A/N: Estel's POV
Chapter 11
Estel took in the captivated gazes seemingly shared by his foster brothers and his new friend as he approached them. He knew better than to ask what they were 'seeing,' for such things were private and for each to willingly give or no.
Abruptly, his feet stopped of their own accord as a voice from without, but from within, spoke to him. The timbre of the words thrilled with a power that caused chills to form on the nape of his neck and course down the length of his spine to his fingers and toes.
"Tall ships and tall kings
Three times three
What brought they from the foundered land
Over the flowing sea?
Seven stars and seven stones
And one white tree."
He knew these words were important; important to him, though he did not know why or their meaning. Suddenly his friends faded as he found himself upon a parapet with steps leading to a great tower. Cold, darkness, and a naked fear permeated the air while inhuman screams resounded up into the black sky. Freezing rain was falling, and clashes of spears, swords, and death cries filled the air. Estel knew this for the killing place that it was. A strong hand took his arm and turned him around. Squarely in front of him now was the tired but relieved face of Legolas. "I am glad that you made it. That was my last arrow." The scene vanished, but not before Estel perceived the hopelessness of the situation.
Then he was back in the forest, shaking the vestiges of this vision from his eyes. The Elves were still caught up in their own imagery and Estel wondered what it was that they were 'seeing,' certain from their expressions that they had not shared his vision.
He walked quietly to stand before Legolas, and heeded the Elf closely as Legolas began to quit his hold on the unseen and focus on the Human. Legolas' shining eyes held Estel fixed on the spot. As they gazed at one another, something seemed to pass between them.
Estel knew in his heart that in some way, his destiny was intertwined with this Elf, and they would be closer than brothers, even as Elladan and Elrohir, until the end of his days.
Once again, the Human surprised the Elves. He placed his hands upon Legolas' shoulders, still gazing at him intensely, and then embraced him tightly, as one would greet long lost kin. Legolas found himself returning the Human's clasp in kind automatically, as if already a bond had been forged between them, as he knew it had.
Reverently, Estel and the Elves turned away, each within their own vivid thoughts.
They had been following the trail for two days, as silent as the forest in which they traveled, when two scouts returned with news. The Officer of the Guard and Legolas went quickly to meet them.
Estel became even more impressed with the skill of the Gurth-Oneth as the hunt continued. At first, their ability to instantly disappear had him baffled until Elladan smiled and pointed up to the trees. "Our Woodland Brothers are Silvan Elves, whose origins are the Teleri. They are just at home in the great trees of Mirkwood as on the ground. They travel faster through the trees. Up there, they are even closer to Eärendil." Elladan regarded the forest and sadness could be heard in his voice. "Once this was called Greenwood the Great." He turned his gaze inward and bowed his head slightly. "Perhaps one day it will be called so again."
The scouts must have brought important news, for instead of continuing, they made camp. Estel saw that groups were forming at different fires, each consisting of Rivendell and Mirkwood Elves. Stories and songs were being exchanged as new friendships were being made. Estel was sitting near Elladan and Elrohir when exhaustion finally caught up with him. He stretched out on his blanket and sleep was overtaking him as he heard Elrohir say, "Father would be pleased to see this." Estel silently agreed with his Elf brother and felt someone approach, but he could barely open his eyes to see who it was. He thought he saw flashes of gold on black dancing before his bleary eyes as he sank into sleep.
Estel knew that he was dreaming as he wandered through an immense golden wood that filtered the sunlight through beautiful yellow leaves. The leaves began falling to the ground and he heard a sound from up ahead. He followed the sound, which he recognized as a woman weeping. Upon a mound scattered with small white flowers a woman kneeled facing away from him. She was dressed in black and her head was covered with a long black veil. As he opened his mouth to speak to her, she suddenly sank to the ground and her clothing and body decayed to dust in a matter of seconds. He knelt down where she had been and reached to touch the dust. When his fingers met the powder, he felt a knife go through his heart.
Gasping, he clutched his chest as he sat up suddenly, now fully awake, and saw three pair of keen eyes regarding him. Darkness was not complete, for there was still a small fire, and the stars were out in full force.
