Wolf's Cry 7 of ?
Disclaimer: I do not own one thing that pertains to Lord of the Rings. That privilege lies with the wonderful J. R. R. Tolkien.
Summary: Following Aragorn's fall from the cliff at the Gap of Rohan as they journey to Helm's Deep, Legolas struggles to come to terms with the apparent death of his friend and how it affects himself and all those round him.
Category: Hurt/comfort.
Rating: For horror and mature theme?
Thank you to my wonderful Beta Barbara. Also huge thanks to Katy, Terri, Mysty and Deana for their love and encouragement.
Author's note: Set before A Gull's Cry.
Beta's note: Some dialog was taken from The Two Towers movie. Also, the names Estel and Aragorn are used interchangeably.
Sindarin vocabulary
Ada, Adar … Dad, Father
Anor … the sun
Baw … don't, stop, no
Daro ….. Stop, halt
Glamhoth … barbaric host of orcs
Gwador … Brother
Hennad … thanks
Hír, Hír-nin … Lord, my Lord
Ion-nin … my son
Mae govannen … well met (greeting)
Mellon-nin, mellyn-nin … my friend, my friends
Mín … us, our
Mintel (Mínthelyn?)… a very rare medicinal elven tonic/cordial with stimulating properties. It is a sweet and potent compound of many herbs and a touch of elven magic. Two drops every four hours is the usual dosage, should only be doubled at great need (my creation).
Navaer … goodbye, farewell
Pellin … fading
Penneth, pennyth … Young one, young ones
Saes … please
Sîdh … peace
Thalion, thelyn … hero or dauntless man, heroes
Westron … Common language, the language of men.
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Chapter Seven
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When the door was opened, Estel could not believe what he saw. He must be dreaming, but if this was a dream it was one of the most welcome that he ever had in his life.
"Haldir?"
Haldir greeted him gravely. "Mae govannen, Estel. I was sent by my Lady to aid you. She has sent elvish medicine to aid Caun Legolas through the next few days, until he can regain his strength once more."
"Ai, mellon-nin, you have no idea how pleased I am to see you!" If he had not been tending Legolas, Aragorn would have hugged the elf before him. "You travelled alone?" He was suddenly worried.
"No, I travelled with my brothers and some others. They have gone on to Imladris for an urgent meeting with Hir Elrond. I must return to them. Give this to Legolas." He handed over the small dark-green bottle that he held. Haldir gazed at Legolas with pure worry in his eyes. "He looks bad."
Estel followed Haldir's gaze back to his friend. The circles of darkness beneath his eyes had deepened. "Yes, although this will help."
"You are to give two drops every four hours, if he must fight, four drops. I have no doubt that Legolas will fight if he has to." Haldir knew the Prince well.
"He has already said that." Aragorn nodded grimly.
"I am not surprised. I must go and join my brothers." Haldir was equally grim.
"What news can you give us? Are Imladris and Lothlorien safe?" Estel needed to know.
"We have had incursions of orcs on the borders, but they have been repelled. Mirkwood suffers the most." There was sorrow in his voice. Mirkwood, out of the Three Elven Realms, was not protected by magic and it showed.
"That will grieve Legolas. I will speak to him much later about that." Aragorn knew he would have to tell the Prince, but not until he was stronger, better able to cope.
"That would be wise. Be careful, Estel, the darkness grows by the hour. We will meet again, very soon." This last was said with a twinkle in his eye.
"We will?" Aragorn was surprised at that.
"We will." It was a firm affirmative. "But for now, navaer." He gave the elven salute and left as silently as he had arrived, leaving Estel a little shaken.
"Laddie, what was all that about?" Gimli looked as stunned as Estel.
"I am not sure. The one thing I do know is that Lady Galadriel knew of Legolas' need and responded. Help me raise his head?" Aragorn uncorked the small green glass bottle. With Gimli's aid, he gently placed the required two drops on the lax tongue.
"What is that?" Talleth asked.
"Something that will help Legolas. Within two hours he will be alert and more like the Legolas we have known for some time. It is this cordial. It is only used in extreme circumstances. It must be dire indeed, for DaerNana to send it with Haldir." Aragorn told them seriously.
"DaerNana?" Talleth had never heard the phrase before.
"Grandmother. Lady Galadriel is my foster Grandmother." Estel explained gently as he wiped Legolas flushed cheeks with the damp cloth.
"She is?" He did not mention that again, thinking it would be wisest not to. "What is this medicine?" Talleth gestured to the potion.
"It is called Mintel. It is full of specific herbs and a little elven magic. You would not understand, even if I tried to explain. It took me twenty years to really begin to understand the recipe. Just be very grateful for it. I am. I owe DaerNana great thanks. This will buy us the time we need until Mithrandir returns here with Éomer." Aragorn finally had hope that Legolas would see it through this night. That is, if any of them saw the dawn.
"Good, then I am grateful as well." Talleth smiled at him.
The next hour was spent watching and waiting. Estel sharpened and cleaned his sword and knife. It was honed to perfection, just as he liked it. Gimli saw to his axes.
Finally satisfied with the keen edge of his own weapons, Aragorn turned to those of Legolas. To his dismay, he found they had not been cleaned since the last fight. The beautiful white bone-handled knives were still covered in black orc blood.
Estel exclaimed with dismay. It showed just how bad Legolas had become after his disappearance. He set about cleaning them and polished them until they gleamed and one could not tell that they had ever been covered in the filth. He then sharpened them to a razor edge with his whetstone.
Once certain that Legolas would be happy with them, he turned his attention to Legolas' beautiful Galadhrim bow, the one that Galadriel had gifted him before leaving Lothlorien. It was undamaged, as he had known it would be. He sorted through the quiver and found two arrows that needed mending and he set about doing this.
They all worked in silence until Estel became aware he was being watched. He looked up. His heart sang. Legolas was awake.
"Legolas, it is so good to see you awake, how do you feel?" He set the mended arrow to one side.
"Much better, hennad. Hungry." Legolas seemed surprised at that.
"I am not surprised, Laddie. You have barely eaten over the last few days." Gimli told him.
"I will get some food." Talleth smiled down at his new friend, pleased to see colour beginning to flood the cheeks.
When Talleth returned with the food, Legolas had sat up and was talking animatedly. The change in the elf was startling. It made the healer wonder what exactly was in the cordial.
"Here is your food, Legolas, only porridge, I am afraid. Cooking seems a little unimportant at present." Talleth admitted.
"That is more than enough, Talleth. I am sure they have more important things to worry about this day." Legolas smiled widely, a true Legolas smile that finally lit up his eyes.
Talleth's eyes widened. That smile was like the sunrise in the morning, incredible.
"How are the preparations going?" Legolas accepted the bowl with thanks.
"We are mostly ready. The foods and provisions are moved, as are the horses." Talleth provided.
"Good, the horses need to be safe, they are frightened already. The arms?" Legolas looked to Aragorn to answer this.
"Gathering all we can. They are training those who can to wield a sword." Estel sighed. This was going to be bad. He was not sure how many would live to next greet Anor's bright rays.
