Not much time to post this up, no time to thank reviewers. BUT to all those
who reviewed before, expect a personal thankyou from me in your mailbox (if
you have an email). Thanks to all of you!!
Finally, the BIG 5-0!!! (Sobs. Fireworks) THANK YOU GUYS SOOO MUCH!!! Can we aim for 100 now?
As you can see, I changed the genre. It is now officially Romance/ActionAdventure.
OH yes!! Almost forgot!! In the last chapter,there is a part where I had mistakenly forgotten to change a name. Where Caroleas said she like Helkaaran, it is actually Jarandor!!! Sorry for the slipup!(hehehe.)Remember this, she is NOT in love with that ass!!
OK, I know lots of you are wondering: WHERE THE HELL ARE THE HOBBITS??? I swear, they're coming (ducks from lotsa items, tomatoes included). And yes, the big surprise is also coming, wait and see..
Argh!!! Exams in two weeks!!! How am I gonna cope? Sorry if I don't update regularly but hey, I'm just a kid, not a juggler (though these days I seem to be juggling homework, exams, theory studies and updating). Hope you understand
Disclaimer: You know the deal. So, don't ask.
Reviews are really enjoyed. Flames will be used for burning up my test papers when I fail.
Hope you enjoy this. Now, on with it.
8.Confrontations
Training progressed beautifully as Ellesildar and Ellisya worked to reach their goal. The lessons by Aragorn were paying off as Ellisya's swordfighting skills rose to levels undreamt of before. However, it still fell short of Ellesildar's skills who happened to be very good at it. One would say he was born with the sword, just as Ellisya was skilled with the bow. One day, after challenging her brother and losing again countless times, she flopped to the ground, exhausted while Ellesildar, not even winded, smugly sheathed his sword.
"I don't get it," Ellisya despaired. "I practice like mad, unlike you, I might add."
"I resent that," Ellesildar protested, sitting next to her on the soft turf, "I practice too, you know."
" Well, you don't practice as much as me," Ellisya amended, " and still you beat me as one might swat a fly! There is no justice in this world!"
"It's inborn," Ellesildar shrugged, "Like, I can't beat your archery, try as I may. So," he said, lifting an eyebrow, "Is there still no justice in this world?"
Her sword came flashing out of nowhere, targeting at his hand. A sword blocked it, as Ellisya screamed in frustration.
"Let me remind you," Ellesildar said, keeping his sword steady, "I don't mess around like that. I suggest you be less childish." Ellisya dropped her sword and pounced on him, tickling him mercilessly. Ellesildar roared with laughter and squeamishness as he tickled her back. She giggled uncontrollably and tickled harder. A loud 'harumph!' caused them both to sit up guiltily as Gimli, Aragorn and Legolas looked at them, shaking their heads.
"Looking at them, you'd think that Elves are eternal children instead of eternal youths," grunted Gimli.
"Not all Elves are like that, Gimli," Legolas said with barely-concealed laughter. "There are some who actually know the meaning of maturity."
"Maturity?" Ellisya burst out, unable to control herself, "I'll show you maturity!" With that, she jumped on Legolas, tickling him as well. Legolas, who had always been ticklish, dissolved in helpless laughter, doubling over.
"Stop!! Stop! You monkey of an Elf!" he cried out. When she showed no signs of stopping, he reached over and tickled her as well. Ellesildar sprang to his sister's aid and soon, an all-out tickling match was on in full force. Aragorn and Gimli looked at each other and shook their heads.
"I repeat my earlier statement: All Elves are like children. Maybe it is a side effect of their eternal youth," Gimli said.
"I agree," Aragorn said, shaking his head mock-seriously. He looked at Legolas again. He had never seen his friend looked so relaxed and mischievous before. Yes, there were times when he would spark up with humor for a few moments but then, his father's teachings were deep and he usually regained his stoic demeanor. Only those in the fellowship knew his other side and even that it was rare that the Elf relax.
Nowadays, however, Legolas seemed to loosen up and to actually enjoy living. Before, he had always talked about going across the Sea to the Grey Havens but now. Aragorn grinned. Just look at him now!
Finally, the three Elves gave up; tired of the laughter and tickles they have given and received. Legolas looked up from his laughter to find Ellisya lying in his lap and Ellesildar lying on the grass nearby, still having enough breath to argue heatedly with Gimli about 'being matured'. Ellisya breathed raggedly, her voice sore with all the laughing she had been doing. She looked up at him, laughter bright in her eyes.
