Well…um…long time no see? hides I know, I feel awful, it's been like 4 months since I updated! I give u all permission to have a go at me, not the story though! But all my yr 13 revision and exams have kinda taken priority, and then I couldn't get back into the swing of the story, which can happen if u haven't written anything for a while. Any who, I've done an extra long chapter to try and make up for it! Enjoy!
Chapter 10
As soon as the horses hooves started clattering through the courtyard Legolas started barking orders, making guards go search the woods more thoroughly. Saleena, who had already dismounted and was handing her horse over into the capable hands of the groom, watched in disbelief as Legolas explained to his father what had happened, believing that they had been part of a larger party. But what caught her attention was that he was hiding his injury, and obviously he fully intended to join the mission.
Oh no you don't, she muttered under her breath.
Seeing Lienin pass nearby she called over and motioned for him to follow. Upon the pair reaching the royal family, Saleena cleared her throat making her presence known.
'Forgive me my Lord for interrupting you and your son, but there is a matter I am sure Legolas has avoided that is of great importance'. Lienin, who had now noticed the blood marks that belonged to no orc, understood Saleena's intention and firmly blocked the Prince's escape. Grasping his shoulders he turned Legolas back round to face the King, who had also seen the makeshift bandage.
'Father, believe me, it's nothing'.
Lienin scoffed, 'And every time you say 'it's nothing' it's usually something!'
'If it is indeed nothing' Saleena moved so she was eye to eye, 'then why were you swaying on your horse throughout the journey back, AND' interrupting his protests, 'why has your face gone deathly white?'
Glaring at her, Legolas focused his attention on his father, 'Honestly, she exaggerates! I'm fine'.
'She does not exaggerate Legolas, and you know it, I'm your father so I know what you're like. You're as white as snow! So please, go to the healing wing'.
'But father!'
'Legolas, as your King I am ordering you to go,' but Legolas didn't budge, 'Fine, have it your way. Lienin, you know what to do'.
'Yes my Lord'.
With that, Lienin firmly grasped his friends arm and dragged the protesting Legolas in his wake, him being able to do so a sure sign of his weakened state. The King watched until they disappeared, shaking his head and sighing in exasperation, he turned back to Saleena.
'Thank you my dear'.
'There's no need to thank me my Lord, he received that injury because he was helping me with no consideration for his own safety'.
'That sounds about right, you are not hurt?'
Smiling, 'How could I be when your son's around my Lord!' Causing Thaunduril to laugh at such a remark.
Looking around he saw that his soldiers were almost ready to commence the hunt, 'Saleena, I believe your uncle will be joining this excursion, so go and tidy yourself up and watch over Legolas for me. It would ease my heart to know that such a caring soul as yourself stands vigil over my son, and anyway, from what I've heard of your morning exercise', at which she grinned, 'I believe you two have become fast friends'.
It was in this moment that Saleena understood why Thaunduril's people would do anything for him. He was a strong and firm ruler and yet he openly adored those around him, speaking as if equals. How could she say no?
'It would be an honour my Lord'.
'Hanon le, I just hope you can handle him!' With that he strode away to check on the progress of the soldiers.
Finally, after having changed, she found that Legolas had been moved from the ward to one of the private rooms as, she was informed, he was creating such a disturbance. They had even resorted to drugging him, so that he now slept peacefully. The healers had left, instructing her to call them when he wakes, leaving her alone with him.
The room wasn't huge, but comfortable enough, with a cosy fire which Saleena coaxed until it was happily ablaze. Sunlight streamed through the windows, gently bathing the occupant of the bed, making him look even more at peace, with his hair spread out so it seemed there was a golden halo framing his fair face.
Saleena silently approached and smoothed out the creases from the bedcover. Once satisfied she settled herself down in the extra comfy chair besides him, and so commenced the waiting game.
For a while she simply watched Legolas, watched his hands upon his chest rise and fall rhythmically to his peaceful slumber. The sound of his breathing however, combined with the soft armchair in which she sank into, slowly mesmerised her until she too fell into a light slumber.
He was walking through a forest, night had fallen but moonlight shone upon the path before him. Legolas didn't know where he was going but was simply, as hobbits liked to say, following his feet. The air was cool and a light pleasant breeze sifted through the trees carrying the distinctive spring fragrance of flowers and fruit.
'Odd' he thought, 'I thought winter was a few weeks away'.
However, this was pushed out of his mind as the faint tinkling from a stream nearby reached his ears. Following the sound he eventually came to realise that there was something else, cautiously Legolas followed the stream until at last he heard a fair voice singing. The notes as pure as the water trickling and weaving between the rocks besides him.
Carefully, so as not to disturb the elleth, Legolas moved forward to catch a glimpse of whom it was that sang. Ahead of him there was a small waterfall, the water gently cascading down into a small pool, and besides the pool a she elf slowly wandered, a flower in her hand.
Black silky hair fell freely down her back to her waist, with little white flowers woven into the soft tresses to contrast. She wore a light blue dress that showed her feminine figure even from behind.
'Somewhere over the rainbowway up high,
In the land that I heard of
Once, once in a lullaby'.
