Wowsers! Over 100 reviews! Thank you and many hugs to all my reviewers!
Legolasluva--I'm glad you like it so much!
Elbereth--Thank you, I'm glad you liked that part!
Regina bean--Thanks for the reassurance, I was afraid I did all but that.
Shauna--I plan to deal with Legolas glowing in Chapter Eleven.
Shirebound--Thanks! Yes, Pippin will need some healing, but it might come from an unlikely person. This chappie should give you some hints.
Fantasia--I'm trying with the Legolas angst, but I have a story that is sure to have it in the later chapters. Try, When Hope is Lost.
Chapter Ten --Lothlorien
The weary travelers were on the last leg of their journey. Gimli and Boromir led the way, walking beside Haldir, who was mounted on his stallion carrying a wounded Legolas. Arwen founded closely behind holding tightly to the battered body of the ring-bearer. All were amazed that he had made it this far, though his health continued to fail rapidly.
Lord Elrond brought up the rear, watching over the hobbits. They were all a little less cheery than normal, especially Pippin, who still had the wide-eyed look of fear about him. The elf wasn't too concerned, considering the fact that the hobbits had withstood the horrible black breath for longer than anyone else, but he did feel that they would need a few extra comforts when they reached Lorien. Peregrin had yet to cast off the blue hue and shivering that were a result of the encounter.
Arwen was worried about Frodo, not that there was a time when she hadn't been worried. He shivered constantly and his breathing became more labored ever hour. Compounded with this worry was the fear she had for her beloved. Was Aragorn safe and on his way to recovery? She herself nearly collapsed with relief when the Lorien woods came into sight.
Haldir halted his horse and motioned for the others to remain perfectly still, knowing that the guards would be watching. He called out for them to show themselves, and almost a dozen elves emerged from the trees, dressed in garb much like his own. He spoke with them for many minutes, in the Common Speech for the benefit of the others. It soon became clear that the guards would not let Gimli pass through the forest.
Just as the dwarf was about the protest, Legolas roused, startling Haldir. He seemed to know what was going on, and, straightening as much as he could, he said forcefully, "You *will* let us all pass. If our mission fails because of an grudge then you will face much more than complaints of your kin."
The guard who appeared to be the leader considered this and said slowly, "Perhaps you are correct. No one should no better than you the integrity of the dwarf you travel with. No one will stop you now, I will see to it. Though I must admit, the site of Lord Elrond and Evenstar may hinder many from approaching you. Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn await you."
As they passed by, Arwen lingered behind and asked briefly, "Can you give me news of Aragorn?"
"That I can, Lady Arwen, he arrived two days ago, Lady Galadriel brought him herself. He is still being treated, but we are all praying to the Valar for the best."
Evenstar thanked him and urged her horse onward. Now that the fellowship and those with them had reached the safety of the woods, they rose faster and didn't look back, glad at last not to fear an arrow in the back or the approach of orcs and Nazgul. It was now only a matter of getting the injured to Celeborn and Galadriel.
******
When they reached the house of Celeborn and Galadriel, they found that the two were already waiting for them, and Aragorn also. Arwen had to resist the great urge to leap from the stallion's back and rush to his side. He was pale and leaning heavily on Celeborn's arm as he approached but he was there.
The ranger's voice was raspy as he croaked, "Hand Frodo down to Celeborn, I am much relieved to find him still living."
Arwen did as she was told, shocked when she saw the change that had come over the hobbit in just a few short hours. His eyes were sunken in and his lips cracked. It as apparent that his fever raged.
Aragorn frowned when he noticed the broken leg. He couldn't remember it. His memory of the whole journey to Lothlorien was rather foggy. "How was his leg broken so badly? It will be hard enough for him to mend without any other complications."
Sam piped up from close by, "Didn't you know, Mr. Strider, he was standing over you."
At this Aragorn looked grieved and turned away, covering his face. With his father on one side and Arwen worriedly supporting him on the other, he returned to his chamber in relief, exhaustion, and anguish.
Sam, Merry, and Boromir followed Celeborn, who carefully carried Frodo up into the trees, where he could at last begin his slow recovery. All were surprised that Pippin remained behind, but no one questioned him.
As Haldir gently lowered the feverish body of Legolas Greenleaf from the stallion, Pippin stuck close to Gimli and they followed the golden-haired elf to a chamber that Galadriel led them to.
