WOW!! Look at me, little miss swift update! I thought I would put this up
for no real reason at all but to say thank you to all of you who are
constant reviewers of my work. I would not be here without your support
or, in some cases, you kicking me up the ass! Lol.
IMPORTANT: Ok, I have done a lot of research into the hierarchy of Tolkien's Elven divisions, and it is still with somewhat shaky beliefs that I have done what I have done. From what I have read and been able to piece together, Galadriel and Celeborn (putting it into the terms of old England's form of social standing) are the High Queen and King of the Elves. Thranduil would then step up into their place if anything should happen to them, but, since his little disgracing habits (the fact that he is a gold digging alcoholic) the rule would then fall to Legolas. Elrond would be next after him, as, it is important to remember that he is only Half-Elven and only a Lord, thus placing him below Legolas in any rank for two reasons. Following him would be his twin sons - Elladan first then Elrohir, or maybe a joint rule - and after that I guess that Elves are just screwed. I have used this only to demonstrate Legolas' real power in a scene that is coming up in the next chapter or so, thus meaning that Legolas can overrule Elrond, but, being the fact that he is in his land, he is still required to show courtesy. Make sense?
Umm, I have a problem. I seem to go into too much detail about everything (I mean, I was raving on about he colour of the paint in one section) so you can just skip large chunks if need be as I have the habit of droning on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and - opps! Sorry.
Nonetheless, I hope you like this chapter, it is kinda pointless but at the same time not as I needed to get into a bit of a back history and character development - especially Legolas - sometime, so I though I may as well do it all in one chapter.
*****
The Eaters of the Dead
Chapter Two
Arrivals and many meetings
*****
To say that the journey to Rivendell had been awkward was a complete understatement. Legolas knew that it would be far from pleasant, but this, this was just unnerving. Culdôr and Dúelen did everything but follow Legolas' orders, including making their own strongly worded suggestions over what should and should not be done along the way. It was infuriating for the young prince and it was only the restricting hand of Gilnen that stopped him from quiet often hitting one of the supposed wizened Elves with something heavy.
Yet, surprisingly, they were not the ones that bothered Legolas the most. The Elf Rastur was strange to the prince and the fact that Legolas knew next to nothing about him was slightly unsettling. The tall, dark haired Elf was obviously not one of the Sindar, thus leaving open the question of what was he doing in Mirkwood in the first place. Everything about him was strange, he barely spoke, whether to agree or disagree with either of the opposing parties, he would keep completely to himself, riding somewhat behind the rest and lying as far away as possible at nights and, most disturbing of all, Legolas could always sense Rastur's eyes upon his back. It was worrisome, to feel the Elf's steady gaze always upon him, and as Legolas found out, Rastur made no secret of his actions. Even when Legolas turned, Rastur did not look away and, if anything, made his stares more obvious.
With all these factors playing a part in the journey of the Elves of Mirkwood, it was no surprise that Legolas exhaled a long and thankful sigh as they all looked down upon the valley-set palace of Rivendell. The waterfalls that surrounded were peaceful and comforting, their light spray reaching even the five companions upon their horses at the top of the large, water rimmed basin. Like all the other times that Legolas had visited the house of Lord Elrond Half-Elven, the trees and various bushes were in full bloom, the flowers gracing the air with their sweet sent as the greens and gold's of the leaves fluttered in the breeze. It was a wondrous sight to the eyes, and one that Legolas would never tire looking upon, no matter how long he lived.
Spurring his horse on, Legolas made his way to the winding path that snaked its way between trees and boulders alike to finally reach a small bridge on which it was possible to cross the great river into the very heart of Rivendell.
"My prince," Culdôr's voice stopped him before he could start his way down the path. "Perhaps you should not go first; it would be unseemly for you to do so as well as dangerous."
With his back turned to the others, Legolas sighed deeply while closing his eyes and counting to ten in his head in order to stop him from saying something that they would all deem 'uncouth' for a member of the Royal family. "I shall be fine, Culdôr," Legolas replied as evenly as he could. "'Tis Rivendell, there is no harm to be found here."
"But, your highness, it would be inappropriate for a prince to-"
"Culdôr, to you everything that I do would be inappropriate." Legolas interrupted, his voice clipped from his weariness "so let us be over with it and you learn to accept the things that I do as something that you can not change." With that he whispered to his horse and, before anyone else could object, was swiftly making his way down the path, hearing only the light laughter of Gilnen as he departed their company.