" I think all the breath in my body has gone out," she gasped, taking Aragorn's hand as he helped her up to her feet. Legolas quickly leaped to his feet and pulled Ellesildar up.
"Well, this is nice," Ellesildar remarked, looking pointedly at the three, "To think we came here for privacy!!" He turned to Ellisya, hastily smoothing her skirt. "Isn't it nice of them to barge in on our moment?"
" Privacy?" Gimli roared with laughter. "In the castle of Mirkwood?" He leaned on a nearby tree for support. " Boy, you have a lot to learn."
"Someone told us they saw two shadowy figures fighting here just now. Not wishing to go closer, they came and told us," Aragorn said in amusement. "But as I can see," he went on, "You don't look very. 'dangerous' to quote from one of the guards."
"They said one of you swore that by nightfall, the other would die," Gimli butted in. Ellisya grinned sheepishly while Ellesildar whistled innocently. "So.. Who was it?"
"Guess," Ellisya said mischievously.
"I don't need to guess, woman, it is obvious that Ellesildar was the one swearing.'" Gimli looked very pleased with his deduction. Ellisya and Ellesildar exchanged glances.
"Well, not exactly.."
"WHAT??" boomed Gimli, shocked at the fact that Ellisya swore plus the fact that he didn't guess correctly.
"I didn't say that!!" Ellisya defended herself. "Well,.not really. Besides, he provoked me first! He said that even a new-born babe could fight better than I did!"
"Hey!!!!" Ellesildar protested. Just then, Aragorn intervened.
"Look at you two, behaving like little children. Come, we had better get back to the castle. No doubt lunch will be ready."
"If you wouldn't mind, I wish to go to the library," Ellisya said, looking at Ellesildar, who nodded assent.
Legolas, all this while hanging back ever since Ellisya fell on him, stepped forward. "I believe I will go with you. My knowledge of the library will help you, I'm sure."
Aragorn observed his friend again as he had been doing oh so many times. He noted that Legolas seemed a little flustered and was quick in reply. He also knew that Legolas hadn't eaten yet and was rather hungry, as he said so earlier. Gimli, completely oblivious to anything going on, said cheerfully, "Well then, Legolas, if you're sure."
"I am." Legolas looked at Ellisya, Who, coincidentally, at that same moment looked at him. She smiled at him sweetly and he felt his heart throb. So absorbed was he in looking at Ellisya, he failed to see Aragorn staring at him openly. Ellesildar noticed it, however, and felt uneasy. He tugged at Ellisya's arm.
"Come now, my sister, let us go," he whispered into her ear. Ellisya allowed herself to be tugged away, a bit intimidated by the look Legolas was giving her. Then, she gathered her wits together and pulled her arm away from Ellesildar. Ellesildar looked surprised, as did the other three.
"Ellesildar, I believe I had made it clear I wanted to go to the library and I shall," she said quietly. Ellesildar started to protest but Ellisya looked at him with her clear green eyes. The feelings in her brother's eyes were concern for her safety, brotherly love and mistrust, the latter being foreign to her as she didn't understand what was there not to trust. She placed her hand on his arm.
"Quenasi rescah helad fe kavas vastaen seras,Do not fear for my safety for I will be careful" she said softly so that only he could hear. He relaxed a bit and nodded slightly.
"WesasGo." He turned to the others. "Let us go now for the food on the table will be cold if we should be late and I fear Gimli will not like that."
"You've got that right, young elf!" Gimli said devoutly. "I mean to fill myself up nicely." He noticed the others looking at him with ill-concealed humor. "What? Is it wrong to eat my fill? Why are you staring at me? Have I grown another head?"
"Nothing's wrong, Gimli," Aragorn said peaceably. "Come. As Ellesildar said, let us go." He turned to Ellisya. 'Are you sure you won't be gracing us with your presence?"
"I am afraid not, my Lord," Ellisya said, smiling. "Now, if you will excuse me." she walked in the direction of the library. Running footsteps behind her caused her to turn around and see Legolas catching up with her. She waited until he reached her before asking, "Aren't you hungry, Legolas? I am sure you would rather go and join the others."
"I will follow you to the library," Legolas said quietly. Ellisya waited for a moment. When he would give no other explanation, she turned. "Very well. Let us go now." She wouldn't let him see her blush with pleasure at his company.
