will be welcome.”

Coralynne nodded. “I await our departure, Lord Aragorn.” She turned and began to move back to her seat, but he caught
her arm. “Please, Lady,” he insisted. “There is no need for titles around me. I am simply Aragorn.”

She smiled. “Then I am simply Coralynne.”

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Finally, the dancing was done, and the players retreated to their beds for a long night of sleep and sweet dreams. Frodo
and the Hobbits had long since excused themselves for one more quick dinner before sleep time, and Boromir had followed
them out.

Legolas came back to the table, though she knew not where he had disappeared to. Aragorn was behind him, and then she
knew that he must have told him. She wondered if he would make the decision to go or to stay…..

Bowing his head, he held out a hand. “Might I escort you to your room, Lady?” he asked gently, smiling as he tipped his
head to the side in invitation. She laughed at his over-zealous gallantry, and decided she loved it when he would tease her.
Coralynne placed her hand in his, and allowed him to help her up. And, apparently, she had had one too many mugs of wine,
as the world tilted just enough to make her sway.

Legolas caught her about the shoulders to steady her, and raised an eyebrow. “I fear you cannot handle drink so well as
Aragorn or Boromir, Coralynne. I shall assist you to your room.” Holding onto her arm with one hand and guiding her with his
other hand on her back, he bid goodnight to Aragorn and left the Hall.

The rest of the Elves still mingled about, laughing and not quite ready for slumber. He nodded to the ones that bade him
goodnight, and good- naturedly endured their sidelong looks. He had long since noticed how Coralynne’s handmaidens had
dressed her, and had nearly left when he realized it warmed him clear through. Though, he did not wish to upset her or
embarrass her, so he pretended he had not noticed.

When Coralynne nearly stumbled at his side, he shook his head, deciding he might as well confirm their suspicions, false as
they were. With a smile, he swept her up into his arms and continued down the path, purposefully ignoring the gasps and
suggestive catcalls that followed along behind him.

Coralynne laughed and gazed up at him through her forest green eyes. “Why, Sir, I do feel rather pampered.”

“As all Queens should be, my Lady,” he teased back, smiling brightly in the darkness, his even white teeth gleaming in the
moonlight. Hopefully she would not wake up the following morning with a headache, he thought, as she rested her temple
against his shoulder. They would be departing for Lorien soon, and she would need to be well for the journey.

Aragorn had not told him all of the reasons they were going to Lorien, but Legolas had figured as much as he could from the
parts he had been told. Something was entirely special about this enchanting human/elf, and he meant to learn what it was.

He knew he could never leave her go alone, and had volunteered to go with Aragorn to Lorien. His heart had nearly split at
the suggestion of her not being in Rivendell, as it would be so gloomy without her bright Light around him.

Smiling to himself, he realized he had better hurry up and get her to her room so that her handmaidens could undress her
and get her to bed, as she was already sound asleep, trustingly curled up in the circle of his capable arms. Picking up his
pace, he hurried down the elegant path and toward her room.

He did not see the pair of angry elfin eyes, glittering dangerously and following him until he was out of sight.

PART SEVEN
Aragorn’s Council and Dreaming of Galadriel…..

Rapping softly on the door Legolas waited patiently until one of the handmaidens opened it. When she recognized who it
was, her face went pink, and she ducked her head, gesturing him forward into Coralynne’s room. He had a feeling she was
feeling guilty about her practical joke, but said nothing about it as he followed her into the spacious area.

He took a moment to look around as the young Elf drew back the coverlet. The room was large, beautifully decorated in
creams and soft pinks, as well as trimmed in gold. The bed was large and soft, he realized, as he laid her down in it. She
sank into the feathers with a sigh, and curled her arm around the pillow.

Cupping her cheek for but a moment, he dropped it when he realized the young maid was still standing about, waiting to
undress her. “Is she alright?” she asked softly. It appeared that Coralynne had made a good impression on her, as her eyes
were large with concern.

“She’s fine. Too much dancing, I fear.” He winked at her. “And a bit too much wine.”

The young woman’s face went pink once again, and she nodded slightly before hurrying off to fetch the other maidens.

Having her gone, Legolas went back to her bedside and studied her face. Her soft and full berry-colored lips were drawn up
in a small semblance of a smile. As he gazed at her, she shifted onto her side, facing him, a thick lock of honey-colored hair
trailing down her shoulder and over the edge of the bed.

It just didn’t seem right, having her hair pinned and clasped such as it was. She was a free spirit, this one, and he liked it
not, that she was bound now by being a Queen. He could picture her dancing through the limbs of the birch trees, swaying
to the rhythm of the minstrel’s harps and flutes. That was the way she belonged to, having been raised in the woods and
not in city.

Still, her manners would dazzle the most well-brought up of Lords or Ladies, this he knew. Back in Mirkwood, he knew even
that his father would be most impressed with such a beautiful and mysterious Lady.

“Ah, Lady Coralynne, mysterious, beautiful, brave…..I weep for your lost friend, Lady, for he was quite a Lord to have done
such a breathtaking job of making you who you are…..but who will you become when we get to Lothlorien?” he whispered
to her. “Will you become like Galadriel? Will you leave?” His heart ached as though he’d been shot through with an Orc’s
arrow, and he quickly dismissed the sad thoughts.

He tried to remember a time when he had ever felt quite so content as he did now, watching her sleep softly, the moonlight
playing on her face and casting a blued shadow throughout her elegant quarters. If he could, he would sit there all night
and do nothing but look upon her lovely face.

Still, there were other matters to attend to.

With a sigh, he stood, pressing a kiss to his forefingers and pressing his forefingers against her forehead, absorbed her
image into his mind once more, and left the room.

Outside, the cool breeze buffeted him gently, and he relished the feel of it rifling through his hair. A faint movement nearby
caught his eye, and immediately he was on the defensive. This was odd, as he had always felt safe in Rivendell. No danger
ever came there. He reached slowly for his sheath, kept concealed in the fold of his cloak, hoping that he was just on edge
and tired, and therefore a bit more jumpy than usual.

When Anarwyn stepped from the shadows, he relaxed, but only a fraction. He still did not trust this Elf with the
always-thinking eyes. He could tell that she was in a foul mood this evening, and he suspected he knew why. Still, he forced
himself to greet her nicely and politely.

“Good evening, Anarwyn. It is a wonderful night, isn’t it?”

She nodded curtly. “Legolas,” she spoke slyly.

“Yes?” he answered. He was in no mood to hear whatever it was she had to lie to him about.

Still, she was undaunted by the lack of invitation in his eyes. “Did you know that Coralynne was in love with Lanat?” she
continued.

Legolas nodded, though it was a bit of a shock. And he still refused to believe anything from her simply because she said it
was so. “And did you also know that they lived together all through her life? For years,” she added, her eyes beginning to
sparkle. “Even through her coming of age…...I wonder if they ever did anything about that love…..Certainly she was old
enough. And my parents say they never knew Lan to be anything but a charmer. Ah, well…..I suppose everything will come
out soon enough.”

She delicately covered her mouth as though to stifle a yawn. “It is late, Prince Legolas. I must be off to bed. Escort me?” she
requested.

Legolas frowned at her, and then he smiled. “Alas, my Lady, I would love to, but I must be on my way. Aragorn has
summoned the Fellowship for an emergency council.” He watched as her eyes grew angry and, though he wasn’t one to
enjoy causing a stir, he found himself enjoying it. Anarwyn had been striking out because she was jealous, and had only
been trying to plant doubts in his mind.

It had failed quite miserably.

“Yet, the path is safe, for this is Rivendell, and you are always watched over. I bid you good night.” And, with a small smile,
he was gone, cutting through the trees instead of the paths that had been crafted. He didn’t particularly like the idea of
running into another Elf at the moment. He wanted only to get to the meeting and learn what was going on. Elrond wished
them to go to Lothlorien, escorting Coralynne there, likely so that Galadriel could school her in all that was Elvish.

But what would happen after that…..?

It took him only a few minutes to reach the area that Aragorn had designated. The Birch Grove, Legolas realized. How ironic.

The Hobbits had already gathered and were seated together, waiting rather impatiently, as it were, to hear Aragorn’s
urgent news. Boromir sat close by, quietly watching the forest around him. Gandalf, he noticed, was not present. But of
course he wouldn’t be. This wasn’t a sacred journey, or a war they were fighting, and Gandalf was likely needed elsewhere.
He looked for Gimli, and took a seat near him on a large rock, drawing his knees up to his chest and resting his elbows upon
them.

Aragorn stood next to the trunk of one of the beautiful trees, still gleaming as white as it had when he had sat with
Coralynne on the very bench where the Hobbits were now seated. He couldn’t remember coming to this place before her, he
realized with a sudden start. She filled his mind…..

Aragorn spoke, having noticed that all were present. “Lord Elrond has bade me take Lady Coralynne to Lothlorien. Galadriel
wishes to hold council with her for, as many of you know, Coralynne is no normal human.” He paused as this sank in, and
then continued, missing the look of longing upon Gimli’s brow to see the fair Elf Lady Galadriel once more. “I would take you
with me, and have the Fellowship reunited again, but it must be of your own accord. Anyone who wishes to stay in Rivendell
will be thought no less a person. But I have pledged my life and death to seeing her there safely, and would not prefer to
travel alone. Legolas,” he said, gesturing toward the nimble blonde elf, “has already agreed to join me.”

