Dilthen Ae || Legolas Greenleaf

|0.1| Greenwood

Elaria spent her days exploring the enchanting beauty of Greenwood, drawn to the warmth of the sun on her skin and the gentle breeze that danced through the trees. She marveled at the vibrant life surrounding her – the rustle of the leaves, the calls of woodland creatures, and the tranquil sound of the forest itself. Sitting atop a sturdy branch, she absorbed the magic of the realm, a profound sense of awe washing over her.

Yet, amidst the wonder, a twinge of homesickness tugged at her heart. She missed the roaring waterfalls and the serene river of Rivendell, the playful banter with her brothers, and the comforting presence of Arwen. Longing for her mother's warm touch and her father's wise words, she felt the weight of nostalgia. She also missed Haldir and their light-hearted exchanges while they trained. While she knew she would return home one day, that time felt distant; she also knew that she needed to savor these new experiences gifted to her.

"Lady Elaria," A familiar voice broke her reverie. Turning, she met Legolas's cobalt gaze. His sleek, blond-white hair, neatly styled, caught the light as he approached.

"Prince Legolas," She replied, slightly bowing, "What brings you here?"

"Must I have a reason?" He replied with a playful smile, "Perhaps I simply wished to enjoy your company."

Elaria felt a rush of surprise. He had never sought her out like this in the weeks she had spent in Greenwood. It was strange, yet welcome. She sensed that many had kept their distance, deepening her sense of being an outsider in this unfamiliar land.

"Well," She said, clearing her throat, "It's an honor to be in your presence."

"The honor is mine," He grinned as he settled beside her, maintaining a respectful distance, his eyes fixed on a songbird nearby. "That's a Passerines," He explained, pointing as the bird filled the air with its melodic song. "Its melody heralds warmer days and new beginnings."

Elaria leaned closer, captivated by both the bird and the story he began to weave. "There's a tale of Rainor and Fëanoriel, bound by a songbird song," he continued, his voice soft and inviting, "They came from different realms and initially clashed, but one fateful day, a songbird landed on Rainor's shoulder, singing a melody like a lover's whisper."

Elaria listened intently, her heart quickening as she imagined the scene, "And then?"

Legolas smiled, his gaze still on the bird. "The songbird flew to Fëanoriel, and from that moment, they fell in love, standing by each other even in times of great peril."

"That's beautiful," Elaria murmured, enchanted by the tale. She knew of Rainor and his victory over Gorath the Voidblade, Wraith commander of Morgoth's army, but had never heard of his love tale with Fëanoriel. "What happened after Rainor defeated Gorath?"

"Rainor and Fëanoriel wed and sailed to the Undying Lands," He replied softly. Elaria turned to him, feeling a warmth in her chest. She was a romantic at heart, and hearing of such a love filled her with hope. Yet, she reminded herself that her journey wasn't solely about finding love; there were other, more exciting paths to explore.

"Thank you for sharing the story," She said as they fell into a comfortable silence, the bird's song fading into the distance.

"If I may ask," Legolas ventured after a moment, "What prompted Lord Elrond to send you to my realm?"

Elaria inhaled deeply, a wave of homesickness washing over her at the mention of her father. "He and my mother want me to learn about the world gradually. You would think they'd send me to Lothlórien, but here I am in Greenwood instead."

Legolas furrowed his brow, surprised by her late introduction to the wider world. "At sixty, they felt it was time for their little bird to leave the nest," He remarked, a teasing lilt in his voice.