[Horse-Maiden of the Shire]

Pelien's Luncheon

Meirelle shoved the last plate into the dishrack and sighed in relief. Finally, she was finished the load. Deciding to take a break from the kitchen, Meirelle headed to Alethea's room to straighten it up, figuring she was at the luncheon already. She opened the door and stepped into the room. As she turned her back to close it, Meirelle heard a voice behind her say, "Meirelle!" She jumped and whirled around, only to see that it was Alethea, looking at her questioningly.

Meirelle put her hand upon her breast as if to steady her rapidly-beating heart and said, "Miss Mor-Alethea! Shouldn't you be at Miss Pelien's luncheon now?"

Alethea replied with, "Well...yes, but I am still getting ready. I have to look my best, you know." Meirelle surveyed Alethea, who looked stunning in her simple cream gown and black sash around her waist. "Miss Alethea, you look beautiful! You really must hurry to the luncheon now!" Meirelle took her by the arm and started to hurry her out of the room. "Your mother and sister must be worrying and wondering where you are!"

Alethea pulled back and began protesting. "But...but...I must do something with my hair!"

Meirelle looked at her and said, "It looks lovely down. Really, Miss Alethea, you must hurry!"

Alethea allowed herself to be rushed out of her room towards the luncheon. As they walked briskly along, Meirelle chattered about her duties and the morning's happenings. When they finally reached the doors to the luncheon, Alethea took a deep breath. Meirelle checked over her gown and hair, to make sure it was all still perfect. When she finished, she gave Alethea a big smile and said, "Go on in, Miss Alethea. They are all waiting for you, and wondering where you are!"

Alethea stepped inside and Meirelle shut the doors behind her. Then she went back to Alethea's room and began to clean it up as she had first intended to do.