Feä Bond (Legolas x OC)

The Last Homely House

It was for the last dinner before the fellowship's departure that Frances had to bow to Arwen's wishes, and she spent more than two hours in the elf maiden's care who carefully brushed and braided her hair in elven fashion. Wincing whenever one of her strands refused to cooperate, the young woman could not help but wish that she would stop keeping promises. Arwen apologized profusely each time she pulled on a loose strand, but her good manners prevented her from swearing. It however was not for lack of envy. She had dismissed Frances' warning and was now struggling with her hair. The texture was smooth enough – not like elven hair but she was a second born - but still, every strand seemed to have a will of its own. Needless to say that the ever patient Evenstar was getting frustrated at disciplining them.

- "I told you my hair tends to grip, Arwen. You really don't have to... ouch !"

Arwen smirked. There, it should keep Frances from speaking out of turn again. Obstinate and focused, the elf maiden did not accept defeat, and after a few hours' work she sat contentedly, swearing that she would never touch human's hair again even if her life depended on it. Apart from Estel, that is

As Frances shook her stiff neck and turned to Arwen, the elf's mouth twisted in a satisfied shining smile. The effect of her crowned French braid was perfect on the young lady's oval face, and the few strands she had let free in front framed her features and broke the severity of the hairstyle. She took one of Frances' hand in hers and led her to the mirror where she could contemplate the work. Her gasp was the best of compliments.

The Keeper of Time stood, unmoving, trying to recognize herself in the polished silver surface. The top of her hair had been braided around on the first third of her head, and the braid turned around in itself like a tiara and was snatched to her skull with silver hair pins that glittered like the moonlight. A single white flower had been added for the effect, its stem buried into the twisted strands that ran loosely around the braid. The rest of the mass was left flowing, the natural wavy form contrasting with the strict arrangement at the top, but some silver ribbons ran along the length, creating a contrast with the deep reddish color.

- "So what do you think?", asked Arwen, impatient like an elfling.

- "This is... it looks incredible", said Frances, dumbfounded by the skill of the maiden

As a brilliant smile illuminated the elf's face, making her glow even more than usual, Frances pulled her close and hugged her.

- "Thank you, Arwen, I was never taken care of this way..."

- "Really?, that is indeed a pity for it suits you well."

The slight twinkle in the Evenstar's grey eyes taught her that it had been a tough struggle. Once the hairstyle completed, Arwen sent her back to her room to get dressed by a maid.

Dinner was magnificent, as always in the Last Homely House. People feasted like never, knowing that this gathering would probably never be seen again. Some melancholy hung in the air, called by the parting of wounded souls. Frances, seated next to Arwen this time, received her share of compliments. With her hair done like a princess, and the light blue dress that had been adjusted to her frame, she nearly felt at home. The absence of the twins, though, put a damper on her mood.

Estel, seated in front of them, participated in the festivities with a wrinkled brow. He knew that Frances would accompany them on this fearful quest, and could not overcome his reluctance in the matter. The young lady had called something very deep inside of his chest, the lack of siblings maybe.

At least, Arwen had chosen to stay in Rivendell for his sake. It was not from lack of courage though, but her wisdom far exceeded anyone's sight in the matter. His beloved knew better than anyone that she would be a distraction, and that Aragorn needed to know her safe if he was to fulfill his destiny. The choice wasn't easy, but she embraced it nonetheless. How wise the daughter of Elrond!