"That does not sound good. Do you need a hand?" Legolas ate as he spoke and he looked up eagerly at that.
"Not until you have had another dose of Mintel. I want you to rest until then." Aragorn informed him.
"As you wish, but I can work on plans if…"
"You will rest and do nothing more, or I will have Gimli sit on you!" Aragorn warned him with a shake of his finger.
The laughter that sounded was light and lifted the mood in the chamber even more.
"I had better do as I am told then, 'Ada'." Legolas teased back. "Can I at least finish preparing my weapons?"
Aragorn grumpily allowed it.
Four hours later, Legolas was given his second dose of potion. He had been growing stronger by the hour due to the Mintel and one would not believe this was the same elf. He seemed to be brimming with vitality and health. Talleth wondered if he could get a sample of the fluid to look at. This worked like a miracle.
Estel grudgingly let Legolas up. He took the opportunity to dress once more. They were going to meet Théoden and discuss the plans for the battle they expected to fight that evening. They needed to plan. They would need all the advantages that they could get.
Soon the three friends were walking down the hallway to the council chamber.
Legolas was relieved that they did not stay within the confines of the hold but moved outside to look over the battlements.
He dutifully followed them. He knew he should have listened to them but the wind spoke to him and the siren call of the trees was too great. He listened to them rather than Théoden's boasts that he had never known the Deeping Wall to be breached and that it was perfectly safe.
He followed from battlement to battlement. He only became interested when Théoden mentioned something about archers above the door, but even then his interest soon waned again.
"Legolas?" A hand on his arm made him jump and he blushed.
"What is wrong, Estel?" He was so glad to have his friend back with him!
"Are you alright?" Aragorn gazed worriedly at Legolas. He had spoken to him and Legolas had ignored him, had not even been aware of him. He was fully aware that Legolas was far from well and only the Mintel had the elf able to stand at all. He would need to rest before the battle that night.
"I am fine, Estel, just listening to the wind and enjoying it," The smile lit up his eyes and gave a healthy glow to his cheeks.
"You are sure?" Aragorn was uncertain of that.
"Aye, mellon-nin, I am sure."
Legolas followed the group back into the audience chamber. He shivered. It was so cold inside and he could almost feel malevolence in the air. It startled him.
They all chatted while Gimli and Aragorn ate with Théoden, but Legolas did not feel he could eat. He was still full from the porridge earlier.
Estel made him sit, though, insisted that he sit, more like. He would not let Legolas stand as he normally did during the audience as was his normal habit.
"I think Legolas should rest." That caught sharp elven hearing.
"I am fine, Estel." His voice was a little sharp.
"No, Legolas you are not. If you could see yourself you would know that." Aragorn could not believe that Legolas would push this.
"I want to see the archers, see the level of their abilities." Legolas admitted.
Aragorn sighed. "If I allow you to do this, you will then rest?"
"Yes, I will." Legolas readily agreed.
"Come then." Estel led the way to the armoury, where they were arming all who could bear arms to fight in the coming battle, from old grey-bearded men to smooth-cheeked boys.
As they entered the chamber, Legolas could smell the fear in the air, feel the terror.
It even shocked Aragorn to see just how young some of the boys looked, nay lads, they were that young.
He shook his head as he led the way through the crowd.
"Farmers, farriers, stable boys… these are no soldiers." He sounded worried for them.
"Most have seen too many winters." Gimli agreed.
Legolas was aghast. "Or too few." This was their army! "Look at them. They are frightened. You can see it in their eyes, and they should be! Boe a hyn neled herain den caer menig." (Three hundred against ten thousand!")
Legolas could feel the darkness gathering. They did not stand one chance.
"Si beriathar hyn, ammaeg na ned Edoras." ("They have more hope of defending themselves than at Edoras.") Was the only comment that Aragorn made, but he shot Legolas a sharp glance. This was not helping!
Legolas pushed it though. "Aragorn." The unusual use of his formal name made Aragorn look up. "Nedin dagor hen u'erir ortheri. Natha daged dhaer! ("They cannot win this fight. They are all going to die!)
Aragorn could feel the uneasiness that spread around the chamber. He looked closely at his friend. Legolas was pale and looked as if a gust of wind would knock him over. Still he felt anger grow in him at those words, an anger that he could not stop and he reverted to Westron to answer.
"Then I shall die as one of them!" He growled. Glaring at the elf, he then turned and moved among the people of Helm's Deep, hoping to put some space between himself and Legolas. He needed the break. They needed the break.
Legolas looked stricken and pale as Aragorn angrily marched away and the other men moved away, muttering.
What the Valar had just happened? Why was he filled with this sudden fear? Where had it come from? He had to find Aragorn and apologise. He moved forward to do just that.
Only to be stopped by Gimli, his voice gruff. "Let him go, Laddie. Let him be."
"But Gimli I…"
"Need to come with me." Gimli would not take no for an answer and pulled the stunned, thin elf from the chamber.
To Legolas' surprise the dwarf led him out onto a balcony that seemed to stir a vague recollection.
"Where are we, Gimli?" He looked around him. He was sure he had been here before.
"We came here the other evening, when you needed to see the stars in the sky." Gimli informed him.
"We did?" The memory was there somewhere, deep within him. He felt an awful chill overcome him once more. What was this? What was happening to him? A memory suddenly flared. "The new star."
"Aye, the new star. You were adamant that Aragorn was alive and that the star was not his. I wonder who it belongs to?" That had been worrying the dwarf.
"Háma, he gave his life to buy us time. He was honoured and given back as a star to guide us." Legolas knew that and was stunned. The very sky seemed to have screamed the answer to him.
"Háma? Aye, he was a brave lad and will be missed." Gimli had liked the gruff human and he would be greatly missed at the battle that night.
It was only due to Théoden's doorward, Háma, who ignored Grima Wormtongue's express orders at Meduseld, that Gandalf retained his staff. That allowed the wizard to pull Théoden from Saruman's grasp.
They truly owed Háma a great debt. He had received his reward it seemed.
"The stars and sky cry his name with pride." Legolas' face held wonder and he turned clear eyes to Gimli. "It is the greatest honour I know."
"I wonder if he has a family?" Gimli was relieved to see Legolas so animated.
"I would like to speak with them, to tell them what has happened. It would be a comfort to them in their grief." Legolas was certain of that.
"I am sure that will help." Gimli watched the elf breathe in the fresh air. He seemed to come alive when outside the thick walls. Gimli preferred the comfort of the stone walls, they were safer.
"The darkness grows, Gimli Elvellon. I can sense it in the air and the trees. Gandalf was right, the Ents are awake, but I fear they will not aid us. They have already begun to distance themselves."
"I can feel the heaviness in the air. It is ominous." Gimli admitted.
Legolas still gazed at the stars. "I wish my kin were here. You must feel the same." It was hard being the only member of your race in a place like this.
"Aye, I know what you mean, Laddie." Gimli suddenly asked the question Legolas had been waiting for. "What happened back there?"
"I do not know, Gimli. I was suddenly filled with fear and overcome by such darkness…" Legolas' voice dropped off. "It keeps happening, almost a foreboding. I need to apologise to Aragorn."
