AJ Matthews – Yeah. Elrond was being a bit rude, but its cool now (I
think), so don't slap him! Please!! I'm sure he can be quite formidable
when roused!
Adinaj69 – Hi hi! I'm an Elrond worshiper, too, so it was nice to hear from you!! I'm glad that you are enjoying the Adventures of a Blue-Eyed Orc!
LOTR lover – What can I say. Legolas and I make a very daring team. And I found the exchanges quite amusing myself. Glad I made you laugh!!
Alliwantisanelfforchristmas – Glad that you enjoyed the teapot episode. So did I. The Elves singing were the Mirkwood Elves, though I suspect that the Rivendell crew will get the hang of it soon. I didn't realize it at the time, but yes, Elu did sound like Sam there for a moment. What can I say. I like Sam, too. And, yeah, I had to get that in about being raised by Orcs!!
Jan – Elu put way too much Vandal Root into the tea. But, hey, it worked!! And I am sure that Elrond will try to help him, since we all know how much Elrond loves Orcs!! (heh heh)
JastaElf – I thought you would get a kick out of my little homage!! Glad they gave you the giggles. You are welcome to use all the Vandal Root you can handle! Just beware. It's some serious stuff! And I thought that Elrond was the perfect one to use the line about killing Orcs and eating them. You know I couldn't resist that one!! And do you really think that elegant Glorfindel would whack Arwen on the head and throw her in a ditch! That might make Elrond mad, don't you think. (hee hee)
Shinigamio – Glad you liked that little exchange. And I'm glad that you think I got our favorite Elf Lord's reaction right.
Horus – Here's some more. Yay to you for your stories!! Everyone go read them!!
Rings of the cosmos – Nope. Elrond doesn't like him too much. But who can blame him. Maybe he'll see the light soon!
Ayod Botla – Yup. Elrond liked his Happy Pills too much it seems. I guess your Happy Dance worked. This one came pretty fast. Alarmingly!!
Elu was sitting in a secluded garden, far from the more trafficked walkways, gardens, and courtyards. Overhead the stars burned brightly and the sound of falling water carried to his ears. It was a very peaceful night, as were all nights in Imladris. He was trying to compose a song to sing before Elrond, but it was slow in coming. He wore his hood, as he usually did though everyone was aware of his presence. Not all were happy to have an Orc here in their midst, but Elrond had made it known that the Orc was a guest, and everyone at least had to accept him as that. Many had tried to catch a glimpse of him, which was why he still wore his hood pulled protectively about his head. It was somewhat disconcerting to have everyone speaking about you as though you weren't there. And some of the things he had overheard them say were anything but polite. He had expected that, but it didn't make it any easier. He was indeed an oddity, as Elrohir called him.
The twins seemed somewhat more accepting of him, especially Elrohir. He was a playful Elf and when Elu asked him to tell of some of his adventures with Elladan, he had gladly complied. Then Elrohir had asked Elu to tell his own tales. It had helped their relationship to blossom. And the Lady Arwen, she was kindness itself. He learned that she was betrothed to the Ranger Dunadan, which the Orc found hard to believe. Why would the daughter of an Elf Lord – and not just any Elf Lord, but Elrond himself – pledge herself to a Mortal Man, and a Ranger at that. But when he had questioned her, she had merely smiled at him.
"All things will be made clear someday, Elu." She had said.
Indeed, not much was clear to the Orc at this point.
Elrond's rather surprising request for the Orc to sing for them was suspect. He knew that Elrond was not exactly thinking clearly at the time he had made the offer. Mithrandir had assured him that there would be no lasting effects from the Elf Lord having consumed too much Vandal Root tea, but the Orc was not as certain. He would not again make it that strong. True, Elrond had been civil to him the next time he had seen the Orc, he had even thanked him for helping his headache, but that had been all. So perhaps the Istari's assumption had been correct.
Elu shook his head. Such thoughts were not conducive to composing songs.
He had thought of a few lines and he sang them quietly, glad that he was alone. Or so he thought.
Someone had heard the strange, gruff voice singing in Elvish, and had moved to peer into the garden. Silent feet carried the diminutive visitor nearer, his eyes on the hooded and cloaked figure on the stone bench. He cleared his throat.
"I hope I am not disturbing you." He said.
Elu jumped and turned toward the voice.
"I am sorry. I didn't mean to startle you."
The Orc stared down at the small person before him. He noted the curly white hair and bright blue eyes above the smiling mouth. A soft shawl was wrapped about the slightly stooped shoulders. Most amazing, other than the lack of stature, was the curling hair on his feet.