The overhanging trees made the air cool and slightly damp as Legolas rode - now at a more dignified pace - along the well worn dirt road. A faint whistle from above alerted him to the presence of the Rivendell guards and, with a smile, he whistled back, mirroring the previous one.
Almost instantaneously, a dark haired Elf dropped from the trees above him and landed just in front of the princes' now stopped horse. With a smile, the Elf walked up to the right side of Legolas and patted his leg in a sign of greeting.
"My prince, it is good to see you again," the Elf said, his smile reaching his dark, mischievous eyes.
"Ah, Elrohir," Legolas replied, address the Elf before him. "How goes all with you and yours? Good I should hope."
The Elf smiled and inclined his head. "All is well. We have not had a threat of the Orcs that were once seen long ago near these borders and we live without the fear that I hear your kingdom does. The Winter Solstice also went well and undisturbed, thus blessing us with such a fruitful spring. Father is well, as is little Estel - not so little anymore mind you." At this both Elves laughed.
It had been close to twenty years since Legolas had last visited and he still remembered the little human baby that the Lord had under his care. He had named him Estel, the hope of the free people of Middle-Earth, as he was to be, once old enough, the future king of Gondor. All Elves had placed their faith in the small baby, hoping that he would prevent them from further dying out or passing over the great sea.
Legolas harbored fond memories of the small child who would have only been nigh on four years old when they met, and it was with a slight laugh at how he remembered Estel had found his ears fascinating. The child would spend hours sitting upon Legolas' lap and sucking on his pointed ears or twirling his little hands about the lengths of the Mirkwood princes' hair.
"What?" another voice cut through Legolas' reminiscing, "no question of well being for your dear friend?" the voice belonged to another Elf that also jumped from the trees, this time making his way to the left side of the prince. Looking from right to left, Legolas was astonished once again at how alike the two twins looked - there was simply no telling them apart if you did not know them.
"Oh Elladan," Legolas sighed, trying to keep his face a straight as possible and not laugh "you should know that I never liked you!"
Elladan swatted his leg yet laughed at the princes' words, "the only reason you do not like me is for the fact that I am your rival in archery!"
"Elladan," Elrohir warned, "you know that every time you sort to challenge Legolas you were bested! So hush yourself." At the way the younger of the two talked to the elder, Legolas could no longer keep his straight face and his musical, light laughter filled the air once again.
"'Tis good to hear you laugh once more, my prince," Elladan offered to the mounted Elf.
"Just as it is good to see you after so many a year," Legolas replied, "both of you."
"Now come, were is your escort?" Elladan inquired and at the guilty face that Legolas pulled, the twins looked to each other, exchanging worried glances.
"Do not tell us that you came here alone again. You know it is not safe on these roads." Elrohir reprimand the blond rider, his face half way between anger and concern.
Again Legolas laughed and rolled his eyes, "you two are worse than your father." He informed them, "yet fear not, I did not come alone, I merely left them behind as they were aggravating me." The relief was evident on the twin's faces and again Legolas saw just how much alike they really were. "But come, we must be off else they catch up to me and tell me off in much a worse manner then you two have."
Both twins turned on their heels, let out high-pitched whistles, and within a matter of moments, two horses came stealthily through the undergrowth. Elrohir's was a large white charger, much like that of Legolas' while Elladan's was a chestnut brown yet about the same size.
Without another word passing between the three friends, they made their way further down the path, replying to the sentries whistles as they went.
*****
Up close, Rivendell was just as he remembered it, full of life and colour that had long left the fair Greenwood, or as now known, Mirkwood. It was refreshing to be among such a living and noticeably evil free environment, and Legolas drank deeply of the water-vapor filled air. The dampness clung to his clothes and hair, yet not making them drip or become uncomfortable, only cool and revitalizing.
The Elves that he passed all looked at him in wonder, either remembering his last visit or just being plain curious as to what a member of the Sindar division was doing among their midst. It was good to be looked upon in such a matter that differed from his home, for all there regarded him as both untouchable and unapproachable or as a hindrance to their own plans for the forest.
