Oh. My. Goodness…. I'm SOOOOOOOO sorry! I feel so bad that it has been over a year since I have updated for the wonderful, lovely, awesome, incredible readers of Shifting Tides!

I have had so much going on recently. Mainly academically. I am currently enrolled in three research/seminar courses at once because I'm insane… After this term I have an exit course and an internship left and then, GRADUATION! Phew! Thank goodness!

I had meant to get this posted a few weeks ago, but then I caught the flu, AND strep, and was bedridden to the point where I couldn't even complete course assignments.

But here is an update! And just after St. Patty's day! Aren't y'all lucky! ^_~

Once again, Thank you to all who have read, been reading, and have been waiting for more of my story! You are really awesome, and it really does inspire me to write more. Now, if only I could figure out how to rid myself of this pesky thing called higher-education!

Disclaimer thingy: I don't own anything pertaining to the Lord of the Rings. Sadly. I couldv'e really benefited from the presence of a Legolas this past year!

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The water of the river was indescribably frigid. Jillian couldn't help the involuntary shivers that reverberated throughout her body. Nor could she help the way her teeth chattered so hard that she was surprised the two men by the small, newly formed fire, which taunted her with its warm glow, didn't seem to hear her. But she was glad that the rapid clicking of her teeth sounded perhaps louder to her in her own head than in actuality, for she preferred that their attention remained focused in the opposite direction she was in. Most especially because she was nude, and they were male.

Despite how cold the water was, Jillian was actually quite glad to have the opportunity to bathe. Knowing for certain that she had been in this country…where ever it was….for a minimum of four days now. Or at least that's what she thought. But regardless of how long she had already been in this land, it most certainly was far too long without a bath. So even though the chill of the water bit at her skin in all its most sensitive places, she gritted her teeth…when they weren't chattering… to bear it.

The moon, though far past its mid-night position, was large and full and bright. It illuminated everything around her with its silvery glow, which was quite a contrast from the night before when a thick blanket of clouds shrouded the earth in a veil of darkness. It was such a stark contrast, that Jillian couldn't help but glance over every now and then to where the men sat …and possibly even more frequently, especially since she gave a shriek upon entering the icy river. She wanted to make sure that the beautiful man Legolas was upholding whatever oath he had made to her to not look in her direction as she bathed.

And now she looked over at them once more, keeping her eyes fixed on their backs as she rose and made to leave the chilly water. The night air hit her wet skin like thousands of tiny needles and she shivered, looking around desperately for something with which to dry herself. Unfortunately, being in the middle of nowhere in a country she didn't even know meant that towels or anything of the sort was a commodity not to be had. She had to improvise. Using the shirt that Legolas had given her, she lightly padded the excess moisture from her skin so that the shirt wouldn't be too damp to wear.

She dressed as quickly as she could, having only slight difficulty with the clasps to the shirt. It was after she was clothed that she belatedly thought that the clothes she was now wearing likely belonged to Legolas. The pants and the sleeves of the shirt were far too long for her frame and she had to roll them up to accommodate her stature. The thought of wearing his clothing made her blush inexplicably, but she quickly squashed her surprise as her mind began to rationalize. Well, Jill…it's not like he would carry around women's clothes…

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Legolas was completely absorbed in the image whose subject taunted him from the surface of the thin, oddly bright piece of paper until the sound of Gimli's sharp dwarvish curse sounded in his ear from over his shoulder.

Looking back at his friend, Legolas could see that the dwarf was turning as red as his hair. And before Legolas could utter a single word, Gimli erupted, exclaiming vehemently, "I knew she was trouble! I just knew it!"

"Gimli! Quiet!" Legolas admonished with a harsh whisper while looking discretely back over his shoulder and hoping that the woman Jillian hadn't heard Gimli's little explosion. But at the sight of said young woman dressing, he abruptly turned back to face his friend, hoping that the flush creeping over his face wasn't so apparent in the orange glow of the fire.

"And what's gotten into ye? I saw the way ye were lookin' at her!"

Legolas knew by the fervor with which Gimli's anger was rising that his reprimand would not be received well, but it did not prepare him for the hostile accusation that his friend threw back at him, nor for how accurate an accusation it was that left him stunned and spurred a sudden defensiveness that Legolas hadn't felt since he first met the dwarf.

"And how was that? I have only shown kindness to someone in need of aid!"

"Hmph! Well your 'kindness' has blinded you to what she is!"

Gimli's words stung Legolas. Of course the two had always had their differences, but they had always been trivial compared to the strength of their friendship. So it left a disheartening and betrayed feeling within him to think that Gimli would call his character into question.