"What are you?" He stammered out, before he had a chance to think.
The person laughed good-naturedly.
"Rather a blunt fellow, aren't you." He said. "I, good sir, am a Hobbit. Bilbo Baggins at your service." He bowed and then smiled up at Elu.
"A Hobbit?" The Orc shook his head. He had never heard of Hobbits before.
"Yes. From the Shire. In the west." Bilbo added seeing that the tall fellow in the hood had obviously never heard of the Shire either. Not everyone could be well traveled as he was, he supposed. "And who are you?"
The Orc hesitated, his name on the tip of his tongue. This little person would probably flee when he realized to whom he was speaking.
"I am from Mirkwood." He answered at last.
"Mirkwood? Ah! I have been there. Rather a dreary place though, isn't it."
"Dreary? No. It is quite beautiful."
Bilbo laughed.
"Of course I am sure you think it is. And I suppose that parts of it are. But don't you find it horrid to live there with all those spiders and things?"
Elu shrugged. He had never thought much about the spiders. But he could see that the little stranger wanted a better answer than that.
"Well, we were attacked by Spiders on our way here."
"Really? Tell me about it." The Hobbit quickly made himself comfortable on the bench and patted it, encouraging Elu to join him. "I do love stories. I have a few of my own, you know. You will have to read them sometime."
Elu stared at him in amazement. He had never met such a charming, boisterous companion. He wondered if all Hobbits were this way. He sat down by Bilbo, staring at him in amazement. Slowly he began to tell about their adventure as they neared the Old Forest Road and the three Spiders. The old Hobbit would interrupt occasionally to ask for more details, but he was an excellent audience and Elu warmed to his subject and the tale seemed more marvelous in the telling than it had been in actuality.
"Oh, I say, that is a marvelous tale! I do wish I had brought a bit of paper with me. You wouldn't mind if I wrote that down, would you?"
Elu shook his head.
"No. I…I would be honored."
Bilbo smiled.
"Good. But you may have to come and help me. My memory isn't as sharp as it used to be. I have to write everything down now if I want to remember it correctly. And that song that you were singing. Did you write it yourself?"
"Uh, yes. It is not finished and well…I do not think it is very good." He shrugged.
"Nonsense. It sounded quite good to me. I write songs myself. Of course here everyone writes songs it seems. And the longer the better. Well, you know how Elves are. Well, Hobbits, too. We love a good tale or song when there is fire on the hearth, and plenty of food and ale, and a good smoke afterwards. Speaking of which-" Bilbo reached into his jacket and pulled out his pipe and a pack of Old Toby. He offered the pipe to Elu.
"I…I have never…"
"Oh! Well, you should try. It is quite relaxing I assure you. Helps the thought process, too." He pulled another pipe from his jacket and handed it to the stunned Orc.
"You've never told me your name and I've just rambled on and on. I apologize."
"I – uh – My name is Elu Heneb."
"Elu Heneb, eh. Blue-Eyed." Bilbo's eyes twinkled. "Yes. I know some Elvish myself. I even taught some to my nephew Frodo. He is on his way here as well from what I understand. You'll like him, a fine upstanding lad. Very adventurous for a Hobbit. Like his uncle. And he is part Brandybuck after all." Bilbo chuckled. He helped the Orc pack the leaves into the bowl and lit the pipe. Elu drew in a cautious breath and immediately began to choke.
"Oh dear. I should have warned you about that. Here, here. Try again."
The Orc hesitantly drew a second breath of smoke, but managed not to swallow it. He wasn't certain that he enjoyed this "pleasure", but he wanted to please the Hobbit who was puffing away happily.
"Watch this." Bilbo blew a perfect ring of smoke that floated up and away on the night breeze. "Now old Gandalf, he shows off with his smoke rings. Not just rings, mind you. Ships and trees, stars. Well, anything he wants. And they change colors, too. But well, why don't you have a go at it."
Elu took in a mouthful of smoke and tried to force it into a neat ring, but only a puff emerged. Finally something resembling a circle seemed to emerge from his lips. Bilbo laughed, slapping him on the arm.
"Very good. You just need practice. You'll get it."
Elu smiled, but felt badly, knowing that he was hiding the fact that he was an Orc from the Hobbit. He wanted so badly to make friends that he was very reluctant to admit that he wasn't a Mirkwood Elf. But that wasn't fair. He sighed.