"Later, when you have both calmed down, for now, come back to the healing wing and rest. It is time for the cordial anyway. It does seem to help." Gimli led the way back into the Keep.
Talleth waited for them worriedly when they arrived.
"I was about to come and find you. I need to give you the Mintel." He held the green glass bottle between his thumb and finger.
"I knew it was due." Gimli assured him.
"Good. Go and lie on your bed, Legolas. If you wish to fight this night, you will rest." Talleth was every bit the healer right now, in spite of the sword he now wore.
"I promised that I would rest." Legolas was subdued, now that he was back in the chamber.
"Good." Talleth lifted up the little bottle and move to his side. "Open up."
Legolas grimaced but opened his mouth to receive the drops.
Talleth placed the required two drops onto his tongue. Legolas closed his mouth to let the fluid soak in. For once, a medicine was sweet. He had expected it to be incredibly bitter.
"There will be time enough for two more doses before nightfall. That should help you." Talleth re-corked the bottle.
"Aye, I may not like it later, but I do feel more like myself now." Legolas yawned, suddenly very tired. He would rest, and then find Aragorn later.
"Legolas?" He simply wanted to be left alone. "Legolas, it is time for the Mintel."
That woke him fully. Talleth and Gimli stood watching him, grins on their faces.
"How do you feel?" Gimli was hovering.
"Better, hennad. What is the time?" Legolas sat up and stretched, wincing as the wounds in his back pulled.
"Late afternoon. Open up." Talleth waited with the small bottle once more. Legolas did so with a sigh. Did the healer really have to be so happy about this?
Once given the drops, he moved to the side of the bed.
"Where are you going?" Gimli demanded.
"I need to speak with Aragorn." He knew what he had to do now and nothing would stop him.
"I will come with you." Gimli would not leave the elf alone.
"I would like that, my friend. We will be back, Talleth." Legolas called over his shoulder.
It took some time for them to find Aragorn. After all, Helm's Deep was a large place and had many a fine hiding place, as they were currently finding out. If this kept up, Legolas would need to have another rest before the evening.
They finally found their friend in the armoury. Aragorn was fitting himself with armour and weapons. His back was to the door, unaware they were there.
Even from where Legolas stood at the door, he could see that Aragorn looked troubled. His mind made up, he stepped into the chamber, aware that Gimli had moved off to one side to give them some much-needed privacy.
Legolas stepped forward silently and picked up Aragorn's sword. He watched as Aragorn reached blindly for it with one hand and felt about before looking up. Legolas held out the sword and caught his friend's eyes.
He poured every ounce of sincerity into his voice. He had to make Aragorn understand. "We have trusted you this far and you have not led us astray. Forgive me, I should not have despaired." Their hands touched over the weapon.
Aragorn searched his eyes and could see he meant every word that he said. "There is nothing to forgive, Legolas."
The relief that flowed from Legolas was almost physical. He smiled as the elf did.
Gimli's huffing and puffing alerted them to his presence.
"This is a little tight across the chest, if I had time, I would get it adjusted." Gimli pulled a chainmail hauberk down over his head and the extra length of metal links clattered to the floor about his feet.
He looked quite comical. They both laughed until, suddenly, the bright note of a horn sounded across the Deep.
Legolas expression changed to one of shock and he turned to Aragorn with something approaching excitement.
"That is no orc horn!" Before they could even blink, Legolas ran from the chamber and with a quick look Aragorn ran after him.
Gimli leaned down to gather the pile of chainmail from about his ankles before he could move after them both. He looked like a lady gathering her skirts to cross a mud puddle. "Oi, wait for me!" He cried to Estel's retreating back.
Aragorn was panting by the time he had caught up with the Prince. Gimli had fallen far behind.
Much to Legolas' shock and embarrassment, he needed to stop halfway, fully out of breath. He could normally run for hours, and had done so for three days in the pursuit of the orcs that had taken Merry and Pippin. Yet here he was, having run such a short time and unable to breathe!
Aragorn skidded to a halt beside him. "Go!" Legolas told him, trying to catch his breath.
Aragorn fixed him with a worried look before proceeding. They needed to know who this new arrival was.
He hated leaving his friend though. The last thing he saw before he broke out into the late evening sunshine was Legolas leaning wearily against the wall.
By the Valar! The sight that greeted him was one that he had never in this life believed he would ever see.
Marching through the great wooden gates was an army of elves, dressed for battle in armour, with weapons at the ready and proud banners flying. At the front was Haldir, standing boldly in his scarlet cloak and armour.
Aragorn felt his heart swell with sudden hope. They had a chance now, they had a great chance!
"But, how is this possible?" Théoden sounded shocked, as well he might. He had heard no rumor of help on the way.
Aragorn felt and heard Legolas and Gimli stumble to a halt behind him and Legolas gave a shocked gasp.
Haldir stepped forward and stood proudly before them. "I bring word from Elrond of Imladris. Long ago there was an alliance between men and elves. We have come to honour that allegiance. We are proud to fight alongside you once more."
Théoden gaped as if he was a fish out of water.
Aragorn could not stay where he was. He flew down the steps to the Marchwarden, grabbed him and pulled him into a hug, unable to contain his exuberance.
Haldir looked shocked and was not sure how to react for a moment but then he hugged his human friend. From across the way, he could see Legolas gaze smugly at them. There was an odd look of triumph on the fair face, but he also looked so much better than he had done when Haldir had last seen him.
An hour later, they were resting once more in the healing wing. At least Legolas was being made to rest, until he could have another dose of Mintel. The run had taken its toll on the injured elf.
He rested against the pillows, watching as Aragorn, Haldir and Théoden planned the night's battle. He felt so much better knowing there were other elves here. Some, nay a lot of his kin had come to help them. He would always be grateful to Elrond. But then, with his foster son and almost-foster-son involved, would he really have expected the Lord of Imladris to do otherwise? He was wise and far seeing as ever.
"Legolas?" Aragorn was again watching him closely. Legolas realised that all talk had stopped.
"Estel?" He had only been thinking after all.
"Are you alright?" The worry was back in his voice. Legolas was beginning to hate that tone.
"Aye, just thinking." He leaned back wearily.
"Get some rest. We will wake you for your Mintel."
Legolas looked at the sky through the small window. "It will be dark soon. They are close, so close."
"What do you hear, Legolas?" Haldir sipped the wine that he had been given. He was pleased at how well Legolas looked, though it seemed almost too well.
"The trees cry out in anger at the approach of the glamhoth, the orc army. They have attacked Fangorn for wood. The trees will never forget this. The Ents are awake and gathered to debate whether or not to help us. I fear they will not. It will rain. The sky will cry for all that happens this eve." Legolas shivered, "She cries for us, her children and she fears for us."
"How can you tell all this?" Théoden was both amazed and eager to learn.
"It is a gift that Legolas has." Haldir explained. "All Wood Elves have this ability, but the Royal family…"
"We have an even closer bond. We can talk to the trees and listen to…" Legolas broke off and looked up.
Aragorn followed his gaze. Through the open window came a small bird. Talleth gave a small cry of dismay. He did not like animals in his infirmary.
