One hour later, Elerrina found herself bathed and in one of her new dresses as one of the maids carefully combed through her hair. The dress she chose was of a pale shade of green. The color had somehow seemed familiar to her in these strange and new surroundings. It was the color Elladan preferred on her, she knew that. A smile broke through her lips as she thought of Elladan, and now more than ever she wanted to be by his side, needed to see his face, to hear his voice, needed to feel whole again, to feel at home.

"Riniel" she said, not sure which maid was the one she had called, but hopping that the owner of the mane would answer. The maid who had been braiding her hair suddenly stopped her fine work, already finished, and moved to stand at Elerrina's eyesight.

"Yes, Your Highness?" Her new title caught her by surprise. It would take some time to get used to it. She would later tell the young maid to stop using it and simply call her by her name, but right now she had more important things to ask.

"Do you know where can I find Lord Elladan….or Lord Elrohir." She added quickly. One twin would lead her to the other, so either one was fine.

The maid's beautiful hazel eyes suddenly sparkled with a new excitement, almost seeming to tease her, and she instantly liked her a lot more. Elerrina had not said more than was necessary for the past thirty minutes, and she knew that this sudden question had entirely given her away. There was no way this maid did not suspect she had a special liking for the eldest son of Elrond.

"Yes." Riniel answered with a bright smile. "The Lords of Imladris always use the guest chambers inside the private quarters of the house. They will most likely be there, for they usually rest for some time after arriving."

"Would you like us to show you the way?" Her eyes immediately turned to the other maid, Lhenes, as she spoke. She could see the same amused spark in her eyes, and knew that the young elf had accurately guessed what she had wanted. And she knew it.

"Yes, thank you." Her voice was polite, but she could not help her lips form curving in a guilty smile.

Neither of the maids said anything else, but soon she was following them out of her elegant chamber and into the wide corridor outside. Elladan was staying inside the Private Quarters of the palace, which could not be that far away. She tried to memorize every curve they took, every stair, every hallway, making an incredibly large effort to remember exactly how to get to Elladan's chambers. For all she cared, that was the only place in the place worth knowing the way. For all the other destinations, she could get lost and would not mind it in the slightest.

It only took a couple of minutes before Lhenes and Riniel stopped in front of a pair of large wooden doors. Her heart instantly filled with longing and it became impossible for her not to smile.

"It is here, Your Highness." Said Riniel with a small nod of her head and Elerrina turned to look at her.

"Thank you."

"Should we wait for you inside your chambers?" Asked Lhenes.

"That will not be necessary, thank you. You may go." She smiled softly as she shook her head, dismissing the two maids who simple bowed their heads lightly before turning to leave.

She did not turn to look as she heard their light footsteps walking away through the large corridor, all of her attention placed on the door that lay before her. One of her hands quickly knocked on the carved wood, but she did not wait for an answer as she gently pushed the door open and stepped inside the room, closing it behind her.

The sight that met her eyes made her heart melt as her lips curved up in a gentle smile. Elladan lay on the large bed placed in the center of the room, silver eyes closed in a deep healing sleep. Loose dark hair lay splattered over the soft pillows, the color contrasting sharply against the pure white of the pillowcases and sheets. The covers were pulled up to his shoulders and she could see a bulge under the sheets where a pillow had been placed underneath his right leg, entirely relaxing the wounded muscle. He looked so peaceful, the handsome features of his face completely tranquil, not a trace of the constant pain that had lined his face for the past days remained visible. For the firs time since they had left Imladris, he was sleeping comfortably, pain and discomfort no longer disturbing his rest.

The sole sight of him, the sole feeling of his presence close to her made her feel all right again. She walked slowly towards the bed sitting gently on its edge, careful not to wake him. The slow sound of his breaths felt like the sweetest lullaby to her ears as her heart beat at the rhythm of the peaceful rise and fall of his chest. One of her hands softly brushed a strand of dark hair from his face, and a silent chuckle escaped her lips as he stirred at her touch, rolling his head towards her hand.

Slowly, and as silently as she could, she rose from the bed and walked towards the door. He would not wake for a couple of more hours, and she would let him sleep as long as he needed to. She would come back later in hopes that he would finally be awake, although she could already feel her heart calmed and whole once more, as if his sole presence, even if asleep, was all she needed to feel at peace.

She was proud of herself when she was able to remember her way back to her own chambers. The large room was empty now, all to her, and somehow it felt strangely comforting. The sun had started to set in the horizon, painting the sky a pale pink tinted with slight shades of purple. A small smile grew on her lips as she studied the beautiful room again. It was her room; her room in her house. She lived here.

She had no memory of this chamber. She had no memory of the palace. Slowly, she walked towards the large bookshelf that adorned one of the walls, her eyes scanning through the rows of books in all different sizes and colors. She let her hand pull out one of the books, carefully going through its pages, only to find that it was written in elvish. Sighing, she placed back on the shelf. There was no use for all of these books; she could not read any of them.

Suddenly, the door was thrown open. She turned around quickly, jumping slightly in surprise before freezing on her spot. Standing at the opened door stood the petrified figure of Lossenel. Ice green-blue eyes stared at her, wide and shocked, unblinking, as platinum hair cascaded down her back, catching the fading gleams of sunlight on their silvery strands. One hand was pressed to her mouth, as she stood there, unmoving.

Elerrina felt her heart stop beating. She did not know how to react, what to do, and she simply stared back, her own eyes wide with surprise. The sound of light footsteps rushing down the corridor reached her ears, but the Princess of Mirkwood did not move as the Crown Prince stepped behind her.

Arahaelon's green eyes were fixed on Lossenel, narrowed in concern, and she had the feeling he had been following his sister. His impenetrable green eyes quickly found Elerrina, and they darted back and forth in between her and Lossenel, almost expecting for one of them to react.

Elerrina's eyes travelled from Arahaelon to Lossenel, confused, shocked, not knowing what to do. The snowy Princess had not yet moved, not even blinked, as if her body had turned into ice.

