Elrond/Rivendell-The Veil Fan Fiction

Warning: Sexual situations 

       I woke up in a different place than I had fallen asleep in. That was rather disconcerting. I stood up and Wynter came and rubbed against my legs. Vorsúl was some feet away munching on the grass but other than that I was alone.

“Galyn?” I called, “Kai? Tirr? Dea?" I paused, "Vér?” I listened, the only response I got was the sound of the birds greeting the new day and the breeze moving the leaves and branches above my head. Strange.

I looked around, I was in a small clearing of birch and there was a thick patch of grass underfoot. This wasn’t the place I had bedded down in last night, hell it wasn't even the season I had bedded down in. I had slept under an oak tree in the dirt with the boys nearby and it had been near winter, not spring. Had something happened? Had I been knocked out and they had had to move me? I looked around for footprints and found nothing. Nothing coming in or going out, not even my own or Vorsúl’s, it was as if I had been flown in.

That was possible, Kai could have flown me here but that didn’t explain how Wynter and Vorsúl had gotten here. There was no way Wynter would allow Kai to fly him anywhere and well, I didn’t think he could carry something as big as a horse. Vorsúl came over and nuzzled me and I noticed that he didn’t have a saddle on him. I hadn’t seen my saddle when I was looking around for footprints either. Shit. I looked again, starting in the center of the clearing and moving out in ever widening circles. I looked all around and found nothing. Not so much as a broken twig.

I walked back to where I started and sat down, perplexed. I seemed to be stranded here, alone, with no saddlebags or anything, my pack was also gone. Hell, even the bedroll I had fallen asleep on was gone. It was a good thing I still had my pouch that I had bought off of Kai. It had some money in it plus I had all my weapons on me. So at least I wasn’t defenseless. I closed my eyes and reached out with my mind, searching for a raptor. I finally found a strange kind of falcon soaring high on the wind and used his eyes to see the surrounding area.

What I saw through his eyes only served to worry me further. I didn’t recognize anything. Nothing about the land below was familiar to me. It was all green and rolling hills with a thick, old forest. In the distance there was some tall, snowcapped mountains. A wide river ran from them and down to the valley below to disappear into the trees. It was breathtakingly beautiful and seemed to be completely untouched by human hands. There wasn’t a town or village within the falcon’s eyesight however. That was wrong too because we had only traveled a day out of that last town, the falcon should be able to see it and the countryside had certainty not looked like this. Very strange indeed.

The falcon was strange to me as well. Although I recognized it as a falcon, I had never touched one of this species. That worried me more than anything because it meant that I had been moved to at least another continent, one that was very far away from where I should have been. Crap. How long had I been out? I didn’t feel like I had been out very long at all. My muscles weren’t weak or stiff and I wasn’t sore at all. If I had been out long enough for this long of a journey I would have felt weak at least. Had we gone through a veil? If so why hadn't anyone woken me?

I used the falcon to search the area then moved him into the trees and searched the forest. When I felt him start to tire I let him go and reached out and grabbed all the raptors within a hundred yard area. I couldn’t control them in flight like I could one by itself but I could see though them. It was confusing as hell but I had practiced enough at it over the years that I didn’t get dizzy anymore. There was no sign of the boys anywhere.

I let them all go at last and sighed. What to do now? What had happened to the boys? Was Galyn alright? I hoped so. I sighed and swung up on Vorsúl’s bare back. I might as well do something, just sitting here waiting for something to happen wasn’t an option. I rode off at a fast gallop towards the river that I had seen through the falcon’s eyes. It took a good part of the morning to reach it and I stopped to rest when I did. I didn’t have my water skins and was very thirsty by this point and I drank the cool clean water with gusto. I could tell by the clean taste that this river didn’t run through or near a human town at all. At least not upstream from where I drank. Water that ran through or near a human settlement always had a foul taste to it, no matter how far away you got from the source. Humans tended to foul everything they touched.

I stood up and looked around. I was starting to get hungry. I looked at the river and could see a number of fish swimming in its depths. I took out an arrow and tied some twine to it then knocked it to my bow,  took careful aim at a large shape swimming below me and let my arrow fly. It flew true and I quickly pulled up a large, flopping fish.

I made a small fire and cooked up my prize. While it cooked I pondered what had happened and what I was going to do about it. I should find and make for the nearest town and get my bearings. At least then I would have a name of where I was even if I still didn’t know how the hell I had gotten there. After breakfast I made sure the fire was good and out and mounted up again. I decided to ride downstream and hope to come across a town that way. Humans always tried to build their towns around a fresh water source.

I rode all-day and well into the night. Stopping only to drink, eat and relieve myself. The river ran a fairly straight course over the land and Vorsúl had no trouble galloping over the ground. I stopped at a bit past mid of night to rest. Vorsúl lay down and I sat propped up against him with Wynter draped over my legs. As I let sleep take me I said a silent prayer that I would wake up back where I belonged. Or if not, at least let me not wake up somewhere worse.

I woke up with the sun as I had fallen asleep. Well at least I wasn’t somewhere even different, I thought. I stretched and ate some of the left over bird that I had cooked last night then was off once again.

For three days and nights I traveled thus. On the fourth day I found another of those strange falcons and sent him soaring along the river to see what lay ahead. He flew for some miles before seeing what looked like a strange set of dwellings set in the protection of a valley carved by the river. The buildings seemed to be carved out of the very landscape and were quite beautiful. Humans did not build dwellings like that. Intrigued, I let the falcon go and rode on towards these strange dwellings. Curious now to have a look for myself and see who lived in them.

A few hours of hard riding later the land started to slope gently downward until I found myself having to veer from the river and ride along a well-used path. Not wanting to look like I was charging in, I slowed Vorsúl to a walk and followed the gently winding road.

I soon came to a set of large, stone, gates that stood open and rode past them into a courtyard. I dismounted and looked around. I could see some people up on the beautifully carved terraces wandering around. One stopped to look at me briefly before moving on. I guess they weren’t too concerned about having a stranger ride in. I couldn’t see them too well from my angle and the only thing I could tell for sure was that they were human height and were wearing long colorful robes.

I walked well into the courtyard and up to a set of stairs that led up into one of the buildings. From what I could see most of the buildings were open to the elements. It was very pleasing to the eye and I felt unusually comfortable being here. I stood there just looking around and didn’t notice someone walking up to me until he was only a few feet away.

“Hello,” came a soft male voice.

I spun around, immediately on my guard. “What?” he had been very quiet, inhumanly quiet.

The stranger smiled and held his hands out to show he was unarmed. “I am sorry, I did not mean to startle you.” He was tall and dressed in green robes that matched his eyes. He had long blonde hair that was tied back on the sides and  pointed ears.

“You’re an Elf.” I said surprised.

He laughed, “What were you expecting to find in Rivendell? Dwarves?” he laughed again at his joke. One that I didn’t get. I had never heard of a place called Rivendell.

“Well, um no I guess not.” I said, thinking even as I said it that it sounded lame. I forced a smile but I don’t think it was very convincing because he stopped laughing and looked hard at me.

He looked me over, taking in my different, non-elf like features. He stared long at my ears, they were longer and more pointed than an Elf’s were. My skin was also paler and my features a bit more sharp. Not to mention my bicolored, red/silver hair.

He frowned, “Who are you and where do you hail from?” he said at length.

“My name is Vanildor Silverbranch.” I said. “I hail from Knock-ma.” I had almost said the Unseelie Court but Elves didn’t take well to the members of the Dark Court and I needed their help.

“Knock-ma?” he said, “I have never heard of such a place.”  He looked at me suspiciously. “I think you should come with me to see Lord Elrond,” he said.