"You assume much Gimli," he coolly reciprocated his own accusation, and then indicating the paper he still held; "This does not mean she is of ill repute. We do not know her circumstances, but regardless of what they are, it is better she and this image both are with us than in the hands of our enemy."

"And what if she is also the enemy?"

"Truly Gimli, you have seen her…you cannot think that."

But the dwarf remained obstinately silent.

"Then if I have been blinded by my own kindness, surely your own suspicion blinds you."

And with that, Legolas let the stubborn dwarf stew while he went about righting Jillian's fallen bag; collecting the other loose papers and stacking them neatly with the one that showed the disconcerting image. Just as he was placing them back in the bag, he caught the barely noticeable padding of feet that signaled the approach of the bag's owner.

Legolas could see that she must be able to feel the tense atmosphere that had settled upon the camp. He noticed the way that she glanced warily between Gimli and himself; unsure if she should say anything.

"Your bag fell over," he explained when her attention was drawn to the bag still in his grasp, "Some things fell out…I was replacing them."

"Thanks."

The camp was still and ripe with awkwardness. And it only worsened with Gimli's glare directed at the young woman and her confused expression as a result.

Legolas could see Gimli was about to explode into a direct interrogation of the girl and was about to intercede when she spoke up before either of them.

"Actually, thank you both for everything, rescuing me…who knows what those…monsters would have done."

Legolas could see Gimli become less ruffled after Jillian expressed her gratitude, so he took the opportunity to direct the young woman to the makeshift bed he had set out while she was bathing. Taking her previous clothing that she had balled up and making note that he would do his best to clean the garments of the stains and odor once he had the opportunity.

He sat opposite her on the other side of the small glowing fire. He could see the nervous expression she wore as she glanced warily at Gimli. And knowing his impetuous friend was most likely to intimidate the young woman, he swiftly but cautiously preempted, "I could not help but notice the pages you carry."

His statement earned him not only her attention but Gimli's as well. So he continued, "Is that why they held you captive?"

She shifted uncomfortably and bit her lip anxiously. Legolas could tell, just by that small reaction alone that he had hit the mark. And she finally looked at him, her expression grim in the dim glow of the fire, confirming his inquiry with a subtle nod. After several minutes that seemed longer than they probably were she spoke.

"He wanted me to translate the pages."

Legolas did not have a good feeling about where these answers were going, but he pressed on. The more he knew, the better prepared he could be for what lay ahead.

"The man whom the orcs answer to?"

His last question was met by a nervous nod from her and a sharp look from Gimli.

He had been prepared for Gimli to insert himself into the interrogation at that revelation, but his friend held his cool. It seemed as if Gimli thought it better to hear the girl out rather than frighten her into silence, regardless of how his temper was undoubtedly boiling up inside.

"Yeah…it's weird though…" she paused momentarily, "I mean…he should be able to translate them himself…"

Something did not add up, and Legolas could tell that Gimli was thinking just as he, but before he could ask her himself, Gimli beat him to it.

"How do ye know he should be able to translate those pages? How well do ye know this man?" And turning to him the dwarf said, "Legolas, I told ye she couldn't be trusted!"

Legolas heaved a sigh of frustration. He could see by Jillian's expression that his friend's accusatory exclamation had caught her off guard. This was the first time that he had gotten the opportunity to speak with her at length, and he did not want her shutting down in defensiveness due to his impetuous friend.

"She was captive, Gimli. Not complicit."

"How do ye know? For all we know, she could have given herself to them so…"

"Gimli!" Legolas was astonished that his friend would be so forwardly brazen in his accusations. He was just about to admonish him for what he just said when Jillian spoke up, hurriedly trying to explain.

"I had only just met him. My boss asked me to contact someone who could help with a recent discovery. He came to our museum and I was taking him to see a painting, but there was…an accident. And then I woke up…here…where ever this is…"

She trailed off when she saw his and Gimli's questioning glances.

"Painting?" Gimli pressed, "The picture in your bag?"

Legolas was far too intrigued by this new line of questioning, that he found himself anxiously awaiting her answer. In the back of his mind, he felt guilty for leaving her at the mercy of Gimli's suspicious interrogation, but his desire to find out more about the image had struck him with more force than an arrow and left him at the shameful mercy of uncertainty.

He watched her intently as she nodded jerkily, confirming that the image was in fact a probably much larger painting. He knew a fair bit of knowledge about the process of painting, having participated in the activity sporadically in the earlier centuries of his life. If the image he had seen, despite its small size, was any indication, it would have taken a number of weeks, even months, to achieve the level of detail and likeness. And considering the fact that this painting would be produced after the birth of a child who had not even yet been conceived; the thought did not rest easily with him.