The main entrance of the Last Homely House loomed up ahead; its large doors open as usual. The soft, friendly glow of the candles streamed out, casting lengthy shadows of the marble pillars that stood at the entrance, making the building all the more inviting. Just looking at it, Legolas could feel all the worries of the previous days lifting off his shoulders as he let the warm light elope his senses' and the cool air easy his burdens.
Dismounting at the large marble steps that lead to the greeting hall of the Homely House, the three Elves handed their reins over to a waiting servant who bowed low to all three. They walked up the steps, taking them two at a time and were soon overshadowed by the large building that looked as if it had just emerged out of the growth of the surrounding forest.
The hall was just as the prince remembered, large and yet not straight. It was more of a rounded room, with many smaller and straight corridors coming of the main hall in all directions. Seats lined the walls where no opening stood and various tapestries hung from the earthen painted walls, each outlining a different revolutionary time in the Elven history upon both Middle-Earth and Beleriand. A large fireplace was against the middle of the far most wall and stretched half way to the high, arched ceilings of the waiting chamber, its flickering flames giving the room a tranquil feeling. Patterns of flowers were painted in white upon the circular floor and the pillars which supported the ceiling at various points in the room were adorned with intricate carvings of vines and leaves, snaking their way up to the ceiling and to the light of the sun.
"Father is in a meeting at the present time," Elrohir informed the prince while leading him down the second hall to the right of the fireplace, "so in the mean time I will show you to your room so you may rest from your journey."
"Much thanks," Legolas replied, "I would not have wished to greet your father in such a state anyway," he said whilst looking down on his travel dirtied clothes. The greens and browns had become more or less one shade of dusty brown from the dirt of the road and grime of the path that ascended the Misty Mountains. "When my escort arrives-"
"We will house them as far away from you as possible!" Elladan laughed having read Legolas' thoughts.
"Thank you. It will do me good to be away from their disapproving glares, though Gilnen is with them." He conveniently left out the disturbing feeling that he had received from Rastur throughout the entire journey, not wishing to bother his friends with such strange thoughts.
"We will put him in his normal room and you in yours." Elladan smiled while taking his brothers place in leading Legolas to the end of the hall.
"Your room has remained untouched and is still as isolated as possible, though you do have a neighbor." Elrohir piped up from behind the other two.
"Who is staying in this end of the house?" Legolas questioned, his curiosity getting the better of him. No one ever came up this hall as it was just unused bed chambers and that was why when he first came here, many centuries ago, he had requested to be put up in this wing for it had been quiet and a place were he had no fear of running into anyone who would either seek his advice or further disapprove of his tactics.
"Why Estel, of course," Elrohir said as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
"Estel?" Legolas asked, fearing that his ears had failed on him. "Why ever is Estel up here?'
As they passed a room that was obviously in use, Legolas realized that it must be his. The hall was not kept in ill repaired but was not the most cleansed of them all. There were five rooms adjacent to the hall, three on the left and two on the right and Legolas' was the last on the left. What was now known as Estel's room was the last on the right, and almost opposite to the prince's.
"The same reason as you, I believe," Elrohir concluded while opening the door for their guest. "He likes to be alone a lot; I think he feels as if he does not fit in here. Father and we two try all we can, but he is still alone in the technical sense as there is none other of his kind. Yet other than that he fits in fine, 'tis just sometimes that he wishes to be alone so he chose to stay up here."
Legolas just nodded his head in understanding. He may not have been the only one of his race where he lived, but he was one of the only ones who thought like he did. That was one of the reasons that he liked Rivendell so much, as all the Elves there were more concerned with outside matters then with the treasure and self-importance that his woodland kind were.
"We will come and get you for dinner," Elladan said whilst pulling the door closed, "if there is anything that you need, you know where to find us. There should be water in the bath already if you wish to bath and I think a few of your outfits are still on the hangers."
"Thanks," Legolas whispered, half to himself as the door was shut behind him. Sighing, the prince went and sat on the edge of the bed and began pulling off his boots whilst taking in his surroundings. Almost nothing had changed since his last visit yet he could tell that the room had been cleaned frequently, always ready for one of his unexpected arrivals. The room was luxurious and large, almost as big as his royal suite in his own home, and open, allowing the fresh air and the sounds of the falling water to travel through. It was painted in greens and gold's, like that of the outside world in which he was now staying. The high arched ceiling was of a golden-brown and supported gold painted vines and leaves with a mural of a bird sitting among the golden leaves of a mallorn tree. The rest of the walls were painted in different shades of green, working from the darkest at the top and the lightest at the bottom where it blended into the carved stone floor. A fireplace was on the wall right of the door and the bed further down, while the opposite wall opened up to reveal his wash room. The other wall was practically non-existent as the entire space opened up to a large balcony.