“I will go with you, Strider,” Frodo said from his place upon the bench.

“I as well, then,” said Samwise, casting a rather longing look at the Great Hall as though he feared he would never see it
again. The other two Hobbits quickly piped up. “Well, we’re not being left behind, and that’s that.”

Aragorn smiled, and turned to Boromir, who looked thoughtful. “My body grows tired of peace and a lack of adventure. I do
not say that I am eager to see the Lady Galadriel again, for she saw into my very soul. Nay, I will go to protect Lady
Coralynne, and to lend my sword to this journey.” With a nod and a confirming look to Aragorn, Boromir fell silent again. Gimli
volunteered as well, trying to hide his eagerness at seeing Galadriel.

“Well then,” Aragorn said, as he smiled and nodded approvingly. “We have our companions. Lord Elrond will provide us with
all the necessary supplies, as well as horses for the journey.” There were long sighs of relief at that, as no one looked
forward to the rough trek across the land. “We will leave upon the return of his messengers, in approximately four days.”

Gimli’s eyes widened. “Four days! They must be riding hard to get there and back in such a span of time!”

Aragorn nodded, feeling the need to explain, yet not wanting to. Thankfully, he was freed from such a choice when Lord
Elrond spoke, having slipped quietly upon them from the Hall. “Yes, Gimli, it is. But there is a reason why this must be done
quietly, and with much haste. Listen closely, and I will tell you.”

He continued, standing before them in his Royal robes, swaying gently in the ever more swift breeze that was picking up
through the valley. “When Coralynne was brought as an infant to Galadriel, her mother dying shortly afterward, Galadriel
learned something of the baby’s future through her mirror. She saw her, grown into young womanhood, having the power
to wield Light into a force so great that no army of Darkness could penetrate it.”

“Wield the Light?” Frodo asked incredulously. “How is that possible?”

“It is an ancient power, my young Frodo, one lost and forgotten for Ages, even before my time came to be here. With this
she will become greater, perhaps, than all the Wizards.”

“No one is greater than Gandalf,” Sam put in stubbornly, yet his eyes were alight with eagerness to start this adventure.

“I would agree, Samwise Gamgee, but you have yet to witness the awesome power of the Light.” Elrond’s dark hair
wavered slightly in the breeze as he spoke, and in his eyes they found that he was being well and truly honest with them.

Legolas was stunned. A Queen with the power to wield Light itself. But why hadn’t she simply been left an Elf? Why disguise
her so that she may not know their customs and traditions…..

Truly, he was still in awe of what he had learned. “I knew,” he spoke softly. “The Light is around her even in human form. I
can sense it, and feel it in and throughout her. It is like a part of her,” he said aloud and, though everyone was listening, he
said it mostly to himself. “She will become the Guardian of Rivendell.”

“Yes,” Elrond said. “She will protect this city from the Shadow, and it will forevermore be safe to all who would enter its
haven with Light in their hearts.” He did not seem to boast this, but pride swelled in his eyes as he spoke, making the
others wonder what had been the beginning.

Boromir spoke first. “Lord Elrond, how do you know all of this? How did you come to travel all the way to Ethwaine, to bring
back a woman with child, who would become such a one as she will be?” It was a question on all of their minds.

“I will tell you all the account I told to her, but one day ago…..”

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Coralynne smiled, enjoying her peaceful walk through the Birch woods. Sunlight was upon her face and it warmed her,
making her feel warm and content. She watched butterflies playing upon the breeze, as they dipped and bobbed and flitted
about. She thought she would enjoy being a butterfly. Nothing, really, could wish to cause you harm or grief. There was only
the breeze, and the sunlight, and the fluttering.

Suddenly, she came upon an Elf woman, with beautiful blonde hair and penetrating eyes. As if drawn to her, she moved
nearer, and stopped but an arm’s length away. “Coralynne of Ethwaine,” the Elf spoke, lifting out a hand to her, “you have
for you a great adventure ahead, full of life, danger, and hope. Heed my words. Forever keep the blaze of Light burning in
your heart, for that is the key to eternity.”

Coralynne took the hand she held out, though hesitantly. “Galadriel,” she said. She had known immediately who this
elegant woman was, for lately her mind told her many things that she had previously known naught of. “Lady,” she asked
softly, “what is my true self? And how must I get it back?”

Galadriel smiled a small smile. “When you come to me, I shall lift the spell that binds you to your human form. Then, young
one, you will take your love’s true form, when you experience love in its purest expression. Love will guide you to the form
you most desire.” She smiled and lifted a hand in farewell, with but a few final words.

“Love is the last untainted conveyance of Light…..”

Coralynne’s eyes flew open. Sunlight filtered in through the wispy curtains, fluttering in the breeze to her face. Smiling, she
blinked in its brightness and wondered at the strange dream. No. It had not been a dream. Galadriel had come, through her
mirror, to send her a message, a counsel of things yet to be.

As she slid her legs over the side of the bed she realized it still did not make sense. Galadriel told her she would take Light’s
true form, or had it been love’s…..? She supposed, in the end, that love, when true, was a pure expression of Light. She
shook her head. Perhaps in time it would make sense.

As was quickly becoming routine for her, Coralynne slipped into the hot pool, soaking away the faintest bit of headache from
the night before, and washing away the remnants of the day. When she emerged she felt fresh and well-rested, ready to
take on anything that lay before her.

Today, Dhalaldriel alone helped to dress her, this time in a lavender dress that shimmered as she walked. It was lined with
thick cuffs of rabbit fur across the hems and sleeves, and she was given a lavender cloak to match. “It’s turning to winter
quickly, Lady,” the handmaiden explained. Coralynne did not want to ask how it was that these dresses were being made
so quickly, for they certainly were not used. She would have to thank Lord Elrond the very next time she seen him.

Her hair was left down, and Dhalaldriel placed a few thin braids throughout it, securing them with more of the amazingly
flexible, yet strong, wire. The lavender set her eyes afire, and suddenly she did feel very much like a Queen. Although, she
would still have preferred her pants for the freedom of movement they gave her.

Coralynne longed to ride a horse again, to feel muscles moving beneath her as they ate up the distance in short spans of
time. It had been so long since she had ridden that she wasn’t sure her muscles would permit her to even stay on bareback.

“I have heard that you will be traveling to Lorien,” the young girl said, braiding Coralynne’s hair.

“Yes,” she replied, seeing no reason not to tell. “I am to hold council with Lady Galadriel, and she is to train me in many
things, many parts of the Elves with which I am not yet familiar.”

“And why is that, Lady?”

Coralynne stopped, unsure how to answer her and not look suspicious. There was enough gossip floating around about
Legolas and her already. “Lord Elrond desires it, for he has requested that I make Rivendell my home.”

The young maiden smiled and said no more.

PART EIGHT
Being Chosen…..

Unable to wait any longer, Legolas started off down the path to Coralynne’s chambers. He had learned much the night
before, much that even she did not know about herself, and for good reason. If she were to begin the transformation to her
true self before reaching Lorien, she could die, consumed by the Light, if she knew naught of how to control it.

It was a dangerous burden Fate had placed upon her shoulders, yet he knew that she would bear it well. Rivendell would
be forever protected from evil and Shadow so long as she remained. Would she remain? Would she even wish to return to
Rivendell to guard it from danger, as Elrond hoped she would?

It was not his affair, for Destiny and Fate were the keepers of knowledge, and he had no control over what would happen in
the world, or in their lives. He could only hold on, and make the most of the time they were given, to live his life. That was all
a person need ask for and do to make a life worth living. Live it to its full potential.

He wondered what he should do. Naturally he would be traveling with the Fellowship to Lorien, but what then? There were
so many questions…..

But, he decided, suddenly wearing a bright smile, not for today. Today he wanted to take her somewhere, somewhere very
special. Also, Aragorn had asked him, at Lord Elrond’s request, to put her through some tests. He wished to know what she
could and could not do should ever the time arise when she needed to defend herself. Not only that, but he wished to see
how Lan had fared in tutoring her and teaching her the ways of the Elves.

Elrond was not the only one who was curious about these things. There lurked behind her brilliant green eyes a fire; a fire
that could not be put out, for it was made of the Light itself. It was a surprise that she did not know yet that she had this
ancient and awe-inspiring power, for any Elf could tell the that Light walked with her always, even in times of Darkness.

She would indeed be a key to their survival at one point, this he knew. If Galadriel had seen it, then it would come to pass
eventually, unless something drastic was done to thwart it. He intended to be there should the need arise for it to happen.

He had sent news to his father in Mirkwood, explaining where he would be going and what he would be doing. It seemed
strange to him to feel the need to do such a thing, yet Mirkwood was still his home, happy as he was in Rivendell, and
though he very much wished to stay there and live out his long immortal life.

Immortality. It had held such bright chance for adventure before he had met Coralynne, and now its shine had been dulled
considerably. No adventure any longer held as much appeal as the one he was on right now. Discovering feelings, and
thoughts he had not known he was capable of. At his age it was not uncommon to already have a betrothed, if not already
be settled in a home of his own, with a wife and children.

He could think of no Elf that appealed to him as much as the mystifying woman whose room he was moving towards. Last
night had been an eye-opener for him, a window into what things may lie ahead, and he intended to find out what they may
be.