"Mr. Baggins, I –"
"Oh, just call me Bilbo. Everyone else does."
"Very well, Bilbo. I need to tell you that I am not an Elf."
"What? Oh, that. Yes, yes, I know."
"You do? But-"
Bilbo laughed again.
"Your voice gave you away. I have met a few Elves in my time and their voices never sounded like that."
"Oh."
"You're the Orc, aren't you? Or at least I supposed that was who you were."
"You knew I was an Orc?"
"Of course. Everyone knows about you. You're famous here. Almost as famous as me." He winked at Elu, who stared at him in disbelief. "I've never met any Orcs before. Met a few Trolls in my days. And Goblins." He shuddered. "Nasty things all of them. But you seem nice enough."
A burst of laughter nearly broke from Elu's lips. Nice. Not usually a word associated with his kind.
"There you are, Elu. I was –" Legolas halted as his eyes fell on the small figure seated beside his friend. "I'm sorry. I wasn't aware that anyone else was here."
Bilbo hopped off the seat and bowed at the tall Elf.
"Bilbo Baggins, at your service."
Legolas returned the bow, his hand over his heart.
"Legolas Greenleaf."
Bilbo smiled and moved to stand before him, gazing up into the other's blue eyes.
"You are King Thranduil's kin, aren't you? You do have that look about you."
Legolas stared at him in amazement.
"Yes. You know my father?"
"Oh, yes. Quite well. Well…not that well, but we did meet. Quite a courteous fellow really. It was during the War of the Five Armies."
"You were there?" Legolas stared at him at him in amazement. "Bilbo Baggins? Yes! I remember you now. I am sorry. So many years have passed and -"
Bilbo chuckled.
"Yes. Time has caught up with me at last. I'm not like you Elves, you know. I have aged a bit."
Elu stared at the two in wonder. They knew one another? That was unexpected.
"So old Elu here is your friend?" Bilbo said, smiling at the Orc once more. "Gloin told me that the Mirkwood Elves had brought an Orc with them. Well, well. He-er-they - the Lonely Mountain Dwarves - have not truly forgiven your father for imprisoning them all those years ago. Or your wanting part of old Smaug's treasure. If there is one thing I know about Dwarves it is that they have long and rather harsh memories. Especially when it comes to their pride. Or their gold."
"Gloin?" Elu asked, glancing from one to the other.
"Yes. Didn't Legolas here tell you about the time they caught the Dwarves in Mirkwood on their way to the Lonely Mountain? No? Well, perhaps we will have time to tell it here. After all I was there and so was Gloin. And of course Legolas here. Should make an interesting tale with all these different views on things."
"One of those Dwarves was part of Thorin Oakenshield's company?" Legolas asked, filling with trepidation.
"Yes. Has his son with him I believe. Nice chap. Gimmy or some such. Small world, isn't it."
Legolas frowned. Too small, he thought sourly. Wait until he told his father who else had been here at Elrond's house. But then he remember his reason for searching for the Orc.
"Elu, Lord Elrond wants to speak with you. I have spoken to him about –" He paused and glanced at Bilbo. "Uh, about your…ailment. He says he will be willing to help you if he can."
"Oh, Elrond is a great Healer. I'm certain that whatever is troubling you, he will be able to find a cure." Bilbo reassured him. "Do you mind if I walk with you for a bit? I was going to head back that way anyhow. I am working on my own song. They do try to humor me here." He chuckled, packing away the empty pipes. "Perhaps we should compose one together. Maybe something humorous. You know, something about the evils of Vandal Root tea." He winked at the Orc again. Indeed, some stories traveled very quickly through Imladris. "Though I do not think that would amuse Elrond very much. He doesn't always appreciate humor written about himself."
Legolas watched as the two smiled at each other, then laughed heartily. He was pleased that Elu seemed to have found someone to talk with other than himself and the others from Mirkwood. Though he hadn't the slightest idea why Vandal Root tea was so funny. He hadn't heard that particular story.
The three walked slowly down the path, enjoying the night air, each contented with the silence. But when they neared Elrond's rooms they heard the sound of chaos and fear.
"No, bring him in here immediately. There is not much time. Hurry!"
The three moved forward to see, several Elves clustered in the courtyard. One was carrying a small burden wrapped in a green cloak. A pair of furry feet was just visible beneath it.
Bilbo gasped and clasped Elu's hand for support.
"Frodo?" He cried and then ran toward the Elves. "Frodo!"