The bird chirped nervously and, as the others watched, landed on Legolas' hand.
"Hello, Penneth, what can I do for you?"
The little wren turned her head to one side and warbled her song to him. Aragorn bent forward and whispered to the other humans. "You will find this interesting."
He did not wait to see what their reaction was but turned back to watch his friend. This was always amazing, no matter how often he saw it.
Legolas concentrated on the wren and a frown grew on his fair face.
"Thank you, I will let the others know. Please, fly safely out of harm's way?"
Again the bird warbled at him.
"I will try my best to stay safe. Please go to safety, mellon-nin." Legolas urged the small bird.
Théoden gaped in fascinated amazement. The Prince was talking to a bird, and getting answers! But, yes, as he watched the bird seemed to bow to the Prince and then flew off and up out of the window.
"The army is close and growing in numbers. They have a great many Uruk-Hai with them." Legolas sounded impossibly weary.
"You can speak to animals?" Théoden suddenly burst out unable to hold the comment in.
"It is one of my gifts as Mirkwood's Crown Prince." Legolas affirmed.
"One of your gifts, mellon-nin, and you can hear the Song far more clearly than your Adar." Haldir would not let this drop.
"Perhaps, but the army grows by the minute. They will be here within the hour. I suggest that you all go and prepare yourself while I dress. I will meet you outside. Do not worry, Estel, I will take the Mintel."
Estel appeared even more worried, now that it had come to it. "You feel able to fight?"
"Aye. Go, we must be ready and gathered." Even Talleth left him to take his assigned place on the walls. He hurriedly dressed, feeling the pull of weariness on his limbs. He did not know how he was going to get through this night. He lifted the bottle of Mintel to his lips and paused. Perhaps there was a way to be sure he could keep going. No one need ever know. By the time they did, it would be far too late.
He took a good sip of the Mintel from the bottle and winced at the taste. In quantity, it was rather sickly sweet. He replaced the stopper and placed it in one of his jerkin pockets. He would need more before the night was over.
He then strapped on his weapons and made sure his braids were exactly as they should be for a warrior Prince and then he left the chamber.
Estel was leaving his own chambers with Gimli when Legolas joined them.
"You took it, Elf?" Gimli was watching him worriedly.
"Aye, Gimli, four drops as instructed." And more… his conscience supplied silently.
"Good, now I want you to stay as near to Aragorn and me as is possible…"
"Gimli we are going into battle, not to a dance!" Legolas teased, unable to stop the fond smile.
A half-growled "Hrrmm." was all Gimli replied and even Estel laughed.
The night was eerily still as they took their place on the battlements. They could both see and hear the orc army as it made its way towards them, like a long black snake in the distance, glittering with torches. Dark clouds seemed to accompany the creeping army.
Legolas pushed his way to the front of the battlement, Aragorn stayed behind so that he could organise the elven troops to best advantage. Haldir halted just a few spaces away from the Prince, but Gimli would not leave the Prince's side for as long as he could remain there.
Legolas looked out over the growing darkness. Lightning flashed in the distance, a herald to the storm he knew was coming, a storm that would leave massive scars on both the land and its people. He raised a silent prayer to the Valar asking them to protect all that he held dear and to thank them for the time he had found to write to his father once more. If he did not see the dawn, at least his Adar would know why. How he wished he could have spoken to him one last time.
"You could have picked a better spot!" Gimli complained by his side.
Legolas only smiled and then turned back to Aragorn. "Your friends are with you Aragorn." His voice soft and sincere.
"Let's hope they last the night." Gimli's voice was gruff
"What's happening, Elf?" Gimli could not see over the battlements wall.
"They draw nearer and are very ugly." Gimli laughed at that, pleased that the elf could joke at a time like this even with his injuries. Really, he should be somewhere safe, resting, but knowing now what would happen to him should he live and the orcs win…. Well, he could more than understand his motivation. If it came to that, he would make certain that his friend would not be alive to go through that ordeal, even though it would break his own heart to do so.
"Gimli, they grow nearer." Legolas glanced at the sky. "It will not be long now." The last was almost a whisper and they waited tensely until the seething mass of orcs came to a stop beneath them.
The stood baring their teeth menacingly, banging their shields, swords and feet on the ground. It sounded ominously like thunder in the enclosed space. As if to add to the effect, the first drops of rain began to fall, becoming harder until they were all drenched.
Aragorn called from behind them. "Show them no mercy, for you shall receive none!"
A huge Uruk-Hai stood on a lone rock and growled out commands.
"What's happening out there?" Gimli was jumping up and down to try and see over the battlement.
Legolas smiled at his frustration and chided gently. "Should I describe it for you, or would you like me to find you a box?"
Gimli gaped at him a full minute before laughing and turning back to the wall. Legolas readied his bow and told him all he could.
The orcs stood and continued to bang their swords, lances and shields against the ground menacingly.
The elves stood steady, but the men looked a little shocked and some of the arrows wavered as they were held, ready to fire.
Aragorn saw this. "Hold!" They held steady and he called out once more. "Prepare to fire!"
Legolas took his first arrow out and nocked it. He could feel the adrenalin flood his system taking away the last of the pain and exhaustion. This would keep him going. He recalled all he had learned about orcs over the long years of fighting them, longer than even Haldir had. He had to share that knowledge.
His voice was quiet but it carried to every elven ear nearby, even over the sound of the thunder that split the sky and the rain that poured in waves from the weeping sky.
"Their armour is weak at the neck and beneath the arm!"
Suddenly one of the old men could hold no longer and his arrow left his bow, killing one of the orcs in the front line. The dying screech filled the sudden silence and the orc fell to the ground limply, face down in the churned mud.
That was all it took and the lead Uruk-Hai growled his instructions and the hoard of black beasts surged forward.
"Release the arrows!" Legolas did not need Aragorn to tell him. His and Haldir's arrows were the first to fly. Legolas' was just ahead, much to his pleasure.
He heard Gimli cry. "Did they hit anything?" But he was too caught up in firing another arrow to answer. One followed another swiftly and orcs fell.
He was aware that Gimli continued to call out but he could not have said what he said. Legolas was too busy, as the battle began in earnest.
Aragorn's cries of "Ladders!" followed by. "Swords." were a little unnecessary as the orcs began scaling the walls into the Keep.
Legolas stowed his bow when the enemy drew too close and drew his twin knives. This fighting would be close, where bows were useless. He fought without thought. Orc after orc fell beneath his onslaught. His blades sang as he danced and he felt the battle-thrill fill him. And they had wanted him to hide with the women and children!
Suddenly, he faced Gimli at a lull in the fighting near them.
Gimli crowed. "Two already!" He held up two fingers.
Legolas grinned back. "I am on seventeen!"
Gimli lost his smile. "Argh, I'll not have a Pointy-eared Elf outscoring me!"
But even as Gimli spoke, Legolas dispatched another two. He whirled gracefully around to face the dwarf and Gimli had to marvel. The Mintel really had helped.
"Nineteen!" He grinned widely.
Aragorn's voice split the air. "Fire!" The elven archers let loose a deadly rain of arrows into the seething mass of orcs below them. Each one found a mark.