I nodded and followed him up the staircase, mentally telling Vorsúl to stay and behave himself. I found it hard to believe that he had never heard of Knock-ma. I would have questioned him about it but seeing as he didn’t seem like he was in charge I decided to keep my mouth shut for now. Hopefully this Elrond person would be able to answer my questions. I just hoped he was another Elf. Elves tended to be rather peaceful and weren’t prone to violence unless provoked. If this truly was a village of Elves I was in luck so long as I kept a civil tongue in my head. I really did not want to provoke a whole town of Elves, they were deadly fighters when they had to be and not ones to piss off.

He of the golden hair and green robes led me up the stairs and through some impressive open rooms until coming to a set of large wooden doors that were beautifully carved with vines, leaves, knots and arches. He knocked at the doors and waited. I waited quietly behind him, slightly nervous at what might lay behind the doors. Wynter sat down by my side and I took some comfort from his presence. At least I wasn’t without friends here.

“Come in,” came a deep male voice on the other side of the doors.

My guide opened the doors and stepped inside. He turned to me and indicated that I should follow and I stepped into what looked like a large library. There were books from wall to ceiling along two of the back walls and a large open doorway on the other side of the room led out to a terrace. The room had tables that were covered with various gadgets and things lying around as well.

An Elf that had been sitting in a large overstuffed chair stood up as we walked towards him. He had dark hair and blue eyes that looked like they had seen too much and it had affected him deeply. He was wearing maroon colored robes and had a silver crown type of thing on his head. He was rather handsome I thought. He smiled slightly at us as we approached. Blondie bowed his head at this new Elf before addressing him. 

“Lord Elrond,” he said. “This is Vanildor Silverbranch, she just rode in on a strange black horse with red eyes and claims to be from a place called Knock-ma.” he made it sound like he didn’t believe me and I repressed a snort.

Elrond raised an eyebrow at this and turned to regard me. I bowed my head slightly as Blondie had done and clasped my hands in front of myself in a non-threatening manner. Nothing to be afraid of sir, Death has just walked into your house but it’s nothing to worry about, really. Riiight.

“Greetings Vanildor Silverbranch.” He said. His voice was deep, rich and soothing. It made me feel at ease even though I knew better. It didn’t feel like magic though, more like a natural gift to put people at ease. He had a kind, gentleness about him that enticed trust and peace. Two feelings that I wasn’t very familiar with.

“Greetings Lord Elrond,” I said. Making sure I addressed him the same way that Blondie had. I resisted the urge to squirm. I wasn’t sure if I liked being here or not.

He smiled again and looked at Blondie. “Thank you Eland.”

Eland bowed again and turned to leave. Closing the doors behind him.

I watched Elrond suspiciously. He didn’t appear to be armed but then if you were powerful enough you didn’t really need physical weapons, besides, his robes were loose and could be hiding a multitude of weapons. I should know, my clothes weren't all that loose and I had well over a dozen blades hidden on me. He stepped closer to me and I stiffened which caused him to pause.

“I’m not going to hurt you Vanildor,” he said quietly.

I wasn’t too sure about that but I nodded anyway. It was probably the truth, Elves weren’t sadistic as a general rule. He drew closer and looked me over. As he circled behind me and I had to fight myself  not to turn to keep him in my sight. I didn’t like having strangers at my back, no matter how pretty they were. He didn’t stay out of sight long though, whether sensing my unease or no I couldn’t tell, he moved to stand to my left side and reached up to touch my head. I tensed and almost jerked away but he was lord of this place and I didn’t fancy having him call in his guards to hold me down while he touched me. So I stood still.

He lightly touched my ear, running his finger carefully over the tip and down to my neck. I gasped and felt my body break out in gooseflesh as I involuntarily reacted pleasurably to his touch. He quickly jerked his hand away and I stepped away and eyed him.

“I am sorry Vanildor, I did not mean to cause such a… reaction.” he smiled sadly. “You have my humblest apologies.”

I wasn’t sure if I believed him or not. If it had been Kai I would definitely said not but looking into his eyes I felt that he was sincere so I didn’t start a fight about it so I just nodded.

“Um, I,” I didn’t know what to tell him, should I tell him that I was lost? Should I tell him the whole story about waking up in a strange place? I wasn’t sure. My kind didn’t tend to get lost and saying that I had just woken up in a strange world seemed like a bad idea.

He smiled, “Has your journey been a hard one? Would you like something to eat and drink before discussing why you came to see me or is your errand too urgent for that?”

“Oh, well no it isn’t urgent. I didn’t come to see you Lord Elrond I just kind of stumbled my way in here.” ok now I know that was lame. I shrugged and just looked at him. He raised his eyebrows at me and nodded.

“Very well then. Let me show you to an empty room, you can join us for lunch, I expect that it will be ready shortly.” he smiled and walked to the door and opened it. I followed him down a hallway to another large set of doors, which he opened. “You may stay here as long as you like.” He said and stepped aside so I could enter the room.

It was beautiful. The bed was huge and was draped with light looking white and blue cloth and the headboard was carved with vines and flowers. There was a terrace that led outside and another door that I assumed led to a bath or maybe a closet.

“Who do I have to share it with?” I asked. It seemed a bit much just for one person even though there was only one bed.

He laughed. “You don’t have to share it with anyone that you do not want to.” he said as he entered the room behind me.

I turned to him and found that he was looking at me carefully. “I have never seen one such as you. You say you come from a place called Knock-ma?” I nodded. “I have not heard of this place either.”  He paused and frowned.

I decided to take a chance, “Have you heard of the Seelie and Unseelie Courts?” I asked.

“No.” He said.

I breathed a sigh of relief. At least he wouldn’t hold my Court against me. I frowned a bit, I had never heard of this Rivendell and he had never heard of the Courts? Things were getting stranger and stranger by the moment. I rubbed the bridge of my nose between my eyes and sighed. I was really starting to worry now. Where was I?

Elrond watched me quietly and I stopped to look at him. He had a bit of broody sadness about him that his small, brief smiles didn’t seem to chase away. He glanced over at Wynter, who was sniffing around the terrace.

“And your companion is…”

“Oh that’s Wynter, he’s my Morhuan.” I added.

Elrond frowned as he watched him then he looked seriously at me. “What are your intentions here?” he asked. “Rivendell is a place of peace and sanctuary and I will not allow any disturbances.”

I bowed my head quickly and held my hands out in front of me. “I did not come here on any foul mission. I, I.” I swallowed and took a breath. “I’m lost.” I said quietly, so quietly I wasn’t sure if he heard me. I hated admitting any sort of weakness.

“In that case Vanildor, you are welcome to stay here until you have found your way,” he said.

I looked at him, looking for some sort of mockery or cruelty but found only a sad kindness in his blue eyes. “Thank you,” I said and he nodded.

“Lunch will be ready soon I suspect,” he said and left.

I wondered how I would know when lunch was ready. I assumed that he would send someone to tell me, as he hadn’t given me a time frame or a place to go. Oh well, I wasn’t too concerned with it. I had eaten breakfast and although I wouldn’t turn down a hot meal prepared in a real kitchen, I wasn’t starving. If worst came to worst I could always just ride out a bit and hunt up something to eat.

I wandered around the large bedroom, looking at the small trinkets placed here and there for guest use, or so I assumed. There were perfume bottles and powder and hairbrushes and a variety of hair clips and ties. I went through an open door at the other end of the room and walked into a rather large bathroom. The tub was huge and could easily fit two or three adults. It was carved out of white marble and had a silver thing sticking out of one end that curved down at the top to face the inside of the tub. It looked like a water pump but I couldn’t see a pump handle anywhere, just some knobs on either side of it. Strange.

 Sitting on a silver tray on the side of the tub was an assortment of perfumed soaps and oils and a small stack of fluffy blue towels. I couldn’t imagine what the oils were for, unless you were to smear them on your body after you bathed. Personally I didn’t see the point of taking a bath only to coat your body with oil, even if it did smell good.

