Hello there, next chapter, peoples…Welcome to another new reviewer, *star* smiles!!
Chapter 10--Homeward
Legolas had no trouble making his way to the shelter of a cluster of trees, looking back he saw the house was dark and silent. He paused to look around and get his bearings. He was surprised to see the lights of Minas Tirith not so far away. He would be able to get back in a little over an hour. He headed that way, pleased to be free. (Jaisia,) he called. (Are you there?).
(I am here, sweet cheeks. What is wrong?) Jaisia asked.
(Nothing at all now, I have escaped and am on my way back,) Legolas replied.
(Really?! That is wonderful news, but how did you manage to do that?) Jaisia questioned.
(They did not secure the shutters over the windows strong enough. I was not far away. I will enter the city through the south gate,) Legolas said.
(I will meet you there,) Jaisia said. She broke contact before Legolas could answer. When Legolas finally reached the south gate Jaisia was waiting for him as she had promised. She gave him a brief, but fierce hug. "Get on, Aragorn wanted me to bring you to him right away. Legolas obeyed and Jaisia galloped back to the castle.
Aragorn was waiting for them when they arrived and seemed very relieved. "How do you get yourself into these things, Legolas? Must I keep you under lock and key?" he asked.
"I would never allow you to do that willingly, Aragorn," Legolas retorted.
"Describe where you were held and how to get there, I will not allow these people to get away with this," Aragorn said.
Legolas hesitated then did as Aragorn had asked. Aragorn gestured to two of his guards. "Go there at once and arrest them. I will deal with them immediately," he said.
The two men bowed. "As you command, my liege," one said and they left the room.
"Now, are you all right, Legolas? Did they hurt you?" Aragorn asked.
"Nay, I am just hungry and would dearly love to raid the kitchen," Legolas said.
"I could have food brought to you in your room," Aragorn offered.
"Of course you could, but that would not be as much fun," Legolas returned.
Aragorn laughed. "Very well, my friend, feel free to raid the kitchen with impunity," he said.
"why, thank you, my liege, I will do so right away," Legolas said with a joking bow and left the room with Jaisia right behind him.
Aragorn smiled to himself. Only Legolas could get away with taunting him in any way or form. It would be lonely when Legolas left for the Havens, whenever that would be. Aragorn hoped it wouldn't be to soon.
It was no trouble finding food that could easily be snitched. Legolas filled a plate and went to a table to eat. Jaisia settled down beside him with a sigh.
Finally the guards returned, shoving a bound man and woman ahead of them. The prisoners were forced to the floor at the King's feet. Aragorn scowled down at them. "I wish to know what happened. How dare you kidnap the second prince of Mirkwood. I could have you hung," he said.
"But sire, we did not kidnap anyone. Your guards have made a mistake," the man said.
Aragorn's eyes narrowed dangerously. "We will see about that. Put them in the dungeon until morning. Pray you are not lying to me because if you are then your punishment will be far worse," he ordered. The guards dragged them from the room.
Aragorn sat back in his throne with a weary sigh. Everything seemed to be happening at once and more trouble was the last thing he needed. He hoped they would be able to deal with Darrin soon, but first things first. He stood and stretched then went to join his wife in their personal chambers……
Not much action here, sorry, but it will pick up again….R/R please!!!