Legolas fought his way to the battlement to see what was happening, leaving Gimli behind. As he took out another orc, others below them had found the drainage ditch and were fitting it with the powder bombs that Saruman had supplied them before they left Orthanc.
Aragorn spotted them as well. Legolas already reached for another arrow, his knives back in their scabbards, as a huge orc carrying a large bright torch ran for the hole.
Even as Aragorn called out, Legolas knew all too well what they were trying to do and he promised himself that he would stop it.
"Bring him down, Legolas! Kill him!" He let the arrow fly and scored a perfect killing shot. The orc stumbled, but unbelievably, stayed on his feet and running. Shock filled Legolas as he reached back for another arrow and fired again as Aragorn once more called. "Kill him!"
Again it was a perfect hit, should have been the perfect killing shot, but the orc staggered once before throwing itself at the drain.
Legolas staggered backwards as the blast shook the Keep.
"No!" Legolas screamed as he tried to rush forward once more. A great gaping hole had been blown in the wall. Legolas felt himself shiver. He was soaked and cold and very shocked. How had he failed? Either of those shots should have killed him. He should never have been able to stay on his feet. Aragorn! Where was Aragorn? He had been above the blast.
Legolas anxiously looked over the scene. He could not see Aragorn in the mayhem. An orc tried to take advantage of his distraction, creeping up on him. It was the last thing that the orc did. Legolas whirled on his heels, his face a cold mask of pain as he pulled the knives that his Adar had gifted him long ago. The orc's head was struck from his body even as it decided this had been a bad decision and tried to step away from the furious elf that fought like a demon.
He could not lose Estel again! He could not! He would not let it happen. If it were true this time, it really would be his fault! He could not cope with that. His shivering grew worse and he was aware that warm blood ran down his back mixed with the rain. He had re-opened his wounds. Estel would have his head.
Legolas became acutely aware of pain and fatigue. He needed more of the Mintel. He looked around. Luckily, he was in a lull in battle once more. The look of pure fury on his face had scared even the bravest away. He took advantage and opened the small emerald-bright bottle and took some. That would help.
Then, despite how he felt, he moved again. His heart cried out in anguish at the sight of the dead, many of them elves, his kin and friends. He had known this would happen, but his heart was heavy as he made his way to the stone stairs that led downwards. He had to find Gimli and see what had happened to Estel, even if he dreaded the answer. He hardened his heart to go on. Cold fury filled him once more. The evil beasts would pay for what they had done. He would make sure of that.
Orcs and men or elves were locked in desperate battle all about him and only the stairs were free. He had to get down to them quickly and be able to fire as he went. He glanced around him. On the ground lay a forgotten orc shield, its edges sharpened and pointed. That would be perfect!
Without thinking, he placed it at the top of the stairs and balanced on it. With a shove, he was off and down the stairs. Arrow after arrow found its mark in the invading orcs as he glided down the stairs. At the bottom, he jumped off. To his grim satisfaction, the shield buried itself with force into the throat of an Uruk-Hai. That was another accounted for, was his grim assessment. He turned and put away his bow, pulling his knives from their scabbards.
Feeling no pain once more, he moved among the orcs. He had silently agreed with Gimli that they would make a game of this and keep count, but anger and despair had taken that thought away. He soon lost count as a red mist descended. All he could think of was finding Gimli. He set to that with single-minded concentration.
Suddenly, above all the clamour a voice sounded that filled him with joy, a voice he thought he had lost forever.
Estel's voice cried. "Nan barad! Nan barad! Nan barad! Haldir, nan barad!" ("To the Keep! To the Keep! To the Keep! Haldir, to the Keep!")
If Legolas had not been knee-deep in orcs he would have sagged with relief. Instead, he used the surge of energy it gave him and took out six orcs without thought.
Then to his horror, Legolas heard Estel's voice raise in an anguished cry. "Haldir!"
The next orc did not even have time to raise his sword when he lost his head. He fought his way to the battlements and looked over. There, he could see Aragorn in all the fighting. He had found his friend and he held… Haldir!
His heart, which had soared at hearing Aragorn's voice, shattered once again. Haldir, dear Valar no! Not Haldir! Not one of his oldest friends. He watched, unable to look away as Aragorn touched his heart with a blood drenched hand and reached to touch Haldir's. A gesture of farewell… NO!
This could not be happening, this could really not be happening.
Aragorn looked up and seemed to look into his eyes before he gently lowered the still form onto the hard ground and stood to defend himself. To Legolas' growing horror, the orcs swarmed towards the man and dwarf where they were fighting below.
He had to help them. He could not lose them as well. His stomach in knots, he looked around. There, forgotten on the ground, was a large coil of rope.
Forgetting everything apart from the need to help his friends, Legolas picked up the rope and ran back to the battlement.
Legolas cried out. "Aragorn!" That, he knew, would get his friend's attention. It worked. Estel looked up and nodded.
Legolas threw the rope down and was relieved when Aragorn caught it and wrapped it around his wrist. He then caught a firm grip on Gimli and Legolas pulled the two of them up. Aragorn aided him by walking up the wall. Suddenly, Legolas noticed that others helped him, much to his relief, as the strain was painful to his back. He looked over his shoulder to see a group of men pulling on the rope with him. He would have to thank them later, if there was a later.
Legolas blinked. It had stopped raining. When had it stopped raining?
Aragorn called out once more. "Retreat! Inside! Get inside!" Between them, he and Legolas lifted a still-fighting Gimli, who was steadfastly ignoring their attempts to move him.
The break from fighting as they entered the hall was such a relief that Legolas staggered momentarily before he caught himself. Luckily, no one noticed. Aragorn was busy picking up a bench and he handed it to Legolas without even looking at him.
Legolas took it and used it to barricade the door. He was aware of Aragorn and Théoden talking. Estel sounded frustrated. He chose to ignore them. The door really needed to be safely barricaded. He dumped the contents of a wooden table without even looking at it and used it to barricade the door as well.
When he was satisfied with that, he turned in time to hear Aragorn. "Ride out with me. Ride out and meet them."
Legolas felt his heart begin to thump. This would be the best thing. Dawn was rising. Had they really been fighting all night? Could it really be dawn? A small sliver of hope rose as he recalled Gandalf's words.
He turned to them with eager eyes.
"For death and glory." Théoden sounded thoughtful though rather fatalistic.
"For Rohan, and your people." Estel pressed. Legolas gamely urged him silently on. They could do this. They could win this battle. Dizziness assailed him once more, but he shook it off. He must find time alone to take more Mintel.
"The sun is rising." Gimli commented from where he stood.
Estel looked up with that, hope and understanding in his eyes as he too recalled the last thing that the White Wizard had said to them before riding off on Shadowfax to find Éomer.
"Look to my coming at first light on the fifth day. At dawn, look to the East."
Those had been Gandalf's words and it strengthened Aragorn's resolve.
Théoden was speaking. "Yes. Yes, the horn of Helm Hammerhand will sound one last time. Now is the hour that we draw swords together. Fell deeds await. Now for wrath, now for ruin, and a red dawn!"