Having nothing better to do at the moment I went to the tray and sniffed at every soap and oil on the tray. Most of them smelled like flowers of some sort, a few more smelled like food. Things like mint, vanilla and honey. Also on the tray was a bowl filled with fresh rose petals. I scooped them up and let them fall from my fingers back into the bowl and wondered what they were supposed to be used for. By themselves and uncrushed, rose petals weren’t usually used for much besides decoration. Though you could eat them. But who would want to eat plain rose petals?

I shrugged and stood up and looked into the mirrors that covered the wall opposite the tub. They stood over a sink that matched the tub and had a similar looking pump thing with knobs that hung over the sink bowl. In the reflection behind me I could see some robes hanging from hooks on the back of the door. Curious, I went over and lightly touched the spigot. It was a smaller version of the one over the tub and gleamed brightly in the sunlight that streamed in through the skylight. I ran my hand down its cool surface to one of the knobs.

I was about to try turning it when I heard the door to the bedroom open. I froze and listened, my hand going instinctively to my swords. I heard someone enter the room, shut the door and then set something down with a soft metallic ‘click’. Then he or she stood still.

“Vanildor?” came Elrond’s voice.

I let out a breath and walked out of the bathroom. Elrond was standing quietly by a small table that was by the door. Sitting on the table was a large tray of food, mostly fruits and bread with bowls of something as yet unknown. He had his hands clasped in front of him and was watching me quietly. I got the feeling that he could have stood there a very long time without getting either angry or bored.

 “I was just looking around.” I said as I approached.

He nodded, “is everything alright? Is there anything you need?” he asked.

I blinked in surprise. He had been introduced to me as ‘Lord’, not servant. What was he doing serving me like this? Puzzled I walked over to the table and stood in front of him.

“No, I don’t require much more than a dry place to sleep.” I said.

He gave me a small smile and sat down on one of the chairs by the table. After a brief pause I took a seat opposite. The food tray was laden with more food than I thought two people could eat and wondered if someone else were going to join us. Probably a guard or something, I thought.

The tray consisted of mostly fruits that I didn’t recognize, some that I did, some bread rolls and small bowls of what looked like butter, honey and cream. All in all it looked more like one would eat for dessert or breakfast rather than for lunch. Oh well, beggars can’t be choosers. Besides, I was always up for trying new kinds of food.

Elrond picked up a bread roll and started smearing it with butter and honey. I picked up a strange oval shaped, red and orange colored fruit and sniffed at it. It smelled sweet so I took a bite out of it.

Elrond’s eyes widened just as I got a real taste of it and fought not to sputter and spit it out onto the table. I grabbed a napkin and, as politely and I could, spit the bitter tasting thing into it. It took more effort than was pretty not to screw up my face and make some rude noise about it. Instead I put the fruit down and picked up my glass and poured myself some water.

Elrond chuckled quietly, at my expense. “You are supposed to peal that first,” he said. “And then eat the meat on the inside.” He picked up the fruit that I had put down and used a knife to skin it. He then cut off a piece and popped it into his mouth and chewed it before handing the rest of the fruit back to me.

I took it and cut a very small piece of the yellow meat off of it for myself and cautiously put it into my mouth. It was wonderful! So sweet and juicy. I cut a bigger piece off and before I knew it had eaten the whole thing.

Elrond smiled as he ate his bread. “I take it you’ve never had a mango before.” he said.

“No,” I said simply as I looked at the rest of the food. I picked up a funny shaped yellowish thing and held it up. “What is this one called?”

“That is a papaya, you should skin that as well before eating it,” he chuckled.

“Thanks,” I said as I did so. “What about those small, brown, fuzzy ones?”

“Those are kiwis. Peel those as well.” He smiled at me and it finally touched his eyes. They were a dark blue, like Kai’s but instead of being arrogant and full of heat they were warm and kind and a little sad. I was suddenly struck by how handsome and completely beddable he was.

I looked away quickly before I started blushing and concentrated very hard on peeling my fruit. I knew nothing about these people’s culture and bedding one of them, especially their lord, seemed like a really bad idea.

The rest of lunch passed by quietly and without any more mishaps. Elrond didn’t question me or even offer to talk as we ate. It was a comfortable silence though and I wasn’t inclined to break it with idle chatter. I wasn’t very good at it anyway.

When I couldn’t eat anymore I sat back looked around me at the wall murals. It was mostly just forestry pictures of trees and animals, but was nice to look at. A light breeze was blowing in from outside and I closed my eyes for a moment to enjoy it.

I must have drifted off because the next thing I remember was someone trying to pick me up. I jerked awake and had my blades in my hands before I even opened my eyes. It was pure instinct and practice with a tad of paranoia thrown in for that little extra kick. Whoever had me was just as quick though, because I suddenly found myself on the floor on my back with a blade pressed to my throat.

“Drop them,” Elrond’s voice was soft and cold.

I did as I was told and looked up at him. His blue eyes were cold and hard as he looked down at me and I got the instant impression that this was a man who had had to kill before, and would do so again if pressed. I couldn’t see the blade he had pressed to my neck but I could definitely feel it, it was very sharp as I could feel the tip of it in my skin and a hot line of blood that trickled down from the small wound. I was suitably impressed, few people could match my speed with a small blade, much less get the upper hand on me at close quarters.

I took a calming breath and forced my body to relax, it wouldn’t do to get upset with him having the advantage. “I am sorry for drawing my weapons on you Lord Elrond. You startled me. Please accept my humblest apologies.” I could feel Wynter stalking up behind him and I steadied him with a thought. I didn’t want to have to attack Elrond if I didn’t have to. It was his home after all and I had drawn my weapons first. Under Court law he could have me punished for this insult.

He raised his eyebrows at me then after a moment's thought, slowly took the blade from my throat and stood up. I remained on the ground on my back, not daring to move without permission. He straightened his robes and offered a hand to me. I looked suspiciously at it for a moment before taking it and allowing him to help me up. The blade in his hand disappeared into the folds of his robes and he frowned at me.

“Rather quick to pull your weapons Vanildor. I would suggest you watch yourself while you are here. No one will hurt you unless you offer them violence first. You have my word on this.”

I bowed my head to him. “Again, I am sorry Lord Elrond for my rashness. Where I come from, often the only thing that keeps you alive is being faster on the draw than everyone else.” I took a step back form him. “I thank you for lunch and will take my leave of you now if you like.” I started to look around for my stuff but remembered that I didn’t have anything. Well, at least I could be off in a hurry.

Elrond stepped forward and reached out his hand to my face. I flinched and he hesitated. He looked at me and I turned my eyes away. Best not to eyeball those in power, they tended not to like it much. He took my chin in his hand, turned me to look at him and looked into my eyes for a moment, frowning, as if searching for something. I looked back carefully keeping my face and eyes blank of emotion.

He stepped closer, our bodies nearly touching and brought my chin up a bit, exposing my throat. The blood was still flowing slowly but it didn’t feel serious so I had momentarily forgotten about it. He brought his other hand up to touch the wound and I tensed. Before he could touch me though I lost my nerve and pulled away from him and took a step back, bumping into the wall behind me. I was trapped.

Without hesitating he stepped into my space and went to grab at my face again. The way I saw it I had two options; one, I could rush him and we could fight it out. Hopefully I would get past him and out to my horse before any sort of alarm was raised and spend the next week or so being hunted by his followers. Or two, I could stand here and take whatever punishment he had in mind for me and maybe later slip out, assuming I could still walk out on my own power, and escape.

I was rapidly weighing both options when he spoke. “Be at ease Vanildor, I’m not going to hurt you. Shhhh....be still.” His voice was soft and soothing and invited trust and peace and I could feel my body relaxing against my better judgment.