"It's large…quite beautiful," she began uncertainly, "the technique is exquisite. The artist is clearly a master. There is little visible aging…but dating the painting has been difficult. Which is why the museum contacted Professor Carrington…"

Legolas spoke up before Gimli, his attention swiftly caught by the details of this new identity that had the ability to bend the disgraceful lot of monsters to do his bidding. But what bidding was it exactly?

"Professor Carrington? The man? The man who lead the orcs?"

Her expression changed then, as if she was reliving a memory.

She nodded faintly, "He wasn't like that when I first met him. Something happened. After I woke up here…"

Gimli exchanged a wary look with him.

"He acted funny at first. Far too quiet. He was very personable when I first met him. And then…when the monsters came… I thought they had gotten him too, but it was him…" she was visible angry now, as she finished through clenched teeth, "…he told them he needed me alive."

The information that she offered freely was definitely far more mysterious than he had thought. And mystery generally was cause for concern, especially when orcs were a part of it. He could see that Gimli was taken aback by her account of betrayal.

Roughly clearing his throat, his friend offered his peace and a silent apology for his rash behavior, with the food that he offered to Jillian. She accepted with a small nod of thanks and an uncertain smile.

The three of them ate in silence.

Jillian's hair was drier that when she had returned from her bath in the river. It was also fuller, the air and warmth from the fire giving it a slight wave that had been absent before. Being clean, she was a great deal more lovely, though still not an exceptional beauty like the Evenstar or the Lady Eowyn. Her eyes, in their expressiveness, were what granted her loveliness. Eyes that he now noted regarded him with more open curiosity than before.

She must have noticed that he had caught her looking at him, for she quickly turned away to discreetly regard his dwarven friend with wary perplexity. Gimli must have felt her gaze too, as he turned to face her and she suddenly found her meal very interesting.

"He's an elf, lass."

Apparently Gimli had noticed her inquisitiveness. Startled, she turned to look at him.

"Huh?"

"Legolas. He's an elf."

Legolas sighed as he looked to her to find a pair of wide and skeptical eyes scrutinizing him. Her eyes alighted on his ears.

"Is that why they're pointy?"

Legolas nodded silently. He could see through her eyes that she was unsure of how to compose herself after his affirmation, so she turned to Gimli.

"And you?"

"Gimli is a dwarf." Legolas answered for his friend.

She looked between the two of them, trying unsuccessfully to shield the obvious bewilderment from her face. She set her bowl down. Apparently her appetite lost, as she looked between them again and then stared into the brilliant flames of their small fire.

"…I'm a little tired..."

"Of course," Legolas gave her leave to seek out the comfort of her bed, "I will wake you in the morn. We will travel to a village not too far from here…sleep well, Jillian."

She gave a quick nod as she hastily tucked herself into her bedroll.

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Jillian's heart pounded as she lay in her blankets, back turned on her two…unusual companions. Unusual wasn't quite the word to describe them after what she had learned. In fact, it was probably a pretty damn tame substitute of a designation for the unintelligible description that the two of them presented. Elves and Dwarves? That's like…fairy-tale stuff!

If they were what they said they were… then where the bloody hell am I? Her heart pounded in her ears as she lay there, the sprawling vistas, distant mountains, burned villages, monsters, "Professor Carrington," Gimli, and Legolas…Legolas' ears…Legolas' piercing blue eyes…all swirled in rapid succession within her mind. The air smelled too clean. The sky was far too vast, more so than the one she was used to. In fact the night sky above her was generously glittered with an unfathomable amount of brilliantly twinkling stars. She was never one for astronomy, but she knew the most recognizable constellations. And with alarming clarity, she realized that she did not see a single one. Could she be in the Southern Hemisphere? She had heard that the stars were different there…but she was also pretty sure mythological races were not a part of the world's other half.

Mythological races? There was just no way. Dwarves, well dwarves could be explained. Dwarfism was not uncommon, and in fact there were many types of dwarves medically known. Elves… Now that was a different story. Sure elves were not unheard of, but when they were heard of, it was usually linked to some sort of fictional reality, and were short, jolly, mischievous, and often dabbled in baking or toy-making. And Legolas definitely did not fit that description at all. Orcs. The closest things that Jillian could liken them to were zombies. And those were certainly not real.

Oh God! This had to be some sort of dream.

But she hadn't woken up. Or at least she hadn't woken up where she was supposed to wake up. Explanations were started to flutter into her head. But they were so far beyond absurd she didn't even want to consider them. Yet the more she fought to hold them at bay or banish them from her consciousness, the more they began to solidify and take root. Alternate realities were just not possible. It suggested that her own reality persisted alongside, and if she was here, she sure as hell couldn't figure out why she couldn't just wake up in her own world. Do I even exist in my own reality?

