Disclaimer: I do not own any of Tolkien's characters or world. However, the warriors in Legolas' party have been created by me, inspired by Tolkien's own, and I am sure having a great time writing them!
Thank you so much to those of you who have reviewed! I love to read your comments, and I am doing my best to create an enjoyable tale. I've been doing a lot of research to keep things accurate, but I might have overlooked something. If you see anything that needs to be revised or corrected, please let me know. This chapter is a bit long, but at last I am able to put in some references to Legolas' own life and feelings that I had not addressed so plainly before. Here it goes, enjoy!
CHAPTER 3: Prince or Warrior?
-"Mor maeg."
The words were spoken in very soft tones, yet all elves turned, and some even raised their eyebrows at the sounds. These were the first words they had heard since nightfall.
They had been traveling in the darkness of the woods, quiet, silent, very attentive to the world around them, and none had dared to utter a sound. So intent they were on their surroundings, so aware they were of the danger they could encounter by lack of attention or carelesness that their senses were completely bent on the forest. Tension grew to the utmost; the tiredness of their strained minds was almost unbearable; their tightened limbs had begun to hurt. Not only they felt the consecuences of physical exertion, even though elves are known for their endurance; but it was not pain in their bodies they experienced. They felt distress in their minds, an unpleasant sensation of discomfort that cut through their very souls. The journey to Lonnath had been a difficult one. The march had been speedy, and even more so after their recent encounter with the forces of the enemy; and with only a dim light to guide them, the elves felt lost in a world of shadows, for it is known that of all things in nature, elves have a special regard for light and the stars of Elbereth that shine on them at their awakening and wanderings. Yet no stars shone this night, and the travelers felt lost and forsaken.
Tightness grew in the spirits of the company members, and the air around them tingled. Ninniach's soft, yet forceful voice, came as a relief to the elves, and expressed the feelings that preyed upon them.
-"Mor maeg," -she said again, even more convinced than before, -"Mor utulie, mor dar."
Linnathon, who walked closest to her, cast a quick glance at the warrioress' countenance. Her look was calm, yet he was able to see the tense forehead and arched brow that denoted her distress. He turned around slightly so he could have a better view on the rest of his companions. Thalion still remained on the lead, advancing with a firm step, but Linnathon fancied sometimes his head would turn or stop at moments. The elves appeared resolute, but he saw much of the same countenance that Ninniach showed in the faces of the rest, especially that of Legolas.
Linnathon had known the Prince of Mirkwood ever since his earlier days as a member of the war parties of their realm. Back then, Legolas had astounded most of his fellow warriors, and those of other elven lands, who had anticipated him to be a fine archer and a very accomplished warrior; yet the young elf had surpassed their expectations, which had turned into hopes at his capacity and skill to be used in the defending of their lands from the threats of evil. They had fought alongside on countless occasions, and they knew each other, and most of the other members of the party, as well as they would know a brother. Yet, this time, he caught a look in the fair prince that was unfamiliar and strange in his nature, and this caused Linnathon to raise an eyebrow. 'I wonder what goes through his mind.' He was aware of the weariness he must be feeling, not only because he felt the same, but also because it showed in his countenance and posture. He walked upright, as he usually did, but his head was a little bent as if he stared into something close to the ground; but then, he was not staring at anything... his eyes and thoughts were far from them, even though his senses were more alert than ever, as could be seen by the tilting of his head whenever a slight noise broke the quietness of the woods.
Linnathon glanced at Edregol who looked eagerly in front of him. 'He has also noticed the prince's distress,' he thought. His eyes were now turned to Edregol. The slender figure of the dark haired elf walked speedily over the earthen path, but his eyes followed close on Legolas' movements. Edregol's anxiety roused Linnathon's concern, for Edregol knew his fellow warrior very well, and in his look, Linnathon was able to see his own thoughts reflected. 'The shadow of his duty weighs on him heavily. It must pain him to see our realm thus darkened by evil,' he thought, and he slightly smiled as Edregol caught his eyes. 'So much more darkened than we had expected.'
They continued to walk along, undisturbed as they had hitherto been since leaving the clearing by nightfall, yet Ninniach's words played in their minds again and again, even though faint rays of sunlight had reached them under the canopy of leaves that concealed the sky from view. Thus, the warriors advanced through the forest until, at last, a bright burst of light was seen in front of their path, not so distant from whence they were.
-"Look ahead!" -Meren was the first to talk, and in his excitement, raised his voice a little above a whisper. -"Look!"
The amount of light that fell upon the ground in front of them allowed them to catch glimpses of green foliage and of plants of different kinds and hues; dark and medium green leaves shone in the light, as well as yellow, red and orange; long and thin shapes of stems and limbs fell over the center of the light, and their bright colors shone in the light with such life that the hearts of the elves were gladdened. They were finally in Lonnath.
It took them only a few seconds to cover the distance to the sought refuge, and just the sight of it brought relief and hope to their wearied minds. Once in the clearing, the elves seemed to drink of the light that poured upon them as a thirsty beggar would feast on a beloved stream. The air was refreshed and pure; there, the birds chirped their melodious songs. The whole place reverberated with life, and the soothing influence of nature rested the hearts and healed their longings.
-"It brings me hope to see there is still one place that remains untouched by evil." -Medlin spoke at last, raising her head and looking around her with complacency. Cirion walked and sat by her side, at the time he took a bright green leaf in his hands and touched it gently.
-"One can let go of past worries in a place like this," -and he stopped, placing the leaf with care on her outstretched hand, -"I had almost forgotten how wonderful it feels to have nature speak to you!." -Toronath and Faelon smiled broadly, and they also sought for a seat beside their two companions, while Meren still stood with his arms wide open on the center of the clearing, as if bathing on its light.
After making sure that, indeed, the place had been undisturbed, and upon deciding on their relative safety if they tarried a while there, Maegron and Thalion also sat and for the first time closed their eyes for a moment. Linnathon observed their features seemed to relax in the comfort of a well deserved rest, and left them to find a place where he could sit as well. On the other side of the clearing, however, he caught sight of Edregol, Legolas, and Ninniach, who were still standing, and on approaching them discovered that they appeared reluctant to rest and seemed doubtful of the clearing's safety.
Ninniach was the first who turned and, with a rather distressed look, addressed him while she advanced in his direction.
-"Linnathon, do you think it prudent to rest unguarded?" -she said as her eyes strayed a little past him to the place where Maegron, Thalion, and the others were sitting, and Linnathon understood that they did not wish to leave their companions unprotected. -"We would rather stand watch now, and let you all rest while we can."- her lips curved into a smile.
The elf regarded her for a moment, and then looked at Legolas and Edregol, who were still intent on searching the surrounding woods for traces of the enemy. Just then he realized how much the darkness had affected his friends, making them distrustful and anxious.
-"I guess you are entitled to feel that way," -he said, sighing deeply. But startled by his own words and Ninniach's scrutinizing stare, he understood he had to be more specific. -"What I meant was, of course you are entitled to feel... unsafe everywhere, but life seems to grow undisturbed here. Look," -and with his eyes he urged her to look around them, where the quiet of nature drew a smile on the warrioress' face.
-"I suppose you are right, Linnathon. But, I cannot help feel the way I do. We have been so deceived as to the real power of the forces of the enemy, that I dare not make another mistake," - and she finally sat, placing her head in the midst of her fair hands. -"And yet, I do not feel any threat here, only... Only, my heart is unwilling to be at ease."
-"Then you have to fight that feeling. It does you no good, and prevents you of enjoying this fresh air while it is available. For a moment, I think, we can rest assured."
He lifted his head on finishing the sentence, and realized that both Edregol and Legolas had been listening with great attention. Edregol looked at them all, snorted, and sat by a nearby log. Legolas' expression relaxed, and slowly gave way to an ample smile. Ninniach and Linnathon were obviously pleased by the change, and beckoned him to sit by them.
-"Ease your mind, my friend," -said Linnathon as he put an arm on the prince's shoulder.
-"At least for the moment, allow yourself to enjoy in the quiet of this place. We have still a long march ahead, and might not be able to find anoher shelter as this before we reach the city."
-"Aha!" -Edregol yelled, while pointing his finger at Linnathon with a feigned mocking smile, -"I knew you could not be so confident on the safety of the journey!."- Ninniach and Legolas, both raised their eyes to the warrior, who in turn put up a defensive look.
-"I did not say I felt confident on the safety of the march, I only said I felt confident on the safety of the glade!"
-"Do not try to deceive us! You just bid us rest "assured", while you yourself won't close an eye!"
-"I only said that..."
The three elves laughed at his offended look, thus making him understand they were just teasing him, but his words affected them much more than he had foreseen. Silence fell among them once more, and for a while none lifted their heads again.