I guess I was going for option two, I just hoped that he wasn’t a sadist, like the Queen. Years of horror at Court and trained me to always assume the worst from people, especially those in power, even though my mind kept insisting that Elves weren’t a harsh or cruel people. As he reached up I closed my eyes, I had learned through experience that it was better if you didn’t see the blow coming. The least I expected was a hard slap across the face, the worst, well I wasn’t even going to bring to mind the worst I could think of. I had so many options to choose from. Instead of hitting me though he gently put his hand on my chin and lifted it up again to expose my throat. I concentrated on keeping my pulse and breathing slow and steady.

He took his other hand and gently rubbed at the wound on my throat. It stung a little at first then started to itch. He continued to rub it and the itching got progressively worse. I put my hands on his wrists and squirmed.

“Be still.” he said, and after a moment's hesitation I dropped my hands.

 After a few moments the itching sensation died away and he let me go and stepped back. I reached up and felt my throat, expecting to feel some horrible disfiguration or something. Instead all I felt was my smooth, unbroken skin.

I looked disbelievingly at him as I felt all around for my wound. “You’re a Healer.” I said.

He sighed and nodded. “Yes,” he said quietly, frowning at me.

“Thank you,” I said, it sounded lame but it was all I could think of to say. “I’ll take my leave now.”

“You needn’t leave,” he said. “As I said before, you are welcome to stay as long as you like, so long as you are peaceable. Do as you wish.” with that, he left the room.

After a few moments, to make sure he had gone, I left as well and found my way back to Vorsúl. He wasn’t far from where I had left him and came trotting over to me when he saw me. I gave him a pat and considered just mounting up and riding off but I still didn’t know where the hell I was. Oh sure, I knew I was in a small village of Elves called Rivendell, but other than that I knew nothing. I leaned my head against his neck and hugged him as I pondered what to do next.

“Are you well?” came a female voice, and I tuned to meet it. There was a pretty blonde Elf watching me curiously, she had on a blue gown that you could almost see through and left little to the imagination.

“Yes, I’m fine thanks.” I said.

 “I hear you are staying with us, would you like me to show you the stables?” she said.

Well, word certainty traveled fast around here, I thought. “Yes, thank you.” I said, I guess I was going to stay for a while after all.

After putting Vorsúl away in one of the nicest stables I had ever seen I decided to take a look around. This place was beautiful, hell, beautiful didn’t seem like a good enough word for it but I couldn’t think of anything else, perfect maybe. The gardens were glorious, filled with sculptured plants and statues of maidens in long robes. The buildings were carved out of the living stone and every rail, every path had been lovingly hand carved into functional works of art. On the inside, the walls of the hallways were lined with yet more sculptures and almost every wall had either delicate curved carving or a huge mural painted on it. Most of the murals were scenes featuring Elves and Men that seemed to be connected to each other like a big story that was told with pictures instead of words.

I loved it. My eyes couldn’t get enough of it. I don’t know how long I wandered around, looking at everything I could, but it didn’t seem like much time had passed by when I finally noticed that the sun had set and I was looking at a mural by torchlight instead of sunlight.

I started back to my room with the thought that I would come back the next day and take up my where I left off. I was almost at my door when it opened and Elrond stepped out.

“Oh there you are,” he said pleasantly, “I came to fetch you for dinner.”

I wasn’t sure I liked the idea of being ‘fetched’ but I let it slide. His tone of voice had been pleasant and I didn’t think he had meant it to be insulting.

“I was looking at your artwork and lost track of time.” I said as I slipped past him and into the room. “Do I have time to freshen up?” I asked, I hadn’t bathed in four days and was starting to feel a little grungy.

He followed me into the room, “Yes, if all you want to do is eat.” he said.

I turned to him, “What else does dinner involve?” maybe he had some sort of entertainment planned.

He smiled, “Well we tend to gather together before dinner and talk, though it isn’t required that anyone be there. After dinner though there is usually a party.”

Great, I didn’t do parties if I could help it. “Am I expected to attend the party?” I asked.

“It would be polite if you did, for a short time at least, though no one will force you to do so.”

I nodded, I guess I could show up, do a little walk about then leave. “What is the occasion?” 

He tilted his head slightly to the side and raised an eyebrow, it was almost endearingly cute. “Nothing special, we often gather for parties after dinner. I would suggest that you go if you are planning to stay with us for a while. It is a good way to meet everyone as well as find some companionship if you so desire.”

I blinked, “Companionship?”

He smiled, “You are very,” he paused, “exotic looking, Vanildor. You’ll have no trouble finding…. companionship.”

I felt the heat creep up my face and knew my face and ears were turning a bright shade of scarlet. Elrond laughed and the sound of his rich laughter caused things low in my body to tighten, which only made me blush all the more.

“I am sorry my lady, I did not mean to embarrass you.” he smiled, which made me blush even more.

I turned away from him, “I don’t,” I swallowed and fought for control of my voice which was threatening to go all squeaky on me, “I don’t, I didn’t come seeking a bed partner Lord Elrond.” I said, pleased that my voice sounded firm. “No offence to your people.” I added quickly. Wouldn’t want him thinking I was snubbing them for racial reasons or anything.

“Well, that’s up to you of course,” he said. “No offence will be taken.” I glanced at him over my shoulder, he was watching me with a funny little smile on his lips.

“Well, I’ll just have a quick bath then, before dinner.” I said.

“That’s fine, I’ll have some fresh clothes brought up.” he said and left.

I hurried into the bathroom and closed the door. I left Wynter outside to guard it, he wouldn’t let anyone in and I doubted anyone would even try once he gave them the hairy eyeball.

Once inside, I realized that I had no idea how the bathtub worked. Well, I should at least try and figure it out on my own before I asked for help. I went over and grabbed one of the knobs by the spigot. It wouldn’t turn to the right so I twisted it to the left. Water began to pour out of the spigot in a rush. Amazing! I wondered how they managed that, I told myself to remember to ask Elrond about it when I saw him at dinner. I put my hand under the water stream but jerked it back a second later. It was scalding hot. I reached over and turned the knob to the right and turned the flow off.

Well, if that one was hot water, hopefully the other would be cold. I turned the other one and, as I assumed, cold water came out. I turned the hot water on while the cold was flowing and adjusted each one until the water that came out was pleasantly warm. I stripped as the tub filled and slipped into the warm water. It felt wonderful to have a hot bath for a change and I regretted that I didn’t have the time to lay back and savor it. When the water was up to my chest I turned it off and started scrubbing the last four days of dirt and sweat off of me.

I used the rose scented soap to wash with and the bathroom was soon scented with the smell of it. I didn’t use any of the other things on the tray except the towels, which I used to dry myself with when I was done.

I dried my hair and body quickly and wrapped the biggest towel around myself and stepped out into the main bedroom. I looked around, there was no one there so I came out and sat down on the edge of the bed. Someone had come in and laid out a gown on the bed. I grumbled, I hated dresses, they hindered my movement and I was always forgetting to sit properly in them, being used to pants and all. It was three different shades of blue and had lace all over the place. I hated lace.

I sighed and slipped it over my head. The sleeves were too long for my arms and flared out ridiculously huge at the ends. I could probably get airborne if I just flapped my arms hard enough, I thought and snorted. It was low cut in the front, showing off the tops of my breasts to their best advantage and was tight in the waist. It fit me perfectly.

I was struggling with the hooks and ties in the back when there was a soft knock at the door. “Yes,” I snapped, pissed that I was having so much trouble with the damned dress.

The door opened and the blonde woman who had shown me the stables came in. “Elrond thought that you might need some assistance with your dress.” she said as she closed the door behind her.

“Well he thought right,” I said, trying not to sound too annoyed.