Sleep had been not forthcoming last night, eluding him with sweet dreams and worse nightmares. In one he had seen
Coralynne, bathed in the beauty of the Light, become an Elf right before his eyes. And then, just as she had reached out to
him with one long slender hand, the Light had gone too hot, and had consumed her until nothing remained but ashes and
something else. As he had ventured forth to see what it was, he found only a small silver clasp, one used to fasten the back
of her dress.

He had woken up cold and sweating. At once he had splashed his flawless face with water to cleanse it, thrown on nothing
but one of his heavy robes, and run all the way to Coralynne’s room in the night, his light steps making no noise at all on the
hard pavement.

His relief had been immeasurable when he found her, sound asleep on her side, the small smile still upon her lips, and her
arm still wrapped around the thick feather pillow. There he had remained for nearly an hour, watching her sleep, the soft
sounds of her breath drawing in and softly sighing out. In the end, just before sunrise, he had slipped inside and left a
flower upon her bed stand. Then, just as quietly, he slipped out, going back to his own room for one more hour of sleep
before the day began.

Now, as he neared her door and seen the nosy handmaidens peeking out of their quarters, he became a bit more anxious
to leave and get on with the things he had planned. He decided he would see if she could shoot a bow, ride a horse, ride a
horse and shoot a bow, fight at all (though he liked not the idea of having to spar with her), and whether or not she could
fight with a sword. All these things Aragorn and Elrond had requested to know. Elrond, most likely, wished to know so that
he might tell Galadriel. Aragorn, however, was most concerned with their journey, and how she would fare.

No matter what, they would protect her and get her there safely, but it would help to know that she could defend herself
and be given a little credit for what she knew. Legolas had sworn as Aragorn had, albeit silently, to protect her by his life or
death. She was more than just a forgotten Queen now. She was the future Guardian of the place he wished he could call
home.

And that place must never be soiled.

Drawing up short before her door, he stayed his fist but a moment from knocking as he heard voices inside.

“But, Lady, it’s obvious that he is in love with you!” one voice cried out in exasperation. “He fair draws his bow if someone
but looks upon you in an unseemly manner!”

“Nonsense. He is simply being courteous to me because I am a Queen now. I wish I were not a Queen, I think. I long to be
wild and free like I was before. It has been but two days since I have come to Rivendell and, though I love it here dearly, I
wish for an adventure. Or at least a horse!” she grumbled to herself. He smiled, however, at the obvious blush in her
cheeks.

“But what about Legolas?” asked another young maid. He recognized her as the one who came out last night when he had
brought Coralynne in to her room. “Certainly you feel something for him, do you not?”

Legolas listened ever more intently, suddenly feeling as if his life or death hung upon her very words.

There was a soft sigh, as though she had given up a battle for lost. “Yes, I do feel for him,” she said softly. There was an
all-around sigh from the rest of the young girls and then revered silence as she continued. “When he is near me, I feel as if I
will drown in the whirlpools of his eyes. My heart wants to weep and cry out with joy all at once! But, I am uncertain of
myself. I fear that I am falling in love with him…..and I do not wish to make him choose between me and the life he wishes to
live!” she cried out.

Legolas wanted to burst through the doors and gather her in his arms immediately, yet he gave pause, stepping back a bit.
She loved him. She loved him and he knew it. But why, then, did his heart hesitate? There was a need in him to remain back
from her for a bit longer. Perhaps, he thought, as he smiled brightly, that it was because he had lived so long without
knowing love of this sort. He felt as though he could climb the highest peaks of Caradhras without losing his breath!

He listened but a moment longer, hardly daring to breathe for fear of being caught spying upon such an obviously furtive
conversation. “But nay, surely he feels the same way! And he would not be pressed to choose, if you would but open your
mouth but a little! Perhaps if you voiced some small amount of what you feel, you may receive a clue in return as to his own
feelings…..”

“Well,” another maid began as she moved something about, causing a faint rustling sound, like that of a meshy fabric being
brushed along the floor. It was time to knock.

When he did there was a slight screech, caught in mid-air and halted, as though someone had clapped a hand over the
screecher’s mouth. Legolas nearly laughed out loud as he heard them busily moving about inside once more, trying to look
very busy.

“One second!” a frantic voice called, and there was the sound of much hustle and bustle, and a few heated yet low-voiced
grumbles.

Suddenly, the door was flung open, and he came face to face with the same girl he had met the night before. Her face
flushed prettily as she recognized him. “Lord Legolas! You are well come! Enter!” Quickly, she hurried off after gathering the
Coralynne’s night dress into her arms and bouncing open the door with her lean hip.

Coralynne sat, her mouth nearly agape, on a chaise in a raised area of the room, engulfed in the ever-increasing sunlight.
Clearly, she felt as though she had been deserted and, he noticed with a self-humorous smile, she had been. He managed
to prepare himself for the blow to his stomach as he gazed upon her, and knew at once that he would not experience a love
such as this again in his numberless years.

“Good morning to you, Coralynne. You look radiant as the sun.” He bowed to her, and she blushed prettily, inclining her
head in acceptance of his compliment. “I thank you, Legolas. What brings you about at such an hour as this? It is but
morning!”

Legolas decided it was best to get straight to his point, though he hopped around a bit (leaping over, rather) the part about
his nightmare and having watched her sleep in the night. It was likely best that she did not know about that, not until they
had voiced their feelings, anyhow.

“Aragorn has asked me to teach you some things,” he said, deciding to dispose with formalities, “before we depart to
Lothlorien.”

Coralynne’s eyed widened, and he hoped it was not with fear. “What does this entail?” she asked slowly. Oh, to ride a
horse again! What a joy, to feel the wind in her hair and the sun upon her skin once more!

Legolas relaxed. He knew there was no longer a need to be formal with her. Her emotions were there to see, plainly running
across her face. In time, he thought, she would be able to read them as well as he. He shook his head mentally, and
continued. “Archery, horseback riding, and sword fighting, mainly. All he wishes is that you be able to hold off anything that
comes to harm you until someone can reach you.” He smiled and leaned in close as if to whisper a secret. “But, fear not, for I
will be not far away to come to your aid!” he teased.

Coralynne laughed aloud and relaxed a bit in her chair. “I cannot ride a horse in this dress!” she said rather sadly. The dress
was so beautiful…..yet she would trade her Queen-ship and everything she had, except Legolas, for a chance to ride. “I will
require some pants.”

Legolas dipped his head in agreement and, reaching into a small satchel attached to his quiver of arrows, produced two
packages. “It is much like mine,” he said, seeming to apologize, “but made to fit you. It is green.”

She smiled and took the bundles from him. With a bright laugh, she kissed his cheek and rushed behind her dressing screen
to change. It was amazing how simple it was to unlace and unhook a dress, when it took at least one other person to put it
on. Many things made no sense about some customs, and this was not exempt from such inclusion.

She sighed at the feel of the leather, soft and supple as rose petals, against her skin. And Legolas had spoken true, for the
garments did fit her as though they had been made for her. All greens of different hues to blend with the colors of the
forest. She would be difficult to spot at a glance to some, but to any trained eye she would be as obvious as if she were
standing on top of a building.

“They are wonderful, Legolas!” she called out, buckling some of the clothing into place and securing the rest with its various
loops and ties.

Back in front of the dressing screen, Legolas still sat, dazed. He held a hand to his cheek where she had kissed it. The skin
fairly tingled with delight!

He managed to rouse himself from the trance he had fallen into enough to reply “It was nothing! When you are ready, meet
me in the stable. There you will choose a mount to take with you on our journey.” He rose, but was stopped as she stepped
from behind the curtain.

“I am ready now.”

Legolas turned to look at her, too late realizing his mistake. She was stunning. The pants conformed to her like a second
skin, revealing all the curves her elegant dresses had hidden from his view. Over the pants, the small tunic snugly fit around
her curvy waist, and accentuated her…..figure, and he decided just about then that they would take the back trail through
Rivendell and to the meadows where they would practice.

He cleared his throat softly, and held out an arm. “Shall we?”

Coralynne smiled. “Of course.” She took his hand, and he led her from the room.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Once they reached the stables, Legolas guided her inside, asking her to choose whatever horse held the most appeal to
her, one she thought she could handle easily and surely. Her eyes had danced and glowed as she had swiftly moved
through the aisles, taking long moments to pat the horse’s noses, feeling their velvety muzzles against the fair skin of her
palms. She stroked their sleek graceful necks, whispered to them, watched as their ears perked at her words. He knew not
what she said, but they seemed to understand her all the same.

Of course. She was the Lady of the Light. Light was a common language among all beings, especially animals.

“Oh, Legolas, they are all so fine! How do I choose?” Yet, even as she spoke these words, there was a soft snorting sound
and the scrape of a hoof against the stall floor. Coralynne turned, gracefully, as though in slow motion, her eyes seeking out
what she knew she would find. It was as though there she moved in a trance, drawn to the large and dangerous- looking
beast.

Legolas and a stable hand rushed in front of her. “No, Lady. This one is too wild! He has injured many an Elf Lord since he
was brought in from Rohan. Apparently, his blood is the slightest bit too warm.”

Legolas nodded, agreeing with the other Elf. “He is right, Coralynne. This is not the horse for you. He would kill you without
a backward thought. That is why he is in a separate stall, for he attacked many of the other mounts. Choose another, Lady,
so that we may be on our way.” His eyes were soft as he spoke, yet they gleamed with urgency.