-"Meren! It is about time you stop that silly attitude, you look foolish!" -a general laugh arose among the elves, while they all looked at Meren who was still standing in the middle of the clearing, his arms outstretched and his eyes closed.
-"Come on, my friend! We do not want to get you melted under the Sun. Wouldn't it be disappointing if we had to report you dead by overscorching?"
The four elves laughed even harder, while Meren turned and glared at them.
-"Meren, son of Gelir, perished bravely under a cascade of raging... Sunlight!"
The laughs echoed in the woods, and all eyes were bent on the annoyed elf. He quietly walked toward his fellow warriors and sat, not without glaring at them all and throwing a branch at Toronath.
Medlin grinned. It was obvious that she was highly amused, yet upon seeing Meren's angered face bit her lip and forced herself to remain silent.
The whole affair had made Maegron and Thalion open their eyes, and they exchanged smiles of contentment. Maegron crossed his arms behind his head, and closed his eyes again. The captain, however, glanced and walked around for a moment, stopping by the side of Edregol at the other end of the clearing.
Ninniach smiled at him and nodded. She made it plain that indeed she felt better for his having taken a moment to consider his own needs and rested. Thalion acknowledged this, and nodded in return.
-"Sir, I am reluctant to think that we have reached safe lands," -said Edregol, -"but the power of the shadow seems to have left this place untouched in its passing. How long will we tarry here?"
-"As long as it takes us to recover our strength and energies. I hope it is not long, although one could wish to remain here forever."
-"I understand Edregol's thoughts," -said Ninniach, -"and I, too, whish we could find a safe place to tarry. But the sooner we get to Mirkwood, the better."
The hours of the afternoon arrived. Slowly, the rays of Ainur had become more bright as it reached its highest peak on its way through the heavens; and as slowly, they had begun to diminish, gathering again into one place. The light that fell over the glade had cast different angles of shadows on the objects around them all afternoon, and they knew it was not long before the earlier hours of the evening came. The elves sought the well deserved rest to their minds and spirits, and by now some of them were intent on examinig their traveling gear and their provisions.
Legolas had been reluctant to rest at first, but slowly his tired body gave way, and he allowed it to relax to the soft and peaceful songs of birds around him. Hearing the noises of nature made him much good. The silence of the previous hours almost drove him mad. It was despairing for an elf, a creature who is accustomed to hearing the sounds of nature that keep him company, not to hear anything at all. A gentle drizzle had fallen and the earth and leaves glittered faintly, turning the glade into a prism of dancing rays.
Legolas walked quietly, and sat besides Edregol, who was now wide awake and sharpening his battle knife. For a while, none of them spoke. Legolas observed the steady movements of his friend's hands as he drew the knife's blade against the whetting stone. The silver light of the metalic blade blinded him slightly, and the colored jewels on the elven hilt were brightened with the gray glow.
Edregol examined and tested the blade soberly, lifting it up to take a closer look, and grinned in satisfaction. He retrieved the blade to its sheath as calmly as he had taken it out, and then extended his empty hand to Legolas. The prince regarded his friend's look and hand for a moment, and then in a sudden burst of understanding took his own knife out of its sheath and handed it to his friend.
-"It has been long since the last time we were here, has it not my friend?" -Edregol addressed him quietly, while he began sharpening the elf's battle knife.
-"So it has, my friend," -was Legolas' response. Edregol was too familiar with his partner's quiet moods; however, this time he was not content to let it go that easy.
-"Something is troubling you."
Legolas shot him a surprised look. Edregol smiled at him, and continued with his work.
-"I had hoped you would disclose the matter of your own will. Yet, as I see it is unlikely to happen, I thought I should better bring it up myself."
Legolas drew back and leaned against the trunk of an oak. For a moment he sat silent and motionless, but after a few seconds, he turned and looked at his friend.
-"I guess I have been a little absent-minded lately."
-"Absent-minded?" -Edregol's look was all astonishment.-"Absent-minded! I do not think there has been a mind more bent on our present subject than yours! Well, maybe except for that of Thalion. Would you now tell me the truth, or will you make me guess as to the matter of your worries, prince of Mirkwood?"
Legolas smiled wryly. His friend had touched the one chord that was most likely to bring any response from him. Edregol knew this and smiled triumphantly to himself.
-"Mirkwood..." -Legolas sighed,-"The shadow that weighs over Mirkwood grows with the day. I was not aware as to how far it had spread, neither was my fa..." -he stopped, and his eyes glowered.
-"You should not worry too much over it," -Edregol tried to reassure his friend and divert his thoughts for the moment. Legolas was still angry, and at last had given any sign of it.
-"The darkness might be strong, but it has not overpowered us yet."
Legolas looked incredulously at him. 'Is it possible that Edregol still thinks everything is fine?'
-"Edregol, you have been a witness to the growing of the darkness in the forest, I do not think you can..."
-"Legolas, I know the shadow grows. But that is why we have come this far! We have come to evaluate the strength and power of this shadow, to report it, and to help in taking measures that will keep it away from our beloved lands, if not to destroy it completely."
Legolas regarded his friend for a few moments, and then smiled. As always, he knew Edregol felt he worried too much.
-"You migh be right. I should not take so much pains over it at present. The most important thing right now is to get home in the first place."
-"There you go! Now you get it. There is no use in worrying about the future if the present is still uncertain. Which brings me to another issue"
Edregol lifted the knife and tested the blade. He decided it was not sharp enough, so he drew the whetting stone again. Legolas' beautifully carved knife shone with the last rays of sunlight that fell on the glade, and the elven runes and gems were plainly seen on the hilt and blade.
"Legolas, thala ion o Taur e-Ndaedelos, hil an Thranduil o adab Oropher,"
Edregol read aloud the script engraved on the hilt and blade of the prince's battle knife with such an air of grandeur and ceremony that the elf's first response was to burst into laughter. Yet, after this sudden and unexpected reaction, the prince assumed again his silent and thoughtful manner; but this time a deep frown stroke his fair face, and he bit his curled lips as if he was angered.
''Tis too much like him! He will not say anything unless powerfully drawn! By the Valar, Legolas, what is it to be done with you!'
-"Legol..."
-"Hush, Edregol. Please," -the elven lord started, yet his eyes did not leave the knife in Edregol's hand. -"I do not wish to be reminded of any of that. I am very aware of my lineage and I know the extent of my duties. But I am not in the Palace now, and am no more than a warrior who has embarked in a very important mission. Let us leave it at that."
-"But," -Edregol's eyes turned to him and shone with a bright light, -"But, we cannot leave it at that, for I know much of that IS what troubles your mind. Sooner or later, hopefully sooner if we all want to make it out of this one; but sooner or later we will enter the city. You will be forced to face him again. What will you do? I thought you were over that already, but your attitude plainly shows me that it is not so!"
Legolas looked at him in return, and his eyes sparkled with an intense light. Edregol perceived the struggle inside his friend's mind and heart, but knew all too well there was nothing he, nor anyone else, could do to ease that burden. He had already been too straightforward. All he could do was wait for the truth to make way to Legolas' good sense. Legolas' fists were clenched and his brow arched, and his eyes shot piercing looks around him, but he said not a word. For the brief moments that he stood silent, Edregol did not know whether he was looking at the prince or the warrior; there was a thin line that separated both, and maybe not even Legolas himself was aware of it.
-"I will do what I do," -Legolas said at last,-"when the time comes. In the meantime, my friend," -and his tones softened a little, making him look more like his usual self, -"in the meantime, please know that I will do what is best for us and for Mirkwood."
Legolas glanced quickly at him, and then his gaze lowered to his hand where he still held the now sharpened knife. Knowing that his friend had realized he had already finished his task, he was obliged to retrieve the knife to its owner, and thus, to let the argument rest. However, Legolas' final words had been comforting and just what Edregol longed to hear. 'He knows what he must do. And he will do it.' With a half smile on his face, he took the whetting stone and put it back to its usual place in a small pouch he carried around his belt, and placing his own thoughts in order, he strode away.
Back at the center of the clearing, the rest of the warriors were employed on setting up camp for the evening. Thalion encountered the surprised gazes of Legolas and Edregol, and turning to them he explained their current situation.
-"As much as our eagerness drives us toward Mirkwood, we have already covered enough ground as to allow us this night of rest. I think it is wiser to regain our strength before pushing forward. This last stage shall be, perhaps, the most grievous of the whole journey."
Edregol was not slow to react to this words. As much as his usual temper did not make him hasty nor too impulsive, the captain's words surprised him deeply.
-"But, Thalion, how can it be that the closer we get to home, the harder the danger gets! I do not understand this."