She smiled and came over and started lacing up my back. I stood quietly and let her work. When she was done she went over to the tray that held the hair stuff and grabbed a brush and a shiny, leaf shaped, silver clip. I took the brush and started working on my hair while she laid out some slippers for me to wear. At least I didn’t have to wear uncomfortable shoes.

“I love your necklace,” she said.

“Thank you,” I said. It was all I had left of my mother. It was a large, silver aspen leaf that was attached to thin silver branches that twined up and around my neck.

I finished my hair and braided it back then let her attach the clip to hold it all in place. I stood up and was about to go into the bathroom to get a few knives to strap to my legs when the Elf sprayed me with a cloud of vanilla scented perfume.

I coughed and waved at the air, “What are you doing!?” I snapped.

“Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t know you didn’t like vanilla. I should have asked what you wanted first.” she said. Her eyes were wide and she looked upset.

I calmed down, she hadn’t done it to piss me off. “It’s alright,” I sighed. “I just didn’t expect it is all. Warn me first next time.” Truth was I hadn’t planned on wearing any perfume but it was too late for that now and nothing short of another bath would fix it.

She smiled, “Ok, sorry.” she said and started for the door. “Dinner will be served any moment now. We’d better hurry, I’ll show you the way.”

“Alright, just a moment I need something out of the bathroom.” I said.

“I’ll wait for you outside.” she said and left the room.

I hurried into the bathroom and picked up all my weapons. I quickly strapped a knife to each leg and put the rest of them under the bed. The leg straps chafed a little but it was better than not having them. I went out the door, leaving Wynter behind to guard my stuff, and followed Elyriaiel through the hallways to a set of carved, oak doors that stood open.

We stepped into the room, it consisted of a long table and dozens of Elves seated around it, chatting merrily. Lord Elrond sat at the head of the table quietly, no one seemed to be talking to him at the moment. He looked up as we entered the room and gestured for me to come to him. Elyriaiel left me to go sit between two men and I walked to the head of the table and bowed my head to Elrond. He nodded back at me and motioned to an empty seat to his right.

“You look very nice,” he said as I sat down.

“Thank you,” I said and smoothed out my dress as I sat.

He looked about to say something else but was interrupted by the arrival of the food. A glorious spread was laid out before us. There were hot buns dripping with butter, meats, steaming vegetables, soups and stews, wines, a huge variety of food and drink. There didn’t seem to be any order of who ate first so we just all dug in. It got rather quiet as everyone enjoyed their food. It was wonderful and I couldn’t remember every having a more pleasant feast.

After dinner everyone stood up and started to file into the next room. Unsure about what to do next I stood up and looked to where they were going. It was a large, open room that opened out to the night via a very large terrace. Music started to drift out of the room as the people who went in picked up instruments and started playing. I felt a gentle hand on my elbow and turned to the see Elrond’s blue eyes.

“May I escort you in?” he asked.

I nodded, how could I refuse? I took his offered arm and he led me into the room where I was bombarded by light and noise. Everyone was talking and drinking and there was a small band forming in the corner playing and singing. It was not unlike one of the parties that were often thrown at Court, minus the ‘entertainment’. The Queen’s idea of entertainment was enough to make you not want to eat too much before going to into the room, least you loose it all.

Elrond led me through the throng of moving bodies to a bench that was outside on the terrace. We sat down and I adjusted my legs under the many folds of cloth that made up the dress. It was much too long and drug on the floor when I walked so I had to be careful to make sure my feet went under the hem with each step. It was starting to get annoying.

Elrond watched me with some amusement while I struggled to sit in a lady like manner. “I take it that you do not often dress in such formal attire,” he said.

“No, I spend most of my time on the road.” I said as I smoothed out the last wrinkle and sat up. It wasn’t perfect but it would do.

I looked at him, he was studying my face and shifted his eyes to look into mine when I looked up at him. I held his gaze for a moment before looking away from his intense gaze.

“I have never seen anyone quite like you Vanildor. Tell me where this Knock-ma lies.” he said, his rich, deep voice quiet and intimate in the semidarkness of the terrace.

“Well, it’s on an island that the humans call Ireland.” I said.

“And you somehow became lost while on the road?” he asked.

I nodded, I wasn’t sure how to explain what happened, mostly because I didn’t understand it myself.

“If I may ask, what sort of people do you come from? You are not an Elf.”

“My people are the Sidhe.” I said and he frowned. “We live in great mounds that lead underground.” I added.

His eyebrows came up. “Yes, I have heard of such.” he said. “Though I have never seen anyone like you. Gandaulf has spoken of such people. People, he said, that live in mounds of earth much like a Hobbit, but not. He called them the Hidden People.”

“What is a Hobbit?” I asked.

“A small people, halflings, shorter and less stout than dwarves. They live in burrows.” he said. “You are one of these Hidden People?”

“Well we don’t call ourselves that, but it’s a good analogy.” I said. “We don’t tend to get out much. Wandering, such as I do, is rare among us. We tend to be suspicious of outsiders.”

“I see,” he said. “So how did you become lost?”

“I, I don’t know.” I said. “I woke up in a different place than I had fallen asleep in and found myself alone and without my traveling gear. Even the bedroll I was sleeping on was gone. All I had was my horse, Wynter, my weapons, and anything that was actually on my person when I had fallen asleep.” I looked around. “This world is strange to me. The birds are different and the land is different.”

“Where did you wake up at? Do you remember exactly?”

“It is a four day journey upriver.” I said. “I followed the river downstream hoping to find a village or something so I could get a bearing on where I was at. That’s how I found this place.”

He nodded and put a warm hand on my shoulder. “I will summon Gandaulf, if anyone knows a way back into your world, he will.” he said smiling. He gave my shoulder a light squeeze and let go. “Try not to worry, you are safe here.”

“Thank you, Lord Elrond, I will try and make myself useful.”

“You needn’t worry about it,” he said, “Rivendell is open to all good people who are in need.”

I smiled a bit and looked away from him. It was hard meeting his gaze, looking into his eyes made me want to relax too much. Making me forget my troubles and worries. Letting my guard down wasn’t how I survived almost a thousand years in the Dark Court and I wasn’t about to start slipping now to a pair of wonderful blue eyes.

He brushed my cheek with the back of his hand and I shuddered. He dropped his hand before I could protest though and stood up. “I’ll leave you to your own devices now Vanildor, good Eve.” he said and drifted away into the crowd of people.

I sat outside long enough to be polite and watched as people drifted about. Several men came up and invited me back to their rooms and I declined each one politely. None of them seemed to take offence thank goodness and they simply drifted off to another woman without having to be told 'no' twice. All in all they were a rather cheerful and friendly lot.

I stood up at last and headed back to my room, slipping through the crowd, nodding and smiling at people who smiled and nodded at me. I hated social functions, being pleasant for long periods of time gave me a headache. When I finally got out the door I hiked up my dress and walked, rather unladylike, back to my room. I could not wait to get the hell out of this stupid dress.

 I opened the doors to my room and went in and Wynter jumped up to greeted me, I gave him a scratch. It was then that I remembered that I had needed help getting the dress laced up in the back and would probably need help getting it undone. Crap. I reached back and felt the cords that laced up and tied somewhere between my shoulders. But no matter how I twisted and turned, I could not reach them well enough to undo them. Frustrated, I was about to just use a knife and slice my way out of it when a soft knock sounded at my door.

Hoping that it was Elyriaiel, I went and opened it. Elrond stood there with a small silver, cloth covered tray balanced in one hand.

“You left before dessert,” he said, “I thought I would bring some up to you.”

“You needn’t wait on me Lord Elrond,” I said, blinking back my surprise. “I’m no one of any import.”

“Nonsense,” he said with a smile and walked in. “Everyone else is busy and I am doing nothing. So, here I am.” He set the covered tray down and looked at me. “Is everything alright, you look….haired.”