Coralynne, however, would not be swayed. “Let me pass,” she ordered in a low voice, her calmness disguising her irritation.
Not at Legolas, but at the stable hand, who had looked her over and at once determined that she could not ride well
enough for his standards. He must be one of those who remained prejudiced against Men. Of course, not to Lord Aragorn,
for he was a King, and the descendant of Isildur, and one of the Fellowship. All those things demanded great respect from
anyone, human or Elf.

The stable hand shook his head. “No, it cannot be. We have another mare, in yonder stall, that will likely suit you perfectly
for your journey.” With a wry smile, he indicated a stall holding a golden horse, obviously beautiful and magnificent in her
glory days. But now, her head hung low and disinterested, sniffing a bit of feed that had just been given to her. She was fat
and under-exercised, poorly out of shape, yet nearing the point in her age when it would be impossible to do anything
about it.

“Nay, Sir, you insult me. Do not presume things, for you know naught of what you speak. Now let me pass!” It was the first
time Legolas had seen her nearly lose her patience; much less raise her voice. He was impressed. There remained about her
an air of confidence that somewhat unsettled him. He wondered if she had always been this headstrong, or if it had just
come with her new title as Queen.

He shook his head. Of course she had always been this way! She was too special to be much of a mind to change her
moods and opinions of things at the drop of a hat. Still, as he watched her intimidate the stable boy and turn to confront
him, he realized what a firebrand she was, and knew that he could deny her nothing should she ask it of him.

“Lady, I beg you, choose another horse,” the hand continued, and Legolas silenced him with a glance. Outside, other Elves
had begun to crowd around and, he noted with a small bit of satisfaction, Aragorn had come, followed by the rest of the
Fellowship. They would see her either succeed or fail, and then they would have her answer.

His smile slipped slightly as Lord Elrond stepped in front of the gathering crowd to peer inside the barn. Legolas would have
sworn he nearly saw a roguish beam touch his lips but for an instant, when he saw the two of them so close together.
Elrond nodded, and Legolas turned to Coralynne. “Be sure you know what you’re doing, Coralynne. He has proven himself a
dangerous creature, and henceforth cannot be trusted!” He bent closer to her as she approached the fence, feeling his
confidence slip as the great stallion pranced and tossed his head, snorting angrily.

“He has madness in his eyes. He could kill you. With but one strike from his large hoof and you would be no more. Do you
understand?”

Coralynne looked up at him and smiled. “I understand, dear Legolas. Now, please, help me find a saddle and a bridle, and
then give me clear space for a few moments.” Her eyes implored him to do as she asked, and so they went about the barn,
gathering the only saddle and bridle made big enough to fit the mighty steed. They were the remnants of a battle from the
looks of them, covered in slightly tarnished silver wrought from the Elven Smiths themselves. Cleaned, they would truly be
magnificent once again, perhaps as they had been in the battle, with firelight and energy singing off their surfaces.

Legolas shook his head as he laid down the articles upon the floor next to the stall gate. He tried to reason with her, but
she simply shook her head. “He is the one, Legolas. You shall see.”

And so, Legolas went to stand outside the barn with Aragorn, who had a very disapproving look on his face for the young
woman. “What does she think she’s doing?” he demanded quietly, low enough that she could not hear. “That horse has
tossed and injured every rider who has dared even pat him.”

“She’s a blind fool, you ask me,” Gimli said, standing nearby with his arms crossed. Boromir nodded, though he looked
thoughtful. At last he spoke. “I think we might close our mouths and await what shall happen.”

Everyone did.

Inside the barn, Coralynne looked at the remarkably large horse in front of her. The point of his shoulders stopped just at
the place where her neck met her jaw. His head towered over her by a good distance. His neck was so thick she could not
have wrapped her arms around it, and his mane rippled, long and curly, nearly to his knees. The tail, likewise, was long and
wavy, trailing proudly clear to the ground. He was magnificent, the snowiest color of white she had ever seen, without a
trace of grey or yellow upon him.

He tossed his head and snorted, and Coralynne smiled at the gesture. This was no angry mean-hearted beast, she thought.
This was a horse who knew its rider, and meant only to carry that rider and their burden, and not another’s. His stamping
movements seemed playful, and he nickered at her from behind the fence.

As she approached him some of the Elf Lords stepped forward, but Elrond stopped them with but a raised hand. He knew,
also, what was happening, and watched, waiting in silent wonder, for he had not seen anything like this in all his Ages.

He had seen war, and miracles, defeat and triumph, and he had seen more miracles. None of them could rival the scene he
witnessed before him now. He could nearly feel the Light as it radiated from Coralynne, and the horse sensed it too, in that
moment recognizing its one true rider.

Elrond himself had personally tended the injuries of those who had attempted to ride the huge stallion. Broken limbs,
lacerations, bruises. Some had even been knocked unconscious by a stray hoof, and it had taken his guidance to bring them
back to the living world from their dream state.

He continued watching.

Coralynne was transfixed upon the horse, her heart seeming already to know him. “Dananir,” she spoke softly, in the
Common Tongue. The white stallion’s ears perked forward and he snorted softly, moving closer to her. “You have been
waiting.”

The horse whinnied and tossed its head up and down, stamping the ground with both feet, though not in anger or
aggression. He was happy.

She laughed, and the folk of Rivendell that had gathered fairly gasped at her obvious foolishness and ignorance. Coralynne
knew what they thought. They had already picked her for dead. Surely, somewhere, a healing pallet was being laid out.

But, there would be no healing pallet for her, not today. Today she was going to ride once more. The wind would knife
through her hair and caress her skin, kissing it soft in the sunlight and rendering it supple as the most delicate of leathers.
Joy bubbled from her, and she could wait no longer.

She threw open the gate without hesitation, and one of the Lady Elves shrieked, shying away from the door. Dananir,
however, remained quietly standing, watching Coralynne intently. She asked him questions with her eyes and he answered,
be it with a toss of his head, a shake of his mane, or a flick of his thick mighty tail.

Going through motions long-ingrained into her memory, she slipped a soft blanket over his withers, smoothed it. Then she
followed that with the heavy saddle, barely struggling under its great weight. Even when she tightened the cinch and safety
strap he did not move. Impatience emanated from his large body, and she knew how he felt.

Riding was a dream, a wonderful, exciting, and powerful dream. Soon she would feel that joy again. Sighing to herself she
slipped the bit between his teeth, and the people gasped when he did not give her any difficulty. Soon, now. Soon, she
thought to herself as she adjusted the stirrups to an appropriate length. The stallion sensed it too, and tossed his head
back, rearing slightly on his hind legs. She only smiled as the Elves made ready to rescue her. Yet now, their interest was
piqued.

At last, she was finished. She swept his beautiful forelock away from beneath the bridle, letting it spill over his handsome
face and nearly down to his nostrils, which flared slightly at the notion of being ridden by his true owner.

Without a word, she turned and led the horse away from the gathered Elves, to the back of the barn where Dananir’s
private paddock was. There would be a fence there, surely, but not a fence that this magnificent steed could not overtake.
His muscles were large and well defined, rippling as he moved but the slightest bit.

Elrond sighed and, once she was out of the barn, slid the doors shut. He did not speak to the small crowd of people, but
instead moved to the fence, where he could see all that happened in the lush green field. Around him, he could read his
peoples’ feelings. They still thought she would be trampled, or thrown. Little faith, he thought to himself…..little faith.

Legolas and Aragorn waited, both minds full of worry for the spirited Lady who remained on the other side of the building.
Their thoughts raced with good and bad things. Aragorn fretted because not even Arwen had dared master the great steed,
and she was one of the best riders in all of Rivendell. His blood ran cold at the thought of what might have become of her
had she tried.

Legolas’ bright eyes shifted forward and back, from one side of the stable to another, waiting on the blade of a
double-edged sword for some sign of her. He hoped she was all right, that the stallion truly had chosen her. If not…..

The stable hand Coralynne had lost her patience with earlier placed reins in his hands, those of his own mount, a noble Gray
with spirit and patience, and enough endurance to run for three days without tiring. He had been a gift from his father in
their homeland of Mirkwood, days before he left to journey here, to Rivendell.

With a soft sigh he mounted up. Aragorn caught his bridle before he could move away. “See to her, Legolas, and bring me
news of what she knowledge she has.” Though it sounded like an order, Legolas smiled at his old friend, shaking his head.
He knew that he was once again fretting over Arwen, as usual. “I will, Aragorn. We will return in four hours’ time.”

Aragorn nodded and let go the headstall.

Just then there was a joyous whoop from the other side of the stable, and before the people gather ‘round could do more
than gasp in fear, Coralynne came racing past the fence, her long golden hair flying free behind her and meshing with the
mane of the monstrous horse she rode. There was such bliss in her body language, in the smile on her face and the gleam in
her eyes, that he was moved by it.

Elrond smiled approvingly, and many of the Elves broke into applause, in awe of this new Queen and her approval by a
horse long thought useless to any who were asked. Now, the horse pranced and danced as she reined him in, and he
bounded forward, seeming to hop in the air. She laughed, and the delicate whole-hearted sound reached the ears of all
those nearby. Their gazes were riveted upon her and the stallion, both two free spirits, seeming to be back where they
belonged. Together.

Legolas shook his head and nudged the horse alongside Elrond, who spoke. “The stallion has chosen, Legolas. He will be
her Guardian in times of danger, and will keep her safe at all costs. Know this: in times of great danger, she need only
whistle for him, and he will come, no matter where he be.”