Legolas, too, was rather taken aback by Thalion's communication. They had, indeed, thought that upon reaching Lonnath their journey would be taking them through safer paths. Yet Thalion's words suggested quite the opposite. He pondered the matter over for a while.
-"The Old Forest Road!" -a sudden gleam raced through his features as he briskly exclaimed,-"the place is swarmed with orcs from time to time! That is why it will be dangerous. And yet, we cannot avoid the pass."
-"Indeed, Legolas. On leaving Mirkwood we traveled through one of the sections of the road that has hitherto been untouched by orcs. But that path took us farther, and did not go through Lonnath. Upon returning, it was necessary that we chose the shorter route, and thus we are faced with that road and the threat of danger." -Thalion eyed both warriors, and his stern gaze softened at the faces in front of him who regarded him with such trust and fondness. -"We must make the best out of our time here. The real task will come after we leave."
Legolas knew what Thalion meant by the real task. The Old Road lead from the east of the Black Forest, coming down from the High Pass, and going through Mirkwood south of the mountains. The section they were to travel was flanked at both sides by a high wall of bulky trees growing so tight together that they resembled the slopes of a tall mountain. Any fight or battle would be very difficult there because the earth and trees formed a narrow gap, and there were really no easy means of escape going north or south through the wall of trees. Instead, the quickest way would be to go east or west; still, they were wood elves, and given the circumstance, the trees could prove indeed an ally before the ravaging orcs. The real peril lay, of course, on the possibility of an ambushment. Given the natural conditions of the terrain, the high walls offered concealment and sheltered the view of the other side. Orcs and other fell creatures could easily be hidden amongst the shrubberies, and await to strike their fatal wounds. What had before been a natural defense of Mirkwood's realm, was now turning into a powerful enemy.
Edregol approached the rest of the party, where he found nearly everyone occupied with some task or other. Cirion was the first to address him.
-"Come now, Edregol. We need to determine the amount of food we have left."
-"Ai!" -Meren sighed deeply, -"Do not tell me we begin on retrenched rations again!"-
Cirion glowered at him, and turned around unheeding his protest. Edregol could not help but smile. He knew just how much food and a good meal represented to his associate, and how the prospect of starvation seemed like the ultimate grief.
Legolas saw Linnathon and Faelon gathering wood from the surrounding bushes, and walked toward them trying to make himself useful, not without suppressing a chuckle on account of Meren.
-"Legolas!" -Faelon called, and handled him a pile of brush, -"This might be just enough to start a fire. Yet we will need more to last through the night."
His puzzled expression revealed that he did not understand the reason for this.
-"Yes, Legolas. A fire in the night would plainly reveal our whereabouts and make us a target of the enemy but..."
-"But, it will be our ally tonight in keeping them at bay." -Ninniach's voice broke in.
-"Although they know that we are here, no wolves, orcs, or spiders, will dare approach an elven fire at night."
Dusk came softly over the glade of Lonnath. Trees grew all around, except for a large circle of earth and brush that constituted the center of the clearing. Above the highest branches of the surrounding trees, the wood elves were able to distinguish the first stars of the evening, and the moon's round face suddenly appeared. The smooth surfaces of leaves glimmered with moonlight, and the merry noise of birds and forest dwellers that had filled the glade in the brightest hours had now subsided, giving way to the ongoing song of crickets, owls, and the creatures of the night.
A bright, sparkling fire, spread its flames from the center of the glade, casting shadows in the objects nearer to it, and in the faces of the elves. A large pile of brush and withered branches was placed on one of the edges of the clearing. Night closed in, and so far, it had passed undisturbed. If there were any foul beasts around, they had no made their presence known.
-"I tell you again, this might not be enough for me to survive the pass tomorrow!" -Meren had tried all night to produce a valid argument that could prove the need of supplying him with a decent amount of food. -"You said it yourself, Ninniach, and I recall Thalion saying it as well, the march tomorrow will be wearisome. We need all our warriors in the best of shapes! That includes me, of course!"
-"Indeed, Meren, the best of shapes! I can see no better reason why you should be left without tonight; a little more food and you will not be able to walk at all!"
They all chuckled, and some even laughed out loud. Thalion had explained to them in all plainnes the road they would have to travel the next day before reaching the Mirkwood mountains. Their journey had already taken them longer that they had foreseen, and in the southern parts of the forest food had been scarce, so they were running out of provisions.
-"If we travel at the same rate we have the last few days, I'd say we can reach Mirkwood in a little over a week."
-"Do you think we can make it so fast, Faelon?" -asked Toronath. He was fully aware that on regular conditions the journey would take them at least a fortnight.
-"We have to make it work. The supplies may not last that long."
-"Not longer than a week!" -Meren's distressed look was enough to set the rest to worry about their fate. -"You know it is not possible we reach Mirkwood before that. We are yet too far, and unexpected battles may delay us even more! Thalion, how long do you think it will take us to reach the Old Road?"
Thalion was gazing out in the night. He had been sitting a little farther from the rest, but on hearing himself addressed, he drew closer and sat by a rather large boulder, close to the pile of brush.
-"The Old Road..." -he took his hand to his chin and curled his lips,-"What think you Maegron? I dare say we make it in a half and a day, if not sooner. I do not suspect we will have much trouble before we get there, but once arrived..."
-"So, a day and a half to get to the Road." -Cirion started, trying to determine the length and the distance that lay between them and Mirkwood. -"Then I say two days before getting to the mountains. Will we march through the mountains now, or will we make it for the pass near the river?"
The company's original plan had been to go through the mountains upon their return. Their mission had been to go south and evaluate the extent of the power of darkness. They had been witnesses of the great hold the shadow had exercised over the Black Forest. But now they had to decide whether to follow their design and go through the mountains of Mirkwood, or to look for some other way that might take them back in less time.
-"The Mountains will take us too long, longer than we can afford now." -Maegron's stern voice sounded in the night like a foreboding. Indeed, if they chose to travel the route of the mountains, they would not reach Mirkwood before they ran out of food.
-"We might as well take the river," -said Faelon. -"Either route is far, and none take us straight to Mirkwood. But, if we pursue the river, we might be able to gather food and water, which we will require in a short time. I say we take the eastern path after we cross the road to the north. Then we reach the river, and then on in a straight line to the city."
The elves were silent for a while. Each of them was pondering which would be the wisest choice, for they had been sent with a mission, and they shuddered to think they would not be able to fulfill it. Yet, it was also important to reach Mirkwood and inform about their findings. After a moments' musing, Ninniach spoke again.
-"I agree with Faelon," -and she nodded to him. -"I say we take the river."
A few nods followed this remark. Thalion's face was grave, but at last, he also nodded and stood up.
-"Then it is settled. We make it to the river. We will not have excuses to slow the march, for the terrain will not be a hard one to tread. The only delay will be then... any unexpected encounter."
After this, Thalion said no more. They drew lots for watches. Only two were appointed this night, and they were Medlin and Cirion; they would switch turn every other hour, and so the rest made it for their beds, and allowed their minds to wander through the land of dreams.
All, except for Legolas. He retreated to one of the corners of the glade, and leaned his back against a large boulder by the edge of the bank of trees. The gray stone felt very cold and rough, and Legolas shuddered with memories that came back at the sensation this coldness produced. He had indeed wandered far in his travels. The journeys he had undertaken with the war parties of Mirkwood had carried him to places he had only been able to see in his dreams when he was younger. He had been to very unpleasant places, where he had felt trapped and strayed from all life, and such recollections came running to him at the contact with the cold surface of the stone. He had also been to places whose beauty it was hard for him to put in words. Yet now, he was approaching the one place which should be most dear to his heart, but instead was the most dreaded; he was approaching the elven halls of Mirkwood.
It was not hard for him to see why he did not wish to be back; only, his mind was reluctant to acknowledge it. He had kept this feeling away, he had fought the thought of it for quite a while; far too long, as some would say. But, Edregol's words had brought it all out again, and now, as unpleasant as it was, he was forced to deal with it.
He twisted his lips, an unmistakable sign that he was dealing with something unpleasant to him. But it was more. His own attitude angered him. He thought the whole affair to be over, locked in the past. And yet, the prospect of having to face matters again distressed him in a way that he did not thought possible.
'It is ridiculous on my part to be concerned with this subject any longer! I am not a child anymore. I am not HIS child anymore!'
Legolas' eyes flickered with a bright glow. His strong hands took hold of a nearby branch, and he started playing with it. He regarded it for a while, and drew his knife out to even the streaky surface; but the elven runes glimmered with the light of the fire that reached him; the engravings that declared the lineage of his ancestors sparkled at him. 'I have faced him before, and I will again!.' He snapped the branch in two.