Legolas turned to Elu, whose eyes were filled with sorrow.
"That is his nephew. I wonder what has happened." The Orc said in concern.
Legolas shook his head. Something was happening, but he couldn't fathom what.
They moved into the courtyard standing in silence listening to the sound of voices from inside Elrond's room, several more people came rushing into the courtyard.
"Where is he?" A small figure demanded. "Where have they taken Mr. Frodo?"
Legolas stared down at the Hobbit in wonder. The face beneath the mop of dark blonde curls was filled with fear and determination.
"He is with Lord Elrond, little one. Fear not. They will tend to him. All will be well."
Sam's eyes darted toward the room and he rushed past the stunned Elf and ran into the room.
Two other Hobbits were there, faces pinched with fear and anxiety. They looked over at the blonde Elf and the hooded figure at his side. Glorfindel moved to stand behind them.
"He will be well, Meriadoc and Peregrin. Do not fear. I will take you somewhere where you may rest and refresh yourselves."
"No." The stouter of the two said, turning to the Elf Lord, his face filling with stubbornness. He crossed his arms over his chest. "We won't leave until we know how Frodo is. Right, Pip?"
The smaller one with chestnut curls nodded, his blue grey eyes wide. He looked very young and very frightened.
Glorfindel sighed.
"Very well, but please wait here and let Lord Elrond work his Healing."
The two Hobbits glanced at one another, then Merry nodded. They would wait.
Legolas turned to look at Elu who was staring at the room where they had taken the wounded Frodo.
"I should be doing something to help." The Orc said quietly.
But at that moment someone else entered the courtyard.
"Estel!" Legolas cried out and ran to meet the Ranger.
Aragorn relaxed into the Elf's embrace, exhaustion eating through him.
"Legolas, how are you?"
"I am well. But you. You're injured!"
Aragorn shook his head.
"It is nothing. Just a scratch."
Elu went into immediate action. He turned to an Elf standing near the entrance of the courtyard and sent him running for bandages. He dug in his ever-present pouch pulling out packets and bundles. Then he went to a fountain bubbling happily in the corner and filled a basin at its base with water.
"Come, Dunadan. Sit here. I will tend you."
Aragorn scowled in surprise.
"Egla Ash?" He murmured. "I thought – " His eyes widened and moved to the Elf prince.
Legolas lead him to the bench indicated, pushing him gently down. He eased the torn shirtsleeve away from the gash in the Ranger's arm. Elu crumbled herbs into the water. Glorfindel stared in amazement at the figure on his knees before Aragorn. Who was this?
"I need hot water." He said, and the tall golden Elf himself nodded and found himself going to fetch it.
"What happened, Estel?" Legolas asked, studying the other's weary features.
"That is a long tale I would rather not speak of now, nin mellon. But why are you here?"
"We are Mirkwood's representatives to the Council. And to tell you that - " Then he paused, remembering his other less pleasant task would not please the Ranger at all. So he bit back the words that had risen. All would be told later. He smiled slightly, laying his hand on the Ranger's shoulder. "It is good to see you again. I was worried about you."
Aragorn winced as Elu tied the bandage deftly about his arm.
"You have a tale to tell as well, I see." He said, staring down at the Orc. "I am interested in hearing it." The Ranger remembered the night he had lain near Hobbiton, fear for his friend eating through him. Yet Legolas was here now and seemed well and whole. Many tales would need telling it seemed.
Glorfindel had arrived with the hot water, a strange expression on his beautiful face.
"You are Elu?" He asked, staring at the hooded being on the ground.
"Yes."
Glorfindel's fair brows knit.
"Lord Elrond said to tell you that when you have finished ministering to Dunadan he would like for you to join him in the Healing of the young Hobbit. He feels that you might be able to help."
Elu gasped and looked up.
"And he also said to tell you that you were not, under any circumstances, to give Dunadan any Vandal Root tea."
Elu gaped up at him, his face reddening. Then he nodded. He made a tea for the Ranger, but left the Vandal Root packet unopened. He stood looking at Legolas and then at all the others.
"Excuse me." He murmured, standing and bowing to Glorfindel, and moved to the room where Frodo lay, a look of confusion and hope on his face.
"What was all that about?" Aragorn asked, sipping the hot tea, his eyes on the Orc.
Legolas shrugged.
"I know not. It has been an interesting three days."
*Thanks to Jan for the idea of having Elu assist Elrond in Frodo's Healing. I hadn't thought of that, but it worked out nicely. (BIG GRIN TO JAN)
And – LOL - I like Bilbo a lot. Can't tell that, can you?