Legolas looked at the dark head that walked in front of him in admiration. Her lithe frame and simple grace gave one the impression that she was floating on air. Then his attention shifted to the look Aragorn had given him as he ran after Ellisya. The knowing in his eyes made him uneasy. Maybe, just maybe, he suspected something.Legolas shook his head slightly as if to clear the cobwebs in it. How can Aragorn suspect something that doesn't even exist?
"Legolas?" Legolas, jolted out of his reverie, turned to see Ellisya standing before the great doors of the library a little bit back. She smiled slightly. "The library is over here." So absorbed was he in his thoughts, Legolas had walked right past Ellisya and the library without noticing anything out of the ordinary.. He hastily turned around and went back to the library, where Ellisya had gone into.
The library of Mirkwood Castle was like no other library in Middle Earth. Filled with every known kind of book that could be found, it was, literally, a haven of knowledge for scholars hungry for information. That day, however, there was no one in the library save them.
Ellisya went to a shelf and frowned. She swiped a finger on a cover of a book and wrinkled her nose. "Holy Valar! There is so much dust!" Legolas, although lost in somber thoughts couldn't help smiling at Ellisya's disgusted expression. Even then she looked cute. Methodically, Ellisya began skimming past titles. " The History of Elves, Gondor: Reign of Men, Moria and Mithril, The Great War of the Ring." she paused on the last title for a while before moving on. Legolas watched her browsing past books.
"Is there a certain title you are looking for? I know this library like the back of my hand. Perhaps I can help in your search."
"It's alright," Ellisya said, eyes wandering over to the far side of the shelf. "I think I can.ahah!" she cried triumphantly as her eyes fell upon a tome about a thousand pages long. Going over to it, she tugged it out of its place and carried it to a nearby tale. Unlike other books, this book was relatively new, judging from its appearance. Legolas looked at it and started.
"That is."
"The Red Book of Westmarch," Ellisya murmured. Reverently, she touched the book cover and opened the book. " Written by the Ringbearer himself." At this point, she turned to Legolas, "You were in the war too, weren't you?"
"Indeed it was," he said. 'Many a good man died on the battlefield." For a moment, he remembered Haldir, remembered Boromir, remembered all those who had given their lives for their cause and wished that Valar might have mercy on their noble souls.
Ellisya looked at Legolas with respect. " I always wished I was a part of that war," she whispered, eyes shining. "It must have been grand."
"It wasn't," Legolas told her. "Books do not tell all of the truth. There were many times when the future looked bleak and I thought that we wouldn't last till dawn."
"It seems you know more than what the book tells," Ellisya said earnestly. "Will you tell me about the War at Helms Deep?" Legolas looked at Ellisya in amazement, then smiled.
" It would be my pleasure." Together, they went to one side of the library where there were chairs and they settled down. Then, Legolas related the story, while Ellisya sat rapt in attention. And so the hours passed by.
~*~*~*~*~
Aragorn came down the passage, frowning. Four hours had passed since Ellisya and Legolas went to the library and still not a shadow could be seen of them. He turned down the corridor and pushed the library door open as quietly as possible. Still, there was no sign of living at all. As he made his way deeper into the library, he heard voices. Hiding behind a shelf, Aragorn overheard Legolas and Ellisya's conversation.
" So then what happened?" Ellisya asked. Somehow, from her position on the chair, she had shifted until she was sitting on the floor at Legolas' feet, looking up at him. The late sun beamed upon her through a window, causing a little halo to form.
"Aragorn and Gimli were standing beside the castle, about to attack the orcs on the drawbridge. They thought I wasn't near, for I distinctly heard Gimli telling Aragorn to throw him and 'not to tell the elf '," said Legolas, smiling at the memory. Aragorn covered his mouth, desperately trying to stop the unmanly giggles coming upon him. So Legolas had seen that scene!! Of course, they had forgotten to look at the top of the castle, where he was apparently, scouting for enemies.
Legolas' sharp ears caught the sound of Aragorn's chokes. He stood up, drawing his long sword. "Come out!" he commanded harshly.
Aragorn cursed himself for his unwanted laughter and stepped forward. He saw Ellisya had stood up as well and had also drawn her long sword. Inwardly, as experienced as he was, Aragorn was thankful he didn't have to fight this duo. Woe be to those who intruded as he had done.