-"I see you are still awake, Legolas"
-"I did not realize you had not slept yet, Thalion," -was all Legolas managed to say. Dwelling in his own thoughts, he had not heard Thalion approach; but now, the elf was seated by his side, and had taken in his hands one of the pieces of the broken branch. Legolas eyed him with the corner of his eye, but did not turn to him. He continued to carve the remaining piece of wood with his knife.
-"Do you fear for our road?"
Legolas had not expected this question. 'Surely he did not come to me to discuss this matter!'
-"I have traveled long enough to feel that every mile we race comes with its own perils to face. I know what we are up against; in truth, I do not expect an easy march."
-"That does not answer my question, Legolas"
The warrior studied the captain's face. 'Where does he want to go with this?'
-"A warrior's life is threatened every day, and even every minute. Yet this is the life I have chosen for myself..."
-"Is it?" -Thalion interrupted. -"We have known each other for long, my young friend. And I have known you even longer. Life is not easy for a warrior, and it has not been easy for you. But your situation is different than that of the rest of us."
Legolas' hands stopped. It dawned on him that Thalion would now address a subject that he had hoped to avoid.
-"You are not to learn now my opinion about yourself, Legolas. You are a highly accomplished warrior, and even a better elf. You are everything we had hoped you'd be, and much more. But fate sometimes chooses our paths for us, and the designs of Iluvatar are not known to us with limited knowledge. Seek to find your fate, my friend; do not run from it."
-"I do not run, Thalion. I am trying to do what I feel I must. I will always strive to do my duty, even though unpleasant."
-"Yes, I know that. It is why I tell you this. Are you eager to be back?"
A frown stroke across the younger elf's countenance. Legolas had not expected such a forward question. He could not avoid the answer.
-"I wish to be back to report what we have seen." -The studious choice of words surprised Thalion. His trainee was too careful to incur into any blunder or compromising statements.
-"Should I, then, understand that you are anxious to be back only to inform of your findings? Do you not wish to be home?"
Legolas closed his eyes and bit his lips. Thalion observed that the grip on the knife hardened. 'Why is everybody eager to address me on this matter. It is no one's business, but my own!'
-"If you mean to ask me if I am anxious to see my father again, the answer is No!"
-Thalion withdrew a little at the prince's boldness. It was his turn now to be surprised. Legolas had grown, indeed, too fast for him to notice. And obviously, too fast for the king as well.
-"Legolas, we've had this conversation before; yet, something tells me this time it is different. I know you left Mirkwood.."
-"I left Mirkwood," -Legolas cut in, trying to stop Thalion before he said something more,-"to aid in the search for means to maintain our lands free. My father knows this, and even if he does not approve he has to accept it, for it is MY choice." -He turned to him in his upright manner, and his face lifted up in all the dignity of his presence. Legolas had a royal air that was impossible to conceal or disguise. -"You have long known that my father and I differ in thought and actions. It should be no mystery to you why a meeting with him after a long absence would be everything but pleasing."
He lowered his eyes and stared at the night. Thalion was startled by this sudden change in the prince's mood, but the prince himself was even more so at his own words. Legolas was extremely reserved and quiet of temper, perhaps at a higher degree than most elves. It had been, indeed, a great change to reveal so much of his own feelings to someone else. Thalion knew this, and for a while could not find any words to say. He had expected he'd have to drag out of Legolas a confession of his own worries, yet he had just stated the fact to him.
-"I see," -was all the answer Thalion could command, but he observed that Legolas already regretted the sudden outburst.
-"If you worry about any savageness or a rash deed on my part, do not trouble yourself anymore, Thalion," -and Legolas forced himself to grin.-"I owe my father the respect he deserves, and I will act accordingly."
-"I do not expect anything less of you, Legolas. But let me tell you this," -he paused, and wavered. Saying the words was even harder to him than he had expected, -"he is your father. I do not need to tell what feelings become a father's nature."
Legolas looked once more at the knife in his hands. The gems and jewels encrusted on the hilt flickered with the colors of the rainbow. The elven script shone like letters of flame, bright and as thin as air, piercing as a dagger.
-"That is your due, my lord. That is you inheritance. Always remember it."
The night passed quietly, and when dawn came the elves were recovered and ready for the journey ahead. They left with the first rays of sun, some regretting that so soon they had to leave such a tranquil place. Yet leave they must, and no delays would be permitted from this point on.
Their spirits were relieved, and they journeyed fast and steady. The murmurs of nature accompanied them during the way, and they felt more confident than they had in a long time, even though they were deeply conscious of the perils they would have to encounter before reaching safer lands.
They traveled for a long time, only halting the required time to take their repast and rest briefly. Even at night they did travel; if they were to face danger, it rather be done as fast as possible, than delay it and be too late. They continued their march thus, aided by Ithil's light, and by a desire to cross the road that drove them on.
At last, in the distance, they were able to distinguish a dark shadow, not black but brown, that stood taller than the rest of the forest.
-"There it is," -Linnathon said in a whisper. -"The borders of the Old Forest Road."
The tall shadow emerged from the woods like a menacing fortress. Those had to be the tallest, most sturdy trees the elves had ever seen; and yet as wood-elves, they had not found them so threatening before. But, under the present circumstances, they seemed like unsurmountable walls.
-"Let us go as fast as we can." -Thalion said with a grave tone. It was plain to the other that he was trying to stress the need for speed. -"Let us travel fast and alert! There might be creatures in these surroundings that we do not expect."
At the orders of the captain, the warriors searched quietly but in great speed to get their weapons at hand. Anything could be expected now. All dwarves, men, and even the keen elves, avoided any route that took them through the Old Forest Road, and there they were, racing themselves into danger. It was not only a contest for time, it was also a contest for skill. If what they feared was true and they were assailed by a party of ravaging orcs or other creatures, they would have to be extremely careful and precise in all their moves; they could not indulge in any blunder or lack of attention, for their own sakes and that of their companions.
As they approached the wall, the trees seemed to grow taller and more threatening. The dark shadow already surrounded them, when they beheld at the other side a bright, narrow stripe. They could see the road.
-"We are almost there. Steady and fast!"
The party continued the march, making it's way through the fortress of trees. Wih every step, the light grew brighter. Once they reached the other end, the pressing danger would be almost over.
-"Steady and fast!"
The fear of an evil presence dwelt in the hearts of the elves. The more deep they delved into the shadow, the stronger the feeling got. Forcing their way through the borders of the road was as hard as any engaged battle. The feeling of evil was pressing, very pressing...
-"Aahhh!"
A piercing cry rent the air. The elves turned around to see a bulky form struggling at the back of the line.
-"Ungol!"
The bright eyes of a giant spider glanced at them, while with its legs it kept Faelon a prisoner.
Legolas quickly released an arrow right to the round eye. The spider screeched and relinquished its hold of Faelon. It did not take long for the rest of the company to arm an attack against the beast. Ninniach and Medlin ran to their injured partner, while the others drew arrows at the creature, which although hurt, did not seem to stop on its pursue of them.
Legolas swiftly grabbed another arrow and was about ready to set it on the bow, when he felt something stay his hand. He turned around and found himself face to face with the red eyeball of a spider.
-"Legolas!" -Edregol shouted, at the time he ran to his friend.
Legolas tried with all his might to get his arm lose, but the strength of the leg that held him was almost overpowering. With a quick motion, he reached for his knife and battled fiercely to get past the many legs in front of him to pierce the spider's body with his blade. They were engaged in a deadly struggle. Edregol mounted the creature's back, but the arachnid was too strong. Legolas felt the spider's claws renting his shirt, and he knew he had to make the move fast. Just as they were battling for their freedom from this monster, a savage growl arose from the other bank of the forest.
The air filled with echoes of the violent cries; they seemed to reach even further than elven eyesight. There were too many and too loud. The elves knew they were surrounded.
-"Yrch!, Yrch!"
Author's notes: Well, here it is. What do you think? Please, let me know your comments, any ideas, any thing that can make the writing better. Hope you enjoyed it, and please review!
Now, I'll be working hard on the next chapter. I can't wait to have the elves arriving at Mirkwood!!
One other thing: I'll be updating Lady of Leicaren soon. I am already working on chapter 7, I just got so excited about The Return of the Shadow that left the other one for a while, but next chapter will be up soon.
Here are the translations to the elvish words for this chapter:
Mor maeg, mor utulie, mor dar -the darkness is piercing, the darkness has come, the darkness remains.
Legolas, thala ion o Taur e-Ndaedelos, hil an Thranduil o adab Oropher -Legolas, stalwart son of Mirkwood, heir to Thranduil from the house of Oropher.