Pippin was greatly concerned about his cousin, but Frodo reminded him too greatly of his close call, even Aragorn did. Legolas, however, reminded him of light, and of the power of the elves.
Gimli felt rather out of place and suspicious of the many elves, but then again, that was his nature. Forcing out the words, he asked the fair lady elf, "Will the prince we alright."
Haldir turned abruptly, looking as though he would scold Gimli for addressing the fair and renowned lady elf, but Galadriel laughed and turned to him. "Master Dwarf, be assured that your friend will be alright in time. His wound in not grievous and the poison in his veins can be easily treated. Pippin, you could probably help Gimli realize how Legolas feels. It is like a case a influenza--something Gimli son of Gloin has never had."
Pippin jumped and swallowed hard, Galadriel, the Lady of the Lake had addressed him. She even knew his name. Sputtering, he replied, "Y-yes, Milady."
Galadriel laughed musically.
*****
Sam, Boromir, and Merry huddled outside the chamber where Frodo had been taken to, awaiting word. They had not been allowed inside.
Behind the door, Aragorn sat on the bed, breathing heavily from exertion. In the bed adjacent to him, Frodo was being treated by his father and Celeborn. He would never forgive himself if the hobbit died. Arwen seemed to sense this, and stayed near him side, trying to comfort him.
Celeborn bent over the hobbit, talking to Elrond in quiet Sindarin, "I fear he is grievously wounded. From what I see and what you have told me, it appears he and lost a great deal of blood. I've no doubt that his leg is also bleeding internally. The poison shouldn't present much of a problem to treat, and he would recover quickly if that was his only injury."
Frodo moaned in pain when the elves at last set to work, starting with the poison. He screamed silently as the deep gash in his side was stitched. They began to set his battered leg when Aragorn motioned for them to stop. Croaking, he explained, "The pain may be too much for him. He may wake up, then the pain will be even worse. He might even thrash and break his stitches. Wait a while."
"Get it over with Strider." Everyone in the room's head snapped up.
"Frodo," Aragorn said, worried and half relieved that the hobbit was at last conscious. "Are you sure?"
The ring-bearer sighed tiredly, "I am tired of the pain, the sickness, and being so helpless. If the pain is too much for me, so be it. At least then I will no longer have to endure it, ever again."
"Oh, Frodo! Don't talk like that!" Arwen scolded, tears trickling down her cheeks.
Finally Aragorn sighed and returned to his bed in exhaustion and defeat.
Frodo's screams from the great pain brought both Sam and Merry into the room. Boromir and even a bolted door had been powerless to keep them away. Now they beheld their friend unconscious on the bed, but still writhing in pain.
Boromir tried to lead them out again, but Elrond motioned that it would be alright for them to stay. "He will need all the support we can give him to recover now." The hobbits immediately bedded down on the floor next to Frodo, who had calmed slightly, but still breathed laboriously. In truth, they saw little change in his condition.
Boromir, who could not stand to see such pain, dashed from the room and Elrond and his daughter followed, going to seek Galadriel. Celeborn examined Frodo once more and left.
Tired as he was from his long ordeal, Aragorn could not sleep until he reassured himself that Frodo would be okay. He was relieved though not surprised to find a strong, though slightly fast pulse. The hobbit had a long way to go, but at least he had would live.
****
Meanwhile, Arwen discussed Aragorn's injuries with Celeborn and her father. "Frodo's wound will never fully heal, what about Aragorn's"
"Rest assured, daughter. Frodo was on the brink of becoming a wraith for a long period of time because he had a shard of the morgul blade still inside his body. Aragorn was very fortunate that this did not happen to him."
"Yes, Galadriel and I were able to call him back and immediately drove the black poison from his veins. Be assured that in time, he will heal."
****
All rested well and peacefully that night. It was the first time since they had departed from Rivendell that they had the luxury of sleeping in a warm bed without the fear of being attacked during the night.
--------------------
TBC Upcoming:
We learn about Legolas' glowing.
Legolas and Merry interaction.
Sam, Merry, and Frodo interaction.
Aragorn and Arwen interaction.
Be sure to read my other ff: When Hope is Lost! Summary--A young Aragorn is hunting in the woods when he becomes very ill. Legolas must get him back to Rivendell as they brave rain, orcs, rain, and more rain. Featuring: Aragorn, Legolas, Elladan, Elrohir, Elrond, Arwen, and possibly Gandalf and Bilbo)
Legolasluva--I'm glad you like it so much!