Elrohir, who sat on his right, smiled and handed him a cup. "You must be thirsty after such a sleep, Young One." The Elf leaned back on his elbows and surveyed the night sky. "We have been enjoying our 'sleep,' whereas I do not think you can say the same."
As Estel took a drink, in the back of his mind, he thought he remembered something from his dream. No, it wasn't his dream; it was Elladan, Elrohir, and Legolas talking while he was asleep. Two things they had said came into his mind now and puzzled him.
"He dreams only of Darkness and Shadow." That had been Elladan.
"Father must tell him soon." Elrohir had spoken quietly.
Estel hid his thoughts and set his face as he finished the water and handed back the cup. His Elf brothers knew more than they were telling him. This he had suspected, but now it had been proven. Tell him what, exactly? He smiled to himself as he thought of the long years that he had spent with Elves; especially these two Elves, but knew that it was only an inkling of time to them. He trusted them and their Father completely, and knew that whatever he needed to know would be told to him with love, whenever he was ready. Patience was not only an Elvish quality.
Then he noticed Legolas. The forest green tunic and leggings had been replaced with ones of deep emerald. His boots looked of black velour, as did his belt. Gold shone on both of his black vambraces. There was some sort of a design on the front of his tunic and a gold chain with a pendant hung from his neck.
Estel sensed that more than just clothes were involved in this transformation. There was an assurance and power radiating from the Elf, and Legolas' eyes held a look that he had not seen there before. Hold. He remembered a similar look on Legolas as he had been fighting the Orcs in the Palace. But Legolas was staring directly at him now.
Before Estel had a chance to ask a question, Cúroniel came up to the fire and gave a formal bow to Legolas. "Both groups are ready to go, Captain. We await you."
A/N: Legolas' POV
Legolas' fingers touched the emblem on his tunic and traced its markings. A thrill ran through him. Captain of the Guard it declared to all. Then he grasped the pendant, the symbol of the Heir to the Throne of Mirkwood. These were things, he had once told himself. He had given them up when he had given up hope. He had almost given up on life itself.
Why go on when there was nothing left? When everyone that you had ever cared about had been killed? When your land was overrun by forces that were beyond your control?
He had been touched by Darkness and tasted the Shadow. Before meeting Aragorn, he had not seen the Light. Elladan had brought him back, but back to what? He knew now what he had to do.
Hiding from Darkness only invites it into your heart. He would not shirk his duty anymore. He was the son of a King and his rank of Captain was earned. It did not come by bloodline. He smiled at this remembrance.
He meant to keep his land free and fighting for it was the only way.
But he had seen. Some of what was to come. Many years from now, but only a short breath for an Elf. He would not be here when most needed. Cúroniel would lead the fight against the forces of Darkness when it came. He, himself, would be in a far land, fighting alongside Isildur's heir against impossible odds.
His heart told him that his future was with Aragorn. Like Elladan and Elrohir, he had joined himself to the boy and future King, no matter the outcome, until the end.
Legolas looked at the boy as he awoke with a start. Dreams. He knew them well. But his dreams had changed.
He saw a look of wonder come into the boy's face as Estel saw him, the real him, for the first time in a long time.
Legolas told Cúroniel that he would come momentarily, and waited until he left. He had something to say to his friends alone.
"Our scouts have tracked the enemy where they make camp in an undefendable valley because it has the only water. Since combining forces, they think themselves invincible and do not even leave a rear guard. Taking Goblins, Orcs, and Wargs will not be easy, but with the addition of the warriors of Rivendell, it can be done. I believe this will be a decisive battle for Mirkwood."
Legolas looked at Estel. "I want you to go back to Rivendell with Elladan and Elrohir."
The twins had known what was coming and agreed with the decision.
Estel was not so agreeable. "But this is why I came! You would deny me the right to fight, now that it is upon us?" He looked hurt. "You do not believe that I am able to defend myself? Even after-"
Legolas did not give him a chance to finish. He held up a hand, palm outward. "I know your capabilities, and your skill will be missed along with Elladan and Elrohir, but this is not your battle. Estel, the risk is too great that something would happen to you, and that is a risk I am not willing to take." He spoke softer, "Not now, Estel. Your battles are in the future." And the stakes will be more than Mirkwood, Legolas did not say.