Having completed the removal of his shoes, he walked slowly to the balcony - his favorite aspect of the entire room. It was shaped into an autumn leaf with the railings made to look like the branches of the tree and the table and chairs that sat upon the marble surface matched, with the table in an identical shape as the floor. It overlooked and, to an extent, stretched over one of the numerous gushing waterfalls of Rivendell and yet was perfectly enclosed by trees on both sides of the bank to allow the prince his privacy.
Twilight was falling upon the land, making the many lanterns and small fire- lit lights glow within the trees with a stronger intensity and it seemed to Legolas that the very waterfall seemed to blaze with a light of its own.
Breathing deeply of the air, Legolas at last allowed himself to relax. He need not worry about Culdôr or Dúelen, nor fret about the strangeness of Rastur. He was at peace - or at least until he had to convince Rivendell of his plan in aiding the human villages to the west.
Heading to the bathroom, he found his bath already drawn and waiting for him. Lighting a few of the scattered candles that lay about the large bath and wash stand, he first went and opened the small closet that was within the room. He found that many of his garments - some for hunting, some for dining and councils - still hung there, unmarked and well taken care of. Choosing one of silver and light blue, he stripped himself of the dirt and mud covered clothes that he had worn for the last few days, submerged himself into the warm, scented water and allowed the pains of his body to leave him and evaporate in the bath.
Immersing his head under, he paid special attention to getting the knots and grime out of his hair before letting himself relax and bask in the comfort that the bath provided.
After what seemed like hours, the prince emerged, dried himself off, and dressed, surprised that the chosen tunic and pants still fit him perfectly. Opening a draw, he found the comb that he had left there so long ago and started to work the knots and kinks out of his now clean hair.
A soft bang from in his sleeping chambers made him stop mid stroke and when the noise was repeated, he placed the comb down, switching it with one of his long knives while blowing out the candles.
His mind was racing as he pulled the silvery filigreed blade free of its scabbard with nothing more then a silent hiss. Who could possibly be in his room at such a time of night, and without permission? Memories of the time that he was attacked in his own room in Mirkwood by the assassin that he was positive that Culdôr had sent flooded back to him, and for some reason his mind was automatically drawn to Rastur.
Legolas walked sideways, silently placing one foot over the other and keeping his back to the wall as he made his way over towards the door. Taking the golden door handle in his left hand, he slowly turned it down, making sure not to allow it to make even the slightest noise. Pushing the door open only far enough for him to slip out of, Legolas inwardly cursed his lack of thought in lighting a few candles before he went for his bath. The room was pitch black apart from the soft glow that illuminated the veranda and a few feet in front of it.
Over near the fireplace he could hear labored breathing, and, using the past knowledge of the layout of the room, Legolas slowly and quietly made his way over, letting his eyes adjust to the dark. When he was half way to the inglenook he could make out the outline of a figure, crouching down, facing the hearth with his back to the Elf. Apparently the stranger had not yet heard Legolas' approach.
Gripping the dagger tightly in his right hand, Legolas took a deep breath and charged forward, grabbing the figure by the back of the neck and hauling him to his feet while turning the man around and then pressing the sharp of the dagger to his throat. The stranger let out a startled gasp but once the blade was in place went dead still, barely even breathing.
"Who are you and just what do you think you are doing in here?" Legolas questioned, making his voice as dangerous as he could and by the slight tremble that ran through the figure, he knew that it had worked.
"I could ask you the same thing." the figure stated bravely, but when Legolas pressed upon his dagger, he hastily added, "you do not remember me, prince Legolas?"
Legolas' mind raced as he tried to put the voice to a face and then to a name and yet the only possible person that he was able to come up with seemed impossible. "Estel?" he questioned, his confusion evident in his voice.
The figure seemed to relax within his grasp a little, "of course it is me. Who else do you think would be sneaking about in your room at this time of night?" the man asked with a hint of laughter in his tone.
