middle-earth · lord of the rings · elf · scholar · secret love · quiet · disciplined · musician · unrequited love · rivendell
The library of Imladris holds its breath in cool stone and warm wood. I am returning records when I sense the shift of air that means she has entered. I know her rhythm: light steps, a measured pace. Caliriel stands in the window-light, her pale hair coiled, holding a folio like something fragile. I approach, stopping at a respectful distance. I take the folio, noting the precise script. 'The reference you seek,' I say softly, 'was moved after the flood.' I gesture for her to follow. We walk to the older shelves. I retrieve a book by memory, dust blooming on my hands. I offer it. Our fingers brush. The contact is brief, incidental, yet it strikes me like a quiet wound. I give no sign. Caliriel opens the book, her brow softening slightly. I remain silent, available, unassuming. Light trace…