A fragment of a second later two more figures appeared on the doorway, piling behind Arahaelon and Lossenel. Her eyes quickly recognized Legolas, and she felt her heart almost start to beat again at his presence. His eyes immediately fell on hers, and he offered her a broad smile.

The other elf, she has never seen before. Light blue eyes, the same shape and color of Legolas and King Thranduil's were fixed on Lossenel, the worried expression in them mirroring the one in Arahaelon's eyes. Instead of the light blond color that Arahaelon and Legolas shared, his hair was golden, the same shade of her own locks. His face was handsome, just as the faces of all of her siblings, his features equally as delicate and defined.

His eyes found hers, but to her surprise, they did not widen, did not react as he returned his attention to the petrified Lossenel. He had recognized her, she could see it in the clear crystal depths of his infinite blue eyes, and yet he did not show it, neither his eyes nor face giving away the slightest hint of surprise. Instead, he looked amused, the playful sparkle hidden in his puzzling blue eyes making her instantly like him, wondering at what was going through his head at that moment.

"Lossenel" Arahelon's voice made Elerrina's eyes turn again to look in his direction. One of his hands rested lightly on the Princess' shoulder, his voice gentle, careful.

Without a warning, Lossenel's ice green-blue eyes filled with tears and her small, delicate frame started to shake slightly. Panic took over Elerrina, but she could not yet move, frozen in place as the silvery tears started to roll down Lossenel's cheeks, one after the other, like crystal streams over her snowy skin. A chocked sob broke through her lips, one pale hand brushing away the tears from her face, but to no avail. She was shaking violently now, all composure completely gone, and Elerrina watched in shock as her hands flew up to cover her face and her knees gave out under her, her shaking body crumbling to the marble floor.

The Crown Prince reacted fast, his elven reflexes catching his sobbing sister as she collapsed towards the floor, almost carrying her as her knees suddenly seemed too weak to support her. Lossenel, however, pushed him away, her frail arms hitting him with all force she had, struggling to be freed. Uncontrolled sobs wracked her body, making her gasp for breath as she kept hysterically fighting the Crown Prince's strong hold.

"Lossie, breathe." She heard Arahelon whisper as his hold on the Princess tightened, but she was not sure Lossenel had heard him. She kept pushing and hitting, gasping for air in between sobs. She was a complete mess.

Suddenly, something in Lossenel's reaction, something in her hysteric crying, in her sudden loss of all control over her emotions felt incredibly familiar to Elerrina. Her own green eyes stared in shock, her body frozen, as she recognized her own behavior reflected in the Princess of Mirkwood. She herself had reacted the same way. She had lost all of her control, had sobbed in hysterics, had thrown blows at Elladan.

The other sibling she had not yet met, Tadion as she already knew his name to be, had moved forward, quickly helping Arahaelon in trying to calm down their sister. She could hear them saying something in elvish, but Lossenel did not seem to be listening. Suddenly, the gorgeous Princess did not seem so strange and distant to her, and she felt her heart beat with sympathy at the sobbing Lady. Even if they looked nothing alike, her familiar reaction told Elerrina they could not be that much different from one another.

Elerrina had almost not even noticed that Legolas had walked to stand next to her. All of her attention seemed to be imbedded in the crying Princess, each one of her sobs tearing her heart like a cold dagger. There was so much pain, so much sorrow and agony in the sound, and somehow she felt guilty for it.

Lossenel's frantic arms had finally lost their will to fight, choosing instead to wrap tightly around the Crown Prince's neck, her fingers gripping at his tunic and hair. Uncontrolled sobs continued to escape her mouth, her face now buried in Arahaelon's chest. Elerrina watched in silence as Tadion let go of his sister, and the Crown Prince easily picked her shaking body in his arms, her weight seeming to be insignificant to his strong arms.

Her green eyes followed the Crown Prince as he gently carried his sister to the couch, setting her thin body on his lap. Lossenel did not let go of him, her face hidden against his shoulder, her back towards everyone else. Elerrina could not move, her body completely separated from her mind, and she felt as if she was an extra piece in a puzzle, one that had been erroneously placed in the wrong spot.

Tadion lifted his head, his clear blue eyes meeting hers, holding her in a steady, penetrating gaze. Somehow, his eyes did not seem to pierce her like the Elven King or Arahaelon's had. They were open, carefree and unguarded, making it incredibly comfortable to hold his vivid gaze. His eyes held no surprise, no shock whatsoever, and his handsome face remained relaxed. By the looks of it, he could have been told the weather report, and not that he suddenly had a new sister who, until now, was believed to be dead.

To her surprise, he walked towards her, so casually, as if it was merely a common routine. She remained frozen, unable to predict any of his actions, puzzled at his behavior, completely opposite to that of his sister. He moved incredibly gracefully, like all of her siblings, his steps seeming to not touched the floor as he walked. The golden haired Prince stopped right in front of her, appeased blue eyes studying her face closely.

"Forgive me if I do not know what I am doing, but I have never introduced myself to someone who is my sister. I can honestly say this is a new situation for me." His voice was musical, the tone honest and transparent, perfectly matching his unguarded clear blue eyes.

"I can honestly say the same for me." Whether it had been the comfortable and welcoming sparkle in his clear blue eyes, or the tranquil sound of his voice what gave her the courage to speak, she did not know.

Equally as unpredictable as all of his previous actions, his lips curved up in a wide smile, lighting up his handsome face. He was taller than her and she had to look up in order to gaze into his eyes. Out of the corner of her eyes, she could see The Crown Prince's watchful green eyes observing them, Lossenel still perched to him. Tadion's clear blue eyes narrowed as he tilted his head slightly to the side, seeming to be analyzing her, a playful sparkle in his vivid eyes.

"You are not as I imagined you would be." He muttered, whether to himself or to her she could not tell. She raised an eyebrow at his words, not really understanding what he meant. Was that supposed to be good or bad? He did not know her yet.