The Elves stood, then Estel.
Legolas hugged Elrohir and said, "Tell your Father of the success of the Alliance. It is an idea whose time has come and will be instrumental to all of our futures."
Elrohir gripped Legolas' hand and repeated, "'To all of our futures', Little Brother."
Elladan did not wait for Legolas but went to him and gathered him into his arms. "I would stay with you if you wish it, Legolas."
Legolas did not let him go and did not answer him with words. "You have saved me, Elladan, and you will be in my heart forever. Now you must take care of the future. The future of Middle Earth goes with you and your brother." Legolas held Elladan at arms length, still not using vocal speech. "When the time comes, we three will be at his side, to stand or fall."
Elladan bowed his head, "Together, Legolas. As the Valar wills."
Estel waited for his parting, not quite knowing what to expect. Legolas went to him and placed his palm over Estel's heart. "May Holy Eru protect you on your path, Estel."
The boy only scarcely hid his surprise as he recognized the significance of the occasion when Legolas called upon the name of The One, used rarely and only on the most solemn of occasions.
Estel placed his hand over Legolas' heart. "May Ilúvatar protect you, Prince Legolas of Mirkwood."
Legolas left them and went a short distance, then turned, grinned, and said to Estel, "We may yet draw swords together again, Estel."
Estel's face glowed and his eyes became distant. His reply was so soft that Elladan and Elrohir were not certain that they had heard it correctly. "Yes, I know we will."
i methen
A/N: This *is* the end of "Tabula Rasa," for Legolas has found himself and now has hope for the future. The meeting and subsequent bonding of Legolas and Estel was pivotal for both. Estel, at this point, does not see beyond Shadow in his future. This meeting is just their beginning. The next story will have a different name, but will take up at a later date and tie into "T/R". (I will note in the summary the tie-in.)
Thank you for your patience and I apologize for the time lag b/t chapter 10 and 11. Again, I appreciate you taking the time to read and review.
Much love and joy to you, kind readers.
Most Sincerely,
Anjou
Chapter 11
Estel took in the captivated gazes seemingly shared by his foster brothers and his new friend as he approached them. He knew better than to ask what they were 'seeing,' for such things were private and for each to willingly give or no.
Abruptly, his feet stopped of their own accord as a voice from without, but from within, spoke to him. The timbre of the words thrilled with a power that caused chills to form on the nape of his neck and course down the length of his spine to his fingers and toes.
"Tall ships and tall kings
Three times three
What brought they from the foundered land
Over the flowing sea?
Seven stars and seven stones
And one white tree."
He knew these words were important; important to him, though he did not know why or their meaning. Suddenly his friends faded as he found himself upon a parapet with steps leading to a great tower. Cold, darkness, and a naked fear permeated the air while inhuman screams resounded up into the black sky. Freezing rain was falling, and clashes of spears, swords, and death cries filled the air. Estel knew this for the killing place that it was. A strong hand took his arm and turned him around. Squarely in front of him now was the tired but relieved face of Legolas. "I am glad that you made it. That was my last arrow." The scene vanished, but not before Estel perceived the hopelessness of the situation.
Then he was back in the forest, shaking the vestiges of this vision from his eyes. The Elves were still caught up in their own imagery and Estel wondered what it was that they were 'seeing,' certain from their expressions that they had not shared his vision.
He walked quietly to stand before Legolas, and heeded the Elf closely as Legolas began to quit his hold on the unseen and focus on the Human. Legolas' shining eyes held Estel fixed on the spot. As they gazed at one another, something seemed to pass between them.
Estel knew in his heart that in some way, his destiny was intertwined with this Elf, and they would be closer than brothers, even as Elladan and Elrohir, until the end of his days.
Once again, the Human surprised the Elves. He placed his hands upon Legolas' shoulders, still gazing at him intensely, and then embraced him tightly, as one would greet long lost kin. Legolas found himself returning the Human's clasp in kind automatically, as if already a bond had been forged between them, as he knew it had.
Reverently, Estel and the Elves turned away, each within their own vivid thoughts.