She couldn't fight back the tears that welled up in her eyes. She tried. But the tears started to silently overflow from her strained eyes. Mom…Dad…

She lay in resolute silence. She didn't know what to think anymore, and so she lay there with tears tracing cool, quiet tracks down her face. Eventually, she drifted off to sleep. Exhaustion claimed her and lead her to sweet unconscious oblivion.

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Legolas was loath to wake his companions as the beginnings of morning light diffused the darkness of night. The night before had been…tense. From what little had been discussed about the painting, it seemed as if the mystery had broadened even more. But one thing he was able to ascertain was Jillian's innocence in that matter; she really was simply caught up in something definitely not of her doing.

After waking Gimli, he moved over to wake Jillian. As he approached her he could see the skin around her eyes, puffy and red. It confirmed what he had suspected the night before. She had been crying.

He softly nudged her shoulder until her eyes fluttered open. She appeared at first dazed, and then what he thought as disappointed.

"Dawn is nearing. We must break camp."

She nodded sleepily, rising to a sit. He left her to gather her things while he readied the horses.

He finished strapping his belongings to the saddle of his steed and moved on to assist Gimli onto the perch of his own horse. They were a fair distance away from Jillian, close enough to be within a moments reach yet far enough that she could not hear when Gimli roughly cleared his throat, indicating his intent to speak.

"Ye were right about the lass."

Legolas raised an eyebrow at his friend's admission. He thought Gimli might elaborate in his thinking, but he also knew that for the dwarf to admit he was wrong was a fairly big feat in itself. It would be apparent to anyone that Jillian was not the source of the malignity.

Gimli begrudgingly let Legolas refasten the belts that held him to the horse's saddle as sun broke the horizon accompanied by warm coral tones that illuminated the wispy clouds in the sky. By the time he had Gimli securely fastened atop the horse, he could hear Jillian's unassuming approach. He offered her a small smile, an offering of peace as much as reassurance. It seemed as if he had been offering these reassurances since the moment he rescued her. And he would likely be offering more reassurances, he mused.

Taking the things that she carried he went about affixing them to the saddle of his own horse. While he worked he could feel her gaze upon him. He stole a few sideways glances to see her studying him intently.

He turned to her as she began to speak, "Are they really…"

Time seemed to rush by and stand still all at once. He hadn't expected her to reach out, and he couldn't help his reaction when her warm, soft fingers came in contact with the tip of his ear. His breath hitched and he shuddered as an intense wave of pleasure rippled traitorously through his body.

"…real?" she ended with a wide-eyed whisper.

He grasped her hand firmly, trying desperately to dampen the feelings that she had unintentionally stirred within him. He had not felt feelings such as this for a very long time, it made him feel adolescent and composure instantly became a struggle. He also felt a slight tinge of guilt in knowing that her previous gesture had only been inquisitively innocent. He was immensely grateful when Gimli spoke up, breaking the strange time-spell.

"Aye, they're real lass. And as rumored, a fair bit more sensitive than yer own."

Legolas was grateful that she had turned to Gimli when he spoke, for he could feel a fierce blush creeping up said sensitive ears. He hoped it wasn't very apparent because she turned once more to him, eyes still wide.

"I'm…sorry." Jillian softly offered, taking back her hand as well.

""Tis alright… it took me by surprise is all."

Gimli's timely cough dispersed the tension that had settled about them, signaling that there were more pressing matters at hand than to reminisce on awkward moments. That particular moment was indeed awkward, but to Legolas it was more than just that, he was just not altogether sure what it was. But it was best not to dwell on it now.

They needed to be on their way, so Legolas held out his hand to Jillian once more. She looked unsure, especially, as he suspected, after what had just transpired.

"I will help you onto the saddle."

Recognition of his intentions flickered in her eyes and she appeared perhaps a little embarrassed as if she was expecting something else. She tentatively extended her hand to him, and he gently led her to his horse. He guided her hands to grasp the saddle and lifted her by the waist onto the seat. He could tell that she was unsteady, by her tense posture and before she had the opportunity to overanalyze the reliability of her balance, he swung himself with ease to sit behind her.

Only after they had set off toward that day's destination did Legolas wish that Jillian was behind him as she was the previous day. He would gladly suffer through the tight, bone-crushing grip again. Especially considering how she was now warmly snuggled against his chest, more for balance than any form of familiarity.

He frowned as they rode on. He did not understand the draw he had towards her, a perfect stranger. Her earlier curiosity about his ears did not help matters either. He also felt somewhat conflicted that his worry for the situation with the orcs was inextricably linked to the young woman whom he found his thoughts straying.

It was going to be a long ride.

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It was a long ride. A long day. A prolonged duration of time sitting on a horse. A long time with a very strong pair of arms wrapped about her gripping the reins. Jillian was relieved when they rode through the gate of the village.