Smiling also, Legolas released the man and tucked the dagger into the back of his breeches. "Oh the usual - unnamable evils, assassins, royal guards - nothing out of the ordinary."
A started cry of surprise came from Estel as he once again turned to the fireplace and this time Legolas saw what he was doing. He had been starting to light a fire. "We have to talk," Estel laughed out, "but let me finish getting your fire going, unless you want to hold a knife to my throat again?" he questioned, receiving the laughter that he sort from the prince.
"You remembered me?" Legolas half asked and stated, "how? You were so young." He was starting to relax from his fright already and, strangely enough, it was relieving to know that the man remembered him, even if he did not know why.
The fire was crackling within the fenced off hearth before Estel replied, and even then, he grabbed the Elf's elbow and lead him out to the balcony to sit upon the chairs and watch the night. "One rarely forgets a friend, even from many a year past. Besides," he added with a large smirk, "I seem to remember that you had rather nice ears!"
"You remember that?" the blond chocked out between his laughs. "I had hoped that you would have forgotten that small detail."
"How could I? Both Elladan and Elrohir delight in reminding me what a handful I was for the prince of Elves."
"You were no more handful then they, for I remember that they used to get up to all sorts of things," Legolas said while looking upon the man for the first real time since they had started to converse. Estel had grown up, had changed much over the years that had left no imprint upon his Legolas' own face and it was slightly sad to think that once he used to bounce the small child on his lap and tell him stories of the great battles that he had participated in. The man was tall; he had noticed that in the room, almost as tall as himself which was strange among the race of humans. He was studier built though, his muscles easily seem through his clothes unlike that of Legolas' that could only be seen when in use, but were there nonetheless. Estel's eyes were dark, like the clouds on a stormy day, and his hair was shoulder length, wavy and somewhere between black and dark brown. He still held most of the facial features that he had when he was but a child, though a small stubble now grew upon his chin and upper lip.
"Indeed they did, and still do, even to this day," Estel agreed with the prince's last statement. "So," he asked, "tell me about these nameless evils and assassins."
Legolas just sighed, not wanting to bring up such troublesome facts in the face of the calmness that he felt. "Perhaps another time, for the assassin at least. As for the nameless evil, you will find out soon enough."
"I gather this is not a social call then?" Estel asked, slight disappointment in his voice as he shot a quick sidelong look at the Elf that sat on the other side of the table. Legolas looked just as he remembered him, having not aged in the many years since he had looked upon him with the eyes of a child. Yet something had changed in the Elf, he seemed to carry more worries then what he could recall. Legolas seemed to act differently now, more proper then he remembered, as in his memories, he always saw the Elf squirming and laughing under his touch as he sucked on his ears, or playing hide and seek with him once he was old enough to wander about.
"Why are you up here, in this long forgotten wing?" Estel asked, his voice soft and gentle, not wishing to upset the Elf.
"The same reason as you, I should gather." Legolas replied while looking at his newly found friend.
"To hide? But why, I hear you are an all powerful diplomat these days. Kings and Queens alike bow down before you."
Legolas laughed at the suggestion of the royal lines that he knew bowing to him. "Not so, my friend, 'tis not so at all." Turing his gaze back to the rushing waters of the fall, Legolas made up his mind to continue, allowing the human into a small part of his mind, heart and world that he had never confided in anyone before. "People do not like being told that they are wrong, Estel, that is one thing that will do you well to know. They like to believe in themselves, think that they are right no matter what the subject, and while I may be a so called 'powerful and convincing' diplomat, I have not the support nor love that people tend to believe." Sighing to himself, he gave Estel time to think over what he had said, knowing that the human lingered on every word that he had spoken into the air, storing it to his memory for further reference.
"Humans do not like being told what to do by an Elf, and Elves do not like being advised by one of them who is still thought a mere child. I may be able to convince them of the right way, to see what their errors are and to offer a better solution, but all it does is anger them, and, whilst they do normally take my advice, it is under their own name and accord that they carry it out." The blond archer laughed at what he was next about to say, catching Estel off guard, "most are quite pleased to see me leave and dread when I return - much like Mithrandir who is often referred to as the bringer of bad news!"