"Well, neither are you." She replied, her voice as calmed and polite as his, but she knew that her confusion and surprise was clearly visible inside her green eyes.

Much to her surprise, a musical laugh escaped his lips, leaving her even more puzzled than before. The sound of his laugh was so tranquilizing, making her tense body completely relax feeling comfortable around him, even though she did not know him at all.

"Well, I…I do not know what else to say. My name is Tadion? " He seemed to be at as much loss as her at the situation, and suddenly she felt sympathy for him. It was now her turn to smile, as she understood that she was not the only one facing something new.

"Are you asking me?" She said, chuckling slightly at his confused expression. He was making an effort, she had to give him credit for that. He seemed surprised by her question, opening his mouth to say something but closing it back, clear blue eyes narrowed.

"No. I am telling you." Another laugh escaped his lips, the sound so calming, so melodic. Then he narrowed his eyes at her, a mocking gleam sparkling in his sapphire eyes. "I am trying. Help me, please."

This time it was Elerrina the one who laughed. In truth she also did not know what to say to him, and he seemed so unpredictable. The situation itself, and his confused and clueless expression made her laugh even more. What could she ask or say to continue this overly strange conversation? She already liked him.

"Do you want me to tell you my name?" She did not know why she asked that. She guessed that she was simply rambling now, her nerves and confusion making her speak without really thinking.

"I already know your name! That is about the only thing I know." He laughed again, still completely lost. He stooped for a moment trying to think of what else to say. This had to be the most hilarious conversation she had ever had.

A different laugh echoed through the room, very soft, making both Elerrina and Tadion turn their heads in the direction of Arahelon. The Crown Prince's eyes looked incredibly amused as he shook his head slightly, eyes openly mocking his brother.

"I do not see you trying, Ar." Tadion snapped in a low voice, although his smile remained present in his face as he turned again to face her. Then, his eyes sparkled vividly again, as if a new thought had just crossed his mind.

"That is Arahaelon, my…forgive me, our eldest brother." He said as he motioned to the Crown Prince with one graceful movement of his hand. "Lossenel is the one with him, she was born second. Then me, and then…"

He stopped and turned to look at Legolas standing next to her, his eyes suddenly narrowing at his youngest brother. Legolas looked as if he was having the best time of his life as he watched his older brother trying to introduce her to each and every one of her siblings. Then his clear blue eyes turned to meet hers again, sparkling with a new realization, his expression as if he had just found out someone had been playing a prank on him for a long time.

"You already know Legolas, do you not?" He phrased it as a question, but the tone was more of a statement, his smile still present on his face. Elerrina felt her own lips curve up as she nodded her head in reply.

"You could have been more helpful if you already know her, do you not think so?" Tadion said suddenly to Legolas, his tone accusing, but his eyes sparkled teasingly. Legolas shrugged, but a wide grin appeared on his lips as he did.

"And lose the chance to see you as clueless are you look now?"

"Oh, get out of here!" Tadion snapped at Legolas, although a wide grin also appeared on his face, mirroring the one of his youngest brother. "You are enjoying this far too much."

Elerrina let out another laugh. She did not know what to make of the situation anymore. Lossenel was still sobbing uncontrollably, her arms holding to Arahaelon's neck; Tadion was openly talking, smiling at a loss of what to say, trying to make a conversation out of basically nothing; The Crown Prince simply observed them, looking so serene, so noble and thoughtful, although his arms kept comforting his pained sister; and Legolas…Legolas was simply enjoying being the only one for which the situation was not in the slightest bit awkward.

Tadion's eyes turned again to meet hers, and this time she could see they were as deep as clear oceans, looking serious and honest, the playful smirk vanished.

"I really do not know how to do this, but I guess that I will have to learn how to be your brother. I do not know anything about you, and I really do not know what else to say." His eyes were welcoming, almost apologetic. "I have to go now, but feel free to talk to me anytime you want. You do not have to like me, but I would like to at least say that I know my sister."

He offered her a small smile, and she smiled in return, his words dancing inside her head. She did not know him yet, but she would enjoy getting to know him. It would not be easy to feel like she was his sister, but at least he wanted for it to be that way. Silently he turned around to leave, but she stopped him, one hand grabbing to his arm before she had even realized it.

"Tadion" He turned around again, his face still calmed and unguarded, eyes waiting expectantly. She had not even thought of what to say, and felt the first thought that crossed her mind slip through her mouth. "I like strawberries."

His lips curved up in a grin, which reflected in his clear blue eyes, a small laugh escaping his lips.

"Thank you." He said in between his laugh, his eyes meeting hers once more before he turned around and walked towards the opened door. She watched him stop in front of the couch upon which Arahaelon sat, a crying Lossenel cradled in his lap.

"Lossie" She heard him whisper softly, one of his hands gently touching the stunning Princess' shoulder. Lossenel lifted her head slowly, her long platinum hair framing her delicate face like curtains of silk, the tiny aquamarines braided in it sparkling as she moved.

Tadion whispered something in elvish to her, his voice incredibly soft and she saw the snowy elven Lady slowly untie her arms from around Arahaelon's neck. She accepted Tadion's extended hand, and he pulled up to stand, one hand circling over her shoulders.

Lossenel's eyes turned to look in her direction, ice green-blue irises shimmering darkly behind transparent tears. The gaze made her chest constrict, there was much pain tainting the pure green-blue color, the light that had shone in them hours ago completely gone.

"Sorry" Lossenel's lips mouthed, but no sound came from her lips. Her eyes stared at her apologetically as new tears rolled down her wet cheeks. With that, she turned her face away, allowing Tadion to gently lead out of the room. Elerrina stood there, her eyes still fixed on the door through which her two siblings had disappeared, the fresh image of Lossenel's pained green-blue eyes still inside her head.

She saw the Arahaelon stand up from his place at the couch, his movements as graceful and effortless as ever. His deep, serene green eyes found hers, and he simply stared at her for a moment, neither of them moving. He looked so calmed and at the same time so royal, she could hardly look at him without being reminded that he was the Crown Prince of Mirkwood.