The three of them nodded, resolve clear in their eyes. Legolas turned to Gimli to say something, but Estel spoke first.
"Legolas! Is that your blood on your back?" His voice was sharp.
He made his voice puzzled. "No, I do not think so. I have taken no new hurt." He hated to lie but refused to be left behind, not when he still thrummed with battle readiness.
"Then where would the blood be from?" Estel had his arms crossed. Théoden looked amused.
"What colour is it?" Legolas made a show of trying to look over his shoulder.
"Red." Was the succinct reply.
"Oh! One of the men fighting behind me took a grievous wound and sprayed me with his blood!" It was not actually a lie, just not the complete truth.
Estel seemed to relax when Legolas met his eyes. The Prince would never tell an outright lie like that.
"Alright, I was worried. What do we need to do next?" Estel turned his attention back to Théoden.
"We need someone with good lungs to sound the horn and alert the men" Théoden told them.
Gimli sounded smug. "That would be me then. I have always had good lungs."
"Good, I will show you the horn on the way to the stables. We need the horses." Théoden led the way.
Legolas fell in beside Estel as they followed the King of Rohan and Gimli from the chamber.
"Do you have the Mintel with you?" Estel was worried about how pale and exhausted Legolas appeared. He feared the Prince may already have overdone it vastly, fighting all night in his condition. Estel felt he should have insisted he stayed with the women.
"Yes." Legolas brought out the bottle, pleased that it was dark green and so could not show how much of the fluid was missing.
"Good. Take some now." Estel had his healers head on.
Legolas made a show of sighing in resignation, but opened the bottle and took two drops.
Estel chided him. "Ah-ah, another two, if you wish to fight beside us."
Legolas nodded and took another two drops. He then replaced the cork and put the bottle away.
"Legolas… about Haldir…" Estel began, but stopped as they had reached the horn.
"Later, Estel… there will be time later." There was such sadness in Legolas' voice that the ranger knew he was aware of what had transpired with the orcs.
He nodded, not really willing to dwell on it either. Haldir had been a good friend. He just hoped there would be time later.
"You truly feel up to this, mellon-nin?" He needed to know that Legolas was truly as well as he said. He certainly did not look it. He looked drained and ready to fall, and that blood on his back… well, he could not be completely certain that Legolas was as uninjured as he said. That blood looked a little too silvery… but they also had seen a lot of blood spilt by the Firstborn, a lot of blood. He could only pray that Legolas' was not among them.
"Yes, Estel, the Mintel has helped a lot." There was a calm smile on Legolas' face as he turned to Estel.
"Good, I must thank DaerNana for sending it." He was going to say Haldir, but decided against that, it would not help and would only cause the Elven Prince more grief. He had enough to deal with as it was.
"I would add my thanks when we see her next." Legolas turned his face up to the sun. The sky was a light blue and should not look so beautiful on such a sad day. Legolas felt his heart drop, so many dead, so very many. He shivered unconsciously. That awful sense of foreboding filled him once more and it felt as if his heart was turned to ice. Haldir… his friend.
Estel tried again to convince Legolas. "I am not so..."
"I am going, Estel." His voice was stern. He was glad for the diversion as he glared at his friend.
"Just stay safe, Legolas."
The Horn of Helm Hammerhand truly was magnificent, curling up around a column like a great snake all the way to the ceiling and disappearing from view. It was an awesome sight.
Gimli seemed reluctant to see them go. "Stay safe, Elf. We need to see who wins the count." His voice was gruff.
Legolas blinked in surprise. He had truly forgotten about the count! He had lost count so badly. Even the ladder he had shot down must have carried at least thirty orcs. He would forget all about that and start the count over when they were outside. Gimli would never know, and it was only fair to the dwarf that he have a fair shot at winning.
"Yes, Gimli. We will need to do that and see which of us is the better winner." There was a mixture of teasing and truth in Legolas' voice.
"We will at that, Elf. May the better Dwarf win!" With that Gimli turned his attention to the mouthpiece of the horn. He prepared to sound the great horn and alert all the men of what was happening.
With one last sad look at his friend, Legolas moved away. This may be the last time he ever saw the dwarf and it grieved his heart greatly. He prayed that the Valar kept him in their love and guidance. A dwarf needed it after all…
They made their way further into the Keep, taking the tunnel that ultimately led to the Glittering Caves. It broke off before it reached them and led to another section where the horses were kept, well away from any of the fighting. Legolas followed dutifully behind Estel and Théoden, keeping his façade of calm even though his heart thumped as if it was trying to race out of his chest. Just being this deep within the Keep took more effort than he really had to give. He needed to take more Mintel or he would never make it through this ordeal.
The darkness that swallowed them felt like a death knell to the Woodland Prince as he entered the stone stables. He shivered. The cold ran down his spine as if it was ice dripping in the sun. This felt so wrong. There was something here. He could feel it. This was how Moria had felt before Gandalf had fallen, before the Balrog…
"Legolas?" There was utter worry in the ranger's voice.
Somehow Legolas stilled the shivering and looked up. "Estel?" He arched an eyebrow for effect even as his knuckles were bone-white with the tight grip he had on his bow. Could Estel not see how close he was to breaking? He felt like a leaf tossed and torn in the winter breeze… What an apt thought. He was a leaf, tossed and torn, so torn he was not sure he could ever be put back together once again.
"Are you alright, Legolas?" Estel kept his voice low so that only they could hear what he was saying.
Legolas sighed dramatically. "Yes, Estel, I am alright. The stone makes me feel chilled. I cannot wait to be out in the sun once more."
"I know the feeling, this place feels odd." Estel peered around nervously.
"You feel it too, as in Moria?"
Startled grey eyes turned to him. "That is what it reminds me of! I have been trying to think what it reminds me of!"
"The orcs of Moria and the Balrog." Legolas made it sound like a curse.
"Aye, he is still with us, though, Legolas. We did not lose Mithrandir. He was returned to us." Estel hurried to reassure his friend.
"We could have lost Mithrandir and I did nothing. I should have aided him." There was deep distress in Legolas' voice. For perhaps the first time since the battle of Helm's Deep began, Estel realised just how close Legolas was to breaking down.
Théoden had listened quietly, hoping that Legolas would recover from whatever it was that ailed him. He liked the Prince. "Who is this Mithrandir?"
Estel answered, distractedly. "Gandalf, Mithrandir is the name the elves have for Gandalf."
With some effort, Legolas pulled himself together.
"I would like to hear the tale of how he became Gandalf the White. It must make an interesting tale." Théoden was unaware of the glare that Legolas sent in his direction.
Legolas vowed then that he would never tell Théoden what had befallen the Maia. It was too personal and too hard.
Estel's voice held a hard edge as they reached the horses. "I will never tell you. I doubt that either Gimli or Legolas ever will either. The memory still hurts far too much. If you wish to know, ask Gandalf himself. Legolas, with me, please, mellon-nin" It was not a request. Estel was sure that Legolas was not in any fit state of mind to fight.