Legolas gasped as she turned slowly, to look directly at him, his heart quickening,
'Saleena', he whispered. He couldn't tear his gaze away, her dark eyes holding him transfixed. Smiling she turned and again started to walk, and he too numbly followed.
'Somewhere over the rainbowskies are blue,
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true'.
Her voice pure rang out across the night, enchanting all those who heard. Legolas was just behind her and as he reached out she again turned. Moonlight shone upon her pale skin and so she seemed to radiate out a soft glow, her eyes held a sadness that echoed her song and yet at the same time seemed to tease him.
'Someday I'll wish upon a starand wake up where the clouds
are far behind me'.
Giving into his urge, Legolas slowly stepped forward, barely breathing, his hand slowly rising to cup her cheek, her skin smooth to his touch. He watched with delight as, even when singing, her lips curved to form a smile that warmed his heart. But, wait, something was wrong, everything around him was fading away, including the beautiful elleth before him.
'Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops that's where you'll find me'.
Only her voice remained clear as he slowly came to realise he was in a soft bed, 'It was a dream!' Yet his heart was still thudding, and the singing continued.
'Someday I'll wish upon a starAnd wake up where the clouds
Are far behind me,
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops that's where you'll find me'.
Keeping his breathing slow and even, Legolas opened his eyes, carefully he turned his head until he found whom he searched for. She was seated upon the windowsill; the curtains open a crack, revealing that it was late afternoon, through which she peered through.
'Somewhere over the rainbowSkies are blue
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true'.
Her legs were curled beneath her and in her slack hands rested a book. The fire within the hearth cast out shadows and light, causing Saleena's milky skin to warmly glow, softening her features, her dark eyes dancing with life, seeing things far away.
'If happy little blue birds flyabove the rainbow
why oh why, can't I?'
Smiling, Legolas watched her, strangely content at the scene before him. Not having noticed it before, he found that she really was quite a beauty. Having been so preoccupied at figuring her out he had missed the way her hair smoothly followed her every move, how her face glowed when she truly smiled. The way her dark eyes glinted with life when up to something, and unlike other elleths, she held herself tall and proud, defiant at being called anything less than a man's equal, so much so that she was at times bordering on being pure stubborn.
'Now that's what I call a woman!'
His mind strayed to their practice session that morning, remembering how her feet barely touched the ground as she darted around him, biting her lip in pure concentration. She had fought to her utter most ability, even though she knew it was a loosing battle.
'And yet she still tried'.
He remembered how close he had held her having finally caught her, their bodies fitting together in all the right places, and his delight at feeling her tremble against him as he whispered against her ear. She was a magnificent young elleth, she truly was.
'And yet…'
Saleena suddenly sighed as she tore her gaze away from the window, Legolas quickly closed his eyes, feigning the deep sleep the healers had forced him into. He heard the rustle of her clothing as she stood up and moved about the room, sensing her presence as she came to his side and to his surprise started smoothing out his bedcovers, a habit she had seemed to pick up.
'Caring as well!' he thought as she gently moved stray strands of his hair from his face. Again she sighed as she sat down in the chair besides him.
Saleena gazed at the slumbering prince, 'Oh Legolas', she whispered, 'If only life was simpler, that would truly be a blessing, but nothing ever is, is it?'
Sitting on the edge of the chair she gently picked up the prince's hand in hers. 'I believe I owe you both an apology and a thank you, even if you don't hear it, it'll ease my heart'. Her thumb slowly stroked the smooth back of his hand, 'I have treated you appallingly since we first met, my short temper speaking for me I suppose. It's just every time you look at me I feel as if you see straight through me into my very soul, and I can only just restrain myself form pouring out all that weighs upon my mind, my very heart even! And it quite simply un-nerves me, making me act rather defensively, but it's not your fault, how could it be? It's just the way I am, the way I've always been'.
Legolas listened quietly, understanding her need to talk.
'Sometimes I wonder at where I belong. I mean, look at the maidens here, they all lead joyous and merry lives, dancing, singing, cooking…somewhat acting like a flock actually, all so similar…anyway, what do I do? I end up sparring with Eryn Lasgalen warriors, their Prince none the less!' At this she quietly laughed.
'Then I go and get myself into a fight dragging you along with me!' Quietly, more to herself than to anyone else, 'What kind of maiden is that?'
'One with a fiery spirit', the words were softly spoken but still they startled Saleena who involuntarily pulled back only to find her hands, which had been holding Legolas' limp one, no encased in firm grip.
'Legolas! I thought you were asleep!'
His now open eyes sparkled with amusement, 'I must be getting used to the drugs the healers constantly force upon me'.
'They wouldn't have to force it on you if you just co-operated for once!' To that Legolas had no reply, just a sly grin, as if proud of that particular reputation. '…How much did you hear?'
His grin vanished, 'Enough'.
'Yeah, but how much?'
Sighing Legolas released her hands and moved to sit up, immediately Saleena assisted him, rearranging his pillows behind his back. Once done she went to go to the door.