Ungol-spider
Yrch-Orc
Taur e-Ndaedelos -this is Sindarin for Mirkwood "forest of he great fear."
Thank you so much to those of you who have reviewed! I love to read your comments, and I am doing my best to create an enjoyable tale. I've been doing a lot of research to keep things accurate, but I might have overlooked something. If you see anything that needs to be revised or corrected, please let me know. This chapter is a bit long, but at last I am able to put in some references to Legolas' own life and feelings that I had not addressed so plainly before. Here it goes, enjoy!
CHAPTER 3: Prince or Warrior?
-"Mor maeg."
The words were spoken in very soft tones, yet all elves turned, and some even raised their eyebrows at the sounds. These were the first words they had heard since nightfall.
They had been traveling in the darkness of the woods, quiet, silent, very attentive to the world around them, and none had dared to utter a sound. So intent they were on their surroundings, so aware they were of the danger they could encounter by lack of attention or carelesness that their senses were completely bent on the forest. Tension grew to the utmost; the tiredness of their strained minds was almost unbearable; their tightened limbs had begun to hurt. Not only they felt the consecuences of physical exertion, even though elves are known for their endurance; but it was not pain in their bodies they experienced. They felt distress in their minds, an unpleasant sensation of discomfort that cut through their very souls. The journey to Lonnath had been a difficult one. The march had been speedy, and even more so after their recent encounter with the forces of the enemy; and with only a dim light to guide them, the elves felt lost in a world of shadows, for it is known that of all things in nature, elves have a special regard for light and the stars of Elbereth that shine on them at their awakening and wanderings. Yet no stars shone this night, and the travelers felt lost and forsaken.
Tightness grew in the spirits of the company members, and the air around them tingled. Ninniach's soft, yet forceful voice, came as a relief to the elves, and expressed the feelings that preyed upon them.
-"Mor maeg," -she said again, even more convinced than before, -"Mor utulie, mor dar."
Linnathon, who walked closest to her, cast a quick glance at the warrioress' countenance. Her look was calm, yet he was able to see the tense forehead and arched brow that denoted her distress. He turned around slightly so he could have a better view on the rest of his companions. Thalion still remained on the lead, advancing with a firm step, but Linnathon fancied sometimes his head would turn or stop at moments. The elves appeared resolute, but he saw much of the same countenance that Ninniach showed in the faces of the rest, especially that of Legolas.
Linnathon had known the Prince of Mirkwood ever since his earlier days as a member of the war parties of their realm. Back then, Legolas had astounded most of his fellow warriors, and those of other elven lands, who had anticipated him to be a fine archer and a very accomplished warrior; yet the young elf had surpassed their expectations, which had turned into hopes at his capacity and skill to be used in the defending of their lands from the threats of evil. They had fought alongside on countless occasions, and they knew each other, and most of the other members of the party, as well as they would know a brother. Yet, this time, he caught a look in the fair prince that was unfamiliar and strange in his nature, and this caused Linnathon to raise an eyebrow. 'I wonder what goes through his mind.' He was aware of the weariness he must be feeling, not only because he felt the same, but also because it showed in his countenance and posture. He walked upright, as he usually did, but his head was a little bent as if he stared into something close to the ground; but then, he was not staring at anything... his eyes and thoughts were far from them, even though his senses were more alert than ever, as could be seen by the tilting of his head whenever a slight noise broke the quietness of the woods.
Linnathon glanced at Edregol who looked eagerly in front of him. 'He has also noticed the prince's distress,' he thought. His eyes were now turned to Edregol. The slender figure of the dark haired elf walked speedily over the earthen path, but his eyes followed close on Legolas' movements. Edregol's anxiety roused Linnathon's concern, for Edregol knew his fellow warrior very well, and in his look, Linnathon was able to see his own thoughts reflected. 'The shadow of his duty weighs on him heavily. It must pain him to see our realm thus darkened by evil,' he thought, and he slightly smiled as Edregol caught his eyes. 'So much more darkened than we had expected.'
They continued to walk along, undisturbed as they had hitherto been since leaving the clearing by nightfall, yet Ninniach's words played in their minds again and again, even though faint rays of sunlight had reached them under the canopy of leaves that concealed the sky from view. Thus, the warriors advanced through the forest until, at last, a bright burst of light was seen in front of their path, not so distant from whence they were.
-"Look ahead!" -Meren was the first to talk, and in his excitement, raised his voice a little above a whisper. -"Look!"
The amount of light that fell upon the ground in front of them allowed them to catch glimpses of green foliage and of plants of different kinds and hues; dark and medium green leaves shone in the light, as well as yellow, red and orange; long and thin shapes of stems and limbs fell over the center of the light, and their bright colors shone in the light with such life that the hearts of the elves were gladdened. They were finally in Lonnath.
It took them only a few seconds to cover the distance to the sought refuge, and just the sight of it brought relief and hope to their wearied minds. Once in the clearing, the elves seemed to drink of the light that poured upon them as a thirsty beggar would feast on a beloved stream. The air was refreshed and pure; there, the birds chirped their melodious songs. The whole place reverberated with life, and the soothing influence of nature rested the hearts and healed their longings.
-"It brings me hope to see there is still one place that remains untouched by evil." -Medlin spoke at last, raising her head and looking around her with complacency. Cirion walked and sat by her side, at the time he took a bright green leaf in his hands and touched it gently.
-"One can let go of past worries in a place like this," -and he stopped, placing the leaf with care on her outstretched hand, -"I had almost forgotten how wonderful it feels to have nature speak to you!." -Toronath and Faelon smiled broadly, and they also sought for a seat beside their two companions, while Meren still stood with his arms wide open on the center of the clearing, as if bathing on its light.
After making sure that, indeed, the place had been undisturbed, and upon deciding on their relative safety if they tarried a while there, Maegron and Thalion also sat and for the first time closed their eyes for a moment. Linnathon observed their features seemed to relax in the comfort of a well deserved rest, and left them to find a place where he could sit as well. On the other side of the clearing, however, he caught sight of Edregol, Legolas, and Ninniach, who were still standing, and on approaching them discovered that they appeared reluctant to rest and seemed doubtful of the clearing's safety.
Ninniach was the first who turned and, with a rather distressed look, addressed him while she advanced in his direction.
-"Linnathon, do you think it prudent to rest unguarded?" -she said as her eyes strayed a little past him to the place where Maegron, Thalion, and the others were sitting, and Linnathon understood that they did not wish to leave their companions unprotected. -"We would rather stand watch now, and let you all rest while we can."- her lips curved into a smile.
The elf regarded her for a moment, and then looked at Legolas and Edregol, who were still intent on searching the surrounding woods for traces of the enemy. Just then he realized how much the darkness had affected his friends, making them distrustful and anxious.
-"I guess you are entitled to feel that way," -he said, sighing deeply. But startled by his own words and Ninniach's scrutinizing stare, he understood he had to be more specific. -"What I meant was, of course you are entitled to feel... unsafe everywhere, but life seems to grow undisturbed here. Look," -and with his eyes he urged her to look around them, where the quiet of nature drew a smile on the warrioress' face.
-"I suppose you are right, Linnathon. But, I cannot help feel the way I do. We have been so deceived as to the real power of the forces of the enemy, that I dare not make another mistake," - and she finally sat, placing her head in the midst of her fair hands. -"And yet, I do not feel any threat here, only... Only, my heart is unwilling to be at ease."
-"Then you have to fight that feeling. It does you no good, and prevents you of enjoying this fresh air while it is available. For a moment, I think, we can rest assured."
He lifted his head on finishing the sentence, and realized that both Edregol and Legolas had been listening with great attention. Edregol looked at them all, snorted, and sat by a nearby log. Legolas' expression relaxed, and slowly gave way to an ample smile. Ninniach and Linnathon were obviously pleased by the change, and beckoned him to sit by them.
-"Ease your mind, my friend," -said Linnathon as he put an arm on the prince's shoulder.
-"At least for the moment, allow yourself to enjoy in the quiet of this place. We have still a long march ahead, and might not be able to find anoher shelter as this before we reach the city."
-"Aha!" -Edregol yelled, while pointing his finger at Linnathon with a feigned mocking smile, -"I knew you could not be so confident on the safety of the journey!."- Ninniach and Legolas, both raised their eyes to the warrior, who in turn put up a defensive look.
-"I did not say I felt confident on the safety of the march, I only said I felt confident on the safety of the glade!"
-"Do not try to deceive us! You just bid us rest "assured", while you yourself won't close an eye!"
-"I only said that..."
The three elves laughed at his offended look, thus making him understand they were just teasing him, but his words affected them much more than he had foreseen. Silence fell among them once more, and for a while none lifted their heads again.