Slowly, he walked towards her, stopping right in front of her, tall and regal. His gentle, yet powerful green eyes continued to stare at hers, their color the same exact shade as her own irises. That seemed to be the only thing that helped her believe that this Prince in front of her was related to her by blood. He just seemed so noble, so honorable, and so much older than her, even if she still ignored his age.

"Forgive Lossenel. Your presence has resurfaced painful memories for her. She does love you, and she wants to be your sister, just give her some time."

His voice was so peaceful that it seemed able to command nature into silencing as he spoke. He smiled gently at her, his green eyes once again unreadable, a pool of emotions resting unreachable behind impenetrable bright emeralds. Elerrina simply nodded her head in silence.

"You knew who I was" She whispered, not knowing from where she got the courage to speak.

"Yes" He confirmed, his eyes staring into hers, so deep and yet so impenetrable, the soft smile still on his lips. "I clearly remember your eyes. It is impossible to not recognize them."

His voice was low, and for a moment Elerrina did not know what to ad, his words still echoing in her ears.

"Have you known all this time?" Her own voice had lowered, almost inaudible even to elven ears. For a moment, she doubted whether or not she should have asked him that, but her need to know overpowered her.

"No." He answered, his voice equally as low. "None of us did. But I never really believed you were truly dead. Although I must admit I though I would never see you again."

"Do you.." She hesitated for a moment, gathering all of her courage to pronounce the question. "Do you know why I was sent away? Why could I not have stayed here?"

"I was never told." His answer was short, but she could see the truth of his words in his eyes. She nodded her head, deciding not to ask more. He could not tell her what she wanted to know, and if the Crown Prince did not know, then neither could all of her other siblings. She let her eyes fall to the floor in defeat.

"You could do things…" He said suddenly, making her head snap back up at his whispered, slow voice. Her eyes were instantly met by a pair of serene, cautions yet gentle green eyes. "You could feel things, and we did not know what they were….things did not have a material presence…"

The Crown Prince shook his head, as if dismissing what he had just said.

"I do not know" he added. "I am sorry. That is all I know."

She nodded her head again, forcing a small smile in thanks. He smiled apologetically in return, and one of his hands travelled to rest over her shoulder lightly, as if he doubted whether or not to touch her.

"I do not remember anything." She whispered as she turned her eyes to look back into his, searching for an answer behind his unreadable emerald irises. "I do not remember any of you. You all seem to remember me, and I wish I could say the same about you. I do not know how to be the sister you all remember me to be. What I remember is that I never had siblings. You all know each other, and I do not know any of you."

"I know" He said sympathetically, and now more than ever, the hand on her shoulder felt like the best comfort she could receive. "But that did not happen in one day. We have lived years together. This is only a start. In time, you will get to know each and every one of us, as I hope we will get to know you. You already know Legolas, and I am sure there are many things you can say about him. Just give it time."

She lowered her gaze again, nodding her head in silence. Everything was so overwhelming, there were so many things to know, so many things to remember. She felt his slender fingers lift her chin and she looked back up into his eyes.

"I like strawberries too." A true smile broke through her lips at his words, suddenly feeling that maybe this high-ranking elf in front of her could one day feel like the older brother he was.

"No w, I think you should go see Elladan Elrondion before he loses his head."

Her eyes automatically widened, unable to hide her shock and surprise, and his face lighted in a teasing smirk. She opened her mouth, but felt too stunned to speak coherently.

"Wha…how?" Was all she managed to say. A light chuckles escaped his lips ,and she could hear Legolas' laughter next to her.

"I am not an elfling, Almarëa. I have known the twins since they were born, and I can tell that Elladan has never looked at a maiden the way he was looking at you this afternoon."

She lowered her eyes guiltily, unable to hide the grin from her face. She did not know if to be terrified or relieved that Arahaelon knew what Elladan felt for her, or what she felt for him. He seemed to be able to read through her eyes for he continued to speak.

"I will not tell. Although I might ad that it results pretty obvious. He is a good elf. I am sure nobody in the Greenwood will object against him, and if I had to choose someone for any of my sisters, I would choose one of the twins."

She lifted her head, allowing herself to look into his eyes once more. He was smiling softly at her, although his gently smile suddenly turned into a wide grin, resembling the look she had seen in Tadion's face.

"But remember that to my eyes, you are still my baby sister whom I just met, so he should keep that in mind." He warned before offering one last smile and turning towards the door. Just as he reached the beautifully crafted door, he turned around and added "And I do not think it is wise to tell Tadion just yet."

With that he smiled again and left the room, Legolas' laughter still ringing in her ears. She turned around to face him, still slightly stunned at Arahaelon's words. Her brother's infinite blue eyes met hers instantly, and she once again felt the familiar comfort of his stare, the only one of her siblings who felt like a real brother at the moment.

"Did you tell him?" She accused, narrowing her eyes as he laughed louder.

"No." He said in between chuckles. "I swear I did not say anything."

Elerrina tried to glare at him, but failed miserably. She felt so relieved to be alone with her brother. She enjoyed meeting all of her siblings, and desperately longed to know them personally, to talk to them all day and night, but at the moment, she liked being only with Legolas.

"How do you like your chambers?" He asked, his wide smile reaching his gleaming eyes.

"I love it." She said, not even bothering to look away from his infinite irises. "How did the family meeting go?"

She had wanted to know the answer to that, but had not had the courage to ask any of her other siblings about it. Everything had seemed so strange and confusing. Legolas simply shrugged, his smile fading lightly form his face.

"You saw how it went." He said, letting out a sigh. "Ada had not even finished speaking when Lossenel left the family wing. Arahaelon followed her, as expected, and then Tadion…and you know the rest."

Elerrina nodded her head, only grateful that she had not been in the same room while the news were delivered to her siblings. The word Ada danced inside her head. It was her Ada too, but if felt strange to think about him that way. She had heard Elladan and Elrohir call Lord Elrond that way many times before, it felt incredibly strange that now she had someone to call by that name.

