The Whispers of Valinor

The Light in the Darkness

POV: Althaea

The sun was high in the sky, casting golden beams over the lands of Eldarath.
The air was warm, filled with the fragrance of flowers, and the world seemed at peace if only for a moment.
After days of heavy responsibilities, it felt like a rare blessing to spend time outside the palace walls.

Althaea walked beside Legolas, her heart lighter than it had been in a long time. The company of friends was a welcome distraction, and the carefree laughter of the group filled the air as they made their way through the lush green fields that stretched beyond the kingdom.

"You know, Althaea," Legolas said, his voice carrying a teasing tone, "I always thought the beauty of the Elven lands was unmatched. But walking beside you perhaps this land's beauty is second to your own."

Althaea chuckled, not fully buying the compliment, though it warmed her heart nonetheless. "Flattery, Legolas?" she asked with a raised eyebrow, her voice playful.

He flashed her a grin. "Not flattery, I promise. Just the truth."

She laughed again, shaking her head.
"You never change, do you?"

"I try," he said, giving her a wink.
Then, his smile faded into a more serious expression. "Though, if I were being serious... I do mean it."

Althaea gave him a small, teasing shove.
"You're impossible, Legolas."

He laughed too, a sound that was soft yet full of mischief. "Oh, but you know I'm joking. Still, I think we both know that you possess the kind of grace the world rarely sees. It's not often that someone like me meets someone like you."

Althaea's heart skipped, and for a fleeting moment, she was uncertain of how to respond.
She had never been one to indulge in matters of flirtation.
But Legolas, with his warmth and charm, made it hard to ignore the fluttering in her chest.
She looked away, her cheeks flushed, trying to focus on the beautiful surroundings.

It was then that Aragorn, walking beside Aurêlia, noticed the brief silence and couldn't resist a smile.

"Legolas, you're not too subtle with your flirting, are you?" he teased, his tone light yet knowing.

Legolas gave him a sideways glance, his smile widening. "It's all in good fun, my friend."

Aurêlia laughed softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she joined in the teasing. "I'm sure Althaea can handle a little bit of flirtation from Legolas. She's been through worse."

Althaea shot her sister an amused look. "I think I'll survive."

Aragorn, always the gentleman, turned his attention back to Aurêlia. His presence, calm and reassuring, had always provided a sense of comfort.
"And you, Aurêlia," he said with a soft smile,
"you are just as radiant as the sun. It's no wonder you've been the peacekeeper for this land. You hold it together with a grace unmatched."

Aurêlia blushed, but her smile was warm and genuine. "Thank you, Aragorn. I think you flatter me just as much as Legolas flatters Althaea."

Aragorn chuckled and bowed his head slightly. "I speak only the truth, of course."

As they walked deeper into the Elven lands, their laughter echoed in the air.
The beauty of the forest was alive, vibrant with rich colors bright flowers in every shade imaginable, towering trees with silver leaves, and the soft, almost musical sound of streams flowing over smooth rocks.