-"Meren! It is about time you stop that silly attitude, you look foolish!" -a general laugh arose among the elves, while they all looked at Meren who was still standing in the middle of the clearing, his arms outstretched and his eyes closed.
-"Come on, my friend! We do not want to get you melted under the Sun. Wouldn't it be disappointing if we had to report you dead by overscorching?"
The four elves laughed even harder, while Meren turned and glared at them.
-"Meren, son of Gelir, perished bravely under a cascade of raging... Sunlight!"
The laughs echoed in the woods, and all eyes were bent on the annoyed elf. He quietly walked toward his fellow warriors and sat, not without glaring at them all and throwing a branch at Toronath.
Medlin grinned. It was obvious that she was highly amused, yet upon seeing Meren's angered face bit her lip and forced herself to remain silent.
The whole affair had made Maegron and Thalion open their eyes, and they exchanged smiles of contentment. Maegron crossed his arms behind his head, and closed his eyes again. The captain, however, glanced and walked around for a moment, stopping by the side of Edregol at the other end of the clearing.
Ninniach smiled at him and nodded. She made it plain that indeed she felt better for his having taken a moment to consider his own needs and rested. Thalion acknowledged this, and nodded in return.
-"Sir, I am reluctant to think that we have reached safe lands," -said Edregol, -"but the power of the shadow seems to have left this place untouched in its passing. How long will we tarry here?"
-"As long as it takes us to recover our strength and energies. I hope it is not long, although one could wish to remain here forever."
-"I understand Edregol's thoughts," -said Ninniach, -"and I, too, whish we could find a safe place to tarry. But the sooner we get to Mirkwood, the better."
The hours of the afternoon arrived. Slowly, the rays of Ainur had become more bright as it reached its highest peak on its way through the heavens; and as slowly, they had begun to diminish, gathering again into one place. The light that fell over the glade had cast different angles of shadows on the objects around them all afternoon, and they knew it was not long before the earlier hours of the evening came. The elves sought the well deserved rest to their minds and spirits, and by now some of them were intent on examinig their traveling gear and their provisions.
Legolas had been reluctant to rest at first, but slowly his tired body gave way, and he allowed it to relax to the soft and peaceful songs of birds around him. Hearing the noises of nature made him much good. The silence of the previous hours almost drove him mad. It was despairing for an elf, a creature who is accustomed to hearing the sounds of nature that keep him company, not to hear anything at all. A gentle drizzle had fallen and the earth and leaves glittered faintly, turning the glade into a prism of dancing rays.
Legolas walked quietly, and sat besides Edregol, who was now wide awake and sharpening his battle knife. For a while, none of them spoke. Legolas observed the steady movements of his friend's hands as he drew the knife's blade against the whetting stone. The silver light of the metalic blade blinded him slightly, and the colored jewels on the elven hilt were brightened with the gray glow.
Edregol examined and tested the blade soberly, lifting it up to take a closer look, and grinned in satisfaction. He retrieved the blade to its sheath as calmly as he had taken it out, and then extended his empty hand to Legolas. The prince regarded his friend's look and hand for a moment, and then in a sudden burst of understanding took his own knife out of its sheath and handed it to his friend.
-"It has been long since the last time we were here, has it not my friend?" -Edregol addressed him quietly, while he began sharpening the elf's battle knife.
-"So it has, my friend," -was Legolas' response. Edregol was too familiar with his partner's quiet moods; however, this time he was not content to let it go that easy.
-"Something is troubling you."
Legolas shot him a surprised look. Edregol smiled at him, and continued with his work.
-"I had hoped you would disclose the matter of your own will. Yet, as I see it is unlikely to happen, I thought I should better bring it up myself."
Legolas drew back and leaned against the trunk of an oak. For a moment he sat silent and motionless, but after a few seconds, he turned and looked at his friend.
-"I guess I have been a little absent-minded lately."
-"Absent-minded?" -Edregol's look was all astonishment.-"Absent-minded! I do not think there has been a mind more bent on our present subject than yours! Well, maybe except for that of Thalion. Would you now tell me the truth, or will you make me guess as to the matter of your worries, prince of Mirkwood?"
Legolas smiled wryly. His friend had touched the one chord that was most likely to bring any response from him. Edregol knew this and smiled triumphantly to himself.
-"Mirkwood..." -Legolas sighed,-"The shadow that weighs over Mirkwood grows with the day. I was not aware as to how far it had spread, neither was my fa..." -he stopped, and his eyes glowered.
-"You should not worry too much over it," -Edregol tried to reassure his friend and divert his thoughts for the moment. Legolas was still angry, and at last had given any sign of it.
-"The darkness might be strong, but it has not overpowered us yet."
Legolas looked incredulously at him. 'Is it possible that Edregol still thinks everything is fine?'
-"Edregol, you have been a witness to the growing of the darkness in the forest, I do not think you can..."
-"Legolas, I know the shadow grows. But that is why we have come this far! We have come to evaluate the strength and power of this shadow, to report it, and to help in taking measures that will keep it away from our beloved lands, if not to destroy it completely."
Legolas regarded his friend for a few moments, and then smiled. As always, he knew Edregol felt he worried too much.
-"You migh be right. I should not take so much pains over it at present. The most important thing right now is to get home in the first place."
-"There you go! Now you get it. There is no use in worrying about the future if the present is still uncertain. Which brings me to another issue"
Edregol lifted the knife and tested the blade. He decided it was not sharp enough, so he drew the whetting stone again. Legolas' beautifully carved knife shone with the last rays of sunlight that fell on the glade, and the elven runes and gems were plainly seen on the hilt and blade.
"Legolas, thala ion o Taur e-Ndaedelos, hil an Thranduil o adab Oropher,"
Edregol read aloud the script engraved on the hilt and blade of the prince's battle knife with such an air of grandeur and ceremony that the elf's first response was to burst into laughter. Yet, after this sudden and unexpected reaction, the prince assumed again his silent and thoughtful manner; but this time a deep frown stroke his fair face, and he bit his curled lips as if he was angered.
''Tis too much like him! He will not say anything unless powerfully drawn! By the Valar, Legolas, what is it to be done with you!'
-"Legol..."
-"Hush, Edregol. Please," -the elven lord started, yet his eyes did not leave the knife in Edregol's hand. -"I do not wish to be reminded of any of that. I am very aware of my lineage and I know the extent of my duties. But I am not in the Palace now, and am no more than a warrior who has embarked in a very important mission. Let us leave it at that."
-"But," -Edregol's eyes turned to him and shone with a bright light, -"But, we cannot leave it at that, for I know much of that IS what troubles your mind. Sooner or later, hopefully sooner if we all want to make it out of this one; but sooner or later we will enter the city. You will be forced to face him again. What will you do? I thought you were over that already, but your attitude plainly shows me that it is not so!"
Legolas looked at him in return, and his eyes sparkled with an intense light. Edregol perceived the struggle inside his friend's mind and heart, but knew all too well there was nothing he, nor anyone else, could do to ease that burden. He had already been too straightforward. All he could do was wait for the truth to make way to Legolas' good sense. Legolas' fists were clenched and his brow arched, and his eyes shot piercing looks around him, but he said not a word. For the brief moments that he stood silent, Edregol did not know whether he was looking at the prince or the warrior; there was a thin line that separated both, and maybe not even Legolas himself was aware of it.
-"I will do what I do," -Legolas said at last,-"when the time comes. In the meantime, my friend," -and his tones softened a little, making him look more like his usual self, -"in the meantime, please know that I will do what is best for us and for Mirkwood."
Legolas glanced quickly at him, and then his gaze lowered to his hand where he still held the now sharpened knife. Knowing that his friend had realized he had already finished his task, he was obliged to retrieve the knife to its owner, and thus, to let the argument rest. However, Legolas' final words had been comforting and just what Edregol longed to hear. 'He knows what he must do. And he will do it.' With a half smile on his face, he took the whetting stone and put it back to its usual place in a small pouch he carried around his belt, and placing his own thoughts in order, he strode away.
Back at the center of the clearing, the rest of the warriors were employed on setting up camp for the evening. Thalion encountered the surprised gazes of Legolas and Edregol, and turning to them he explained their current situation.
-"As much as our eagerness drives us toward Mirkwood, we have already covered enough ground as to allow us this night of rest. I think it is wiser to regain our strength before pushing forward. This last stage shall be, perhaps, the most grievous of the whole journey."
Edregol was not slow to react to this words. As much as his usual temper did not make him hasty nor too impulsive, the captain's words surprised him deeply.
-"But, Thalion, how can it be that the closer we get to home, the harder the danger gets! I do not understand this."