"Legolas, would you show me to Elladan's chambers?" She asked, smiling widely at his almost reluctant expression. Elladan must be awake by then, or at least she hoped so. She already knew where his chambers were, but she did not want to tell Legolas she had been there yet.

"Not even at home I get you to myself" He complained, although his smile told her that he would willingly walk her to the elder twin's chamber.

The walk was short, but it seemed extremely long for Elerrina. She longed to see Elladan, longed to be held in his loving embrace that could make her feel at home even in this strange palace. It only took them a couple of minutes to reach the familiar wooden door, and Legolas motioned for her to go in, indicating that he had no intention in entering with a movement of his hand.

"I will see you at dinner." He said with a smile as he turned around and walked down the long hall.

Elerrina did not follow him with her eyes, not thinking it twice before gently opening the wooden door and stepping inside the room. The door closed softly behind her, and she let her eyes travel to the bed in the center of the room, where she knew she would find what her heart looked for.

A fire had been lit on the fireplace, its flames bathing the room in different shades of orange, warming the space against the cold temperature outside. Elladan lay on the bed, not having moved an inch since the last time she had seen him. She saw him stir lightly at the sound of the door clicking closed, sleepy silver eyes fluttering open slowly.

"Rina?" He whispered as he blinked a couple of time, his eyes adjusting to the light. She felt her heart melt at the sound of his voice calling her by that name and her smile widened, her feet quickly walking towards the large bed. Silver eyes followed her every move, a gorgeous smile drawing in his handsome face.

Elladan moved aside on the large bed, one hand griping at the soft pale covers, pulling them open for her. She accepted the invitation, gladly slipping next to him on the bed, her heart beating lovingly at his close presence. He pulled the covers over her, rolling to his side as both of his strong arms wrapped around her small waist, her back pressed to his chest.

"How are you?" He asked, his lip brushing her ears as he spoke, his arms tightening their hold on her.

"I am fine" She answered, her voice only a whisper, as if she felt that speaking louder than that would ruin her moment with him. "I met everyone."

She felt his lips move to the side of her neck, pressing a light kiss there before resting his chin lightly on her collarbone, his head perfectly fitting next to hers. She felt slight shivers run down her body as he nuzzled his nose against the skin of her neck.

"And how was that?" He whispered in her ear as he placed yet another kiss to the side of her neck, making her squeal lightly at the tickling sensation.

She rolled in his arms, turning to face him and he shifted his hold on her, his arms wrapping securely at her back. She looked into his eyes, those deep pools of liquid silver that remained so open, so welcoming to her. Every emotion, every thought was completely visible to her, allowing her to look into him in the same way he could look into her. She closed the small gap between them and kissed him lightly on the lips before answering.

"It was strange, but it was all right." She said honestly, not looking away from his liquid silver eyes. Those eyes were the center of her attention, the only pair of eyes that could make anything feel all right again, that could make her really know that was no place in Arda she would rather be that next to him.

"Did you meet the King?" He asked as one of his hands gently brushed a strand of golden hair form her face before returning to around her waist.

She let out a small chuckle at his question, remembering how her first meeting with the Elven King had gone, and she buried her face against his chest, almost feeling his skin underneath the light silk of his sleeping tunic. She felt one of his hands toying absently with the ends of her long hair as he chuckled at her reaction to his question.

"Why is it funny?" He asked softly, clearly amused. "Was it bad?"

"Do you know what I did?" She answered as she lifted her head to look into his eyes, tentatively brushing her lips against his. His silver eyes narrowed at her, one eyebrow raised.

"What?" He asked as he gave in and pressed his lips to hers, his arms tightening around her, pressing her closer.

"I cried." She admitted in an almost reluctant tone. His melodic laughter filled the room, the sound the sweetest she had ever heard.

"Do not laugh!" She complained, but she found it impossible to suppress her own laughter.

He rolled onto his back, and she rested her head on his chest, one of his hands stroking her hair lovingly. She did not ad more to the subject and he did not press her, seeming to understand that she wanted an escape from family situations.

"How are you?" She asked him, lifting her head slightly so that she could see in his eyes. Liquid silver eyes stared into hers, welcoming her into their endless depths, making her feel incredibly safe and loved. He seemed to consider his answer before speaking, and when he did his silver eyes looked so honest and transparent she knew he was telling the complete truth.

"Much better"

She smiled at his words, letting her hand caress his cheek softly. One of his hands caught hers, moving it from his cheek to his lips before gently placing a kiss on her knuckles. He did not let go of her hand, and instead entwined his fingers around hers.

"Are you still in pain?" She asked as her concerned eyes turned to look into his once more.

"No" he reassured her, offering her one of his gorgeous smiles. She smiled in return, letting her whole self free fall into his endless silver eyes. Whether he was lying or telling the truth, she could not tell, but she knew that if the pain had been bad he would have confided in her.

"How do you like the palace?" She asked, only managing for another musical laugh to escape his lips.

"I have been here many times before, Rina." He said between chuckles, placing a kiss atop her head.

"Of course." She muttered, more to herself than to him, only now remembering that the palace was only new to her.

She felt silent for a moment, simply enjoying lying close to him, feeling his hand softly stroking her hair. Her head continued to rise and fall with his chest as breathed, and she let one of her fingers gently trace the embroidery of his sleeping tunic.

"Is it still Elerrina? Or is it Almarëa now" She turned her head up at the sound of his voice, her eyes staring into his expectant silver ones.

"To everyone here, it is Almarëa. That is my official birth name. But I am still Elerrina, and I will always be. You can call me by whichever name you prefer." His silver eyes gazed into hers, trapping her in his endless stare, so deep, so loving.

"You are my Rina." He said as he leaned in and pressed his lips against hers in a deep kiss. Her heart melted at the sound of his voice calling her that. His Rina. She did not care who called her Elerrina, did not care who called her Almarëa, for all she cared they could even come up with a third name for her and she would also no care, as long as she remained his Rina.