Legolas immediately relaxed as Aragorn stepped out from behind the bookshelf. "By Elberath, Aragorn! You startled us!!" "Legolas, I." Aragorn stammered, unwilling to say what he had to say to Legolas in front of Ellisya. Ellisya, ever observant, said tactfully, "I believe I shall excuse myself now, for I have other work to attend to. NamaarieFarewell, Legolas, Aragorn."
"Namaarie, Ellisya," said Aragorn, looking relieved.
"Namaarie, Ellisya," Legolas echoed, disappointed that she had to leave. The past hours they spent together had been ethereal as they relived the history of the war. Ellisya nodded and went out.
"What is it you have to tell me?" Legolas asked, sinking back into his chair. Aragorn sat in the chair beside his. He looked very serious.
"Legolas, I think something is very wrong." Legolas sat up straight.
"Wrong?"
"Yes, if not now, then in the future. At dinner." Hearing the word 'dinner', Legolas' stomach rumbled and he flushed in embarrassment. Aragorn smiled wryly.
"Hungry, aren't you?" Legolas nodded. " Here." He tossed a packet over to Legolas, who opened it in curiosity. His eyes widened in pleasure.
"Lembas!!"
"I always carry a little packet of them around with me, in case," Aragorn said. As Legolas munched away, he continued, "Your father, King Thranduil is very worried. He hides it well but it shows in every part of his body. His eyes are troubled. Do you know of this?"
"No." Legolas stopped eating for a while. " But I believe he was looking grave during his meeting with Galadriel. Perhaps the news she brought was ill."
"Ill it was, for now Lorendallion and he are in the throne room and they have barred the doors." Legolas started.
"This is not good. Rarely does my father stay in the throne room unless the matter is dire. I should go to him." He began to rise.
"Stay, Legolas for you will not get within a foot of the throne. Countless guards have been posted and they will not move."
"Well then let them stand up to the word of the Prince," Legolas cried angrily, for he was angry at the fact that this was kept from him. Aragorn sighed. It wouldn't be easy to calm his temperamental friend.
"Legolas, I believe we should wait." Legolas looked surprised. "Be prepared but do not do anything foolish now."
Legolas sat rigid in his chair before sighing. Aragorn's words had always been his counsel. "Very well, we wait until they see it fit to confide in us." Legolas rose, ready to leave the dusty library.
"Wait, my friend," Aragorn's voice stopped him. "There is another matter of which I seek answers to." Legolas sat again, wondering what matter could this be.
"Speak now, Aragorn, for time waits for no man."
"The matter I wish to touch is very delicate," Aragorn said slowly. Legolas waited for him to continue. Then, suddenly, it hit him. Holy Valar, he thought faintly, don't let it be.
"I noticed you seem to take interest in Ellisya," Aragorn said, keeping his tone neutral. " You also seem to." Aragorn thought for a while, ".have a fondness for her."
"By Elberath, Aragorn!" Legolas exploded. "How dare you accuse me of such a thing?" He glared at Aragorn with fire in his eyes, causing Aragorn leaned back a little. Never had he seen Legolas this angry before. Why, his very body radiated with anger. Surely there must be something going on.
"I am accusing you of no such thing," he said evenly. " I am merely curious whether or not what they say is true."
Legolas stared at him, incensed. Then, he sank back into his chair, exhausted. "Yesra tesiari gea feishWhat a fool I am," he muttered, supporting his head in his hands. He remained like that for some time. Just as Aragorn was starting to worry for his friend, Legolas raised his head. Despair was evident in their depths.
"Aragorn, leras qi kas furand'eHow long have you known of this?" He whispered. "Racva jasru wessa? Feras tera chaetas qe feranWho else knows? You must think me a fool,"
Aragorn looked at Legolas sympathetically. He knew it was hard for the Elf to put his pride aside and ask him this. " I have known of your affection for Ellisya since the beginning. No others know of your feeling, save I but I believe Ellesildar is suspicious of something." He walked over to the elf and awkwardly hugged him. "Weqa Hes dinas tanh ceras," he whispered.
Legolas looked at him. He felt a great weariness yet relieved that at least someone understood what he was going through. "Emerath emarisThank You, Aragorn. But I do not think this is love."
Aragorn sighed inwardly. Legolas, Legolas, he thought ruefully. How long will it take for you to admit your feelings to yourself? Outside, he said, "Come, let us go for the others will be worried." His eyes twinkled. "Save perhaps Gimli who will probably still be eating."
