[alaklondewen]

Pelien's Luncheon

Pelien was positioned in her high-backed chair, so that the other Ladies were seated on either side of her on the matching floral sofas. If they had been sitting at a long table, Pelien would have been at the head, just as she preferred. The women chatted about general happenings and the weather, however, they all knew what conversation was to come, and Pelien was only waiting for the others to arrive before bringing up Finduilas.

Rummel brought a large silver tray with tea and set it on the long, oval table that sat between the sofas. A small rose pattern crept along the rim of each cup and the tall, slender teapot. As she began to lift the delicate pot, Pelien touched the servant’s arm and motioned for her to leave it. Keeping her eyes lowered in respect, Rummel curtsied and returned to the kitchen.

“I do hope you will have some tea,” Pelien charmingly smiled at the other women as she poured the steaming liquid into six cups. After being thanked by each Lady, Pelien turned to the Lady Morthaniawen, “Your youngest daughter, will she be accompanying us today? I thought she and Adrama might have some common interests. Right, Adrama?” Her daughter looked startled for a moment as she was put on the spot, but she nodded with a small smile before looking down at her hands. In reality, Pelien cared little for Lady Ruiel’s youngest daughter. The girl was weak, not having the same air of dignity seen in Ruiel and Dryea, but of course Pelien would never vocalize her opinion to the Lady.

[ July 18, 2003: Message edited by: alaklondewen ]