Legolas docilely followed him to Brego's stall. The stallion looked up as they entered. He pawed the ground, eager to get going. Estel took this to be the invitation that it undoubtedly was. He would never use another horse while this one lived. He was sure that Legolas felt the same about Arod. Right from the start his friend had formed a bond with the White Devil as the Rohirrim called him.
"Legolas, do you really…?"
"Yes, Aragorn. I do not wish to stay here. I need to see the sky, really see the sky without stone around me."
"Take some tea before we go? Some miruvor?" He suggested the elven cordial that all elves loved and used in times of stress. "And more Mintel?"
Legolas looked away to hide the look of guilt that crossed his face. How could he carry on this charade?
Estel read the look the wrong way. "Legolas it is not weakness to accept aid at a time like this. Ada would be the first one to tell you that. You must accept that you need help at times. We all do."
The earnest tone in Estel's voice made Legolas look up and somehow smile and try to get true feeling into it. His young friend was, after all, only trying to help.
"I will take the miruvor, Estel, but the Mintel? I have had my four drops." He vowed to himself that he would only take the required dose from this moment on. He felt too guilty about lying to Estel.
"Perhaps, but I am sure that just four more…"
"No, Estel. I truly believe that this is the best way. I will take the miruvor, nothing more." He folded his arms in a stubborn stance that painfully pulled the wounds on his arm and back, though he did not let it show.
Understanding crossed Estel's face and he smiled. It was always good to see how stubborn Legolas could be. It was one of the things that he both loved and hated about his friend.
"Legolas…" He really was not sure what he was going to say but it did not matter.
"I will be going, Estel, whether you like it or not." Legolas would not let this drop. It meant a lot to him. He would not sit and wait for the orcs to come and get him. He would rather take the Mintel and go and face them…on his terms.
Estel could only nod his agreement. It was obvious that nothing he said would change his mind. "As long as you take the Miruvor."
"I will take it." He assured the Ranger.
"I will get it then, it is in my pack next door." Estel left and Legolas gently patted Brego's nose.
"You look after him, mellon-nin. No matter what happens out there, he must live. If it comes to that, I wish you to get him out of there. Can I get you to do that for me?" It was barely above a whisper and only the Mearas could hear him.
/I understand, My Prince, but he will not be happy./ Brego had no doubt about that, but he could also understand Legolas' concern. /I will protect him and take him anywhere, as long as I don't have to kiss him again./
Legolas looked confused but let loose a short laugh at that. "Let us hope then that it does not come to that." He tiredly rested his head against Brego and the horse took his weight willingly.
/You are hurt./ Brego sounded worried.
"Hope it does not come to what?" Estel asked as he came back into the stall. Legolas jumped, he had been concentrating so much on Brego…
"That the orcs overtake us." He rose upright and turned to his friend.
"Gandalf will be here. By the time the dawn fully rises, he will be here." Estel was sure of that, why, he did not know.
Legolas just smiled and it worried Estel. It was almost a knowing look.
"Here is your Miruvor. I need to see to Brego." He watched as Legolas drank the cordial.
"I need to see to Arod. I will be ready shortly." With that, Legolas slipped from the stall.
Legolas had just made it into Arod's stall when the dizziness assailed him. If it was not for Arod's quick move, he could and would have fallen. As it was the white horse prevented that from happening by lightly pressing him against the stall wall with his side.
Once he was able to open his eyes, Legolas looked right into Arod's eyes. "Hennad, Arod. Hennad, mellon-nin."
It was a few minutes before he could stand alone, but it did bring home one thing to him. He could not get through the coming fight with only the aid of Miruvor.
"I have no choice, Arod. If we wish to go and fight, what do I do?" He remained resting against his friend.
/Stay here with me/ Arod nosed him.
"I cannot. I cannot stay here. I need to be out there. I have promised Estel that I would be with him." Legolas was torn for the first time in a long time. He was truly torn.
/He will understand. He is your friend./
"And that is why I have no choice. I promised Hir Elrond that I would stay with Estel. I have no choice. I must take more Mintel." He reached for the green bottle once more.
/It makes you weak. I can feel it. You will suffer./ Arod's concern warmed Legolas' chilled heart.
"There may not be a later to suffer, mellon-nin. We will not have much choice until we know. I will take that risk." He uncorked the bottle and took an even bigger sip of the rare cordial. There was not much left. If there was a later, he would be in huge trouble. Not just from Estel, but Elrond and Galadriel as well.
"We need to get you ready. No bridle or tack this time. You will carry only me." He had to laugh at the neigh of relief from Arod. "Gimli is our friend and does not mean half of what he says. It is just his way. I wish to teach him to ride you."
Arod snorted, but let Legolas stroke his velvet nose. He had never thought he would love another master after the death of his first but he loved Legolas even more, to be able to actually talk to him!
"Legolas?" Estel called from outside the stall.
"Coming!" He mounted in a less-than-smooth move, glad that the door was closed and that no one could see.
Arod pawed the door and a stable hand opened it. They moved out and Estel looked at him with approval but then frowned.
"No tack?" He did not approve of that decision. It looked as if the elf would fall at any moment.
Legolas gave a terse nod. "I do not need it. I have not got Gimli with me."
"Leg…. "
"Are we ready?" Théoden was mounted on his own majestic horse.
"Aye." Legolas was pleased for the respite. At least Estel would not have much chance to question him further. He was not sure he could answer him.
So it was with relief that he followed Estel and Théoden out of the stables. He would soon be in the fresh air and out of this awful stone construction. How anyone could live here full time he did not know. Yes the Palace of Mirkwood was a cave but they had bright airy windows and plants everywhere and it felt nothing like this. This was just wrong.
He could not help but shudder as they moved through the corridors.
"We will soon be out of here, mellon-nin." Estel at least understood some of what troubled him.
"Yes, and I am glad. It feels so wrong here. Mithrandir will know what is amiss here." For there was definitely something, he could sense it, even if he could not identify it.
"Yes, he will." Estel looked back and could not prevent a shudder.
The ride to the gates was swift. Men were ready to open the gates for them. Legolas could hear the orcs' clamour, even through the thick wooden door.
He hefted a borrowed sword. His knives would not be good enough for this fight, much to his regret. He was competent with the sword, more than that if he was honest, but he greatly preferred the knives, or his bow.
Swords in hand, he and Estel shared a grin. They were ready. The orcs would pay for what they had done. Legolas suddenly froze and a look of utter wonder and joy filled his pale face.
"Legolas?" Estel was getting more concerned about Legolas by the minute, but this was something different…
Glittering, joyful blue eyes met his. "The Ents have decided. They will aid us, they go to Orthanc!"
"That is wonderful news, mellon-nin. I am happy that they choose to help us." Estel smiled back. He also hoped above hope that Merry and Pippin were safe. After all, they had been left in the keeping of an Ent.
Théoden raised his sword. "Open the gates!" Now there was no time to persuade Legolas to stay safely behind. Estel knew that was not an option now.
The gate was pushed wide and the roar of the orc army made Estel shiver as the black horde surged forward. They rode out to meet them, blades flashing in the growing light.