The village itself was at once a welcome and unwelcome distraction. She was glad to have something to attract her attention away from all the tumultuous thoughts spinning about in her head. But while she had something new to focus on…she had something new to focus on.

The sun had set but the sky still had an orange-pink glow. Jillian wasn't sure what to expect when they arrived at the village, the only other village that she had seen was burnt to a crisp. The village was like a Renaissance fair that she had been to one year during high-school with her friends, only infinitely more authentic. Even as the day was drawing to an end, the village was bustling with activity. Men carried wood, herded livestock, and hauled heavy sacks, looking scruffy after what was probably a long and hard day at work. Children were running about and frazzled mothers were chasing after them trying to round them up for the evening meal.

Jillian began to realize that she, Legolas, and Gimli were being scrutinized by the people of the village just as much as she was scrutinizing them. Adults perceived them with inscrutable looks while children stared with open curiosity.

"Everyone is staring at us." she commented lowly, more to herself, but Legolas must have heard and responded.

"They likely do not have many visitors of other races."

Jillian nodded absently as she heard a small boy pointing in their direction exclaiming, "Look Mum! An elf!"

It was as the mother was reprimanding the boy for pointing, that any remaining doubt about Legolas and Gimli was slowly beginning to fade. The little boy had recognized Legolas as an elf. The implications slammed Jillian once more as she wondered where the hell she was.

She didn't have much time for contemplation, for they had come to a fairly large building whose sign confirmed it to be an inn. Legolas lead them toward an adjoining structure that Jillian assumed was a stable for the horses. When they had found a large unoccupied stall, Legolas helped her and Gimli from the horses, and then she found herself watching them as they tended to the animals, to ensure their comfort through the night she was pretty sure. Her bag was handed to her, and she was escorted by Legolas' hand at the small of her back out into the milieu and toward the warmly lit inn.

It was a lively atmosphere that greeted her and her companions as they entered the establishment. Her senses were greeted with an array of new sights and smells. Boisterous patrons were laughing over large pint-sized mugs of what was unmistakably some form of alcohol. There was a spicy-sweet scent aloft from the many pipes being puffed. And the entire broad room that hosted several dozen crowded tables was filled with the savory aroma of home-cooked victuals.

Just as they had outside in the village, the group of them attracted attention as they weaved their way to an empty table. Jillian was starting to accept the fact that people were probably going to stare at her companions, and she couldn't blame them…Legolas and Gimli were certainly a sight to see compared to everything about them. But she was startled to realize that the stares were not only limited to the two males in her company. She was at a loss to discover that she was the focus of a good deal of the attention.

To Jillian's relief, they finally reached the unoccupied table and she practically melted into her seat. It was not long before a robust woman with frazzled hair appeared at their table trying her best not to appear flustered by her new set of uncanny patrons.

"What can I get for ye?" she asked in an accent not unlike Gimli's.

Jillian left it to Legolas and Gimli to request their meals. She had only ever communicated with Legolas, Gimli, and the traitorous Professor in this country, wherever it was. The woman hurried off, deftly twining her way through the maze of tables to retrieve the stew, bread, and water that Legolas had requested and the ale that Gimli had inquired.

In the wake of the initial sensations spawned by the boisterous activity of the inn, Jillian didn't miss the surreptitious glances the woman cast towards her before she left to retrieve their provisions.

When the woman returned, she was distracted once more from her previous thoughts as the aroma of the rich stew struck Jillian's senses with such intensity that her mouth watered and her stomach grumbled in protest to its previously unacknowledged hunger.

"Here you are sirs," the woman proclaimed proudly as she set the dishes on the table before them, "and lass."

Gimli nodded his gratitude as he delved right into his full dish, utensil in one hand and ale in the other. Legolas offered a simple 'thank you' as he received his portion. Keeping the rhythm, Jillian likewise, contributed her own brief thanks.

"Will you be needing rooms for the night sirs?"

"One room with two beds would be sufficient." Legolas confirmed.

The woman looked as if she would stealthily suggest another room, especially as she glanced once more towards Jillian, but she refrained. No doubt she thought it indecorous for Jillian to share a room with two men. But clearly their status as paying customers helped the woman to hold her tongue. She left them to their meal, returning shortly after they had finished, to clear their dishes, and lead them towards their lodgings.

The inns-woman guided them to a fairly spacious but cozy room that housed two small beds loaded with hand-made blankets. Aside from that the room was sparse, containing only a small table with a large candle atop and a chair that sat by a small paned window.

"My name is Melva by the way. If you need anything, just ask."

Jillian had just sat on the bed closest to the window, since Gimli had already claimed the other one, when Melva spoke up again.

"Will any of ye be needing a bath this evening?"