Elbereth--Thank you, I'm glad you liked that part!
Regina bean--Thanks for the reassurance, I was afraid I did all but that.
Shauna--I plan to deal with Legolas glowing in Chapter Eleven.
Shirebound--Thanks! Yes, Pippin will need some healing, but it might come from an unlikely person. This chappie should give you some hints.
Fantasia--I'm trying with the Legolas angst, but I have a story that is sure to have it in the later chapters. Try, When Hope is Lost.
Chapter Ten --Lothlorien
The weary travelers were on the last leg of their journey. Gimli and Boromir led the way, walking beside Haldir, who was mounted on his stallion carrying a wounded Legolas. Arwen founded closely behind holding tightly to the battered body of the ring-bearer. All were amazed that he had made it this far, though his health continued to fail rapidly.
Lord Elrond brought up the rear, watching over the hobbits. They were all a little less cheery than normal, especially Pippin, who still had the wide-eyed look of fear about him. The elf wasn't too concerned, considering the fact that the hobbits had withstood the horrible black breath for longer than anyone else, but he did feel that they would need a few extra comforts when they reached Lorien. Peregrin had yet to cast off the blue hue and shivering that were a result of the encounter.
Arwen was worried about Frodo, not that there was a time when she hadn't been worried. He shivered constantly and his breathing became more labored ever hour. Compounded with this worry was the fear she had for her beloved. Was Aragorn safe and on his way to recovery? She herself nearly collapsed with relief when the Lorien woods came into sight.
Haldir halted his horse and motioned for the others to remain perfectly still, knowing that the guards would be watching. He called out for them to show themselves, and almost a dozen elves emerged from the trees, dressed in garb much like his own. He spoke with them for many minutes, in the Common Speech for the benefit of the others. It soon became clear that the guards would not let Gimli pass through the forest.
Just as the dwarf was about the protest, Legolas roused, startling Haldir. He seemed to know what was going on, and, straightening as much as he could, he said forcefully, "You *will* let us all pass. If our mission fails because of an grudge then you will face much more than complaints of your kin."
The guard who appeared to be the leader considered this and said slowly, "Perhaps you are correct. No one should no better than you the integrity of the dwarf you travel with. No one will stop you now, I will see to it. Though I must admit, the site of Lord Elrond and Evenstar may hinder many from approaching you. Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn await you."
As they passed by, Arwen lingered behind and asked briefly, "Can you give me news of Aragorn?"
"That I can, Lady Arwen, he arrived two days ago, Lady Galadriel brought him herself. He is still being treated, but we are all praying to the Valar for the best."
Evenstar thanked him and urged her horse onward. Now that the fellowship and those with them had reached the safety of the woods, they rose faster and didn't look back, glad at last not to fear an arrow in the back or the approach of orcs and Nazgul. It was now only a matter of getting the injured to Celeborn and Galadriel.
******
When they reached the house of Celeborn and Galadriel, they found that the two were already waiting for them, and Aragorn also. Arwen had to resist the great urge to leap from the stallion's back and rush to his side. He was pale and leaning heavily on Celeborn's arm as he approached but he was there.
The ranger's voice was raspy as he croaked, "Hand Frodo down to Celeborn, I am much relieved to find him still living."
Arwen did as she was told, shocked when she saw the change that had come over the hobbit in just a few short hours. His eyes were sunken in and his lips cracked. It as apparent that his fever raged.
Aragorn frowned when he noticed the broken leg. He couldn't remember it. His memory of the whole journey to Lothlorien was rather foggy. "How was his leg broken so badly? It will be hard enough for him to mend without any other complications."
Sam piped up from close by, "Didn't you know, Mr. Strider, he was standing over you."
At this Aragorn looked grieved and turned away, covering his face. With his father on one side and Arwen worriedly supporting him on the other, he returned to his chamber in relief, exhaustion, and anguish.
Sam, Merry, and Boromir followed Celeborn, who carefully carried Frodo up into the trees, where he could at last begin his slow recovery. All were surprised that Pippin remained behind, but no one questioned him.
As Haldir gently lowered the feverish body of Legolas Greenleaf from the stallion, Pippin stuck close to Gimli and they followed the golden-haired elf to a chamber that Galadriel led them to.