Adinaj69 – Hi hi! I'm an Elrond worshiper, too, so it was nice to hear from you!! I'm glad that you are enjoying the Adventures of a Blue-Eyed Orc!
LOTR lover – What can I say. Legolas and I make a very daring team. And I found the exchanges quite amusing myself. Glad I made you laugh!!
Alliwantisanelfforchristmas – Glad that you enjoyed the teapot episode. So did I. The Elves singing were the Mirkwood Elves, though I suspect that the Rivendell crew will get the hang of it soon. I didn't realize it at the time, but yes, Elu did sound like Sam there for a moment. What can I say. I like Sam, too. And, yeah, I had to get that in about being raised by Orcs!!
Jan – Elu put way too much Vandal Root into the tea. But, hey, it worked!! And I am sure that Elrond will try to help him, since we all know how much Elrond loves Orcs!! (heh heh)
JastaElf – I thought you would get a kick out of my little homage!! Glad they gave you the giggles. You are welcome to use all the Vandal Root you can handle! Just beware. It's some serious stuff! And I thought that Elrond was the perfect one to use the line about killing Orcs and eating them. You know I couldn't resist that one!! And do you really think that elegant Glorfindel would whack Arwen on the head and throw her in a ditch! That might make Elrond mad, don't you think. (hee hee)
Shinigamio – Glad you liked that little exchange. And I'm glad that you think I got our favorite Elf Lord's reaction right.
Horus – Here's some more. Yay to you for your stories!! Everyone go read them!!
Rings of the cosmos – Nope. Elrond doesn't like him too much. But who can blame him. Maybe he'll see the light soon!
Ayod Botla – Yup. Elrond liked his Happy Pills too much it seems. I guess your Happy Dance worked. This one came pretty fast. Alarmingly!!
Elu was sitting in a secluded garden, far from the more trafficked walkways, gardens, and courtyards. Overhead the stars burned brightly and the sound of falling water carried to his ears. It was a very peaceful night, as were all nights in Imladris. He was trying to compose a song to sing before Elrond, but it was slow in coming. He wore his hood, as he usually did though everyone was aware of his presence. Not all were happy to have an Orc here in their midst, but Elrond had made it known that the Orc was a guest, and everyone at least had to accept him as that. Many had tried to catch a glimpse of him, which was why he still wore his hood pulled protectively about his head. It was somewhat disconcerting to have everyone speaking about you as though you weren't there. And some of the things he had overheard them say were anything but polite. He had expected that, but it didn't make it any easier. He was indeed an oddity, as Elrohir called him.
The twins seemed somewhat more accepting of him, especially Elrohir. He was a playful Elf and when Elu asked him to tell of some of his adventures with Elladan, he had gladly complied. Then Elrohir had asked Elu to tell his own tales. It had helped their relationship to blossom. And the Lady Arwen, she was kindness itself. He learned that she was betrothed to the Ranger Dunadan, which the Orc found hard to believe. Why would the daughter of an Elf Lord – and not just any Elf Lord, but Elrond himself – pledge herself to a Mortal Man, and a Ranger at that. But when he had questioned her, she had merely smiled at him.
"All things will be made clear someday, Elu." She had said.
Indeed, not much was clear to the Orc at this point.
Elrond's rather surprising request for the Orc to sing for them was suspect. He knew that Elrond was not exactly thinking clearly at the time he had made the offer. Mithrandir had assured him that there would be no lasting effects from the Elf Lord having consumed too much Vandal Root tea, but the Orc was not as certain. He would not again make it that strong. True, Elrond had been civil to him the next time he had seen the Orc, he had even thanked him for helping his headache, but that had been all. So perhaps the Istari's assumption had been correct.
Elu shook his head. Such thoughts were not conducive to composing songs.
He had thought of a few lines and he sang them quietly, glad that he was alone. Or so he thought.
Someone had heard the strange, gruff voice singing in Elvish, and had moved to peer into the garden. Silent feet carried the diminutive visitor nearer, his eyes on the hooded and cloaked figure on the stone bench. He cleared his throat.
"I hope I am not disturbing you." He said.
Elu jumped and turned toward the voice.
"I am sorry. I didn't mean to startle you."
The Orc stared down at the small person before him. He noted the curly white hair and bright blue eyes above the smiling mouth. A soft shawl was wrapped about the slightly stooped shoulders. Most amazing, other than the lack of stature, was the curling hair on his feet.
