[astarielle]

Astarielle thought long and hard. She finally replied, "Mirkwood was not always a desolate, evil place. It was once filled with joy and mirth. I sacoured this time forever knowing it would soon end."

"My family have sought refuge in Rivendell and some in Lothlorien. However I have found solstice in travelling. Few elves live in Mirkwood now, but I know at some point the evil in those woods will be vanquished."

"I see little of my people, only when passing by. I occasionally meet them when out riding."

"We have no need for grand palaces in Mirkwood, we live simply but proudly. The prince's house is very much similar to that of an elf like me. There is not a lot else I can say about Mirkwood, it was once a peaceful refuge now wrought with evil."

Astarielle turned to Hirilaelin and could tell by the expression on her face that she was listening intently to her tale.

"Tell me about your people Hirilaelin" said Astarielle, Hirilaelin sat up with a jerk.