The Lost Lover

The Beginning

I awaken from my deep sleep, hearing the beautiful sounds of Imladris in the morning. The harpists down below in the courtyard are playing an ethereal tune. The birds are singing their beautiful song. The gentle winds send the fresh scent of the pine trees surrounding the kingdom through my window. I hear the powerful waterfalls as they flow down below to the river running swift. "What a beautiful morning." I say to myself, running my fingers through my long, dark hair.

I glance to the entrance of my chamber and I notice my dearest father, Haldir, former Marchwarden of Lothlórien, leaning along the railing just outside my bedchamber. "Good morning, Ada." I say to him as I stretch out my arms. He turns around and gives me a warm smile.

My father is usually very stoic and keeps a strong presence around others, but as I am his only child, he reveals his softer, gentler side. He comes off as very intimidating to many, and in some ways, can be quite brutal, but he is a fierce protector who would risk his life for the ones he loves and cares for.

"Good morning, my dear. How did you sleep?" he asks with a smile. "I slept well, but I had the dream again. They always happen when my time of rest comes." I say lowering my head. He sits on the edge of my bed, taking my hands gently. "I know it pains you when those dreams happen, for he loved you greatly and you to him. Maybe one day, you will find love again." Father says as he tucks my hair behind my ears and kisses my forehead.

I look on my bedside table and see that Father has left my favorite flowers, red roses and blue wildflowers. "They are beautiful, Ada. You always know how to make me smile. Whether or not I find love again, I know I shall always have you." I say as I smell the sweet scents the flowers give off. I also notice he has left a few Elvish bread rolls, which are one of my favorite treats.

"Wait a moment. Ada, you make your Elvish rolls for special occasions. Is what Lord Elrond spoke of a few days back considered a special occasion?" I ask as I enjoy the sweet taste, savoring every bite.

Father stands up and sits down in the chair close by my bed. "Can a father not dote upon his daughter when he chooses to?" he says with narrowed eyes.

"Of course you can, and I always enjoy when you do." I answer, narrowing my eyes back at him.

"I distinctly remember Lord Elrond speaking of an occasion a few days back, but he never spoke of what the occasion was but only when it would occur, nor that it would be considered special. He wanted to make sure I had time to prepare my guards to hunt. Have you any knowledge as to why that is?" I ask.

"I am not supposed to say, but we keep no secrets from eachother, so I shall tell you. Yes, it is a special occasion. The King of Mirkwood will be paying a visit to Imladris." he replies.

"King Thranduil?" I reply in shock.

"Yes. He has been traveling to all Elven kingdoms. Lord Elrond recieved word from Lothlórien that he was to arrive on this day. I do not know why he is visiting us all of a sudden, but I shall find out eventually. I once considered him a dear friend, and I still do, yet I have not seen him or spoken to him in ages. Since the passing of his dear wife, Thranduil has stayed in seclusion, hiding away from the world. Now, he has emerged from the dark depths of Mirkwood. I am curious as to how he will be. I must warn you, Lagoreth, for he can be quite judgmental and have a temper, so please, show him the utmost kindness, as I know you will." Ada says as he smiles at me. "Of course, Father. I shall be kind and respectful, as you and mother have taught me." I reply with a smile. He exits my bedchamber and walks on to the palace.

I was surprised yet curious. I had heard tale of his cold heart and his harsh tones, but in some ways, I cannot blame him. His late wife was one of my closest and dearest friends, and she was truly a wonder in this world.

We were both born in Lothlórien and came of age there, but my mother wanted us to relocate to Imladris. She had been sent here to train a group of guards called the Foraging Guards. She ended up loving it so much and wanted to stay, so Ada and I followed her. He renounced his title of Marchwarden to his brothers, Rumíl and Orophin, and shortly after, we were reunited here.

Naneth served with pride for many ages, but when she was lost in the war, I took her place. I took on her duties and treat my guards the way she treated them, with the utmost kindness but with a strong hand. I teach them the ways that she and Ada taught me. I was truly lucky to have such wonderful parents, who loved me and showed me the true wonders of this world.

"I wonder what King Thranduil will be like." I say to myself. "I guess I will find out soon."

I gather my clothes and walk down to the tub to bathe and get myself ready for the day and what it may bring.

Ada- Father
Naneth- Mother