Jillian couldn't help the smirk of amusement that crossed her face as a rather loud snore emitted from the other bed. Well I guess that's Gimli's answer.

Legolas then spoke up, "I do not require a bath this eve, but I believe Jillian would appreciate a warm bath and perhaps some more suitable clothing for a lady."

Melva perked up at the mention of Jillian's state of dress and she hustled over to her, grabbing her by the elbow, she hurried her towards the door.

"Come lass. You can have yer bath in my chambers, and I will find you something to wear," she gave Jillian a quick once-over and amended, "though you are a fair bit thinner than myself…"

Jillian cast a worried look over her shoulder at Legolas. He caught her concerned glance and nodded his reassurance that it was safe to go with Melva. Jillian was still uncertain, but the man…the elf, had saved her life. If anyone deserved her trust since coming to this place, then it was him.

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Melva escorted her down a fairly narrow corridor lined with wooden walls to a door at the far end. The woman shut the door behind her and sat Jillian down in a chair similar to the one in the room they had just left.

"You just sit right there dear, while I warm some water for ye."

Jillian nodded absently as Melva set about her task. Melva seemed friendly and all…but, she hadn't spent any span of time with anyone other than the Professor, Legolas, and Gimli since she arrived. She wasn't sure how to act, especially considering the village had given her a pretty good idea that the customs and culture of daily life was marginally different from what she was used to.

"Alright lass," Melva's sudden acknowledgement broke into Jillian's reverie, "I have the water warm for ye."

The woman guided Jillian towards a large, shallow wooden tub that Jillian couldn't help but regard with trepidation. She would gladly take a freezing river any day rather than a rudimentary wooden tub.

Her attention was abruptly caught once more as Melva began fiddling with the closures on the borrowed tunic she wore. Jillian began to insist that she was fully capable of undressing and bathing by herself when Melva sucked in a sharp gasp of air.

"What happened to yer neck child?"

Jillian's fingers involuntarily raised to her neck as she realized that Melva must have spotted the bruised marks that still lingered from her rough initial encounter with the orc-monsters. Melva's eyes became suspicious as she fiercely demanded, "Did they do this to ye?"

Jillian realized that the woman must think that Legolas and Gimli had…

"No! No! They saved me!" Melva still sported an incredulously suspicious look on her face, "from the monsters…"

A look of realization crossed Melva's features.

"You were taken by orcs?" She exclaimed, eyes wide.

Jillian nodded.

"You poor child!" Melva preened. "That must have been a horror!"

Jillian nodded again. Melva did not say anything more, but Jillian could tell she was still the object of the woman's pity by her glances. Melva resumed unclasping the tunic, admonishing Jillian's insistence that she could do so herself by the logic that she too was a woman. The woman's helpfulness and sympathy quelled any protest that Jillian might have raised and she rationalized to herself… The doctor sees me naked every year…I guess it's not that big a deal.

"These clothes," Melva began as she folded the tunic to place on the nearby bed, "they belong to the elf?"

Jillian nodded as she crossed her arms over her breasts in modesty, "My clothes were…filthy. Legolas gave me his spare clothes to wear"

Melva nodded, as she unfastened the string bindings of the pants and encouraged Jillian to step out of them. She positioned Jillian in the tub, giving her what she assumed was soap and a small wet cloth to wash herself. The woman helped Jillian wash her back and then rinsed her by gently pouring the warm water over her body. Despite her self-consciousness, Jillian didn't really mind being somewhat pampered.

Now that she was clean, she stood wrapped in a warm blanket while Melva scurried about looking for clothing that Jillian might be able to wear. Once the older woman had procured the items to her satisfaction, she helped Jillian into the softly woven ankle-length chemise. Over top she slipped a long tunic-like dress that seemed a little large to Jillian until the thicker fabric that would be undoubtedly itchy without the chemise underneath, was neatly gathered and folded symmetrically and firmly laced in place. The last thing that Melva gave Jillian was a pair of worn leather slippers that surprisingly molded to and cushioned her feet better than any modern shoe ever could.

"I was not sure if the slippers would fit you." Melva commented.

Jillian wiggled her toes, enjoying the feel of the soft and supple leather against her feet that had endured such rough treatment as of late, "They're perfect. Thank you."

"You're quite welcome lass. Now…we must get you to bed, it is late."

A few minutes later, Jillian found herself outside the door to the room she shared with Legolas and Gimli with Legolas' clothes she had borrowed in her arms, a little dazed and hesitant to go in. So much had occurred within the last two days that it seemed like months had passed since she first arrived. She stood reminiscing about the plethora of ordeals she had endured. It was a little…well… maybe a lot bit daunting… but one image was steadfastly calm and comforting despite its intensity; the sincerity in Legolas' clear, blue eyes.