They had been following the trail for two days, as silent as the forest in which they traveled, when two scouts returned with news. The Officer of the Guard and Legolas went quickly to meet them.
Estel became even more impressed with the skill of the Gurth-Oneth as the hunt continued. At first, their ability to instantly disappear had him baffled until Elladan smiled and pointed up to the trees. "Our Woodland Brothers are Silvan Elves, whose origins are the Teleri. They are just at home in the great trees of Mirkwood as on the ground. They travel faster through the trees. Up there, they are even closer to Eärendil." Elladan regarded the forest and sadness could be heard in his voice. "Once this was called Greenwood the Great." He turned his gaze inward and bowed his head slightly. "Perhaps one day it will be called so again."
The scouts must have brought important news, for instead of continuing, they made camp. Estel saw that groups were forming at different fires, each consisting of Rivendell and Mirkwood Elves. Stories and songs were being exchanged as new friendships were being made. Estel was sitting near Elladan and Elrohir when exhaustion finally caught up with him. He stretched out on his blanket and sleep was overtaking him as he heard Elrohir say, "Father would be pleased to see this." Estel silently agreed with his Elf brother and felt someone approach, but he could barely open his eyes to see who it was. He thought he saw flashes of gold on black dancing before his bleary eyes as he sank into sleep.
Estel knew that he was dreaming as he wandered through an immense golden wood that filtered the sunlight through beautiful yellow leaves. The leaves began falling to the ground and he heard a sound from up ahead. He followed the sound, which he recognized as a woman weeping. Upon a mound scattered with small white flowers a woman kneeled facing away from him. She was dressed in black and her head was covered with a long black veil. As he opened his mouth to speak to her, she suddenly sank to the ground and her clothing and body decayed to dust in a matter of seconds. He knelt down where she had been and reached to touch the dust. When his fingers met the powder, he felt a knife go through his heart.
Gasping, he clutched his chest as he sat up suddenly, now fully awake, and saw three pair of keen eyes regarding him. Darkness was not complete, for there was still a small fire, and the stars were out in full force.
Elrohir, who sat on his right, smiled and handed him a cup. "You must be thirsty after such a sleep, Young One." The Elf leaned back on his elbows and surveyed the night sky. "We have been enjoying our 'sleep,' whereas I do not think you can say the same."
As Estel took a drink, in the back of his mind, he thought he remembered something from his dream. No, it wasn't his dream; it was Elladan, Elrohir, and Legolas talking while he was asleep. Two things they had said came into his mind now and puzzled him.
"He dreams only of Darkness and Shadow." That had been Elladan.
"Father must tell him soon." Elrohir had spoken quietly.
Estel hid his thoughts and set his face as he finished the water and handed back the cup. His Elf brothers knew more than they were telling him. This he had suspected, but now it had been proven. Tell him what, exactly? He smiled to himself as he thought of the long years that he had spent with Elves; especially these two Elves, but knew that it was only an inkling of time to them. He trusted them and their Father completely, and knew that whatever he needed to know would be told to him with love, whenever he was ready. Patience was not only an Elvish quality.
Then he noticed Legolas. The forest green tunic and leggings had been replaced with ones of deep emerald. His boots looked of black velour, as did his belt. Gold shone on both of his black vambraces. There was some sort of a design on the front of his tunic and a gold chain with a pendant hung from his neck.
Estel sensed that more than just clothes were involved in this transformation. There was an assurance and power radiating from the Elf, and Legolas' eyes held a look that he had not seen there before. Hold. He remembered a similar look on Legolas as he had been fighting the Orcs in the Palace. But Legolas was staring directly at him now.
Before Estel had a chance to ask a question, Cúroniel came up to the fire and gave a formal bow to Legolas. "Both groups are ready to go, Captain. We await you."
A/N: Legolas' POV
Legolas' fingers touched the emblem on his tunic and traced its markings. A thrill ran through him. Captain of the Guard it declared to all. Then he grasped the pendant, the symbol of the Heir to the Throne of Mirkwood. These were things, he had once told himself. He had given them up when he had given up hope. He had almost given up on life itself.
Why go on when there was nothing left? When everyone that you had ever cared about had been killed? When your land was overrun by forces that were beyond your control?
