The IRE of Winter

[ 10.2 ]

I wrapped my hands tightly about myself, the evening air was not as cold as the wind in the outside but anxiety made it feel just the same. We followed the sound, harp and sweet voices filled the air. I looked about anxiously - many Elves were walking towards the venue, all dressed in fair garments, some white, some green and gold. Armien was wearing green long dress, her long brown hair waved smoothly behind her, and a headdress made of yellow and white little flowers.

'The King's speech is over, that I am certain of,' she said looking over her shoulders. 'I hope you are not too late for the party.'

So what if it was over? I wouldn't understand a word anyway. 'What's with this party?'

'Homecoming. The Prince was away for a very long time. Autumn-sky is rejoicing tonight, the stars kindled bright, the leaves vibrant and colorful. Any father would celebrate his son's return, the future King of the Woodland Realm.'

'Legolas?'

'Do not call him that,' she giggled. 'The Prince lived with the Silvan, commoner as he may seem but he is no ordinary elf. We all knew his greatness in battles and we all look up to him. Rumor said he left because of someone though, I wonder if he ever found her.'

'Someone? What do you mean?'

We paused just before the bridge to the party place. The music was loud and I saw a huge crowd drinking and dancing, all merry-making to the sound of a beautiful music. The place was surrounded with braziers in burning coals and colorful lanterns in different shapes hanging all over the place, green and red and white. Vines and flowers hung by the ceiling, drooping and swaying in the evening air. It was a magnificent view, the best I have ever witnessed. So this is how an Elven party feels like? It felt...magical.

'Come. There is no time for chatting,' Armien changed the topic. I chased her back as we crossed the narrow wood bridge. I was tempted to look down and my knees trembled upon seeing a rocky tunnel below us. I dashed to the other side.

At the party, I searched for Aramis and Gimli but Armien pulled me to where the King was seated. Legolas was sitting right next to his father along with all other noble guests. There were many, all tall and fair beings.

'Do we have to go there?' I hesitated as we drew near.

'Yes, we must. We have to pay homage to the King and to the Prince. Everyone is expected to do such,' she whispered with a smile.

I cannot look at them straight, a part of me was afraid. I'm not used to this and my shyness made me feel a little more colder. I've never been to a fancy gathering before, this was my first, and the feeling was overwhelming.

'You don't have to say anything, just take a bow and smile then we walk away,' Armien went on as we mixed with the crowd.

'Simple enough. I think I can do that,' I said clasping my hands tight.

The King was conversing with someone beside him but Legolas caught us before long. He was wearing black and dark blue Elven garb, beautiful than ever. He seemed to have grown younger and taller. I looked away to avoid his eyes. My body was cold but the back of my ears felt warm, my fingers tingled and the strange feeling ran down my spine again.

'My Lord,' Armien bowed low and so I did. My heart was drumming fast. I quickly turned without lifting my chin. Legolas was looking at me, I could feel it. I didn't bother stealing a glance at him. Seeing him once was enough, for now.