Legolas, too, was rather taken aback by Thalion's communication. They had, indeed, thought that upon reaching Lonnath their journey would be taking them through safer paths. Yet Thalion's words suggested quite the opposite. He pondered the matter over for a while.
-"The Old Forest Road!" -a sudden gleam raced through his features as he briskly exclaimed,-"the place is swarmed with orcs from time to time! That is why it will be dangerous. And yet, we cannot avoid the pass."
-"Indeed, Legolas. On leaving Mirkwood we traveled through one of the sections of the road that has hitherto been untouched by orcs. But that path took us farther, and did not go through Lonnath. Upon returning, it was necessary that we chose the shorter route, and thus we are faced with that road and the threat of danger." -Thalion eyed both warriors, and his stern gaze softened at the faces in front of him who regarded him with such trust and fondness. -"We must make the best out of our time here. The real task will come after we leave."
Legolas knew what Thalion meant by the real task. The Old Road lead from the east of the Black Forest, coming down from the High Pass, and going through Mirkwood south of the mountains. The section they were to travel was flanked at both sides by a high wall of bulky trees growing so tight together that they resembled the slopes of a tall mountain. Any fight or battle would be very difficult there because the earth and trees formed a narrow gap, and there were really no easy means of escape going north or south through the wall of trees. Instead, the quickest way would be to go east or west; still, they were wood elves, and given the circumstance, the trees could prove indeed an ally before the ravaging orcs. The real peril lay, of course, on the possibility of an ambushment. Given the natural conditions of the terrain, the high walls offered concealment and sheltered the view of the other side. Orcs and other fell creatures could easily be hidden amongst the shrubberies, and await to strike their fatal wounds. What had before been a natural defense of Mirkwood's realm, was now turning into a powerful enemy.
Edregol approached the rest of the party, where he found nearly everyone occupied with some task or other. Cirion was the first to address him.
-"Come now, Edregol. We need to determine the amount of food we have left."
-"Ai!" -Meren sighed deeply, -"Do not tell me we begin on retrenched rations again!"-
Cirion glowered at him, and turned around unheeding his protest. Edregol could not help but smile. He knew just how much food and a good meal represented to his associate, and how the prospect of starvation seemed like the ultimate grief.
Legolas saw Linnathon and Faelon gathering wood from the surrounding bushes, and walked toward them trying to make himself useful, not without suppressing a chuckle on account of Meren.
-"Legolas!" -Faelon called, and handled him a pile of brush, -"This might be just enough to start a fire. Yet we will need more to last through the night."
His puzzled expression revealed that he did not understand the reason for this.
-"Yes, Legolas. A fire in the night would plainly reveal our whereabouts and make us a target of the enemy but..."
-"But, it will be our ally tonight in keeping them at bay." -Ninniach's voice broke in.
-"Although they know that we are here, no wolves, orcs, or spiders, will dare approach an elven fire at night."
Dusk came softly over the glade of Lonnath. Trees grew all around, except for a large circle of earth and brush that constituted the center of the clearing. Above the highest branches of the surrounding trees, the wood elves were able to distinguish the first stars of the evening, and the moon's round face suddenly appeared. The smooth surfaces of leaves glimmered with moonlight, and the merry noise of birds and forest dwellers that had filled the glade in the brightest hours had now subsided, giving way to the ongoing song of crickets, owls, and the creatures of the night.
A bright, sparkling fire, spread its flames from the center of the glade, casting shadows in the objects nearer to it, and in the faces of the elves. A large pile of brush and withered branches was placed on one of the edges of the clearing. Night closed in, and so far, it had passed undisturbed. If there were any foul beasts around, they had no made their presence known.
-"I tell you again, this might not be enough for me to survive the pass tomorrow!" -Meren had tried all night to produce a valid argument that could prove the need of supplying him with a decent amount of food. -"You said it yourself, Ninniach, and I recall Thalion saying it as well, the march tomorrow will be wearisome. We need all our warriors in the best of shapes! That includes me, of course!"
-"Indeed, Meren, the best of shapes! I can see no better reason why you should be left without tonight; a little more food and you will not be able to walk at all!"
They all chuckled, and some even laughed out loud. Thalion had explained to them in all plainnes the road they would have to travel the next day before reaching the Mirkwood mountains. Their journey had already taken them longer that they had foreseen, and in the southern parts of the forest food had been scarce, so they were running out of provisions.
-"If we travel at the same rate we have the last few days, I'd say we can reach Mirkwood in a little over a week."
-"Do you think we can make it so fast, Faelon?" -asked Toronath. He was fully aware that on regular conditions the journey would take them at least a fortnight.
-"We have to make it work. The supplies may not last that long."
-"Not longer than a week!" -Meren's distressed look was enough to set the rest to worry about their fate. -"You know it is not possible we reach Mirkwood before that. We are yet too far, and unexpected battles may delay us even more! Thalion, how long do you think it will take us to reach the Old Road?"
Thalion was gazing out in the night. He had been sitting a little farther from the rest, but on hearing himself addressed, he drew closer and sat by a rather large boulder, close to the pile of brush.
-"The Old Road..." -he took his hand to his chin and curled his lips,-"What think you Maegron? I dare say we make it in a half and a day, if not sooner. I do not suspect we will have much trouble before we get there, but once arrived..."
-"So, a day and a half to get to the Road." -Cirion started, trying to determine the length and the distance that lay between them and Mirkwood. -"Then I say two days before getting to the mountains. Will we march through the mountains now, or will we make it for the pass near the river?"
The company's original plan had been to go through the mountains upon their return. Their mission had been to go south and evaluate the extent of the power of darkness. They had been witnesses of the great hold the shadow had exercised over the Black Forest. But now they had to decide whether to follow their design and go through the mountains of Mirkwood, or to look for some other way that might take them back in less time.
-"The Mountains will take us too long, longer than we can afford now." -Maegron's stern voice sounded in the night like a foreboding. Indeed, if they chose to travel the route of the mountains, they would not reach Mirkwood before they ran out of food.
-"We might as well take the river," -said Faelon. -"Either route is far, and none take us straight to Mirkwood. But, if we pursue the river, we might be able to gather food and water, which we will require in a short time. I say we take the eastern path after we cross the road to the north. Then we reach the river, and then on in a straight line to the city."
The elves were silent for a while. Each of them was pondering which would be the wisest choice, for they had been sent with a mission, and they shuddered to think they would not be able to fulfill it. Yet, it was also important to reach Mirkwood and inform about their findings. After a moments' musing, Ninniach spoke again.
-"I agree with Faelon," -and she nodded to him. -"I say we take the river."
A few nods followed this remark. Thalion's face was grave, but at last, he also nodded and stood up.
-"Then it is settled. We make it to the river. We will not have excuses to slow the march, for the terrain will not be a hard one to tread. The only delay will be then... any unexpected encounter."
After this, Thalion said no more. They drew lots for watches. Only two were appointed this night, and they were Medlin and Cirion; they would switch turn every other hour, and so the rest made it for their beds, and allowed their minds to wander through the land of dreams.
All, except for Legolas. He retreated to one of the corners of the glade, and leaned his back against a large boulder by the edge of the bank of trees. The gray stone felt very cold and rough, and Legolas shuddered with memories that came back at the sensation this coldness produced. He had indeed wandered far in his travels. The journeys he had undertaken with the war parties of Mirkwood had carried him to places he had only been able to see in his dreams when he was younger. He had been to very unpleasant places, where he had felt trapped and strayed from all life, and such recollections came running to him at the contact with the cold surface of the stone. He had also been to places whose beauty it was hard for him to put in words. Yet now, he was approaching the one place which should be most dear to his heart, but instead was the most dreaded; he was approaching the elven halls of Mirkwood.
It was not hard for him to see why he did not wish to be back; only, his mind was reluctant to acknowledge it. He had kept this feeling away, he had fought the thought of it for quite a while; far too long, as some would say. But, Edregol's words had brought it all out again, and now, as unpleasant as it was, he was forced to deal with it.
He twisted his lips, an unmistakable sign that he was dealing with something unpleasant to him. But it was more. His own attitude angered him. He thought the whole affair to be over, locked in the past. And yet, the prospect of having to face matters again distressed him in a way that he did not thought possible.
'It is ridiculous on my part to be concerned with this subject any longer! I am not a child anymore. I am not HIS child anymore!'
Legolas' eyes flickered with a bright glow. His strong hands took hold of a nearby branch, and he started playing with it. He regarded it for a while, and drew his knife out to even the streaky surface; but the elven runes glimmered with the light of the fire that reached him; the engravings that declared the lineage of his ancestors sparkled at him. 'I have faced him before, and I will again!.' He snapped the branch in two.