Pippin was greatly concerned about his cousin, but Frodo reminded him too greatly of his close call, even Aragorn did. Legolas, however, reminded him of light, and of the power of the elves.
Gimli felt rather out of place and suspicious of the many elves, but then again, that was his nature. Forcing out the words, he asked the fair lady elf, "Will the prince we alright."
Haldir turned abruptly, looking as though he would scold Gimli for addressing the fair and renowned lady elf, but Galadriel laughed and turned to him. "Master Dwarf, be assured that your friend will be alright in time. His wound in not grievous and the poison in his veins can be easily treated. Pippin, you could probably help Gimli realize how Legolas feels. It is like a case a influenza--something Gimli son of Gloin has never had."
Pippin jumped and swallowed hard, Galadriel, the Lady of the Lake had addressed him. She even knew his name. Sputtering, he replied, "Y-yes, Milady."
Galadriel laughed musically.
*****
Sam, Boromir, and Merry huddled outside the chamber where Frodo had been taken to, awaiting word. They had not been allowed inside.
Behind the door, Aragorn sat on the bed, breathing heavily from exertion. In the bed adjacent to him, Frodo was being treated by his father and Celeborn. He would never forgive himself if the hobbit died. Arwen seemed to sense this, and stayed near him side, trying to comfort him.
Celeborn bent over the hobbit, talking to Elrond in quiet Sindarin, "I fear he is grievously wounded. From what I see and what you have told me, it appears he and lost a great deal of blood. I've no doubt that his leg is also bleeding internally. The poison shouldn't present much of a problem to treat, and he would recover quickly if that was his only injury."
Frodo moaned in pain when the elves at last set to work, starting with the poison. He screamed silently as the deep gash in his side was stitched. They began to set his battered leg when Aragorn motioned for them to stop. Croaking, he explained, "The pain may be too much for him. He may wake up, then the pain will be even worse. He might even thrash and break his stitches. Wait a while."
"Get it over with Strider." Everyone in the room's head snapped up.
"Frodo," Aragorn said, worried and half relieved that the hobbit was at last conscious. "Are you sure?"
The ring-bearer sighed tiredly, "I am tired of the pain, the sickness, and being so helpless. If the pain is too much for me, so be it. At least then I will no longer have to endure it, ever again."
"Oh, Frodo! Don't talk like that!" Arwen scolded, tears trickling down her cheeks.
Finally Aragorn sighed and returned to his bed in exhaustion and defeat.
Frodo's screams from the great pain brought both Sam and Merry into the room. Boromir and even a bolted door had been powerless to keep them away. Now they beheld their friend unconscious on the bed, but still writhing in pain.
Boromir tried to lead them out again, but Elrond motioned that it would be alright for them to stay. "He will need all the support we can give him to recover now." The hobbits immediately bedded down on the floor next to Frodo, who had calmed slightly, but still breathed laboriously. In truth, they saw little change in his condition.
Boromir, who could not stand to see such pain, dashed from the room and Elrond and his daughter followed, going to seek Galadriel. Celeborn examined Frodo once more and left.
Tired as he was from his long ordeal, Aragorn could not sleep until he reassured himself that Frodo would be okay. He was relieved though not surprised to find a strong, though slightly fast pulse. The hobbit had a long way to go, but at least he had would live.
****
Meanwhile, Arwen discussed Aragorn's injuries with Celeborn and her father. "Frodo's wound will never fully heal, what about Aragorn's"
"Rest assured, daughter. Frodo was on the brink of becoming a wraith for a long period of time because he had a shard of the morgul blade still inside his body. Aragorn was very fortunate that this did not happen to him."
"Yes, Galadriel and I were able to call him back and immediately drove the black poison from his veins. Be assured that in time, he will heal."
****
All rested well and peacefully that night. It was the first time since they had departed from Rivendell that they had the luxury of sleeping in a warm bed without the fear of being attacked during the night.
--------------------
TBC Upcoming:
We learn about Legolas' glowing.
Legolas and Merry interaction.
Sam, Merry, and Frodo interaction.
Aragorn and Arwen interaction.
Be sure to read my other ff: When Hope is Lost! Summary--A young Aragorn is hunting in the woods when he becomes very ill. Legolas must get him back to Rivendell as they brave rain, orcs, rain, and more rain. Featuring: Aragorn, Legolas, Elladan, Elrohir, Elrond, Arwen, and possibly Gandalf and Bilbo)