I sighed, “I can’t reach the back of the dress that unties,” I said, disgustedly.

He laughed and his eyes twinkled, “May I help? Or would you prefer I summon a lady to do it?”

“No I don’t want to bother anyone,” I grumbled, “if you could just get the top I think I can get the rest.”

He came over and I gave him my back and pulled my hair around in front of me. He came up behind me and gave a pull on something and I felt the dress loosen. I grabbed at the front top of it to keep it from slipping down. I was about to step away when he griped my shoulder firmly and pushed the back of the dress down a bit.

“What is this?” he said sharply and ran his hand over my bare back.

“What is what?” I craned my neck around but of course couldn’t see what he was talking about.

“Your back, my god it’s covered in what look like whipping scars.” he sounded shocked.

Oh, that. “It’s nothing,” I said, “Just one of the hazards of life at Court, most everyone has them.” I tried to step away from him but he held me there and started unlacing the rest of the dress. “I can get the rest, really.” I started.

He quickly finished unlacing it and opened the cloth to expose most all of my back. He ran his hands over my skin and I felt gooseflesh raise the hair all over my body. He traced the thin white lines that I knew marked my back from top to bottom. His hand came up and touched the flaying scar as well, it was about the size of a hand and was just under my shoulder blade.

“Who did this to you?” he said, his voice was still quiet but carried a note of anger in it.

“My Queen,” I said quietly. 

“Is this why you flinch from my hand?” he asked softly.

“Yes,” I said, I didn’t like to lie if I could help it and he had asked, so he got the truth. I simply didn’t trust people in power.

He let me go and stepped around to the front of me, I had to cross my arms over my chest to keep the dress up now, as it was so loose in the back. He raised his hand up slowly and I flinched, I couldn’t help it.

I looked down, away from his eyes and waited. He brought his hand down slowly and I jumped when his hand touched my face. He paused then cupped my face in his warm hands and traced the scar that ran the length of my jaw on my left side with his finger. Then he lifted my face up so I had to either look him in the eye, or close my eyes. I chose to keep them open.

“And did you get this at Court as well?” he asked.

"Nay, my father gave me that."

"So much pain," he said gently, "something we have in common I'm afraid though mine is inner."

He studied my face for what seemed like a long time, running his thumbs over my skin and gently sweeping back stray strands of hair that would fall in my face. I thought how nice it would be to have his hands all over my body and felt heat rush up my face. He smiled sadly and I closed my eyes, I hated blushing. He was so close that I could feel the heat from his body on my own. I started to step back but didn’t, I didn’t want to step away from his warmth. I wanted to wrap it around me and cuddle in his arms. To have his hands on me and mine on his. This was too embarrassing. Before I could do anything else, however, I felt him move closer and felt a soft brush of skin on my lips. I opened my eyes just as he kissed me.

His lips were soft and gentle, and after a few small pecks on my lips I kissed him back. His fingers traced my face lightly as the kisses went from tentative to passionate. I went to reach out to touch him but stopped when my dress slipped down a little more. I grabbed at it and he broke away from me and smiled. I blushed again and he traced my lips with his thumb.

“I don’t think I’ve seen a lady blush in over a thousand years.” he said.

I smiled, “I don’t, um. I.”

“Shhhh,” he said and wrapped his arms around my waist. “You needn’t explain Vanildor.” He pulled me close and nuzzled my face with his, placing light kisses here and there as he did. “You smell wonderful.” I guess he liked vanilla.

He pulled me close against his body and I was forced to move my arms. The only thing keeping my dress up now was the press of our bodies. He leaned down and kissed me again, we gently kissed at each other’s mouths, tasting and exploring the softness of each other’s lips. It was wonderful. His hands moved up and down my back and I reached up and ran my hands through his long, dark, soft hair.

He moved from my mouth to my jaw and down to my neck. Kissing me just lightly enough to almost be a tickle. Each one sent shocks of pleasure through my body. My body wanted him so badly, it had been so long since I had had a lover and I ached for Elrond.

I kissed him all over his face as he worked on my neck, encouraging his gentle, roving lips. One of his hands came up and he lightly brushed the back of my neck and I gasped at the shock it sent through my body. He chuckled and pulled me tight against him. I could feel his manhood hard against my lower belly and I moaned quietly as he pressed against me. He stepped back and turned me around and I grabbed at my dress to keep it up. I was about to turn back to face him when he wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me back against him so my back pressed into him. He moved my hair away from my neck as much as he could and nuzzled his way to the sensitive skin just below my hairline.

As soon as his lips touched me, my back arched and I gasped loudly as he teased me into a frenzied passion. I ran my hands up and down his arms that held me tight and struggled to turn around. He gently and slowly licked and kissed at my neck as he pulled me slowly backwards. Nearly dragging me as my legs no longer wanted to work properly.

He let me go suddenly and I spun around and he quickly caught me again. I tried to kiss him but he held me away easily. I was about to ask him what was wrong when he smiled and started to slip my dress down. I shivered as he slowly reveled my body, he bent down and followed the dress with his lips. Kissing his way down my chest, belly, down one leg until he finally let it drop. He stood up and pulled me close and kissed me on the mouth, slipping his tongue gently between my teeth and explored a bit.

I wondered just how talented he was with his tongue and blushed at the thought, which caused him to pull away and chuckle.

“What are you thinking my lady?” he asked.

I looked away, smiling and he scooped me up into his arms and carried me the rest of the way to the bed. He laid me down on it and began to strip off his robes. I got up on my knees and helped him, though I think I got in the way more than anything as I fumbled with the unfamiliar garments. He just chuckled at me as he finished and crawled onto the bed with me. He was hard and ready and I reached down and gently gripped him with my hand. He closed his eyes and nuzzled my neck as I slowly massaged him.

His hips moved in time with my stroking and he started to gently nibble at my neck. I kissed his cheek and started to work my way down his chest, wanting to go over his whole body but he stopped me. He pulled my hand away from him and pushed me back onto the bed. I allowed myself to be maneuvered and smiled up at him as he lowered himself to kiss me lightly on the lips. He worked his way down my body, stopping at my breasts to suck and nibble at the tender tips for a moment before moving ever downward. He moved down my belly and nuzzled my legs apart.

He licked me, finding my spot right away and I closed my eyes and let the pleasure take my body. He had a very talented tongue indeed and I arched my back as he quickly brought me to climax and the waves of pleasure wracked my frame. He brought me to climax twice before moving back up my body then lay on top of me and I wrapped my legs around his waist. He started to enter me and I tensed. He stopped and smoothed back my hair and kissed my face gently, slowing the frenzy that had over taken us.

“What is the matter my lady?” he whispered.

“Nothing,” I lied.

He smiled and kissed me. As his gentle lips worked on my mouth he moved to enter me again and again I tensed. He stopped and looked at me.

“Talk to me,” he said gently as he brushed the hair out of my face.

My body ached for him, I wanted him inside of me so bad I felt I would explode if I couldn’t have him. But yet I was nervous. “It’s been, a long time for me and my last lover. He,” I swallowed. The memory was a frightening one.

“He hurt you,” Elrond said softly.

I nodded and he squeezed me tight against him. “It’s alright,” he said, “nothing more has to happen tonight.”

He kissed my forehead and started to roll off of me but I stopped him. He raised his eyebrows at me and I kissed him hard on the lips and after a moment he kissed me back. I could feel him pressing against me and I fought myself not to flinch. He pushed into me a little and I moaned quietly and raised my hips up for him. He slipped the rest of himself into me. It felt wonderful, he filled me up as he pushed all the way in, he thrust for a moment then pulled almost all the way out before thrusting slowly back in. It drove me crazy.

“Faster,” I breathed and he picked up the pace.