With a shake of her head, Jillian cleared her thoughts. Opening the door, she saw him sitting in the chair by the window, his outstretched legs crossed at the ankles. The chair looked uncomfortable, if the one she had sat on in Melva's room was any indication. But Legolas made it look like the most comfortable of seats through the ease with which he lounged.

He looked deep in thought, so Jillian quietly approached the nearby table to set his clothes without disturbing him. She made her way to her bed, kicking her slippers off once there, and climbed in despite the fact that she was wearing a full dress. She didn't have anything else to wear, and she wasn't about to sleep nude either.

Pulling back the covers, she fell back upon the pillow, thankful to not be sleeping on the hard ground for once. With a relieved sigh she let herself slip into a relaxed slumber.

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The village woke in the morning with the rise of the sun with villagers resuming their daily business at a routinely harried pace. Upon waking, Legolas noticed his clothing folded neatly before him on the little wooden table. He clearly must have suffered more fatigue than he thought considering that Jillian had returned after her bath and had set the clothes on the table without him noticing.

He was certainly glad that Melva had fitted Jillian with clothing more befitting a lady. He had noticed the looks that were directed at Jillian yesterday. Granted, it was due in part to the fact that she traveled with Gimli and himself. But he had noticed not only Melva's questioning glances toward Jillian and her attire, he also perceived a fair number of inebriated men eyeing Jillian's figure of which his clothing was clearly not tailored for.

The clothing Melva had donned the young woman with was not especially exquisite, in fact it was quite ordinary, but it was by far more appropriate for Jillian to wear that his clothes, or even her own which still needed washing.

After his companions were roused, the three of them made their way down the gathering hall and were cheerfully greeted by Melva, who had apparently taken a liking to Jillian, and by looping her arm companionably around the young woman's shoulders, led them to a table where she served them a hearty breakfast. Gimli greedily ate the fare while Jillian helped herself to a healthy portion. Legolas did not eat as enthusiastically as his companions as the food was a bit more rich than he was accustomed. But he did not need to worry about offending Melva with a half eaten plate for Gimli had readily appropriated the remaining portions.

Legolas was a little concerned about not having maintained a steady watch throughout the night. The thought of the orc party besieging the village did not sit well with him, and so he made the excuse to venture out into the village to procure items needed for further travel. His ruse did not escape his dwarven friend, who was all but eager to accompany him…no doubt roots and spices for his pipe was another motivating factor.

He was in the process of explaining his plans to Jillian for her to remain at the inn whilst he and Gimli proceed about their errands when Melva returned to the table to clear the dishes. "Don't you worry sirs; the lass will be just fine with me today."

He was a little hesitant at Melva's offer, but the woman had been nothing but generous and hospitable. Jillian was apparently amenable to the arrangements; he could sense the growing comfort she felt for the older woman. Besides, the women would be perfectly safe at the inn, and if Jillian became uncomfortable for any reason, she could go to the safety of their room.

Once he and Gimli had set out, it did not surprise Legolas to find Gimli casting off in the direction of street vendors that might have suitable snuff for his pipe. With an amused shake of his head, he set off towards the edge of the village, an air of seriousness settling over him as his attention focused towards the west.

As he had expected, the party of orcs was making its progress across the hilly horizon, though slightly north of the track his own party of three had taken yesterday. He frowned as he continued to survey their advancement. They were advancing with a more determined haste than before, and would be able to reach the village sometime in the night. He couldn't deny that it was a relief that the abominations did not appear to have the village, or its potential destruction, in mind. But what caused him far more worry was the unshakable feeling that something more sinister was brewing. The sooner he and his companions made it to Minas Tirith, the better.

He turned and made his way back towards the center of the village where the majority of the vendors congregated as it was the best place to meet up with Gimli. Winding his way through the numerous people, Legolas could not but help noticing Melva expertly navigating a path through the villagers as if the way was innately born into her own being. Trailing along closely behind her was Jillian, looking rather overwhelmed as she did her best to keep up with the older woman. Both of them carried baskets containing vegetables, roots, grains, meats and other items that likely were to contribute to the daily running of the inn.

It did slightly worry him that Jillian was out and about in a place she was clearly unfamiliar with, but seeing as how she had a more than capable guide his worry was also slightly abated. With one more glance at the women, Legolas resumed his task of finding Gimli and the items needed for travel.

He found Gimli not to long after; for once he found a vendor that specialized in ales and snuffs, his friend was predictably still there. And by the looks of it, sampling a far bit of the merchants wares.