He had been touched by Darkness and tasted the Shadow. Before meeting Aragorn, he had not seen the Light. Elladan had brought him back, but back to what? He knew now what he had to do.
Hiding from Darkness only invites it into your heart. He would not shirk his duty anymore. He was the son of a King and his rank of Captain was earned. It did not come by bloodline. He smiled at this remembrance.
He meant to keep his land free and fighting for it was the only way.
But he had seen. Some of what was to come. Many years from now, but only a short breath for an Elf. He would not be here when most needed. Cúroniel would lead the fight against the forces of Darkness when it came. He, himself, would be in a far land, fighting alongside Isildur's heir against impossible odds.
His heart told him that his future was with Aragorn. Like Elladan and Elrohir, he had joined himself to the boy and future King, no matter the outcome, until the end.
Legolas looked at the boy as he awoke with a start. Dreams. He knew them well. But his dreams had changed.
He saw a look of wonder come into the boy's face as Estel saw him, the real him, for the first time in a long time.
Legolas told Cúroniel that he would come momentarily, and waited until he left. He had something to say to his friends alone.
"Our scouts have tracked the enemy where they make camp in an undefendable valley because it has the only water. Since combining forces, they think themselves invincible and do not even leave a rear guard. Taking Goblins, Orcs, and Wargs will not be easy, but with the addition of the warriors of Rivendell, it can be done. I believe this will be a decisive battle for Mirkwood."
Legolas looked at Estel. "I want you to go back to Rivendell with Elladan and Elrohir."
The twins had known what was coming and agreed with the decision.
Estel was not so agreeable. "But this is why I came! You would deny me the right to fight, now that it is upon us?" He looked hurt. "You do not believe that I am able to defend myself? Even after-"
Legolas did not give him a chance to finish. He held up a hand, palm outward. "I know your capabilities, and your skill will be missed along with Elladan and Elrohir, but this is not your battle. Estel, the risk is too great that something would happen to you, and that is a risk I am not willing to take." He spoke softer, "Not now, Estel. Your battles are in the future." And the stakes will be more than Mirkwood, Legolas did not say.
The Elves stood, then Estel.
Legolas hugged Elrohir and said, "Tell your Father of the success of the Alliance. It is an idea whose time has come and will be instrumental to all of our futures."
Elrohir gripped Legolas' hand and repeated, "'To all of our futures', Little Brother."
Elladan did not wait for Legolas but went to him and gathered him into his arms. "I would stay with you if you wish it, Legolas."
Legolas did not let him go and did not answer him with words. "You have saved me, Elladan, and you will be in my heart forever. Now you must take care of the future. The future of Middle Earth goes with you and your brother." Legolas held Elladan at arms length, still not using vocal speech. "When the time comes, we three will be at his side, to stand or fall."
Elladan bowed his head, "Together, Legolas. As the Valar wills."
Estel waited for his parting, not quite knowing what to expect. Legolas went to him and placed his palm over Estel's heart. "May Holy Eru protect you on your path, Estel."
The boy only scarcely hid his surprise as he recognized the significance of the occasion when Legolas called upon the name of The One, used rarely and only on the most solemn of occasions.
Estel placed his hand over Legolas' heart. "May Ilúvatar protect you, Prince Legolas of Mirkwood."
Legolas left them and went a short distance, then turned, grinned, and said to Estel, "We may yet draw swords together again, Estel."
Estel's face glowed and his eyes became distant. His reply was so soft that Elladan and Elrohir were not certain that they had heard it correctly. "Yes, I know we will."
i methen
A/N: This *is* the end of "Tabula Rasa," for Legolas has found himself and now has hope for the future. The meeting and subsequent bonding of Legolas and Estel was pivotal for both. Estel, at this point, does not see beyond Shadow in his future. This meeting is just their beginning. The next story will have a different name, but will take up at a later date and tie into "T/R". (I will note in the summary the tie-in.)
Thank you for your patience and I apologize for the time lag b/t chapter 10 and 11. Again, I appreciate you taking the time to read and review.
Much love and joy to you, kind readers.
Most Sincerely,
Anjou