She felt his hand sliding down the curve of her waist as he kissed her, stopping to rest at her hip, pressing her body close to his. She could feel her own arms tangling around his neck, playing with his long dark hair as they broke apart. His hands remained at her hips, applying small pressure there as he stared into her eyes. A breathtaking mixture of love and lust sparkled his liquid silver irises, but she knew he would not go further than kissing.

"Dan?" She whispered in a low voice as she pulled away from him and rose to sit on the bed, her eyes turning to look vacantly at the front. Immediately, she felt him sit up too, quickly catching the change in her mood.

"What is it?" His soft musical voice was now filled with concern, and she felt him rest his hand over hers, slender fingers curling around hers.

She turned her head to look into his eyes , only to find his liquid silver irises filled with worry, as if trying to decipher what had caused the change in her mood. She let her eyes fall to the covers, not able to look into his eyes as she voiced the question that plagues her mind.

"You will have to return to Imladris, will you not?" Her whispered voice hung in the air for a moment, as he remained silent. His hand gave hers a gently squeeze, but his lack of immediate answer told her that he simply did not want to say the answer she did not want to hear.

She knew he would eventually need to return o his realm. He had duties there; he had his people there. And this time, she would not be returning with him. She no longer lacked a place to belong, was no longer able to simply follow him wherever he went. Her duties now lay here, in Mirkwood.

"Yes" His voice had dropped when he finally answered, and she lifted her eyes to meet his. Deep silver eyes stared deeply into hers, tainted with sadness and pain, and she knew that her own eyes looked the same. He wrapped his arms around her, gently pulling her against his chest, and she let him do it, her head resting in the crook of his neck.

"But that will not happen today" He whispered in her ear. "Nor tomorrow. I will stay as long as possible."

"Will you come back to visit?" She asked in soft voice as his hand gently stroked her golden hair.

"Every chance I get." She placed a light kiss to his neck as she shifted her head until she was comfortable.

"I love you, Rina" He whispered softly, sending shivers down her spine as his lips brushed her ear.

"I love you too." She answered without having to think the words before they freely and willingly slipped through her lips.

She was very well aware that he would not remain in Mirkwood forever, but that seemed far away. Right now, she was here with him, safely held in his arms, and that was all that mattered.

Suddenly, the door opened and she lifted her eyes just in time to see Elrohir enter through it, closing it behind him. A mocking grin adorned the younger twin's face as he stared at them with a raised eyebrow, taking in the way in which Elladan held her securely against him.

"You do know dear brother that had I been Tadion you would have few seconds to live?"

"I knew it was you." Elladan commented as he let out a chuckle, and Elrohir's grin only widened in his face.

"Good evening, Rina." He greeted her.

"Good evening to you too, Elrohir." She said with a wide smile. She would also sorely miss the younger twin once they left. She watched Elrohir walk to the large wooden wardrobe in the room and take out a clean light grey tunic. Then he threw at his twin, who caught it with perfect reflexes.

"Put it on and let us go outside." Elladan raised a questioning eyebrow at his mirror image, but did not say anything as he changed his light, sleeping tunic for the light grey one Elrohir had handed him.

"Why outside? It is dark already." She asked, her eyes looking directly at Elrohir. The younger twin looked amused as his sparkling kind silver eyes darted from her to Elladan.

"Have you not looked outside?" Elerrina simply shook her head, not really understanding the bewilderment in Elrohir's voice.

"What were you two doing then?" The younger twin's eyes narrowed teasingly as his grin widened, his mischievous silver eyes piercing those of his twin. A soft pillow flew through the air, Elrohir dodging it narrowly as he let out a soft laugh.

Her eyes followed Elrohir as he walked towards the window, pulling open the fine, heavy curtains. Immediately a smile appeared on her lips and she rose from the bed to get closer to the window. Tiny white snowflakes danced down towards the ground, swirling weightlessly one around the other before sticking to the already whitening ground below. A thin layer of white already covered the previously green grass, and she could already see elves starting to gather in the gardens, elflings joining them to play in the falling snow. It looked so beautiful, and yet so strange. The forest remained as green as before, but the temperature was as low as it had been in Imladris, even snow was falling. Mirkwood had green trees even in the winter.

Out of the corner of her eyes she saw Elrohir take out two thick dark blue cloaks, handing one to his twin. She quickly returned to where Elladan sat on the bed, unable to hide a grin from her face. She had seen snow many times before, and yet it never ceased surprise her. Elladan laughed lightly at her, although she could see the same excitement sparkling in his silver eyes. He swung his legs over the edge of the mattress, and Elrohir pulled him up to stand. She stood at his right side, curling her arm around his right arm, discretely allowing him to lean lightly on her as they walked out of the room. Elladan's limp was almost unnoticeable, and she was sure that none of the elves they passed by were able to tell.

It did not take them long to reach the large terrace that led to the vast gardens ahead. They walked right into the snow, stopping under the swirling tiny flakes as they danced around them, sticking to her dress, hair and skin. Out of the corner of her eyes she could see some elves only a couple of feet away, already throwing the little snow that yet covered the grass to each other.

"Does it ever snow in Imladris?" She asked Elladan, a wide smile on her face as she stared into his liquid silver eyes, tiny white snowflakes sticking to his dark lashes.

"Yes" he said with a light laugh, as his hand brushed away a snowflake that had landed on her nose.

"Elladan! Elrohir!" The three of them turned around at the voice, only to find Tadion jogging in their direction, a wide grin on his face. Her eyes caught the figures of Arahaelon and Legolas some feet away, the older brother throwing a large snowball to the younger, and quickly ducking the one aimed at him. Tadion reached Elrohir first, saying some words in elvish as he patted his shoulder before turning to greet the elder twin.