Legolas nodded. “I will tell her,” he said. “Thank you, Lord Elrond.” He attempted to move his horse away, but Elrond caught
his leg. “There are great adventures ahead for her, and you as well. Will you accept them, whatever they may be?” he
asked slowly, his wise eyes seeming to peer into Legolas’ soul.

“Always,” he replied, and hurried his horse into the field, where Coralynne sat, stroking the horse merrily and laughing to no
one in particular but herself and her own joy.

PART NINE
“True Love…..”

“Legolas,” Coralynne said as he approached. Her face was shining with joy and her cheeks were rosy with excitement. He
thought she had never looked so beautiful.

Beneath her, the stallion danced with excitement, tossing his head, snorting, pawing the ground. The well-defined muscles
quivered with restrained energy and stamina. Obviously, they were both ready for a run.

“Coralynne, how did you do it?” he asked, his voice low to prevent it from carrying to the still-muddling Elves at the gate.
She smiled at him and nudged the stallion closer to his own mount. “I did not do anything. Dananir has been waiting for me.
We recognized each other, Legolas. He knows me, and I know him, though I do not know how. It has been long since we
have been together.” Sighing, she reached down and patted the thick, arching neck, and Dananir fairly purred with delight,
moving his neck up and down to rub her palm against it, eliciting a delighted laugh from Coralynne.

“I have never seen anything like that, not in all my years. It’s not common that something like this happens.”

“Naturally. But Dananir and I are different. He is my protector, and has been at some other point in history…..yet I can’t
remember it…..” She bit her lip and looked up at him, apparently distressed at this.

“Do not worry. I am sure that, when we reach Lorien, Galadriel will reveal much to you. But for now,” he said, handing her a
spare quiver and a bow, made smaller so that she could handle it easily. It was strong, and flexible, strung perfectly. “But
for now, we will work on archery. Can you shoot?” he asked, stringing his own bow while he sat atop his horse.

Coralynne arched a delicate brow at him. “Lanat was one of the best archers in Rivendell, Legolas. Of course, he taught me
well.” She beamed at him, a smile so full of self-confidence he wondered, for a moment, if he had gotten himself in deep.

“Well, then, let’s get started, then. Shall we?” he asked, with a smile. He figured it wouldn’t hurt to give her the run she
wanted.

“Of course. After you, kind sir.” She grinned at him, and he nearly laughed out loud. “Fine, Lady, but I warn you, these trails
can be treacherous for the inexperienced rider!” When she glared at him, he did laugh out loud, and kneed the horse into a
fast run, full bore across the field. Behind him, he heard Coralynne let out a shrill whistle, and in less than seconds the larger
stallion was neck and neck with him.

They ran like that for what seemed like ages, weaving between trees, across the river, over hills and through large
meadows. And, when they finally reached the one spot he was looking for, he motioned for a stop.

Neither mounts had begun to tire, yet he reined his own in gently, watching Coralynne as she nearly slid to a halt beside
him. Her hair had tumbled down about her shoulders, and her cheeks were flushed. Her breathing was halted, coming in soft
gasps as she came down off the sense of elation she was feeling at finally having a run again.

“Oh, Legolas!” she exclaimed, laughing. “That was wonderful! I wish to do it again! But,” she added with a decisive nod of
her head, “there is work to do, is there not?”

Legolas was absorbed in her once again, and he shook himself mentally. “Yes, of course. I say we start with the bow.
Hmm?”

“It is all right with me. What shall you have me hit?”

He looked around for a moment, scanning every bush, every tree. Fortunately, he didn’t have to have her hit any of those
things, as the field was peppered with hand-made targets all about it. Orc-sized targets, targets small as rabbits, birds hung
from great poles with woven threads, and targets made of straw. He pointed to one of them that was shaped like an Orc,
with a hideously painted face. “That one there. Do you see it?”

No sooner had he spoken the words than she loosed her arrow. It flew straight and true, seeming to whistle through the
air, and stopping as it buried itself straight through the target where the heart would be.

Coralynne smiled at Legolas’ stunned look. “See?”

He nodded, and pointed to two more. “That one and that one, right after the other.”

Again, she took both of them out with deadly precision, striking one through the head and the other straight through the
heart. He picked out more targets, and her aim never wavered once. Her bow fairly sang as the string was stretched and let
go, stretched and let go. Her shots were in rapid succession, and not once did a target she miss, nor one arrow fly astray.

Thirty minutes later, she was sweating but slightly, for he could see a small sheen of moisture across her forehead. Her arm
had to be aching, but he knew he must press on. “Now from horseback, Coralynne, and be careful. I will set your course.”
He handed her more arrows and, as she loaded them into the quiver, he laid out instructions for her to ride about the field.

He selected ten targets for her, and told her which ones to hit at what time. “Take it at a slow trot, and we’ll see how you
do.” She smiled then, obviously enjoying showing off her talent. And, Legolas thought, she was doing a marvelous job of it.
He was thoroughly impressed and humbled by her grace and strength.

Though she shot numerous times, and though he knew she must be tiring, not once did she show and sign of fatigue. Her
arm did not tremble, her breathing did not quicken, and her smile stayed firmly in place throughout the entire course.
Legolas was in awe of her, power and elegance blended into a slender womanly package.

“Now at a full run,” he called to her as she sailed past him, hair flying in the breeze created from the speed. As she waved
backward to signal that she had heard him, he was stunned at how alike she was to her horse, whom she called Dananir.
Power, spirit, fiery disposition, strength, grace, agility, beauty, and a large giving heart all rolled into one. They were one,
she and Dananir. What Elrond had said was true. The steed was her Guardian, who would remain faithful and devoted to
the end, giving his life for her if necessary to defend her.

Just as Legolas was…..

He watched in reverent silence as her bow continued to sing, the magnificent stallion’s bounds and strides eating up nearly
twice the distance that his own could run, and in half the time. She sailed past each target right on cue, nocking and loosing
arrow after arrow in record speed and time. Not even Arwen, nor any other Elf he had seen who had spent their entire life in
practice and study, could shoot with such precision and confident accuracy.

And she was having the best time of her life. Delight and sunlight radiated from her in bursts, so much so that it left him
breathless each time she sailed by. Her form was perfect, her seat in the saddle sure and easy. She was joined to the horse
at the hips, it seemed, and there was only a single seamless movement between woman and beast.

Unbidden, words for a poem came into his head, and he hummed a little tune to them quietly to himself, while ingraining
them into his mind for future recollection.

“Like the night, a lark

a Lady fair

Sunshine and moonbeams woven

Through her hair

She sails through the sky

Upon wings of a dove

And steals away with her

My soul and love

“Alike with fire, water, and ice

At one with nature

Will she pay the price

For life eternal or but a day

I would give all

To have her stay

For she will be the only one

The fates will choose

What shall become…..”

He sighed softly to himself as the thought passed, and knew he would bring it back again to write out later. It would be a
wonderful gift he could give her, if she could but reveal her true feelings to him and for him. He was nearly certain he loved
her, for there had never been such feelings inside. He wanted to hold her, kiss her, make love to her, and yet he would pay
the price of Light and Shadow to keep her safe and her innocence intact.

Everything was so jumbled up inside of him, he wondered if he would ever be able to make sense of anything ever again.
Was she beyond his reach now that he knew who she was? What she was? He didn’t think so. Love knew no rank or
limitations, restrictions or borders that were not to be crossed. It was wrong for love to be confined to a race or a title
alone.

It was no small wonder that many humans died without knowing love, for they confined themselves to a small universe with
naught but petty things to entertain them and give them life. That was not life at all, Legolas thought. It was pretending to
be alive, and it would not do for him, not ever.

“Legolas!” Coralynne cried. “I’ve done it! What do you think?” She rode over to him, beaming still, and let the reins fall to
the ground. He nearly reached down to pick them up but stopped, knowing full well the horse would not bolt beneath her.

He looked upon her and smiled at the sunlight streaming through her thick silky tresses. She looked like an celestial creature
to him then, all Light and smiles, with vibrant cheeks and a warm glow about her.

“I have not seen such perfection and mastery since…..ever.” He grinned brightly at her and she laughed out loud. “Why, Sir,
you flatter! Surely I am not that good!” Her white teeth gleamed brightly at him despite the partially blinding sunlight. “No. I
am still thunderstruck by what you just showed me. I think Lord Aragorn will be shocked!”

She laughed again, and his eyes glowed at the bright sound. “It will be pleasant to surprise him then, I suppose!”

Legolas shook his head. “You do love to show off, don’t you?”

Her eyes widened. “Goodness, no!” And then, in a softer voice, “It seems like I am a different girl when I am with you..…”
She bit her lip and played with her hands, a habit he noticed she was most fond of doing.

“Coralynne…..” he said softly. She jerked her eyes up and met his. “Come down here,” he asked softly. She did as he asked,
and he put his hands around her waist to assist her down from the big stallion.

It was a huge mistake. Electricity immediately began to flow in the space where their skin touched. He could not feel her skin
directly, but he could feel the warmth and the softness beneath his fingers, and it rocked his very soul.

Coralynne sucked in a breath when he put his hands on her waist to lift her from the saddle. She was very well capable of
getting down on her own, but Legolas was Royalty, and as such, his manners were ingrained to the quick. Where he
touched her, he fair burned her psyche it was so loaded with hot sparks.

What was happening to her? Moments ago she was in complete and total contentment and joy riding, shooting a bow once
again, and now…..now she was lucky to remember her name. He invaded her mind, her heart, and her soul, and yet…..she
never wanted him to leave.