Legolas laughed. Together, the two of them made their way to the door, oblivious to the danger about to strike them in days to come.
Finally, the BIG 5-0!!! (Sobs. Fireworks) THANK YOU GUYS SOOO MUCH!!! Can we aim for 100 now?
As you can see, I changed the genre. It is now officially Romance/ActionAdventure.
OH yes!! Almost forgot!! In the last chapter,there is a part where I had mistakenly forgotten to change a name. Where Caroleas said she like Helkaaran, it is actually Jarandor!!! Sorry for the slipup!(hehehe.)Remember this, she is NOT in love with that ass!!
OK, I know lots of you are wondering: WHERE THE HELL ARE THE HOBBITS??? I swear, they're coming (ducks from lotsa items, tomatoes included). And yes, the big surprise is also coming, wait and see..
Argh!!! Exams in two weeks!!! How am I gonna cope? Sorry if I don't update regularly but hey, I'm just a kid, not a juggler (though these days I seem to be juggling homework, exams, theory studies and updating). Hope you understand
Disclaimer: You know the deal. So, don't ask.
Reviews are really enjoyed. Flames will be used for burning up my test papers when I fail.
Hope you enjoy this. Now, on with it.
8.Confrontations
Training progressed beautifully as Ellesildar and Ellisya worked to reach their goal. The lessons by Aragorn were paying off as Ellisya's swordfighting skills rose to levels undreamt of before. However, it still fell short of Ellesildar's skills who happened to be very good at it. One would say he was born with the sword, just as Ellisya was skilled with the bow. One day, after challenging her brother and losing again countless times, she flopped to the ground, exhausted while Ellesildar, not even winded, smugly sheathed his sword.
"I don't get it," Ellisya despaired. "I practice like mad, unlike you, I might add."
"I resent that," Ellesildar protested, sitting next to her on the soft turf, "I practice too, you know."
" Well, you don't practice as much as me," Ellisya amended, " and still you beat me as one might swat a fly! There is no justice in this world!"
"It's inborn," Ellesildar shrugged, "Like, I can't beat your archery, try as I may. So," he said, lifting an eyebrow, "Is there still no justice in this world?"
Her sword came flashing out of nowhere, targeting at his hand. A sword blocked it, as Ellisya screamed in frustration.
"Let me remind you," Ellesildar said, keeping his sword steady, "I don't mess around like that. I suggest you be less childish." Ellisya dropped her sword and pounced on him, tickling him mercilessly. Ellesildar roared with laughter and squeamishness as he tickled her back. She giggled uncontrollably and tickled harder. A loud 'harumph!' caused them both to sit up guiltily as Gimli, Aragorn and Legolas looked at them, shaking their heads.
"Looking at them, you'd think that Elves are eternal children instead of eternal youths," grunted Gimli.
"Not all Elves are like that, Gimli," Legolas said with barely-concealed laughter. "There are some who actually know the meaning of maturity."
"Maturity?" Ellisya burst out, unable to control herself, "I'll show you maturity!" With that, she jumped on Legolas, tickling him as well. Legolas, who had always been ticklish, dissolved in helpless laughter, doubling over.
"Stop!! Stop! You monkey of an Elf!" he cried out. When she showed no signs of stopping, he reached over and tickled her as well. Ellesildar sprang to his sister's aid and soon, an all-out tickling match was on in full force. Aragorn and Gimli looked at each other and shook their heads.
"I repeat my earlier statement: All Elves are like children. Maybe it is a side effect of their eternal youth," Gimli said.
"I agree," Aragorn said, shaking his head mock-seriously. He looked at Legolas again. He had never seen his friend looked so relaxed and mischievous before. Yes, there were times when he would spark up with humor for a few moments but then, his father's teachings were deep and he usually regained his stoic demeanor. Only those in the fellowship knew his other side and even that it was rare that the Elf relax.
Nowadays, however, Legolas seemed to loosen up and to actually enjoy living. Before, he had always talked about going across the Sea to the Grey Havens but now. Aragorn grinned. Just look at him now!
Finally, the three Elves gave up; tired of the laughter and tickles they have given and received. Legolas looked up from his laughter to find Ellisya lying in his lap and Ellesildar lying on the grass nearby, still having enough breath to argue heatedly with Gimli about 'being matured'. Ellisya breathed raggedly, her voice sore with all the laughing she had been doing. She looked up at him, laughter bright in her eyes.