"I heard your count was in a negative number this time? Care to explain?" Tadion's voice was teasing as his clear blue eyes openly mocked Elladan. By the casual tone he used and the grin in his face, Elerrina could easily tell that they had known each other for a long time and were already good friends.

"I will make sure your count ends up negative the next time you are the one injured, Tadion." Elladan's silver eyes narrowed, although he could not suppress his grin from showing. Elrohir's musical laughed reached her ears, and Tadion joined him only a second after.

She saw Tadion's clear blue eyes travel to the spot in which her arm was safely entwined with Elladan's. His eyes quickly rose to meet the elder twin's silver pair, one eyebrow raised in questioning.

"Elladan, a word please." His voice was serious, but his smile remained on his face, his clear blue eyes completely unreadable. She saw Elrohir pat his twin's shoulder in sympathy, a chuckle escaping his lips as he walked to where the Crown Prince stood.

She opened her mouth to say something, but only a surprised squeal left her lips as she was suddenly lifted from her feet by a pair of strong arms, easily swinging her over a shoulder. A familiar laugh accompanied the motion, and she immediately recognized Legolas' light blond hair as he carried her away in rushed steps, taking her to the spot in which Elrohir and Arahaelon were now throwing snow at each other. She saw Tadion's mouth moving as he said something to Elladan, but she could no longer hear them, and instead she turned her head to face at front, joining in Legolas' laughter.

He lowered her to the snow, and before she had time to stand straight, a fresh handful of snow hit the side of her face, making Legolas' laughter to rise in volume. She turned around in time to see Arahaelon grinning at her, a guilty sparkle gleaming in his green eyes. She quickly took her hand to the ground, grabbing a handful of the soft snow, but before she could throw it, another handful of snow splashed the other side of her face, making her drop her own snowball. She turned quickly in the direction in which it had come, only to find Elrohir's silver eyes mocking her.

She grabbed another handful, this time debating whether to throw it to Elrohir or Arahaelon. However, she seemed to take a second too long in making her mind, for another fresh amount of snow hit her face, this time coming from Legolas' direction. She noticed that the three elves had made a triangle, and she was standing exactly in the middle of it, being their shared target. She could not help but laugh, continuing to throw snow all around her, as more and more snow hit her face in return.

In between the splashes of white snow that hit her face, she caught sight of Elladan and Tadion joining them, the two of them quickly finding a spot in the loose circle around her, also making her their target.

"This is unfair!" She complained laughing as yet another handful of snow hit her shoulder. Acting quickly, she ran and stopped behind Legolas, grabbing him by the shoulders. All of the snow aimed at her fell on him as she used him a shield. He tried to get away from her hold, but she did not let go, ducking behind his tall figure.

She saw Arahaelon rush towards them, pushing Legolas into the middle of the loose circle. Instantly, all the other elves started aiming the snow at him, officially declaring him the new target.

Laughing, she made her way to where Elladan stood, wrapping both of her arms around his neck as he dropped the snow he was holding and circled his own arms around her waist. His dark hair was covered in tiny white snowflakes and his cheeks and lips were flushed red by the cold as he smiled widely at her.

"What did he tell you?" She asked in a voice only audible to his ears. He let out a chuckle before answering.

"I will live." Was all he answered, still smiling at her. By the way in which his hold tightened around her waist, she could tell that Tadion had not really disapproved of their relationship. Just at that moment, a fresh handful of snow hit Elladan's cheek, making him quickly turn his head in the direction in which it had come.

"That is what happens when you are distracted, Elrondion." She heard Tadion's voice yelling from the distance, instantly knowing who had been the one that had thrown the snow. Elladan let out a musical laugh, quickly placing a kiss to her cheek before ducking to get some more snow to throw.

Elerrina did not continue their game. Her eyes had caught two more figures suddenly coming out through the large terrace, some feet away from them. Even in the distance, she could easily recognize the unmistakable form of the Elven King, one arm over Lossenel's shoulders. Another tall blond elf followed them, the formal robes he wore telling her that it was probably one of the chief advisors or counselors.

The Elven King's eyes turned in their direction, a gentle smile playing on his lips as he gazed over each and every one of his children. Without even realizing what she was doing, Elerrina found her feet already walking slowly in the direction of the terrace, the soft snow crunching under her light footsteps.

Lossenel's eyes met hers, ice green-blue irises staring at her gently, so deep, so peaceful and tender, like the kind waters of a crystalline pond. There was no trace of the tears that had run over her snowy face, and her expression remained unreadable, simply staring. Elerrina did not know from where she got the courage, but before she could realize it, she had already climbed the few steps that led to the terrace, stopping right in front of the gorgeous Princess.

"Will you join us?" She was surprised by the sound of her own voice, so steady and sure.

Slowly, a smile appeared on the Princess' face, reaching the crystal gleam in her ice colored eyes. The next thing she knew, she was being pulled into a tight embrace, Lossenel's delicate arms wrapping around her shoulders. She froze, surprised for a moment, but then wrapped her arms around her in return.

"Of course." She heard Lossenel answer, her voice as melodic and enchanting as her whole image. She still did not know this elven Lady, still did not know if they would get along well, if she would eventually feel like her sister, but at least she knew that the snowy Princess would be willing to try.

Lossenel pulled away from her, her lips curving up in a gorgeous light smile. Light footstpes to her right made Elerrina turn her head, and she noticed Arahaelon standing there. She could still see the twins throwing snow at Tadion and Legolas, who also threw snow in return.

In one swift motion, she saw Arahaelon pick up Lossenel, throwing her over his shoulder, much in the same way Legolas had done with her. She heard the snowy Princess protest in elvish, fighting in vain against her brother's strong grip, a smile on her face. She watched the Crown Prince carry his sister to where the others were still throwing snow, slowly following behind him, unable to contain her smile at the sight. Out of the corner of her eyes she saw the Elven King smiling, moving to sit on one of the long chaises that adorned the terrace, the other blond elf joining him.