-"I see you are still awake, Legolas"
-"I did not realize you had not slept yet, Thalion," -was all Legolas managed to say. Dwelling in his own thoughts, he had not heard Thalion approach; but now, the elf was seated by his side, and had taken in his hands one of the pieces of the broken branch. Legolas eyed him with the corner of his eye, but did not turn to him. He continued to carve the remaining piece of wood with his knife.
-"Do you fear for our road?"
Legolas had not expected this question. 'Surely he did not come to me to discuss this matter!'
-"I have traveled long enough to feel that every mile we race comes with its own perils to face. I know what we are up against; in truth, I do not expect an easy march."
-"That does not answer my question, Legolas"
The warrior studied the captain's face. 'Where does he want to go with this?'
-"A warrior's life is threatened every day, and even every minute. Yet this is the life I have chosen for myself..."
-"Is it?" -Thalion interrupted. -"We have known each other for long, my young friend. And I have known you even longer. Life is not easy for a warrior, and it has not been easy for you. But your situation is different than that of the rest of us."
Legolas' hands stopped. It dawned on him that Thalion would now address a subject that he had hoped to avoid.
-"You are not to learn now my opinion about yourself, Legolas. You are a highly accomplished warrior, and even a better elf. You are everything we had hoped you'd be, and much more. But fate sometimes chooses our paths for us, and the designs of Iluvatar are not known to us with limited knowledge. Seek to find your fate, my friend; do not run from it."
-"I do not run, Thalion. I am trying to do what I feel I must. I will always strive to do my duty, even though unpleasant."
-"Yes, I know that. It is why I tell you this. Are you eager to be back?"
A frown stroke across the younger elf's countenance. Legolas had not expected such a forward question. He could not avoid the answer.
-"I wish to be back to report what we have seen." -The studious choice of words surprised Thalion. His trainee was too careful to incur into any blunder or compromising statements.
-"Should I, then, understand that you are anxious to be back only to inform of your findings? Do you not wish to be home?"
Legolas closed his eyes and bit his lips. Thalion observed that the grip on the knife hardened. 'Why is everybody eager to address me on this matter. It is no one's business, but my own!'
-"If you mean to ask me if I am anxious to see my father again, the answer is No!"
-Thalion withdrew a little at the prince's boldness. It was his turn now to be surprised. Legolas had grown, indeed, too fast for him to notice. And obviously, too fast for the king as well.
-"Legolas, we've had this conversation before; yet, something tells me this time it is different. I know you left Mirkwood.."
-"I left Mirkwood," -Legolas cut in, trying to stop Thalion before he said something more,-"to aid in the search for means to maintain our lands free. My father knows this, and even if he does not approve he has to accept it, for it is MY choice." -He turned to him in his upright manner, and his face lifted up in all the dignity of his presence. Legolas had a royal air that was impossible to conceal or disguise. -"You have long known that my father and I differ in thought and actions. It should be no mystery to you why a meeting with him after a long absence would be everything but pleasing."
He lowered his eyes and stared at the night. Thalion was startled by this sudden change in the prince's mood, but the prince himself was even more so at his own words. Legolas was extremely reserved and quiet of temper, perhaps at a higher degree than most elves. It had been, indeed, a great change to reveal so much of his own feelings to someone else. Thalion knew this, and for a while could not find any words to say. He had expected he'd have to drag out of Legolas a confession of his own worries, yet he had just stated the fact to him.
-"I see," -was all the answer Thalion could command, but he observed that Legolas already regretted the sudden outburst.
-"If you worry about any savageness or a rash deed on my part, do not trouble yourself anymore, Thalion," -and Legolas forced himself to grin.-"I owe my father the respect he deserves, and I will act accordingly."
-"I do not expect anything less of you, Legolas. But let me tell you this," -he paused, and wavered. Saying the words was even harder to him than he had expected, -"he is your father. I do not need to tell what feelings become a father's nature."
Legolas looked once more at the knife in his hands. The gems and jewels encrusted on the hilt flickered with the colors of the rainbow. The elven script shone like letters of flame, bright and as thin as air, piercing as a dagger.
-"That is your due, my lord. That is you inheritance. Always remember it."
The night passed quietly, and when dawn came the elves were recovered and ready for the journey ahead. They left with the first rays of sun, some regretting that so soon they had to leave such a tranquil place. Yet leave they must, and no delays would be permitted from this point on.
Their spirits were relieved, and they journeyed fast and steady. The murmurs of nature accompanied them during the way, and they felt more confident than they had in a long time, even though they were deeply conscious of the perils they would have to encounter before reaching safer lands.
They traveled for a long time, only halting the required time to take their repast and rest briefly. Even at night they did travel; if they were to face danger, it rather be done as fast as possible, than delay it and be too late. They continued their march thus, aided by Ithil's light, and by a desire to cross the road that drove them on.
At last, in the distance, they were able to distinguish a dark shadow, not black but brown, that stood taller than the rest of the forest.
-"There it is," -Linnathon said in a whisper. -"The borders of the Old Forest Road."
The tall shadow emerged from the woods like a menacing fortress. Those had to be the tallest, most sturdy trees the elves had ever seen; and yet as wood-elves, they had not found them so threatening before. But, under the present circumstances, they seemed like unsurmountable walls.
-"Let us go as fast as we can." -Thalion said with a grave tone. It was plain to the other that he was trying to stress the need for speed. -"Let us travel fast and alert! There might be creatures in these surroundings that we do not expect."
At the orders of the captain, the warriors searched quietly but in great speed to get their weapons at hand. Anything could be expected now. All dwarves, men, and even the keen elves, avoided any route that took them through the Old Forest Road, and there they were, racing themselves into danger. It was not only a contest for time, it was also a contest for skill. If what they feared was true and they were assailed by a party of ravaging orcs or other creatures, they would have to be extremely careful and precise in all their moves; they could not indulge in any blunder or lack of attention, for their own sakes and that of their companions.
As they approached the wall, the trees seemed to grow taller and more threatening. The dark shadow already surrounded them, when they beheld at the other side a bright, narrow stripe. They could see the road.
-"We are almost there. Steady and fast!"
The party continued the march, making it's way through the fortress of trees. Wih every step, the light grew brighter. Once they reached the other end, the pressing danger would be almost over.
-"Steady and fast!"
The fear of an evil presence dwelt in the hearts of the elves. The more deep they delved into the shadow, the stronger the feeling got. Forcing their way through the borders of the road was as hard as any engaged battle. The feeling of evil was pressing, very pressing...
-"Aahhh!"
A piercing cry rent the air. The elves turned around to see a bulky form struggling at the back of the line.
-"Ungol!"
The bright eyes of a giant spider glanced at them, while with its legs it kept Faelon a prisoner.
Legolas quickly released an arrow right to the round eye. The spider screeched and relinquished its hold of Faelon. It did not take long for the rest of the company to arm an attack against the beast. Ninniach and Medlin ran to their injured partner, while the others drew arrows at the creature, which although hurt, did not seem to stop on its pursue of them.
Legolas swiftly grabbed another arrow and was about ready to set it on the bow, when he felt something stay his hand. He turned around and found himself face to face with the red eyeball of a spider.
-"Legolas!" -Edregol shouted, at the time he ran to his friend.
Legolas tried with all his might to get his arm lose, but the strength of the leg that held him was almost overpowering. With a quick motion, he reached for his knife and battled fiercely to get past the many legs in front of him to pierce the spider's body with his blade. They were engaged in a deadly struggle. Edregol mounted the creature's back, but the arachnid was too strong. Legolas felt the spider's claws renting his shirt, and he knew he had to make the move fast. Just as they were battling for their freedom from this monster, a savage growl arose from the other bank of the forest.
The air filled with echoes of the violent cries; they seemed to reach even further than elven eyesight. There were too many and too loud. The elves knew they were surrounded.
-"Yrch!, Yrch!"
Author's notes: Well, here it is. What do you think? Please, let me know your comments, any ideas, any thing that can make the writing better. Hope you enjoyed it, and please review!
Now, I'll be working hard on the next chapter. I can't wait to have the elves arriving at Mirkwood!!
One other thing: I'll be updating Lady of Leicaren soon. I am already working on chapter 7, I just got so excited about The Return of the Shadow that left the other one for a while, but next chapter will be up soon.
Here are the translations to the elvish words for this chapter:
Mor maeg, mor utulie, mor dar -the darkness is piercing, the darkness has come, the darkness remains.
Legolas, thala ion o Taur e-Ndaedelos, hil an Thranduil o adab Oropher -Legolas, stalwart son of Mirkwood, heir to Thranduil from the house of Oropher.
Ungol-spider
Yrch-Orc
Taur e-Ndaedelos -this is Sindarin for Mirkwood "forest of he great fear."