A comfortable silence fell upon the two as they both sat there, obviously engrossed in their own thoughts, and, when the silence was broken, it was Estel to voice his opinion. "Well, then they are the fools." He stated firmly, "if they are too blind to see your help as good, then they do not deserve it. And if they do not open their eyes anytime soon, know that you can always come and aid me in Gondor, if the Valar should ever deem the right time for me to come forth."
Nodding his thanks, Legolas just smiled at the ambitious young man. The Elf knew that Estel knew of his true heritage as Lord Elrond had sent him a message before the event, asking for his advice on the subject. At least one person was willing to hear what he had to say on matters and did not shun him for it.
"You will make a good king one day, Estel, but do not rush to it for no good will come of haste."
"If I had parchment and quill, I would write down your words of wisdom so not to ever forget them!" Estel said with a smile that reached his eyes, almost lightening the dark orbs with his mirth. "And if it means anything, I missed you when you left. I may have been a child, but I pined over your absence for weeks, and still do - did since you are sitting in front of me now." He laughed once more, as did Legolas, feeling his joyful mood once again returning to him. "And I am glad that you came back!"
For a long moment, Legolas merely stared at Estel, seeing only truth in his eyes and for once the Elven prince was truly happy. "Thank you, my friend, thank you."
Estel bowed his head, sighed and stood. "Come, dinner will be soon so we may as well get there early."
Just as he finished talking there was a knock at the door and a soft voice called out "Legolas?"
"Come in, Elrohir," Legolas called, easily being able to distinguish the younger twins voice for the hidden merriment that it always carried. Both Legolas and Estel heard the door swing open and soft footsteps cross to the balcony.
"Ah," the middle son of Elrond exclaimed at the sight of Estel standing above the seated Legolas, "I see he found you already and I offer my sincere apologies for that." Smiling and turning to Estel, he shook his finger at the human, "you better not have been sucking on his ear again!"
Rolling his eyes, Estel gave Legolas a forged worried look, "see what I mean?"
Standing, Legolas just looked between the two. Elrohir and Elladan had been his closest friends for Valar knows how long, and Estel, he could see, was fast becoming someone who he could easily grow to like and trust. Turning to the door and walking inside, Legolas called over his shoulder, "I worry about both of you at times."
"Hey!" they both protested at the same time, shooting each other puzzled glances when they heard each others exact reply.
"Creepy," Elrohir exclaimed while walking inside, leaving Estel standing out on the veranda alone.
"Weird," he muttered as he followed his brother, vaguely aware of Legolas' laughter ringing about the walls from inside the sleeping chamber. It was good to have the prince back, to have his voice fill the air and his presence seemed to light even the dark night. It was strange, that such a serious looking being with so many concerns and troubles playing upon his mind, could lift the mood of anyone if they cared to look at him for who he was and not what he was.
As Legolas called out for them to escort him to dinner, Estel only hoped that the news that the archer carried with his arrival was not anything that would take him away again too soon.
"Come now, I think appearing at dinner with you two would not be to 'unseemly' as Culdôr would put it!" the Elf laughed over his shoulder as he tucked a small knife that he always carried into his boot.
"Oh Valar," Elrohir moaned, "do not tell me that he is here?"
"Oh yes," Legolas said sarcastically, with a false smile planted upon his pale features, "he is here - he is always here! Always checking up on what the renegade prince of Mirkwood is doing - 'tis his only thrill in life, I believe, proving me wrong and trying to turn me into a meek little prince who sits upon his throne with his mouth shut!"
"Who's Culdôr?" Estel questioned the whining Elves as he stood in the doorway of the balcony.
"This is going to be interesting!" Elrohir confirmed. "I still remember the last argument that you, he and father got into on your last visit!"
"Very interesting indeed!" agreed Legolas as the younger of the twins playfully pushed him out the door.
"Come now, little Elf, act smart, you are a prince and should therefore be a role model, do not slouch and get that look off your face," Elrohir mocked, impersonating the voice and posture of Culdôr, yet going completely over the top. Legolas' laughter filled the abandoned corridor and rose higher as Elrohir continued to mock the way that Culdôr bullied the prince into being proper.
"Who's Culdôr?" Estel once again questioned no body in particular, having been left behind in the blonde's room. Sighing, he made for the door, closed it behind him and followed the laughter of the prince as he was literally pushed down the hall by Elrohir, who was all the while raving about how improper Legolas was and that he should not travel alone or go anywhere without a representative or escort.