'The healers would want to know you've awakened my Lord', her hand was on the door knob when Legolas' voice rang out, firm and authorative. 'Saleena, sit down'. Hesitating for a second, Saleena slowly walked back to her armchair beside his bed, and for a moment both elves simply stared at each other.
'Right, firstly, as I have told you before, it's just Legolas, not my Lord, your Highness, my Liege or whatever other formality you can think of, understood?'
Smirking at his abrupt change in manor 'Perfectly, just Legolas!' Causing him in turn to crack a grin.
'Secondly, this observation of the maidens you mentioned', however he found he was interrupted before he could finish.
'Look Legolas, I meant no offence and I know I had no right…' Highly amused at her babbling Legolas held up his hand to silence her.
'What I was going to say, was that I completely agree with you', his lips curving into a smile at her expression.
'…you do?'
'Yep'.
'You agree that the maidens, who are apart of your kingdom, your responsibility, act somewhat like a flock?'
Chuckling now, 'Yep, however I do not agree with your analysis of yourself'. Taking her smooth hand up in his he continued, 'Yes you are different from many of the maidens here, but you should be proud of it. Many elleths here are so dull and well… one track minded, thinking only of what they'll wear at the next feast, how they'll style their hair and who's escorting who, that they miss the bigger picture. However, not everyone is like that, and you should realise this. You saw our female warriors did you not?'
She nodded, 'Good, they are just as feminine as the other maidens, yet true warriors as well, and highly respected because of it…. Just as you are'.
'…What? Know one knows me here!'
'They do not need to know you in order for you to gain their respect. The sparring session we had this morning?' Again she nodded, 'Well news travels fast here in Eryn Lasgalen. The story of the fiery mischievous elven maiden, who almost bested their Prince'.
'WHAT! But…but I wasn't even close to beating you!' She couldn't believe it
'Ah, but that's how the story goes', he laughed, 'and as for dragging me into a fight, you did no such thing, neither of us had any choice'.
'… I suppose that's true'.
'Saleena, you have such character! You shouldn't hide it and therefore who you are. You should embrace everything around you and live life to it's full. Promise me, never let there be a dull moment, remember all the wonders of the world even if it's simply the clear innocent sound of a child's laughter. Let your smile shine forth for all the world to see, and if anyone ever stands in your way of happiness, fight back!'
He smiled to himself as she listened enraptured to his words, 'You are a strong minded elleth Saleena, and if you truly believe in something, with all your heart, then with such a fiery spirit, you will surely succeed! All you have to do is believe, and anyway, you're far too stubborn and proud to simply give up on anything!'
Cupping her cheek he whispered, 'Promise me'.
Saleena held his unwavering gaze for what seemed a long time, his words settling deep within her heart, and she felt that although she had practically only just met him, she truly trusted him, and it was time to change things, 'I should have done something long ago'.
Taking a deep calming breath, gently guiding Legolas' hand back into hers, grasping it firmly and looking deep within his eyes she whispered, 'I promise Legolas'. Instantly Legolas smiled, feeling that he had finally gotten somewhere with her.
'I still may be in the dark about what's plaguing her mind, but she'll confide to someone when she's ready to do so… I hope that someone is me' shaking his head at the thought he realised that they had lapsed into a comfortable silence.
Saleena suddenly sat bolt upright, startling Legolas, 'What? What's wrong?'
'Oh Eru! Oh Legolas forgive me, I never asked how you're feeling!'
Laughing heartily, 'is that all! I'm fine, honestly!' Ignoring his protests she sat on the edge of his bed to get a better look at his wound, prodding and poking to see his reaction, while Legolas squirmed chuckling, 'That tickles!'
Sitting back, no longer tormenting the prince, 'You are sure? You're not in any pain or discomfort?'
'Nope, the healers did their job well'.
'Considering the awkward situation with you constantly struggling'.
'…Hence the drugging'.
'As long as you've learnt your lesson!'
'Never!' At which both Saleena and Legolas burst out laughing
'Oh, it's good to laugh', she thought.
Slowly they calmed down 'Legolas?'
'Hmmm?'
'Thank you'
'For what?'
'Well, for saving my life.'
'Oh, t'was nothing!'
'And for being so nice to me, I truly appreciate it'. All Legolas had to do was to look into her eyes, where for once no barriers or masks were in place, to really see how much his friendship meant to her.
Reaching forward he wrapped his arms around her slender waist, tightly embracing her, 'That's what friends are for, always their for each other'.
Saleena couldn't help but wrap her own arms around him in response, it had been a long time since she had been hugged in such a manor. His earthy forest sent strangely relaxing her, and she nestled herself even more so into the crook of his neck, his strong arms making her feel so safe and yet so alive!
'There is hope after all. All I have to do is believe and trust in those around me.' She felt Legolas' hold around her waist tighten slightly, 'Yes, it's definitely time to change things'.
There it is, hope it was to your standard guys! I would just like to say a thankyou to RenewedBlade, who helped me get on with this chapter, which I found really difficult actually, they simply made me realise that people were still waiting for this story to carry on, gave me some well needed motivation! See how important reviewing is! Hint hint!