" I think all the breath in my body has gone out," she gasped, taking Aragorn's hand as he helped her up to her feet. Legolas quickly leaped to his feet and pulled Ellesildar up.
"Well, this is nice," Ellesildar remarked, looking pointedly at the three, "To think we came here for privacy!!" He turned to Ellisya, hastily smoothing her skirt. "Isn't it nice of them to barge in on our moment?"
" Privacy?" Gimli roared with laughter. "In the castle of Mirkwood?" He leaned on a nearby tree for support. " Boy, you have a lot to learn."
"Someone told us they saw two shadowy figures fighting here just now. Not wishing to go closer, they came and told us," Aragorn said in amusement. "But as I can see," he went on, "You don't look very. 'dangerous' to quote from one of the guards."
"They said one of you swore that by nightfall, the other would die," Gimli butted in. Ellisya grinned sheepishly while Ellesildar whistled innocently. "So.. Who was it?"
"Guess," Ellisya said mischievously.
"I don't need to guess, woman, it is obvious that Ellesildar was the one swearing.'" Gimli looked very pleased with his deduction. Ellisya and Ellesildar exchanged glances.
"Well, not exactly.."
"WHAT??" boomed Gimli, shocked at the fact that Ellisya swore plus the fact that he didn't guess correctly.
"I didn't say that!!" Ellisya defended herself. "Well,.not really. Besides, he provoked me first! He said that even a new-born babe could fight better than I did!"
"Hey!!!!" Ellesildar protested. Just then, Aragorn intervened.
"Look at you two, behaving like little children. Come, we had better get back to the castle. No doubt lunch will be ready."
"If you wouldn't mind, I wish to go to the library," Ellisya said, looking at Ellesildar, who nodded assent.
Legolas, all this while hanging back ever since Ellisya fell on him, stepped forward. "I believe I will go with you. My knowledge of the library will help you, I'm sure."
Aragorn observed his friend again as he had been doing oh so many times. He noted that Legolas seemed a little flustered and was quick in reply. He also knew that Legolas hadn't eaten yet and was rather hungry, as he said so earlier. Gimli, completely oblivious to anything going on, said cheerfully, "Well then, Legolas, if you're sure."
"I am." Legolas looked at Ellisya, Who, coincidentally, at that same moment looked at him. She smiled at him sweetly and he felt his heart throb. So absorbed was he in looking at Ellisya, he failed to see Aragorn staring at him openly. Ellesildar noticed it, however, and felt uneasy. He tugged at Ellisya's arm.
"Come now, my sister, let us go," he whispered into her ear. Ellisya allowed herself to be tugged away, a bit intimidated by the look Legolas was giving her. Then, she gathered her wits together and pulled her arm away from Ellesildar. Ellesildar looked surprised, as did the other three.
"Ellesildar, I believe I had made it clear I wanted to go to the library and I shall," she said quietly. Ellesildar started to protest but Ellisya looked at him with her clear green eyes. The feelings in her brother's eyes were concern for her safety, brotherly love and mistrust, the latter being foreign to her as she didn't understand what was there not to trust. She placed her hand on his arm.
"Quenasi rescah helad fe kavas vastaen seras,Do not fear for my safety for I will be careful" she said softly so that only he could hear. He relaxed a bit and nodded slightly.
"WesasGo." He turned to the others. "Let us go now for the food on the table will be cold if we should be late and I fear Gimli will not like that."
"You've got that right, young elf!" Gimli said devoutly. "I mean to fill myself up nicely." He noticed the others looking at him with ill-concealed humor. "What? Is it wrong to eat my fill? Why are you staring at me? Have I grown another head?"
"Nothing's wrong, Gimli," Aragorn said peaceably. "Come. As Ellesildar said, let us go." He turned to Ellisya. 'Are you sure you won't be gracing us with your presence?"
"I am afraid not, my Lord," Ellisya said, smiling. "Now, if you will excuse me." she walked in the direction of the library. Running footsteps behind her caused her to turn around and see Legolas catching up with her. She waited until he reached her before asking, "Aren't you hungry, Legolas? I am sure you would rather go and join the others."
"I will follow you to the library," Legolas said quietly. Ellisya waited for a moment. When he would give no other explanation, she turned. "Very well. Let us go now." She wouldn't let him see her blush with pleasure at his company.