"What are you?" He stammered out, before he had a chance to think.
The person laughed good-naturedly.
"Rather a blunt fellow, aren't you." He said. "I, good sir, am a Hobbit. Bilbo Baggins at your service." He bowed and then smiled up at Elu.
"A Hobbit?" The Orc shook his head. He had never heard of Hobbits before.
"Yes. From the Shire. In the west." Bilbo added seeing that the tall fellow in the hood had obviously never heard of the Shire either. Not everyone could be well traveled as he was, he supposed. "And who are you?"
The Orc hesitated, his name on the tip of his tongue. This little person would probably flee when he realized to whom he was speaking.
"I am from Mirkwood." He answered at last.
"Mirkwood? Ah! I have been there. Rather a dreary place though, isn't it."
"Dreary? No. It is quite beautiful."
Bilbo laughed.
"Of course I am sure you think it is. And I suppose that parts of it are. But don't you find it horrid to live there with all those spiders and things?"
Elu shrugged. He had never thought much about the spiders. But he could see that the little stranger wanted a better answer than that.
"Well, we were attacked by Spiders on our way here."
"Really? Tell me about it." The Hobbit quickly made himself comfortable on the bench and patted it, encouraging Elu to join him. "I do love stories. I have a few of my own, you know. You will have to read them sometime."
Elu stared at him in amazement. He had never met such a charming, boisterous companion. He wondered if all Hobbits were this way. He sat down by Bilbo, staring at him in amazement. Slowly he began to tell about their adventure as they neared the Old Forest Road and the three Spiders. The old Hobbit would interrupt occasionally to ask for more details, but he was an excellent audience and Elu warmed to his subject and the tale seemed more marvelous in the telling than it had been in actuality.
"Oh, I say, that is a marvelous tale! I do wish I had brought a bit of paper with me. You wouldn't mind if I wrote that down, would you?"
Elu shook his head.
"No. I…I would be honored."
Bilbo smiled.
"Good. But you may have to come and help me. My memory isn't as sharp as it used to be. I have to write everything down now if I want to remember it correctly. And that song that you were singing. Did you write it yourself?"
"Uh, yes. It is not finished and well…I do not think it is very good." He shrugged.
"Nonsense. It sounded quite good to me. I write songs myself. Of course here everyone writes songs it seems. And the longer the better. Well, you know how Elves are. Well, Hobbits, too. We love a good tale or song when there is fire on the hearth, and plenty of food and ale, and a good smoke afterwards. Speaking of which-" Bilbo reached into his jacket and pulled out his pipe and a pack of Old Toby. He offered the pipe to Elu.
"I…I have never…"
"Oh! Well, you should try. It is quite relaxing I assure you. Helps the thought process, too." He pulled another pipe from his jacket and handed it to the stunned Orc.
"You've never told me your name and I've just rambled on and on. I apologize."
"I – uh – My name is Elu Heneb."
"Elu Heneb, eh. Blue-Eyed." Bilbo's eyes twinkled. "Yes. I know some Elvish myself. I even taught some to my nephew Frodo. He is on his way here as well from what I understand. You'll like him, a fine upstanding lad. Very adventurous for a Hobbit. Like his uncle. And he is part Brandybuck after all." Bilbo chuckled. He helped the Orc pack the leaves into the bowl and lit the pipe. Elu drew in a cautious breath and immediately began to choke.
"Oh dear. I should have warned you about that. Here, here. Try again."
The Orc hesitantly drew a second breath of smoke, but managed not to swallow it. He wasn't certain that he enjoyed this "pleasure", but he wanted to please the Hobbit who was puffing away happily.
"Watch this." Bilbo blew a perfect ring of smoke that floated up and away on the night breeze. "Now old Gandalf, he shows off with his smoke rings. Not just rings, mind you. Ships and trees, stars. Well, anything he wants. And they change colors, too. But well, why don't you have a go at it."
Elu took in a mouthful of smoke and tried to force it into a neat ring, but only a puff emerged. Finally something resembling a circle seemed to emerge from his lips. Bilbo laughed, slapping him on the arm.
"Very good. You just need practice. You'll get it."
Elu smiled, but felt badly, knowing that he was hiding the fact that he was an Orc from the Hobbit. He wanted so badly to make friends that he was very reluctant to admit that he wasn't a Mirkwood Elf. But that wasn't fair. He sighed.
"Mr. Baggins, I –"
"Oh, just call me Bilbo. Everyone else does."