“Legolas, what is happening?” she asked softly. His blue eyes bore into hers like ice shards in the earth, and she found
herself drowning in their deep pools. “I feel strange. Warm and soft inside, like…..like I’ve taken two mugs of mulled wine in
but an hour.”

Legolas could not tear his eyes away from hers, and he wondered, as she spoke, if he would ever get over their effect upon
his equilibrium. “It’s the exertion. You’ve done much exercise in the sun, and it is making you weak.”

She shook her head. “No, I am not tired. But I feel like I need to sit down somewhere and rest for a moment. Yes, that
would be a good idea, I think.” Legolas nodded and took her arm, unbuckling a soft blanket from his saddle.

Moving over to a large tree, he spread the thick blanket out beneath it, in the shade where she would be comfortable. He
held her arm until she was seated and went back to the horses, pulling from a bag on the horse’s left flank a bundle of food
and a water skin, filled full for their long day.

“Here. Drink some of this and you will feel better,” he instructed her, and she did as he requested, downing a few swallows
and replacing the lid. She wiped her rose colored lips and smiled at him as he unfurled the bundle, revealing cheese, bread,
and two beautifully grown peaches. “Nectar never looked so sweet,” she said with a small laugh.

“Eat, and you will feel better,” Legolas told her, sitting down somewhat close to her but far enough away that he would not
be so distracted. He cut off some pieces of the rich cheese and placed them in front of her, on top of a thick slice of the
sweet bread. Then he handed her a peach, which she hungrily bit into, smiling, and hurriedly wiping her chin as a bit of the
juice slid down from the corner of her mouth.

He ate thoughtfully, and the two soon sat, absorbed in the silence of each other’s company, for long minutes. Finally, all the
food was gone and still they sat. Coralynne gazed around her, soaking up the somehow still- serene quality of the woods
around the field, despite all the angry-looking targets and arrows that invaded it. Her shooting had disturbed not even the
birds, which indicated they must know no harm would come to this part of the land. No evil could enter here, as though it
were a sacred place.

“Did you love him?” Legolas asked softly, plucking a reed of grass and rolling it gently between his palms. Coralynne looked
at him for a moment. His face was drawn in tight anxiety and anticipation, awaiting her answer. How it must pain him to ask
such a question, she thought. She could not lie to him.

“Yes. But,” she hurried on, when he closed his eyes and sucked in an agonized breath, “I loved him as naught but a brother
and a friend.”

Relief flooded throughout Legolas’ body, nearly clouding his brain. He sighed heavily, thankful to finally be rid of the seed of
doubt that the scheming Anarwyn had placed in his heart and mind.

Coralynne closed her eyes and took a deep breath, deciding she must tell him the truth once and for all; the reality of her
feelings for him, for this handsome and gentle Prince who had witnessed evil at its cruelest, and yet returned only love and
gentleness to the world. She fought to continue past the sudden lump that had lodged itself in the back of her throat, nearly
foiling her attempts to speak.

“I loved him not as I love you…..” she whispered softly, the words not nearly so hard to get out as she thought they would
be. For but half a heartbeat and a blink of an eye, she wished he had not heard the words, but then her heart swelled with
the realization that she had just accepted what Fate had laid out before her, and as such she would reap the sweet
benefits of all it entailed.

Legolas’ keen ears, however, picked up the words, as she had known they would. He looked at her, his heart in his throat
and in his eyes, for long moments, as though he were frozen on the blade of a knife, and one false step to the left or right
could send him to his death.

But then, as Light dawned and he figured everything out for himself, he realized that love was not the edge of a sword, but
rather a precipice, or a towering waterfall. If he took the risk and jumped, he would know what it was to fly for a few
moments, and would have the possibility of being caught safe and soft in its tender arms. If he were to turn away, he would
not know the freedom and the joy in his soul. He would not know what it meant to live.

He reached her in but the span of the flitting of a butterfly’s wings, gathering her to him softly and absorbing her strength
and warmth, her love. A single tear slipped down her cheek, and he brushed it away with his finger even as tears of his own
formed in his eyes. “Oh Coralynne, love…..oh love…..I love you as well.”

Once the words came to his mind he could do nothing to stop them. He was powerless in the face of such a fierce and
consuming love.

“You haunt my sleep and my dreams like a bright seraph of life and Light. You are a Queen, Lady, a Queen indeed.” He
pressed a kiss to her hair and felt another of her tears slip down and absorb into the skin of his neck. It was as though he
absorbed her, every bit of her very essence. “You are the Queen of my heart, Coralynne. Now and forever. I love you.”

She smiled up at him through her tears. “Alas, Legolas, my heart has waited for you, and yours for me. Now, the bonds of
love join us, and they cannot be broken. Not be evil, or Shadow…..not even death shall keep us apart.”

“Not even death,” he repeated to her, gazing into the emerald depths of her eyes, shining like polished glass through their
sheen of tears. Tears of happiness they were, not of sadness. “I love you Legolas. I love you so much I ache with it.”

He smiled at her and touched her cheek, holding her from him so that he could look upon her beautiful face.

“Coralynne…..” he murmured, leaning closer to her. His palm came up and cupped the right side of her jaw, and he tilted her
chin up to him.

Coralynne let her thick lashes drift shut, closing their visual connection but not the one in their hearts.

And then, time itself suspended for fragile moments. Legolas softly, tentatively brushed his lips across hers, with such
tenderness that another tear slipped down her cheek. He kissed it away, and gently claimed her mouth.

It seemed to them that the worlds were paused in mid breath, watching in awe the kiss of love that they were fortunate
enough to witness.

Coralynne gasped at the electricity coursing through her veins. Her heart raced, and she found that she would give up
breath and all her possessions to spend forever in his arms, being kissed like this. But only by him. Only by Legolas. More
tears threatened to fall, droplets of joy that absorbed into his soul and saturated him with their Light and love. She had
never known such sweet agony existed in the world, and was not likely to give it up willingly.

After long moments, Legolas released her lips and rested his forehead against hers. His breathing was a bit harsh, just
enough to match her own. “I feel like you’ve taken my soul and shattered it. Only you can put me back together again,
Legolas.” She gazed at him from beneath her beautiful lashes, her green eyes suddenly so vibrant with color and Light that
he felt a physical shock as they touched his bright blue ones.

“I will need all of eternity to put them back together, sweet,” he whispered against her skin, pressing a kiss to her forehead
before leaning back from her, needing the slight space to regain his composure and his ever-slipping control.

After a moment, he sighed and helped her to her feet. That was enough practice for one day. He did not trust himself to be
alone with her much longer. Gentle Elf that he was, he was still a male, and his instincts cried out for more than but a simple
kiss, however soul-searing it had been.

Coralynne stood in stunned silence, watching as Legolas’ face went a soft shade of pink as he turned away and began
gathering up the blanket, securing it back onto his saddle and tightening the buckles. Finally, she sighed and moved over to
where he waited, his back to her, one hand upon her saddle and the other upon the reins. She placed her hand on his
shoulder and smiled as he jumped.

“You will have my lifetime to piece it back together, my love.”

He turned and crushed her to him, seemingly having just discovered the reality of their situation. He pressed kisses to her
temple and finally another to her soft rose lips. Gazing out at nothing across the wide field over the top of her head, he
responded quietly, softly.

“A lifetime will never be long enough.”

PART TEN
"Messengers..."

The ride back to Rivendell was a leisurely one. They took their time and didn’t push the horses, cantering at a light pace
through the trees and meadows. It seemed during the course of their day the sun had begun to shine so brightly that
Coralynne had to shield her eyes with her forearm when they passed from beneath the shade of the tall birches. A slight
breeze cooled her skin and made the warmth so comfortable she wanted nothing more than to lay down and go to
sleep in a warm patch of sunlight.

Beside her, Legolas was quiet, almost pensive. Something was bothering him, she knew as much, but as to what it could
be she had not a faint clue. Surely it hadn’t been their interlude in the meadow, for it had been quite wonderful. Perhaps
he was regretting kissing her. Perhaps…

No. That wasn’t it. Surely not.

Coralynne shook her head, firmly chasing away any doubts she had. Her bright smile stayed in place, if a little more
forced than before. Soon, thoughts clouded her mind, and she allowed them to absorb her for a short while. If anything
were amiss, Legolas would tell her.

She wondered about this Galadriel. Lanat had spoken most reverently of her, and then only a few words had he
uttered. Words of her flawless beauty, and of her soft voice, like the ‘night on a lark’s wing,’ as he had put it to her.
Coralynne didn’t think that really made any sense, but humored his poetic fancies.

Elrond seemed to have most confidence and trust in her. He knew something, though, she was sure. He was holding
something back, something very important. She only wished she knew what it was. Yet, it was certain that this Galadriel
would enlighten her as to why she was who she was, and why she seemed to be special.

It bothered Coralynne that people looked on her differently now. They bowed their heads to her as she passed, and
spoke in soft tones when she was about. She wanted to live, not be confined to such etiquette and manners of speech
and thought as was expected of a Queen. She wished to run and jump and be completely unruly, wild and free as she
thought it was meant to be for her.

Besides, there was no kingdom for her, no city to call her own, save Rivendell. Why should she be imposed upon with
such a title, and such a curse?