Legolas looked at the dark head that walked in front of him in admiration. Her lithe frame and simple grace gave one the impression that she was floating on air. Then his attention shifted to the look Aragorn had given him as he ran after Ellisya. The knowing in his eyes made him uneasy. Maybe, just maybe, he suspected something.Legolas shook his head slightly as if to clear the cobwebs in it. How can Aragorn suspect something that doesn't even exist?
"Legolas?" Legolas, jolted out of his reverie, turned to see Ellisya standing before the great doors of the library a little bit back. She smiled slightly. "The library is over here." So absorbed was he in his thoughts, Legolas had walked right past Ellisya and the library without noticing anything out of the ordinary.. He hastily turned around and went back to the library, where Ellisya had gone into.
The library of Mirkwood Castle was like no other library in Middle Earth. Filled with every known kind of book that could be found, it was, literally, a haven of knowledge for scholars hungry for information. That day, however, there was no one in the library save them.
Ellisya went to a shelf and frowned. She swiped a finger on a cover of a book and wrinkled her nose. "Holy Valar! There is so much dust!" Legolas, although lost in somber thoughts couldn't help smiling at Ellisya's disgusted expression. Even then she looked cute. Methodically, Ellisya began skimming past titles. " The History of Elves, Gondor: Reign of Men, Moria and Mithril, The Great War of the Ring." she paused on the last title for a while before moving on. Legolas watched her browsing past books.
"Is there a certain title you are looking for? I know this library like the back of my hand. Perhaps I can help in your search."
"It's alright," Ellisya said, eyes wandering over to the far side of the shelf. "I think I can.ahah!" she cried triumphantly as her eyes fell upon a tome about a thousand pages long. Going over to it, she tugged it out of its place and carried it to a nearby tale. Unlike other books, this book was relatively new, judging from its appearance. Legolas looked at it and started.
"That is."
"The Red Book of Westmarch," Ellisya murmured. Reverently, she touched the book cover and opened the book. " Written by the Ringbearer himself." At this point, she turned to Legolas, "You were in the war too, weren't you?"
"Indeed it was," he said. 'Many a good man died on the battlefield." For a moment, he remembered Haldir, remembered Boromir, remembered all those who had given their lives for their cause and wished that Valar might have mercy on their noble souls.
Ellisya looked at Legolas with respect. " I always wished I was a part of that war," she whispered, eyes shining. "It must have been grand."
"It wasn't," Legolas told her. "Books do not tell all of the truth. There were many times when the future looked bleak and I thought that we wouldn't last till dawn."
"It seems you know more than what the book tells," Ellisya said earnestly. "Will you tell me about the War at Helms Deep?" Legolas looked at Ellisya in amazement, then smiled.
" It would be my pleasure." Together, they went to one side of the library where there were chairs and they settled down. Then, Legolas related the story, while Ellisya sat rapt in attention. And so the hours passed by.
~*~*~*~*~
Aragorn came down the passage, frowning. Four hours had passed since Ellisya and Legolas went to the library and still not a shadow could be seen of them. He turned down the corridor and pushed the library door open as quietly as possible. Still, there was no sign of living at all. As he made his way deeper into the library, he heard voices. Hiding behind a shelf, Aragorn overheard Legolas and Ellisya's conversation.
" So then what happened?" Ellisya asked. Somehow, from her position on the chair, she had shifted until she was sitting on the floor at Legolas' feet, looking up at him. The late sun beamed upon her through a window, causing a little halo to form.
"Aragorn and Gimli were standing beside the castle, about to attack the orcs on the drawbridge. They thought I wasn't near, for I distinctly heard Gimli telling Aragorn to throw him and 'not to tell the elf '," said Legolas, smiling at the memory. Aragorn covered his mouth, desperately trying to stop the unmanly giggles coming upon him. So Legolas had seen that scene!! Of course, they had forgotten to look at the top of the castle, where he was apparently, scouting for enemies.
Legolas' sharp ears caught the sound of Aragorn's chokes. He stood up, drawing his long sword. "Come out!" he commanded harshly.
Aragorn cursed himself for his unwanted laughter and stepped forward. He saw Ellisya had stood up as well and had also drawn her long sword. Inwardly, as experienced as he was, Aragorn was thankful he didn't have to fight this duo. Woe be to those who intruded as he had done.
