A quick A/N: Well well, when I began this story I thought there'd only be about 10 chapters in this fic, and here I am on the tenth chapter with lots more to go!! Tis a wonder what your mind can come up with when you enjoy the story you're writing ;)

Sorry it's short... but for this scene I think it works

Laurelin awakened and released its rays to soar across the wide open sky, welcoming the birds as they took flight in the early morning. Nature in all its glory bid us to rise, and so Lilótëa, Telemna and I set off for the glade in the forest. There, we would say our final farewells before going our own ways.

"I feel as if we have claimed that little forest glade for ourselves," I said, holding the reins with my fair lady once again sitting in the front. "Twice we've met there, and in any moment we'll arrive at our destination; it will serve as a place for departure. I think this means we shall meet there again on our next visit."

I was glad to see her look towards me, the smile on her face brightening. "You wish to see me again?"

"I must say I rather enjoyed your company..." I replied, my voice and expression imitating the likes of a king pondering hard on a decision, "so yes, of course I would. The gracious Lord Nelyafinwë consents to another day of seeing you again." She let out a endearing, musical giggle. "I promise I'll set time aside to write to you. The letter will say when I'm available," I assured her. "Although, if you're not willing to..."

"Oh, indeed I am! I apologize if it... came out that way."

"No, it didn't. I should be the one to blame," I said, silently cursing my rashness. "I just assumed you'd agree to it, but no matter, it's all settled. I have no doubt our next adventure will be as lovely as the one we just had." I could have kept talking to her about everything and nothing, just to prolong our visit. But I knew it had to end, for the familiar glade came into view too soon.

When Telemna walked us to the middle of the field, I let Lilótëa slip off the horse's back. It took no effort to keep my courteous manners alive. I extended my hand to her, like I'd done countless times to women at formal events.

At her hesitation, I briefly wondered if she'd be one of the few to decline, but that was not the case. She moved her hand towards mine with quivering ease, and my fingers enveloped hers. I told myself it would be just an ordinary kiss, that it was completely normal and I should not worry about doing the job perfectly. Yet, I still did. I despised my height at that time, and how I needed to bend down so far, in turn making me look ungainly. But when my lips met her knuckles, I was only glad I got the chance to have the experience at all. "Safe journey, my lady."

"I— Thank you, Nelyafinwë. I eagerly await your letter."

"I'll take care to send the most trusted messenger," I added, "who will have the sense not to question why I suddenly send letters to a Vanyarin dwelling."

Telemna gave a snort, as if telling me to not keep my family waiting any longer. I stole a final glance at Lilótëa, and smiled, before riding into the forest greenery.

"What if all seven of my brothers knew of this affair, Telemna?" I whispered, "What would they think?" Whether they'd approve of her or not, I knew my feelings were kept safe with Káno.

* * *

She could become affected so easily, like a pond's calm surface disturbed by the single kiss of a leaf. Literally, it was a kiss that initiated those ripples in her soul. Lilótëa simply stood in her spot, absentmindedly stroking the skin he kissed. After watching the prince and his horse leave the scene, she twirled to face the opposite way that led her to home.

She walked faster without meaning to, her heart beating more times than she could comprehend. Nelyafinwë, I will see you again.

We have just met— how foolish of me to already expect the days without you to miserably drag on, as if you were my lost lover. But this cannot be ignored... my mind will not be free of you.

You have left me with joyous thoughts, yet even now I begin to feel more alone than before.