Thranduil decided to go and check on Arieth anyway. He wasn't going to look at her, just make sure she was safe. He approached the pond, hiding behind some bushes. He carefully removed some branches and took a quick peek. Arieth was rising from the water. His heart started racing and he swallowed hard before he looked away, he didn't want to invade her privacy. He went back to get the preys they had killed ready for supper, but images of a naked Arieth was dancing before his eyes. She was so perfect. All he's been doing since he met her, has been looking at her, listening to her, wanting to be with her, to protect her. He was glad their paths had crossed, and happy about them teaming up. Which was his idea. When he learned that she was travelling alone, carrying nothing but her courage to face the dangers of Middle Earth, he knew he couldn't let her continue on her own. It was simply too risky. Her horse had already been slain, and she barly got away from that orc attack.

Arieth returned, her hair all wet. "Smells good", she said and smiled. "The stew is almost ready", Thranduil said and stirred the pot. Arieth went inside to hang her clothes up to dry. She looked outside the window and watched Thranduil. He didn't seem like no stuck up, spoiled prince, since he took charge and got things done. Cooking, fixing the cottage, rescuing her. He was very nice, and teaming up with him was the highlight of her journey after leaving her home. She went outside and sat down on the ground beside him. Thranduil handed her a bowl with food. "Thank you!", she said and looked at him. Their eyes met. She blushed and looked away. He made her body and mind feel all kinds of things. She looked in his direction again. Thranduil smiled at her. "Is it any good?", he asked her and refered to the stew. Arieth took a mouthful. "It's delicious", she said and smiled.