I withered under him as he quickly thrust in and out. I kissed and bit at his chin and neck as he worked, encouraging his every thrust. I gripped his buttocks and squeezed. He was being too careful of me though.

“I won’t break,” I whispered in his ear and he moaned and thrust hard into me, slamming me down into the bed.

“Yes,” I begged.

He reached down and brought my legs up higher on his body. The effect was that he was able to go deeper still and I cried out in pleasure as he made fast, hard, short thrusts into me. Another wave of pleasure washed over me and I bit down a little too hard on his shoulder as I came violently. He grunted and sped up, barely coming out before slamming back in. His pace had taken on a frenzied pace and he suddenly thrust in deep and cried out in wordless pleasure as he came inside me.

He lay on top of me for a moment afterwards as he caught his breath. I nuzzled his neck and ran my fingers slowly through his hair, savoring the softness of it. He propped himself up to look at me and we smiled at each other.

He pulled out and we spent some time just nuzzling and kissing each other. Our hands roamed over each other’s bodies slowly and took in every inch that we could. I was just starting to feel a bit drowsy when he suddenly slipped into me again, causing a surprised gasp to tear from my throat.

He smiled heatedly at me as he slowly moved in and out. I savored every movement, he felt wonderful. He pushed deep into me and held still for a moment and looked into my eyes. I smiled and he slipped his hand down and started rubbing gently where his talented tongue had been earlier. I closed my eyes as this new incredible sensation brought new meaning to the word pleasure. My orgasm, when it came, threatened to tear me in half with the force of it. I dug my nails into his back and cried out wordlessly. Just as I finished he started thrusting in short hard stokes until he too came.  

“That was wonderful,” I breathed.

He gave me a quick kiss on the mouth and rolled off of me onto his back. I rolled onto my side and cuddled next to him as he wrapped his arms around me. I fell asleep to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.

I woke the next morning in his arms and smiled to myself. Then frowned. What was I doing? It wasn’t like me to just jump in bed with some guy I hardly knew. I hoped I wouldn’t live to regret my rash actions. Though my body certainly didn’t regret it, it ached pleasantly. Elrond gave me a tight squeeze and I knew he was awake as well.

“Good morning,” he said and kissed the top of my head. “Hungry?” As soon as he said it my stomach growled loudly and we both laughed. “I’ll take that as a yes then,” he chuckled. He disentangled himself from my arms and rolled out of bed. I propped myself up on an elbow and watched him dress. He had a very nice backside.

“You needn’t wait on me Lord Elrond, I can fetch breakfast.” I said.

“And you needn’t call me lord, Vanildor.” he said as he smoothed out his robes and turned around. “Besides, do you know the way to the kitchens?” he smiled wirily at me.

“No, but…”

“Then I will fetch breakfast.” he cut me off. “I’ll be right back.” he bent over to kiss my forehead but I moved up and kissed him on the mouth instead. I loved the taste of his soft lips and felt I couldn’t get enough of them.

He cupped my face with a hand and kissed me deep, then suddenly broke off. “If I don’t leave now, it will be lunch that I have to go get instead of breakfast.” I laughed and he stood up and walked out of the room.

I stretched my body and sat up, muscles that I hadn’t used in some time were pleasantly sore. The bed was a mess though, the sheets were all twisted up at the foot of the bed. I got up out of bed and slipped on a silken robe that was hanging in the bathroom and started to straighten out the bed. That done I wandered out onto the terrace and leaned against the doorframe and looked out at the new day. Birds were singing happily in the trees and there was a slight breeze that moved my hair and robe a bit as I stood there.

I wonder what the boys are doing for breakfast, I thought. I frowned as I thought about where I had come from and wondered if Galyn was alright. Was he worried about me? I’m sure he was, and Tirroch would worry as well. And then there was Kai. I wasn’t sure how to feel about him, especially considering what I had done last night. If he came along and found out, there would be a fight for sure. I sighed and rubbed at my face. What was I going to do? I didn’t have a good answer.

I heard the door open behind me and turned to see Elrond carrying in a large tray of fruits and bread, not unlike the lunch that he had offered me the day before. I smiled as he approached with it.

“Shall we take breakfast outside?” he asked as he set the tray down on the table on the terrace.

I nodded and went to sit down in one of the chairs but he stepped into me and wrapped his arms around my waist, pulling me to him. He brushed the hair out of my face and looked into my eyes. I looked back, I could look into those kind eyes forever I thought.

“Something’s troubling you,” he said quietly and the look in his eyes saddened, “having regrets about last night?” he said it so quietly that I almost didn’t catch it. He looked so sad and I was surprised that he let his feelings show so plainly on his face. It wasn’t something I was used to.

“No,” I said and reached up to trace his face with a finger. “I have no regrets about last night Lor.. err Elrond.”

He smiled sadly at me and kissed my forehead. “Then what troubles you my lady?”

“I was just pondering how I came to be here and..” I stopped, I wasn’t sure how to explain my strange traveling companions.

He raised an eyebrow, a gesture that I was starting to find endearing, “And?”

I frowned and looked away. I wasn’t sure what sort of relationship we had, if we had one at all, but I wasn’t comfortable with telling almost total strangers about my life. Having sex with him didn’t mean I owed him a life story. Did it? Had it been Kai I’d have told him to mind his own business. But then again, I wouldn’t have slept with Kai and wouldn’t be standing here asking myself these damned questions.

He kissed the side on my head, “Did you leave someone special behind?” he asked.

I turned to look at him, “I had some traveling companions, one of whom was a young boy that I was looking after. I am a little worried about him.” I said. It was the truth.

He looked me in the eyes a moment before releasing me. He sat down and I sat opposite him at the small table. “I summoned Gandaulf before dinner last night, but there is no telling when he may arrive. Could be tomorrow, could be a year from now.”

“A year?” I said. “If he is that far off how did you manage to get a message to him so quickly?”

He buttered a bit of flaky bread, “It isn’t so much on how far away he is, it’s what he is busy doing at the moment. He often goes on quests and adventures of one sort or another. Likes to meddle in the goings on of the world.” he smiled. “Especially in the lives of a certain family of Hobbits.”

I picked up a kiwi and started to peel it, I was surprised to find that, although it was a plain brown on the outside, it had bright green meat. “And you think he can tell me what happened to me?”

“Perhaps. Gandaulf the Grey is a powerful wizard and is much learned about such things, I would think. If he can’t answer your questions he may know someone who can.”

I nodded, though I didn’t really trust wizards. I had found that humans who trained themselves in such things tended to be rather power hungry and untrustworthy. I expressed my views to Elrond and he laughed.

“Gandaulf isn’t a regular human, in fact, I don’t think he is human at all. At least not in the way of having been born from a human. He is a good man and has my complete trust as well as the trust of all the Elves.”

Well, put that way I could hardly argue, though it was confusing. But I just nodded instead. Earning the trust of Elves was no small matter so I took Elrond’s word for it. But if I got blown up or zapped or something I was going to be pissed.

After breakfast we dressed and he took me on a tour of Rivendell that ended in his bedroom and I enjoyed another night of incredible sex. The next day was much the same as was the day after.

The days turned into weeks and the weeks into months and I found myself thinking less and less about my former life. The pain from my past was slowly being erased by the joys that I found in Rivendell. It hadn’t taken Elrond long to get me to tell him my life story and he had taken me in his arms afterwards and held me for a long time. I moved into his chambers and together we found amusing ways to pass the time.

I also enjoyed the fact that he allowed me my freedom to roam about and didn’t try to control my actions at all. Nor was he clingy and he enjoyed having quiet time to himself as much as I did, which showed how much self-confidence and intelligence he had. I often went on daylong rides into the surrounding forest though he had begged me to always be back before sundown. I learned that his former wife, who he had loved a great deal and had bore him three children, had been mutilated by some creatures called orcs when they had caught her after sunset. He hadn’t been able to save her and that fact weighed heavily on his heart, as well on the hearts of his twin sons who I found out spent most all their time hunting and killing orcs.