Arahaelon placed Lossenel lightly on the snow, his arms pinning her down in place as she tried to run away. Instantly, balls of snow started to clash on her, spraying over her platinum hair, face, dress and arms. Elerrina reached their spot, choosing to stand beside Elladan as they continued to throw snow at Lossenel.

Finally, Lossenel managed to break free from the Crown Prince's grasp, dashing to hide behind Tadion. However, Tadion escaped her grip, quickly moving away form her as she squealed when yet another handful of snow hit her cheek. Her brothers were giving her no chance, no matter where she ran to, they continued to chase her, throwing more snow in her direction. Elladan and Elrohir joined in their game, and Elerrina imitated them, staying close to Elladan wherever he moved.

Lossenel kept running round, desperately trying to escape. Laughter escaped her lips like wind chimes, the sound floating in the air, dancing along the falling snow. The game had clearly turned into a chase, all of them moving deeper and deeper into the gardens, moving agilely in between the thick trees as they followed the Princess.

Elerrina moved beside Elladan, helping him lightly as he limped, trying not to trip on the many roots that emerged from the ground. Every tree was covered in a thin layer of white, beautifully adorning their green color, the silver light of the moon bouncing on the snow, making it glitter under the stars. She could no longer see the terrace, or the palace behind them. They were very deep into the immense gardens that resembled more of a wild growing forest than a real garden.

The figures of her siblings kept appearing and disappearing between the trees, an occasional laughter giving away their position. Everyone seemed to be hiding and running through the forest, whoever was seen receiving a snowball to his or her face as consequence. She stayed close to Elladan, moving swiftly through the forest, trying to surprise any of the elves without being the ones surprised.

A ball of snow his her face suddenly, and she turned just in time to see light blond hair disappearing through the vegetation. She could not tell which of her brothers had caught her, but before she could stop to think about it, she felt Elladan pull her to hind behind a thick tree trunk. He was laughing silently as he pressed her body against him, his back tightly against the green tree truck, covered in moss and other plants. Every now and then she could hear movement through the forest, where her siblings and Elrohir kept moving around, throwing snow and then quickly hiding before being caught. Elladan stuck out his face and inch to look, but quickly hid it as another handful of snow flew past the tree, missing him narrowly.

She laughed in silence at him, letting her curious eyes explore the forest all around her. For a moment, she lost her concentration on the snow fight that was going around her, her sense only focusing on the thick green forest. The trees extended tall to the black night sky, their branches creating a heavy green canopy above their heads. Frail dashed of pale moonlight filtered through the leaves, creating thin, defined lines on light.

She immediately recognized the place. She had been here before. Her hand travelled to touch the thick tree trunk behind which she was hiding, her fingers slowly feeling over the irregular, mossy wood. It felt strange, and at the same time comforting, to feel the texture of the tree under her fingers, instead of the blank empty surface that replaced every object inside her dreams. The forest seemed different now; it was the same image from her dreams, but now it had sounds she could hear, it had trees and grass she could touch, it was real.

Her eyes immediately turned to the front, her feet taking some steps ahead. Out of the corner of her eyes she could see Elladan quickly following her, silver eyes looking at her with concern, but she did not turn. Think low branches obscured her view ahead, and she moved them aside with a hand, looking deeper into the forest.

There, some distance in front of her ran a small crystalline stream. Parts of it were frozen, but some water kept running under and around the ice. She felt her body freeze in place, her eyes unable to look away. Elladan had stopped next to her, his eyes staring at her, attentive.

She instantly recognized the place, her eyes staring at the stream, lost at the so familiar sight that was finally real before her eyes. Part of her almost expected to see the little elfling appear at the other end of the stream, playing absently with the water, but she knew that no elfling would come this time. For the first time, she was able to hear the soothing sound of the water running, feel the cold breeze against her face, the snowy ground beneath her feet. In truth, she did not know what to think of it, but the familiar sight made a new feeling rise in her. Suddenly she knew that this place had not been a product of her imagination, but a memory, a long forgotten one.

Her thoughts turned to her siblings, who continued to throw snow to each other; to the Elven King, who was her father even if she could barely remember him; to Elladan standing next to her; to Lord Elrond back in Imladris, not knowing what had happened once they left; to the blue stoned ring upon the Elf-Lord's finger and the way in which it whispered to her, the way in which it called her and possessed her; to the Orcs that had been looking for her, who had captured the Elf-Lord and then left him to be rescued, a mystery nobody had yet been able to understand; to the four ghostly riders that searched for Vilya, believing it was her the one who possessed it; to her small village, where she had grown up, ignoring who she really was; to Naeraviel and her large, tender brown eyes as she gently combed her hair; to the image of the beautiful elven Lady lying on the ground, golden hair splattered around her face, empty emerald green eyes staring blankly at the sky…She did not know what would happen now, just she had not known that any of those things that had happened would come to pass, and yet all she knew was there were powerful secrets kept here in Mirkwood, and whatever had really happened when she was a baby, whatever had been the reason to hide her, had to be one of them…

End of Part 1

Here is the last chapter for this part of the story! Please let me know what you think! I hope you have enjoyed all of the previous chapters of this story! Thank you to all of you who have read the story, even if you only read one chapter, then it was worth writing it. It was definitely a pleasure

There will be a sequel. It will be called Almarëa, and that is all I can say about it.

Thank you deeply again to those of you who reviewed my latest chapter, I really appreciate your words, they are fantastic: alexiana75, Sovereignty3, sarah, Elf sister, AmazingWriter123, CalathielKat, wonderpanda10, Paperlanterns86, smulderalert, xX-MissyMoo-Xx, Jibril, booklover1598, Martine9295, The Grimreaper PT, the-fox-love, ILoveEomer 3, CeffylGwyn, luckyponygirl, Vtiger5, and ZabuzasGril.

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Also, thanks to all those of you who followed the story, even if you did right form chapter one, or already by chapter 50. And also thanks to all those of you who have simply read the story, whether you followed it, reviewed it favorite or not, thank you reading it!

I hope this story gave you all a good time!

Love,

Elena