Legolas was third in line behind Estel as they left the Keep to charge down the causeway. He felt the thrum of battle-thrill once more. It was easy this time, so many times he had felt this, more than he could ever say in his long life, be it fighting orcs or spiders, the thrill he got was huge. It had initially worried him greatly until his Adar had explained that it happened to all of them, that elves seemed to be made for fighting and fighting well.
If only so many had not died this day. If he lived through this, Legolas would make sure they had a proper memorial and that each of their families would know what happened to their loved ones. It was the only right thing to do. He would speak of Haldir's fall with his brothers, Orophin and Rumil. He would tell Híril Galadriel and Hir Celeborn, if they did not know already.
As they met the black surge of orcs, all thought of the future left Legolas as he swung the sword to meet the first orc.
They pushed their way down the stone ramp, cutting a swath through the advancing orcs. Arod even got in on the fighting, rearing up to knock a handful of orcs over the side to their deaths.
/This is fun/ Arod told him.
Legolas could only laugh at that. /Yes it is. You will get used to fighting with me./ Another orc went down. /It is my life, to protect my people./
/One behind us./ It was warning enough for Legolas ready himself. Arod struck out with both rear feet to kick the Urak-Hai into oblivion. /And mine to protect you./
"We will protect each other." The sky brightened as he realised it was fully daylight. Anor was breaking over the horizon.
"Estel!" He called to his friend, who happened to be turned in his direction dispatching another orc. He looked up as Legolas gestured with his sword to the sun.
Estel turned. To his great relief and delight, he saw a sight he would never forget.
Seen against the swift rising of Anor's bright glow, arrayed in dazzling white, was Mithrandir, the White Wizard. The great white steed that bore him, Shadowfax, reared and neighed so loudly they could all hear him above the battle din.
From behind Mithrandir then appeared Éomer with a great host of Rohirrim riders. As the orcs realised what was happening behind them, they turned, then as one, began a charge to the hill to meet this new threat.
Under Theoden's lead, Legolas and the men from the Keep regrouped to follow them. With a wild cry, Legolas started the charge just as Mithrandir began a massive charge down the steep hill. Once started down, there was no turning back.
The orcs never stood a chance with the dual assault. Just as Eomer's charge reached the orcs at the foot of the hill, Anor's rays broke over the hilltop behind them to shine right into the faces of the orcs they were charging down upon, blinding them.
Those that survived the raging tide of men and horses fled to the trees. These trees had not been there just days ago… The men of Rohan began to follow them, but were stopped by both Legolas and Gandalf.
"No! Stop!" Legolas called just as Gandalf also cried out. "Let them go!"
The men all froze in place and Legolas was not sure that Mithrandir had not done that himself.
Estel was the only one who turned and asked. "Why?"
"Watch, Estel, watch." Legolas grinned at him, his hands unconsciously clutching Arod's mane to keep on him.
Estel looked puzzled and turned back and Legolas slumped slightly pleased that he was no longer the centre of attention.
The Orcs ran into the forest heedlessly, interested in only getting away from the victors. They disappeared into the woods and Legolas could only watch dimly…
Then a rustle could be heard followed by a roar. Then the whole forest seemed to come alive. Terrified screams were heard, the voices of orcs.
Legolas grinned grimly. The Ents had had their revenge against the creatures that had hurt their friends so badly.
He needed to let Gimli know they were all alive.
"Estel, I am heading back to find Gimli and let him know we are alright!" He called above the shocked cries of the men.
Estel nodded distractedly and Legolas was not sure that He really understood what he was saying.
"Go and rest." Mithrandir's keen eyes caught his and he nodded.
Arod did not need telling twice he knew his Master needed help. He was already heading back to the Keep before Legolas had finished nodding.
It took him some time to find Gimli. He was no longer in the Keep itself and the horn had long since fallen silent.
Legolas could feel his weariness growing as he searched for the Dwarf and he could feel the pain from his wounds all over again as if they were fresh. Even his leg was hurting. Why his leg was hurting he did not know.
He finally and unbelievably, found Gimli sitting upon a huge dead Urak-Hai smoking his pipe. He looked completely uninjured.
As he looked up Legolas made himself stand upright and look strong. He would not let Gimli see how bad he felt.
He fingered his bow and grinned as he moved forwards. This would be fun.
"Final count forty two." He made his voice smug, his score was way above that but he had made a vow that no one, and least of all Gimli, would ever find out. Well apart from his Adar. Estel probably would know but he would also keep silent.
"Forty two? Oh, forty two? That's not bad for a Pointy-eared Elfling. I myself am sitting pretty on forty three." He puffed happily on his pipe, sure that now he had beaten the Elf in front of him and his voice was so smug and happy that Legolas could not help what happened next, he just did it. Even though he regretted moments later.
He reached back and pulled out an arrow and shot it between Gimli's legs where he straddled the Orc. Gimli choked on the smoke from his pipe as the Arrow sank into Orc flesh.
"Forty three." Legolas sounded just as smug.
Gimli would not stand for that and he growled out. "He was already dead!" He glowered at the pale Elf before him.
Legolas barely shrugged a shoulder, the pain in his back was growing by the second and he could feel the blood running down his back once more. "He was twitching."
Gimli reached for his axe which was buried in the Urak-Hai's head. "He was twitching because he had ma axe embedded in his nervous system!" To prove his point the pulled at the axe and the corpse duly twitched.
Legolas tried to answer, but he could see black marks clouding his eyesight. He tried to turn to Gimli, suddenly knowing that he needed help and he needed it now as his legs began to feel as if they would no longer hold him. He opened his mouth to speak, but nothing happened as darkness crashed out of now where to take him away.
"Elf?" Gimli was suddenly concerned with how grey the Elf looked. Legolas turned almost slowly and opened his mouth and then…… almost as if in slow motion but in fact so quickly that Gimli could do nothing to stop it, Legolas crashed to the ground. Gimli missed the sound of smashing glass, he was more concerned with Legolas. "Legolas!"
He was at his side within a second and one of the Men who had been checking to make sure that their enemies really were dead, rushed to help him. Between them they turned him onto his back, the man looking shocked at the amount of bright silver red blood on his hands.
Gimli reached out with a shaking hand to feel if Legolas was breathing. He would kill the Elf for scaring him like this! His hand felt a chest that was not moving. Not moving at all.
Gimli did the one thing that he could. He raised his head. "ARAGORN!"
The man beside him flinched, but Gimli did not care. "Get help. Find Talleth, if he lives. Tell him that Legolas needs him." He was not even aware that the man had nodded and left. Gimli was more interested in helping his friend. "You better live, Elf, or I will never forgive you."
Aragorn had been talking with Gandalf and Théoden when he heard Gimli's roar. He had been searching for Legolas even as they had spoken. He had yet not had a chance to tell Gandalf about Legolas.
He did not know why, but that cry sent chills down his spine and he knew what was wrong. He just knew.
He turned to Gandalf. "Legolas." Just the one word and then he was gone with the Maia and King running behind him.
The sight that he found would stay with him for the rest of his life and haunt his nightmares. Gimli leaned over Legolas, then looking up with tears streaming down his face.
"He is not breathing."
To be continued.
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Shell