I assured him that I was rather capable of defending myself, especially after dark, but the one time I had ridden in after dark and he had come running up and nearly squeezed me in half before lecturing me for hours about the dangers of orcs, had shaken me. I would have been pissed about being lectured but for the terror and tears in his eyes that night as the memory of his wife's death flooded his mind.  It haunted me and kept me from roaming about after dark again. I didn’t want to be the cause of any more pain for him. He had been through so much already. Something we had in common.

Seven months passed before Gandaulf the Grey came riding into Rivendell and when I heard the news my heart skipped a beat. I had become so comfortable here that the thought of leaving to go back to the horrors of the Unseelie Court tormented my mind. I explained to Gandaulf what had happened though and he had been eager to hear every detail of both how I got here and about the world I came from. I could tell that he had a keen mind and enjoyed learning new things. He told us that he had heard of such things happening and that there were many worlds out there and many points of crossing between them all. If you could find the crossing points and be there at the exact right time that the ways between became weak enough for one to cross over. Apparently I had simply been in the right place at the right time, a one in a million chance according to Gandaulf.

He was eager for me to show him the crossing point and I, Elrond and a contingent of Elves rode the four days back where I had started. I managed to find the place where I had woken up but could not remember the exact spot where I had lain. Nor was I eager to do so. Gandaulf swept the area and after a day stated that he had found the crossing point, though when it would be weak enough for anyone to cross over, he could not say.

He guessed that one would have to be here at the same time of year that I had crossed, “Or perhaps be here at the same kind of moon or weather conditions. Or maybe it was a combination of many such things. It is hard to say.” He had said.

Elrond said that he knew the exact day and after much talk about the moon and weather, we rode back to Rivendell.

That night there was yet another party after dinner, the Elves were rather a happy go lucky group for the most part and would celebrate everything from the arrival of a new guest to the falling of a leaf. I didn’t attend the party however and went back to the chambers that I shared with Elrond instead to take a hot bath.

I had discovered what the rose petals were used for, you dumped them in the tub with you and they floated on top of the water. They were just for looks and at first I thought them a bit silly, especially when you got out of the water and had to pick them off of you. But Elrond liked them and enjoyed picking them off for me so I had come to enjoy them. It was funny the lengths I would go to make the man smile. I never would have thought of myself as doing such but I often found myself thinking of new and clever ways to make him happy. He did the same for me and I often woke up with flowers and other small gifts that he would leave for me to find. I once awoke buried in a mound of flowers, and I still didn’t know how he had managed to pull that off without waking me. Whenever I asked about it he would get this little grin and shrug. It made me crazy. Goddess how I loved him.

I lay back in the hot water with the stupid rose petals floating on the surface and thought about what to do. I didn’t belong here, but if that was true, why did I feel that I did? What would happen to those back in my world if I stayed? What would happen to me if I left? What would become of my beloved Elrond if I left? So many questions and not enough answers.

Elrond came in while I lay there and sat on the edge of the tub and looked at me. His face was carefully blank but he couldn’t keep his emotions from his eyes, they always betrayed his every thought. I looked up at him and smiled softly and was rewarded with a smile in return. I took his hand in mind and squeezed his fingers gently.

“Join me?” I asked.

He smiled and rubbed my hand, “I think you’ve been in there long enough, you’re starting to wrinkle.” He chuckled softly. “Why don’t you join me instead? I’ve brought up some brandy and honey sugar.” It was one of my favorite desserts.

The Elves made a sugar out of pure honey and it was the best thing to eat in the world as far as I was concerned. And when you poured aged brandy over the chunks of honey sugar, well, it was sinfully wonderful. He liked to feed it to me, letting me suck every bit off of his fingers before giving me another.

I grinned and pulled the plug to let the tub drain and stood up. Elrond stood up as well and I stood still as he plucked all the flower petals off of my body before wrapping a warm robe around me. He led me into the bedroom and sat me down at the small table that sat inside the room. The other one was outside on the terrace but it was a bit too chilly to sit out there tonight.

Elrond dried and brushed out my hair then sat next to me at the table. He really did spoil me too much. He took a small chunk of honey sugar from the tray he had brought in and laid it on a plate. He then poured brandy over the top of it. He let it sit there a moment before picking it up and offering it to me. I took it in my mouth and let it dissolve on my tongue slowly. It was wonderful. I closed my eyes and savored it to the end then took Elrond’s hand and licked his fingers clean.

We repeated this until the last of the sugar was gone and I had a slight buzz from the brandy. I sat back and smiled at him and he stood up, took my hands in his and raised me to my feet. He wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me close and hugged me quietly. I knew what troubled his mind. It was the same thing that had been troubling mine. I buried my face in his robes and took in the scent of him. He always smelled wonderful and alluring and it never failed to make things low in my body tighten with need.

“Vani, I.” he paused for a long moment with his face buried in my hair. “I don’t want you to go.” he said at last and I closed my eyes and fought back tears.

“I know,” I said.

“My mind tells me to lock you away and keep you from leaving.” he said and I could hear the tears in his voice. “But my heart tells me that it’s the wrong thing to do and I should let you go.” He pushed me away from him slightly so he could look in my eyes. Tears ran freely down his face and I reached up to brush them away. It broke my heart to think that I was the cause of the tears. He closed his eyes and kissed the palm of my hand. “I won’t try and stop you from leaving if you choose to go.” he whispered.

With those words something inside of me let go of the last traces of pain and fear that I had harbored in my heart for so long and I burst into tears with the sudden rush of emotion.

Elrond looked startled and cupped my face in his hands. “What is it my love? What have I done to upset you so, tell me and I will erase it if I can.” he looked earnestly at me, searching my eyes.

I pulled him roughly against me and squeezed him near to death. “Long have I wanted a mate who would never try and control me. Who would take me as I am and love me without trying to change me. I’ll never leave you my Lord Elrond, my love, my life. Not willingly. Not ever.”

He hugged me back just as hard and we stood there a long time holding each other tight. The love we made that night was the tenderest and best we ever had up till then and we held onto each other well past dawn the next day.

A few weeks later we bid Gandaulf farewell and as I watched him go I thought I understood why he was so well loved and trusted among the Elves. It was apparent that he had a great love for life and goodness. And I thought that I should have to go out and see these Hobbits that he talked so much about someday. A kind man and a great friend to all good people was he.

*     *     *     *

I write this in my journal as I sit at my desk, unable to sleep past the stirrings in my belly and driven to write down my life story to date, for future generations to read. Elrond is in the bed behind me sleeping peacefully. It has been well over a hundred years since the day I woke up in this world and there has never been a moment when I regretted my decision to stay. Though sometimes I catch myself thinking of Galyn and wondering how he turned out. And Tirroch who had been the closest thing I had to a friend at the time. It wasn’t enough to make me try and find my way back though. Nothing short of Elrond’s death and the destruction of Middle Earth could drive me back, assuming I survived such unthinkable things.

I closed the book and slowly lifted my large self out of the chair. I crawled back into bed and Elrond woke up.

“I’m sorry love, I didn’t mean to wake you.” I said as I tried to find a comfortable position.

“I don’t mind,” he said and smiled as he rubbed my belly. “Do you need me to fetch anything? Are you hungry?”

“No, I’m fine.” I gave up trying for comfort and settled on just laying there like a beached whale.

He chuckled as if he could read my thoughts. “You are beautiful.” he said and kissed my belly, which was swelled with his child.

I just grunted and smiled as he cuddled next to me. The future was looking ever more bright.

I just hoped there wasn’t more than one kid in there.