Once he was able to pry Gimli away, they set about acquiring some food items that could easily be packed and stored without spoiling while traveling. An extra water pouch for Jillian had actually been Gimli's suggestion, and a watering pouch for the horses had been a necessity. A new bar of crude soap would prove beneficial for bathing and cleaning clothes.

On the way back to the inn, He and Gimli visited the stables where the horses were kept. It gave them the opportunity to see that the riding implements were fit for travel, and to ascertain that the horses' hooves needed tending after the past several tenuous days of travel. Gimli did not participate much in the care of the horses, seeing as how he did not have a particular affinity for the animals, nor any expertise in their handling. So the dwarf was quite content to sit aside and puff away at his pipe while Legolas tended to the horses with the help of a rather flabbergasted adolescent stable-hand assisted by seeing to the steeds' much needed grooming.

As they made their way from the stable back to the inn, they spotted Melva returning, but minus a very noticeable presence.

"Where is Jillian?" Legolas questioned as Gimli cast him an equally questioning glance.

"Ah," Melva appeared a bit exasperated, no doubt the armful of goods were weighing her down, "I sent her on ahead of me back to the inn. The poor lass looked to be tiring quickly."

Legolas nodded, a sense of relief washing away the anxiety that had begun to build. He deftly relieved Melva of some of her burden, giving Gimli a meaningful look indicating that he should offer his aid as well.

He and Gimli helped the inns-woman to the kitchen with her load of goods, receiving several round rolls of bread for their troubles. Jillian was not in sight in the main hall, and seeing as how Melva said the young woman was tired, she was probably resting in the room the three of them shared.

But when he and Gimli quietly entered the room, rather than finding Jillian nestled in the bed she claimed as hers, they found an empty room.

"She's not here." Gimli pointed out what was glaringly obvious to them both.

Legolas could feel the anxiety rush back full force as he tried to think of where she could possibly be. He was already certain that she was not in the main gathering hall, nor was she in the kitchens; both locations he had just been in and were absent said individual.

He could not imagine any reason for Jillian to venture back out into the village. He had seen her face; the daunted looked that expressed itself so clearly on her visage. Unless… she had never come back to the inn.

He rushed out of the room, down the stairs, and out of the inn, Gimli just at his heels. It was midday now, and the village was bustling with activity, which seemed even more compounded especially since his nerves were on alert and he was intent on finding their missing companion.

It dawned on him belatedly to send Gimli to search separately, and so the two of them proceeded in opposite directions to perhaps maximize their chances of finding Jillian sooner. With his eyes he scoured every nook and cranny of the village in search of the young woman, and his efforts were beginning to feel increasingly hopeless as he had passed Gimli a number of times. At first the dwarf would shake his head, but as the search went on all it took was a grim look from the dwarf to signify that he had no luck in finding their companion.

They had searched for several hours when it was silently agreed that they were not going to find her about the village. Gimli had raised a glimmer of hope that in one of their many circuits of the village, they had perhaps just missed Jillian as she made her way back to the inn. With that hope to propel them, they somewhat reluctantly abandoned their search and headed back to the inn.

Entering the inn, it was apparent that the evening meal was close at hand as a fair amount of customers had already begun to congregate after a hard day's labor. Melva's day was just coming into fruition as she hurried about between patrons and the kitchen. As she was making a pass to the kitchen with her arms full of emptied cups, she caught sight of him and Gimli and quickly made her way over to them. Legolas did not miss the look of concern on her face, even as it was hidden beneath a layer of work-induced exasperation, and frowned thinking that her look did not bode well.

"Good eve Melva." Legolas greeted the inns-woman. The question of how she faired that day lingered on the tip of his tongue, but remained there as Melva nodded her head in greeting.

"And too you as well. You've been looking for the lass I take it?"

He and Gimli exchanged wary glances. "Yes, has she returned?"

"Oh aye, she's returned. She's in the room you three share."

Legolas could hear the sigh of relief that escaped from Gimli as they received Melva's affirmation that Jillian was found and safe. But Melva spoke again, and what she said made chills run down Legolas' spine.

"As is the strange man that returned with her."

Legolas didn't waste a second to question Melva further. Instead he found his feet racing seemingly of their own accord through the inn, and up the stairs, Gimli's more audible pursuit registered distantly in his mind as he threw open the door to their room to find Jillian perched on her bed with a dark grey cloak wrapped about her shoulders, a startled expression on her face, and a very familiar person seated across from her in the chair he slept in the night before.

"Gandalf?"

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To be continued… *insert wicked laugh*

Wow! There was a lot going on in this chapter! I'd definitely know what you think. Please review :) I always greatly appreciate your feedback!

Next time: Gandalf joins the trio on their journey to Minas Tirith with some troubling news, Jillian is stunned by a revelation about the painting, and Legolas learns that women should probably wash their own clothing as they come upon the white city.