"Very well, Bilbo. I need to tell you that I am not an Elf."
"What? Oh, that. Yes, yes, I know."
"You do? But-"
Bilbo laughed again.
"Your voice gave you away. I have met a few Elves in my time and their voices never sounded like that."
"Oh."
"You're the Orc, aren't you? Or at least I supposed that was who you were."
"You knew I was an Orc?"
"Of course. Everyone knows about you. You're famous here. Almost as famous as me." He winked at Elu, who stared at him in disbelief. "I've never met any Orcs before. Met a few Trolls in my days. And Goblins." He shuddered. "Nasty things all of them. But you seem nice enough."
A burst of laughter nearly broke from Elu's lips. Nice. Not usually a word associated with his kind.
"There you are, Elu. I was –" Legolas halted as his eyes fell on the small figure seated beside his friend. "I'm sorry. I wasn't aware that anyone else was here."
Bilbo hopped off the seat and bowed at the tall Elf.
"Bilbo Baggins, at your service."
Legolas returned the bow, his hand over his heart.
"Legolas Greenleaf."
Bilbo smiled and moved to stand before him, gazing up into the other's blue eyes.
"You are King Thranduil's kin, aren't you? You do have that look about you."
Legolas stared at him in amazement.
"Yes. You know my father?"
"Oh, yes. Quite well. Well…not that well, but we did meet. Quite a courteous fellow really. It was during the War of the Five Armies."
"You were there?" Legolas stared at him at him in amazement. "Bilbo Baggins? Yes! I remember you now. I am sorry. So many years have passed and -"
Bilbo chuckled.
"Yes. Time has caught up with me at last. I'm not like you Elves, you know. I have aged a bit."
Elu stared at the two in wonder. They knew one another? That was unexpected.
"So old Elu here is your friend?" Bilbo said, smiling at the Orc once more. "Gloin told me that the Mirkwood Elves had brought an Orc with them. Well, well. He-er-they - the Lonely Mountain Dwarves - have not truly forgiven your father for imprisoning them all those years ago. Or your wanting part of old Smaug's treasure. If there is one thing I know about Dwarves it is that they have long and rather harsh memories. Especially when it comes to their pride. Or their gold."
"Gloin?" Elu asked, glancing from one to the other.
"Yes. Didn't Legolas here tell you about the time they caught the Dwarves in Mirkwood on their way to the Lonely Mountain? No? Well, perhaps we will have time to tell it here. After all I was there and so was Gloin. And of course Legolas here. Should make an interesting tale with all these different views on things."
"One of those Dwarves was part of Thorin Oakenshield's company?" Legolas asked, filling with trepidation.
"Yes. Has his son with him I believe. Nice chap. Gimmy or some such. Small world, isn't it."
Legolas frowned. Too small, he thought sourly. Wait until he told his father who else had been here at Elrond's house. But then he remember his reason for searching for the Orc.
"Elu, Lord Elrond wants to speak with you. I have spoken to him about –" He paused and glanced at Bilbo. "Uh, about your…ailment. He says he will be willing to help you if he can."
"Oh, Elrond is a great Healer. I'm certain that whatever is troubling you, he will be able to find a cure." Bilbo reassured him. "Do you mind if I walk with you for a bit? I was going to head back that way anyhow. I am working on my own song. They do try to humor me here." He chuckled, packing away the empty pipes. "Perhaps we should compose one together. Maybe something humorous. You know, something about the evils of Vandal Root tea." He winked at the Orc again. Indeed, some stories traveled very quickly through Imladris. "Though I do not think that would amuse Elrond very much. He doesn't always appreciate humor written about himself."
Legolas watched as the two smiled at each other, then laughed heartily. He was pleased that Elu seemed to have found someone to talk with other than himself and the others from Mirkwood. Though he hadn't the slightest idea why Vandal Root tea was so funny. He hadn't heard that particular story.
The three walked slowly down the path, enjoying the night air, each contented with the silence. But when they neared Elrond's rooms they heard the sound of chaos and fear.
"No, bring him in here immediately. There is not much time. Hurry!"
The three moved forward to see, several Elves clustered in the courtyard. One was carrying a small burden wrapped in a green cloak. A pair of furry feet was just visible beneath it.
Bilbo gasped and clasped Elu's hand for support.
"Frodo?" He cried and then ran toward the Elves. "Frodo!"
Legolas turned to Elu, whose eyes were filled with sorrow.
"That is his nephew. I wonder what has happened." The Orc said in concern.
