I don't own LotR or Hobbit. Made for fun with my friend (she has posted this story in Polish)

Betaed by 4321rayray.

Daren looked nervously into the king's eyes, feeling sweat trailing down his temples. The blue orbs were cold, unforgiving. His throat went dry.

"What is your decision, my l-lord?" he managed to choke out. The blond-haired elf continued to keep the cool indifference in his expression. In fact, Daren couldn't remember seeing the ruler of Mirkwood blink at all. The elf sat on his throne regally as if posing for a portrait. His face was a mask of stone, uncapable of showing anything but discouragement and discontent.

"His Highness will reflect on your proposal," answered a calm voice.

Daren blinked in surprise. He had forgotten about the presence of royal advisers in the room. He was completely hypnotized by the Elvenking's gaze. Feeling a hand on his shoulder, he jumped, nearly knocking over a chair. The elven guard that touched him seemed amused, but said nothing, only gesturing to the door. Daren forced himself to calm and let some elves escort him to the guest rooms, only partially aware of his comrades, who were equally shaken, following behind.

Mirnis waited for the sound of steps in the hallway to die down before he patted Thranduil hard on the back. Surprised, the blonde stood up from his throne, blinking. The elves present in the room bowed their heads to hide smiles. Slowly coming back to reality, the king sat down again.

"I'm sorry, I dozed off for a moment. Invite in the delegation of men."

"Why? They just left," asked Mirnis, pretending to be surprised.

"Left?! But the contract-"

"Oh, yes, the contract! I must say, you were amazing, my lord," Kaladen smiled.

"That was the best you've negotiated in several years," explained Mirnis, seeing the confused Thranduil.

"Wait, I was- the whole meeting?"

"We need you at full strength, sir." The face of the second royal adviser became serious. Everyone in the room knew what Kaladen meant. Darkness enveloped Mirkwood increasingly, restrained only by the weakening magic of Thranduil.

"Besides, as Mirnis said earlier, everything went according to plan. We made sure that the leader of the delegation was in front of the throne and that your gaze fell perfectly on his head. The man did not even realize it. He came from a small village, there was little chance that he knew elves sleep with their eyes open. In fact, we woke you, sir, only because it's now time for an audience with Elrond," Limanae said quietly. Thranduil nodded, still embarrassed.

"Yeah, pity. I'd like to watch some more silly mortals squirm under your sleepy gaze," sighed Kaladen mournfully.

"You're terrible, all of you" Thranduil muttered to his advisors and cleared his throat. "Invite Elrond, I'm waiting for him." The Elvenking straightened, taking on his regal pose once again.

Please review and tell me what do you think!

Update: 5 September 2015 (Fixed some sentences)

AN: Wow! Thank you so much for the comments, follows and favourites, it's amazing! Who am I kidding, you are amazing!