Alas, but life would throw some mud every now and then. She had thought, less than a week ago, that she and Lanat
would return back to their home and live out the rest of their lives together, just the two of them, best friends, and
remain happy, albeit alone. That had sounded just fine to her then, and now…Now she had fallen in love with an Elf
Prince, and learned that she was a Queen. What else could happen to throw her life off balance?

Wincing, she deemed it a bad question to ask, as she might as well have cursed herself! She smothered a smile and
decided such thoughts and analytical queries would only darken this wonderful day.

“Lord Elrond should be hearing from his messengers very soon,” Legolas said, sidling his horse alongside hers. Both
mounts snorted a bit and pranced, then settled down quietly enough and remained quiet.

“Do you think they’ll tell us to leave immediately?” Coralynne played with the reins in her hands, rolling them between
her palms and biting her lip. She didn’t wish to leave Rivendell, not really. She liked it there. She liked the people, and
the buildings, and the kindly Lord Elrond. In her mind, he had already taken Lanat’s position as confidant, advice giver,
and trusted ally.

Legolas watched her for a moment, sensing her nervousness and reluctance to go to Lorien. He did not blame her, as
many things were likely still very confusing and unclear. It was still shameful to him that he could not tell her all he knew,
and it niggled in his mind all the time. Withholding information was not something Legolas liked, not by a long shot.

Finally he spoke, knowing it would be of no use to lie. “More than likely, yes. Elrond wishes for you to hold council with
Galadriel, and soon. I am certain his reasons are valid. But do not be afraid. The way to Lorien may be dangerous and
dark, but the Fellowship will not let you be taken astray.”

Coralynne shook her head. “I do not fear Orcs, or demons, Wolves or Balrogs. I fear what I will learn once I reach this
Lorien. I fear what it will do to us.”

Legolas reined in his mount and grabbed the headstall of hers. His blue eyes suddenly very serious and determined, he
took her chin in his forefingers and turned her eyes to his. “Hear this now. I will always come for you. Always.” He
waited a moment, staring unblinking into her gaze, then dropped his hand away. “Let us make haste, for the day grows
long.” He kneed his mount and broke away from her quickly.

Dananir made haste to correct for the lost seconds, his long strides eating up the ground and soon enough moving neck
and neck with Legolas’ horse. Coralynne’s mind was still spinning scenarios of what might come to pass, and none of
them did she find pleasant. She thought of Sauron, and Orcs, and many other nameless evil demons that may take her
astray from her goal, and what they might do to her.

Orcs had the utmost hate and abhorrence for Elves, perhaps more than any of the Darkness’ evils. Their spear tips and
arrows all carried a poison deadly to any Elf that could only be cured by the most skilled among them. If she was indeed
an Elf, she feared that kind of death.

Dying had never frightened her, for she had known she was a human and that humans were mortal. All humans died at
some point or another, and there was nothing that could be done to change that fate. But now, suddenly she was not
really a human at all, except in disguise. But what was this disguise covering up? Who was she really?

It was torture to endure such wondering, such uncertainty. Why would Lord Elrond not tell her what was to become of
her? Surely he knew. Elrond was perhaps the wisest Elf in all of Middle-Earth. There was nigh on nothing he had not
seen or heard of, or witnessed first hand, and if there was, it was a rare occasion indeed. He had told her that he had
been the one to take her mother to Lothlorien in the first place!

Suddenly, she wanted very much to go Lothlorien to meet with Galadriel. She would tell her everything and there would
be no more mysteries.

No more secrets.

She weaved in and out of trees and around bushes, allowing her doubts and fears to be evaporated in the wind that
buffeted her face. Her breath came in quick puffs, and she realized that Legolas was riding like Sauron himself was on
his heels. Long blonde hair streaming out behind him, he kneed the horse again, speaking Elvish to him. Immediately the
horse lit off, flying across the ground as if possessed.

Coralynne knew that something was bothering Legolas, and she understood. Uncertainty did not sit well with any
person. He probably had the same doubts going through his mind as she did.

She only hoped that they remained unfounded, as they were.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Much later, Legolas finally slowed his pace as they entered Rivendell. There were Elves scattered about, milling around
as though something had happened. Strange looks were cast in their direction as they moved slowly through the path
toward the stable, as though they should be somewhere important and were missing. Coralynne sent a confused glance
in Legolas’ direction, but he shook his head, as clueless as she.

They dismounted at the barn doors, and Legolas handed his reins to the stable hand there. Coralynne, on the other
hand, had to unsaddle, brush down, and stable Dananir on her own, because no one else was confident enough to
handle him. They remembered too well the injuries he’d caused the other Elves at various points in the past.

Finally, they were able to hurry toward the Great Hall. It was clear, then, that something exciting had happened. Legolas
suspected that the messengers had arrived back from Lothlorien with word from Galadriel. Yet, it would have been
nearly impossible for them to arrive so soon. It was many days’ ride to Lorien, at the least.

“Legolas, the riders…” she started.

“It is them,” he answered her, knowing the question in her mind. “I do not recognize their horses, but they are Elves
from Lorien, to be certain.” He pointed out the three horses standing silently in front of the Great Hall. “Galadriel must
have sent them. Come,” he said, taking her arm as she stepped up onto the deck, “We must hurry.”

As they entered the room, Coralynne saw that the Fellowship was already seated around in various places. Lord Elrond
was at the front of the room, and at his sides stood three elves, all looking very tired, and very weary from their journey.

They were very tall, she noticed, as was the custom among Elves. Yet, despite their white-blonde hair they were a sight
darker in skin tone than the Elves of Rivendell. Their skin held an olive tone that was quite becoming, actually.

Elrond’s gaze moved instantly to the two of them as they rushed through the doors, and he motioned them both
forward. Legolas instantly moved to embrace the hand of one of the taller Elves. He seemed a bit haughty, though he
greeted Legolas with a bright smile despite the fatigue around his eyes. “Haldir, my friend, it is good to see you!”
Legolas exclaimed.

“As it is to see you, Prince Legolas. It has been a long time, good friend.”

Elrond stood and interrupted them as Coralynne approached him. He smiled reassuringly, and it seemed to give her a bit
of confidence in what might happen. “Now, Haldir, Guardian of Lorien, we are all present. Please, give us your message.”

Haldir nodded and turned to face the Fellowship and Coralynne. His eyes widened considerable as he set his gaze upon
her, yet he continued. “The Lady of Lorien sends this message to you. She wishes for you to journey to Lorien, so that
she might tell you the tale of your birth, and the consequences of your life. She sends good tidings of Lorien, and wishes
to reassure you that all will be well.” He sighed as he wavered a bit, and began again. “It is her wish that we depart in
two days for Lothlorien, and make much haste along the way.”

He turned to Lord Elrond, who nodded and smiled. “Thank you, Haldir. I will have Lariwen show you all to your rooms,
that you might get some rest and a hot bath before we depart.” A young maiden appeared at Elrond’s right side, her
blonde hair braided and swept back from her face. She was dressed in plain clothes, yet her face was very beautiful, and
her smile was bright and welcoming.

Haldir nodded to the other two Elves at his side. “With your leave, Lord Elrond, I would have a small rest and then a
walk about Rivendell, as it has been long years since I have set my gaze upon the beauty of this place.” He looked at
Legolas and nodded. “And, my Lord, there is much to catch up on.”

“Of course, Haldir. Please, do as you like. You are welcome in Rivendell, as always.” He turned back to the Fellowship as
the three exhausted Elves silently left the hall. It must have been quite a ride from Lorien to Rivendell in such a short
time, Coralynne mused, as she pondered the apprehensive look about Elrond’s face.

“Coralynne, Aragorn, Legolas. Please,” he requested, indicating that they should come to stand before him. They did so,
and he was not surprised to see the rest of the Fellowship step up behind them as well. “You will depart as planned in
two days. I will have the horses and supplies waiting for you early that morning. Lady Coralynne, Dhalaldriel is waiting in
your room to take measurements so that she may have some garments made for you.”

Coralynne took the hint and nodded. “Until dinner, Lady, I recommend that you get some rest.”

“Of course, Lord Elrond. Until dinner then.” She turned to leave, and caught Legolas’ reassuring smile and nod as she
moved to exit the room. As she slipped through the door she nodded to him, communicating without the need for
speech. Shocked, she realized that she knew he would stop by her room as soon as Elrond was finished speaking to
them.

Their kiss had opened a link between them. She was sensitive to his emotions and his feelings, as well as very aware of
his presence wherever he might be. It was as if she could feel him moving inside her mind, always with her though he
was not physically near.

Smiling, Coralynne moved off down the path, feeling as though her heart had been warmed clean through.

Back in the Hall, Elrond turned to face the Fellowship. “It is as I thought. Galadriel will wish to tutor Coralynne in the arts
and history of our kind, the Elves, and of Middle-Earth, so that when the time comes for her to take her true form, she
will be better prepared to deal with the transformation.” He sighed and crossed his hands behind his back, moving away
from his previous place. He came to stand beside Aragorn, flanked on either side by Frodo and Boromir.

“Galadriel’s haste is great. She already fears the change will take place soon. Haldir has been riding hard for three days
to reach us, so great is her urgency. She must teach Coralynne how to use and control her abilities, else…I believe you
know what will happen if she does not. Light in its purest form can be a miracle, or it can kill. If she learns to bend it well
and to her will, it will illuminate her, but it not…she will die, consumed by its fire.”

Aragorn stirred as Elrond fell silent. “To that end, Legolas, what did you learn of Coralynne’s abilities this afternoon?” He
waited patiently as Legolas nodded, and began.