Legolas immediately relaxed as Aragorn stepped out from behind the bookshelf. "By Elberath, Aragorn! You startled us!!" "Legolas, I." Aragorn stammered, unwilling to say what he had to say to Legolas in front of Ellisya. Ellisya, ever observant, said tactfully, "I believe I shall excuse myself now, for I have other work to attend to. NamaarieFarewell, Legolas, Aragorn."
"Namaarie, Ellisya," said Aragorn, looking relieved.
"Namaarie, Ellisya," Legolas echoed, disappointed that she had to leave. The past hours they spent together had been ethereal as they relived the history of the war. Ellisya nodded and went out.
"What is it you have to tell me?" Legolas asked, sinking back into his chair. Aragorn sat in the chair beside his. He looked very serious.
"Legolas, I think something is very wrong." Legolas sat up straight.
"Wrong?"
"Yes, if not now, then in the future. At dinner." Hearing the word 'dinner', Legolas' stomach rumbled and he flushed in embarrassment. Aragorn smiled wryly.
"Hungry, aren't you?" Legolas nodded. " Here." He tossed a packet over to Legolas, who opened it in curiosity. His eyes widened in pleasure.
"Lembas!!"
"I always carry a little packet of them around with me, in case," Aragorn said. As Legolas munched away, he continued, "Your father, King Thranduil is very worried. He hides it well but it shows in every part of his body. His eyes are troubled. Do you know of this?"
"No." Legolas stopped eating for a while. " But I believe he was looking grave during his meeting with Galadriel. Perhaps the news she brought was ill."
"Ill it was, for now Lorendallion and he are in the throne room and they have barred the doors." Legolas started.
"This is not good. Rarely does my father stay in the throne room unless the matter is dire. I should go to him." He began to rise.
"Stay, Legolas for you will not get within a foot of the throne. Countless guards have been posted and they will not move."
"Well then let them stand up to the word of the Prince," Legolas cried angrily, for he was angry at the fact that this was kept from him. Aragorn sighed. It wouldn't be easy to calm his temperamental friend.
"Legolas, I believe we should wait." Legolas looked surprised. "Be prepared but do not do anything foolish now."
Legolas sat rigid in his chair before sighing. Aragorn's words had always been his counsel. "Very well, we wait until they see it fit to confide in us." Legolas rose, ready to leave the dusty library.
"Wait, my friend," Aragorn's voice stopped him. "There is another matter of which I seek answers to." Legolas sat again, wondering what matter could this be.
"Speak now, Aragorn, for time waits for no man."
"The matter I wish to touch is very delicate," Aragorn said slowly. Legolas waited for him to continue. Then, suddenly, it hit him. Holy Valar, he thought faintly, don't let it be.
"I noticed you seem to take interest in Ellisya," Aragorn said, keeping his tone neutral. " You also seem to." Aragorn thought for a while, ".have a fondness for her."
"By Elberath, Aragorn!" Legolas exploded. "How dare you accuse me of such a thing?" He glared at Aragorn with fire in his eyes, causing Aragorn leaned back a little. Never had he seen Legolas this angry before. Why, his very body radiated with anger. Surely there must be something going on.
"I am accusing you of no such thing," he said evenly. " I am merely curious whether or not what they say is true."
Legolas stared at him, incensed. Then, he sank back into his chair, exhausted. "Yesra tesiari gea feishWhat a fool I am," he muttered, supporting his head in his hands. He remained like that for some time. Just as Aragorn was starting to worry for his friend, Legolas raised his head. Despair was evident in their depths.
"Aragorn, leras qi kas furand'eHow long have you known of this?" He whispered. "Racva jasru wessa? Feras tera chaetas qe feranWho else knows? You must think me a fool,"
Aragorn looked at Legolas sympathetically. He knew it was hard for the Elf to put his pride aside and ask him this. " I have known of your affection for Ellisya since the beginning. No others know of your feeling, save I but I believe Ellesildar is suspicious of something." He walked over to the elf and awkwardly hugged him. "Weqa Hes dinas tanh ceras," he whispered.
Legolas looked at him. He felt a great weariness yet relieved that at least someone understood what he was going through. "Emerath emarisThank You, Aragorn. But I do not think this is love."
Aragorn sighed inwardly. Legolas, Legolas, he thought ruefully. How long will it take for you to admit your feelings to yourself? Outside, he said, "Come, let us go for the others will be worried." His eyes twinkled. "Save perhaps Gimli who will probably still be eating."
Legolas laughed. Together, the two of them made their way to the door, oblivious to the danger about to strike them in days to come.