Legolas shook his head. Something was happening, but he couldn't fathom what.
They moved into the courtyard standing in silence listening to the sound of voices from inside Elrond's room, several more people came rushing into the courtyard.
"Where is he?" A small figure demanded. "Where have they taken Mr. Frodo?"
Legolas stared down at the Hobbit in wonder. The face beneath the mop of dark blonde curls was filled with fear and determination.
"He is with Lord Elrond, little one. Fear not. They will tend to him. All will be well."
Sam's eyes darted toward the room and he rushed past the stunned Elf and ran into the room.
Two other Hobbits were there, faces pinched with fear and anxiety. They looked over at the blonde Elf and the hooded figure at his side. Glorfindel moved to stand behind them.
"He will be well, Meriadoc and Peregrin. Do not fear. I will take you somewhere where you may rest and refresh yourselves."
"No." The stouter of the two said, turning to the Elf Lord, his face filling with stubbornness. He crossed his arms over his chest. "We won't leave until we know how Frodo is. Right, Pip?"
The smaller one with chestnut curls nodded, his blue grey eyes wide. He looked very young and very frightened.
Glorfindel sighed.
"Very well, but please wait here and let Lord Elrond work his Healing."
The two Hobbits glanced at one another, then Merry nodded. They would wait.
Legolas turned to look at Elu who was staring at the room where they had taken the wounded Frodo.
"I should be doing something to help." The Orc said quietly.
But at that moment someone else entered the courtyard.
"Estel!" Legolas cried out and ran to meet the Ranger.
Aragorn relaxed into the Elf's embrace, exhaustion eating through him.
"Legolas, how are you?"
"I am well. But you. You're injured!"
Aragorn shook his head.
"It is nothing. Just a scratch."
Elu went into immediate action. He turned to an Elf standing near the entrance of the courtyard and sent him running for bandages. He dug in his ever-present pouch pulling out packets and bundles. Then he went to a fountain bubbling happily in the corner and filled a basin at its base with water.
"Come, Dunadan. Sit here. I will tend you."
Aragorn scowled in surprise.
"Egla Ash?" He murmured. "I thought – " His eyes widened and moved to the Elf prince.
Legolas lead him to the bench indicated, pushing him gently down. He eased the torn shirtsleeve away from the gash in the Ranger's arm. Elu crumbled herbs into the water. Glorfindel stared in amazement at the figure on his knees before Aragorn. Who was this?
"I need hot water." He said, and the tall golden Elf himself nodded and found himself going to fetch it.
"What happened, Estel?" Legolas asked, studying the other's weary features.
"That is a long tale I would rather not speak of now, nin mellon. But why are you here?"
"We are Mirkwood's representatives to the Council. And to tell you that - " Then he paused, remembering his other less pleasant task would not please the Ranger at all. So he bit back the words that had risen. All would be told later. He smiled slightly, laying his hand on the Ranger's shoulder. "It is good to see you again. I was worried about you."
Aragorn winced as Elu tied the bandage deftly about his arm.
"You have a tale to tell as well, I see." He said, staring down at the Orc. "I am interested in hearing it." The Ranger remembered the night he had lain near Hobbiton, fear for his friend eating through him. Yet Legolas was here now and seemed well and whole. Many tales would need telling it seemed.
Glorfindel had arrived with the hot water, a strange expression on his beautiful face.
"You are Elu?" He asked, staring at the hooded being on the ground.
"Yes."
Glorfindel's fair brows knit.
"Lord Elrond said to tell you that when you have finished ministering to Dunadan he would like for you to join him in the Healing of the young Hobbit. He feels that you might be able to help."
Elu gasped and looked up.
"And he also said to tell you that you were not, under any circumstances, to give Dunadan any Vandal Root tea."
Elu gaped up at him, his face reddening. Then he nodded. He made a tea for the Ranger, but left the Vandal Root packet unopened. He stood looking at Legolas and then at all the others.
"Excuse me." He murmured, standing and bowing to Glorfindel, and moved to the room where Frodo lay, a look of confusion and hope on his face.
"What was all that about?" Aragorn asked, sipping the hot tea, his eyes on the Orc.
Legolas shrugged.
"I know not. It has been an interesting three days."
*Thanks to Jan for the idea of having Elu assist Elrond in Frodo's Healing. I hadn't thought of that, but it worked out nicely. (BIG GRIN TO JAN)
And – LOL - I like Bilbo a lot. Can't tell that, can you?