“I do not think there is any reason to doubt her ability to defend herself, my friend. Her aim with a bow is lethal and her
ability to ride and control a horse would impress even the finest Horsemaster in Rohan.”

Aragorn nodded, obviously satisfied with Legolas’ testament. “I thank you, my friend. That is good to know.” He nodded
to Legolas and inclined his head to Elrond before he left the room, knowing there was nothing more he would say that
would be vital to their journey. However, Aragorn knew there were many arrangements to be made, and the sooner
they were done and out of mind for the next two days, the better.

He was anxious to depart Rivendell for another adventure. He grew tired of standing around doing nothing all the time.
Even Arwen was out and about doing things all of the time, and they rarely seen each other. It would be good to take
this journey, yet many things bothered him. Coralynne must be something special for Galadriel to summon her so quickly.
He wasn’t quite sure he knew why she was or what made her so important, but he suspected he would be learning
many new things, and soon.

The rest of the Fellowship had gone their separate ways, and Lord Elrond had excused himself to his chambers until
dinner that evening for a short rest. Boromir stopped beside Legolas and bent his head secretively. “Legolas, my friend,
I fear all is not well with our journey. There is a strange voice in my mind, telling me to be cautious where the Lady
Coralynne is concerned, to watch her carefully for her sake as well as our own.”

Legolas watched him for a moment. “I hear that as well. Remember, Boromir, that Coralynne is a wielder of Light. That
may attract all forms of evil and Darkness to us along the way.”

Boromir cupped Legolas’ shoulder with a smile. “Then let us hope, my friend, that it does not come to that!”

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Coralynne sighed and snuggled deeper into her pillow, thankful for the short respite from the long and taxing day. Her
muscles were beginning to protest the sudden activity from earlier, as it had been quite some time since she had held a
bow in her arms. Added to that, her backside and back muscles all ached from the long laborious ride to and from the
training meadow. She suspected that it would likely be much worse come morning, and nearly groaned in frustration.

They were to depart for Lorien in two days, then. Only two days. And she was still afraid of what she would learn,
though she wanted to know, to solve the puzzle in her mind and fit all the pieces together to make sense of them. Then
she would be complete, perhaps, and able to learn who she was deep inside.

No matter what, she decided, nothing could change who she was in her heart. She was Coralynne, simply Coralynne,
now and forever. Because she now had a title in front of her name and a ruined kingdom changed nothing of the person
that she was and always had been.

With that resolve she smiled softly, and her eyes drifted closed. Seconds later Legolas rapped softly upon the door, then
entered when he realized she was asleep already. He had meant to simply speak with her for a few moments, but did
not wish to wake her. It had been a hard day, and she needed her rest for their journey.

He moved to her bedside and, leaning down, pressed a light kiss to her forehead before laying a small pink flower in the
curve of her palm. Then he left her room as quietly as he had come in, softly latching the door closed.

He wished to visit with Haldir, a friend whom he had not seen since his last journey to Lorien. It all seemed so long ago
to him, but it wasn’t really. Time flew by so fast for an immortal one, each day losing value because they were limitless in
the life of an Elf. It was easy to forget to live in the moment and to take each thing as it came up rather than worrying
about everything all at once.

Sighing softly he walked down the long well worn path to the birch grove. He looked around as though surprised to find
himself there, and was drawn to the bench where Coralynne had shed her tears on him not two nights ago. So much
had happened since then, and there was more to come.

Hearing voices, he quickly climbed a tree, not wishing to be found when he would rather be alone. Silently he curled his
legs up on the enormous limb and rested his head on his folded arms, which rested upon his knees. It was actually quite
a comfortable position, though Pippin and Merry felt inclined to debate it rather loudly at times.

“I am telling you, she is evil!” the voice said, its high haughty tone immediately revealing its possessor. The words
continued, each more contrived and underhanded than the last. “She will destroy Rivendell, and all of the Elves along
with it. We know naught of her. And now she has taken Legolas under her dark spell, blinding him with smiles full of
poison for his mind. He does not love her! Let him see, let him see, when alas! She reveals her true Darkness to us all,
and Sauron eats the flesh of our very bones!”

The others with her gasped and murmured amongst themselves, and Legolas fought for control, to deny the urge to
shake violently the cruel Elf who would so besmirch such a true and untainted love.

Anarwyn. He had had all he could take from the conniving Elf. He had endured her unwanted advances, and her witless
smiles as long as he could.

That decided, he slid smoothly from the tree, landing softy on his feet before the shocked Elf. Her delicate brows raised
in surprise, and the other maidens turned and hurried away quickly, immensely unsettled at the ferociousness in his
usually smiling features.

“Legolas!” she exclaimed. “I did not know you were there! I…I…”

“You what?” he demanded loudly, still fighting to keep his head cool. Never had he felt such utter need for violence, and
it frightened him. This protectiveness was new to him, this need to defend someone or something so valiantly.

“I speak only the truth!” she cried, knowing she was backed into a corner. “She has bewitched you, Legolas! You are
blinded by the Shadow! Can you not see? Can you not see that I love you?” Tears threatened to spill from her eyes, and
yet there was no true grief in them. She was playing a part to win her little game. He would not play.

Legolas took her wrists roughly as she reached out for him and grabbed them tightly. His blue eyes fairly simmered with
rage, and Anarwyn recognized it, dropping her arms back to her sides.

“I will say this but once, Lady,” he nearly spat. “Lady Coralynne is a Queen, and will be spoken of in the manner she is
due. And you will not speak of Darkness relating to her ever again, for I am certain your father and mother would not
approve of your spreading vicious and unfounded lies about Royalty.”

He took a deep breath to control himself, and lowered his voice. His face was still fierce, so fresh was his anger with this
young girl-Elf. “And, you know naught of the meaning of love. You would bend it to your will so that you might gain
something you want. You are not fit to speak of love, Lady, nay, until you learn what it is you taint with your ugly
words.”

She began to speak, but closed her mouth when Legolas’ brows drew together in a frown.

“I will warn you but once to leave her and I alone. We are in love, and we are happy. And, if you’ve any care or respect,
you will heed my words.” He added in a gentler voice as he began to calm down, “I am not for you, Anarwyn, but
someday you will find the right Elf to wed. You are young yet. Do not let jealousy and anger blind you to other
opportunities.”

Nodding adamantly, her cheeks flaming, Anarwyn shook free of his firm grasp on her shoulders. He did not even
remember taking hold of them. Shaken, he took several deep breaths as the young girl ran from the grove.

What had come over him? He wondered. Also, he realized that he had just admitted freely and without hesitation that
he and Coralynne were very much in love. Smiling, he realized that he could feel her warm presence in his mind, and he
knew that she was sleeping restfully as she had been moments before.

It probably would do him a bit of good to get in a hot soak before dinnertime as well. He was strung tighter than a
drawn bow, and he felt as though his string was about to break. Hearing Anarwyn speak such words with such
vehemence had shaken him, for that was not the normal behavior of a Lady such as she.

Sure, she was young yet, but her parents were of good lineage, and kind people. They would not condone such horrible
acts. Of course, Legolas was doubly offended because the woman she insulted happened to be the woman he had
given his heart to.

Supposing it didn’t matter, he shook his head and made his way to the bathing pools, which would no doubt be
steaming hot, reliable as always.

He would look forward to a bath, and then a long conversation with Haldir, to catch up on small things that he found he
missed. However, he had caught Haldir’s look of intrigue and the flicker of longing in his eyes when he had set his gaze
upon Coralynne. It was interesting to him, because Haldir had never seemed inclined to bother with women, claiming
they were more hassle than their worth. Legolas had partly agreed for quite some time, withholding his opinion because
he saw how happy Arwen made Aragorn, and always wished that kind of love for himself.

It appeared he had gotten his wish.

When he reached the pools, he checked to make certain they were deserted, as that was his favorite time of to bathe
and relax. Then he stripped off his tunic and leggings, laid them slightly folded upon a rock table nearby. Already he
could feel the stress of the day taking its toll upon his muscles, honed and toned though they were. The hot water
would ease the strain and make him feel much better. From a small tray he picked up a beautiful glass bottle and poured
a small amount of the scented oil into one of the steaming pools nearby.

Its purpose was to cleanse the mind and body of worries and stress, the scent a rich leafy citrus that reminded him of a
fruit grove in spring. He inhaled deeply of it, and sat on the edge of the pool, slipping his toes, then his feet, ankles, and
finally all of his leg below the knee inside the hot water, holding his breath and then letting it out as his body adjusted
to the high temperature.

He was always totally at ease in this place. He did not dwell on his nakedness, for this was a well-protected place, and
despite its healing properties, wasn’t frequented by the Elves. They preferred their private pools to those out in the
open.

Legolas, however, loved to sit in the pool and gaze at the trees, and the sky, especially at night when the stars blinked
like diamonds upon a black velvet cloth, softer than doeskin and twice as rich.

Sucking in his breath, he braced his arms on the edge of the pool and slipped slowly down into the water, nearly wincing
at the sharp difference in temperature between his body and the pool. Finally, he managed to slip in to his neck, and
leaned his head against the rest that had been carved out of the stone.

Closing his eyes, he forced his muscles to relax and unwind, felt the tension flow from his body as his energy came back.
All his angry thoughts of Anarwyn were put behind him as he soaked up the calming serenity of this place, and soon
enough, he fell asleep.

Next