If Elrohir was indeed doing this Culdôr any justice, Estel had already made up his mind to hate him. Shaking his head at the two Elves, he followed them as quickly as possible, all the while muttering to himself, "and they think I have problems!"
*****
Tbc.
Yes, I know that that was rather lighthearted and fun (cringes at the use of such words) but it will get interesting in the next chapter and then the action should start after that. I mean, you do not seriously think that I could keep up all this 'nice stuff' for too long, do you? Lol. Oh, and if you can not tell, I hate Culdôr, and he is my own character and I love Elrohir hence the mocking scene. I try to give Elladan as much page time as Elrohir, but it is hard, and yet, I know not why I like the younger one more. Strange!
Legolas: told ya she has problems!
Elrohir: oh, you all do not know the half of it!
Minka: Silence! Ok, I hope you liked it, and please tell me what you think. You know that I live for reviews, oh, by the way, what do you think Rastur's problem is? Just curious.
Quick review replies:
Weirdlet, I am glad that you liked this, and the movie. The book was ok, but I read it ages ago so I am about to start re-reading it so I will let people know if it is as good as I once thought!
YunaDax: yes, it is hot here! I hope you are safe and well and not in middle of all those fires down there. Also, I know that you have a few more chapters up, and I will get there to read them, but computer is screwing up and it is hard to get on here just to post, so once it is working better, your story is my first stop!
Serena: I like him like this too! You got a little more into his character this chapter so hopefully it will make it a bit better.
Vana Everyoung: I didn't give him any traveling problems this time, I kinda just skipped over that bit as I am saving all the evilness for later! And seriously, I do not have a secret - as far as I know, but if I knew, I would most certainly share it with you. And look, it was another decent none suspenseful ending! So is the next one! (lol, yes, I have that written as well!)
Gwyn (shortened it): I have an attention span when I want to! Lol. See, I have another chapter already, the third is written as well as the epilogue! Lol.
Hypy: er.YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!! Lol
Rikkali: I am glad that you share my opinion on not copying a script word for word and it will be nothing like that. I mean, the cave thing with be there as that is the point, but at the same time I want to change a lot about it as well. But I must say, I have great plans for Elrohir in a certain scene that I am going to take straight from the movie ("Are you calling *me* a dog?" Lol, know what bit I am talking about?) I am also glad that you could see Legolas saying what he was as it gives it makes it more realistic and gives it that little bit more of intrigue (wait to you see what is coming up!)
Gemstone: Yes, I do believe that this is a first for Legolas character wise and I am happy that I was the one to be able to do it! Lol. And yes, he may be all cocky and overconfident but he is trying to do the right thing so it kinda makes it funnier to write! Umm, you will find out more about Culdôr, Elrond and Legolas and their history next chapter - it is a little different! And yes, hopefully there will be a few laughs, but at the moments you will have to just settle for Elrohir's fine impression of Culdôr! Lol. I am also glad that you enjoy reading what my little twisted mind comes up with! Lol and Shadows Within Darkness Without is on its way.kinda.
LittleSpacedemon and legolaslover: I am glad that you are enjoying it and think that is was well done. Thank you!
Minka
IMPORTANT: Ok, I have done a lot of research into the hierarchy of Tolkien's Elven divisions, and it is still with somewhat shaky beliefs that I have done what I have done. From what I have read and been able to piece together, Galadriel and Celeborn (putting it into the terms of old England's form of social standing) are the High Queen and King of the Elves. Thranduil would then step up into their place if anything should happen to them, but, since his little disgracing habits (the fact that he is a gold digging alcoholic) the rule would then fall to Legolas. Elrond would be next after him, as, it is important to remember that he is only Half-Elven and only a Lord, thus placing him below Legolas in any rank for two reasons. Following him would be his twin sons - Elladan first then Elrohir, or maybe a joint rule - and after that I guess that Elves are just screwed. I have used this only to demonstrate Legolas' real power in a scene that is coming up in the next chapter or so, thus meaning that Legolas can overrule Elrond, but, being the fact that he is in his land, he is still required to show courtesy. Make sense?
Umm, I have a problem. I seem to go into too much detail about everything (I mean, I was raving on about he colour of the paint in one section) so you can just skip large chunks if need be as I have the habit of droning on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and - opps! Sorry.
Nonetheless, I hope you like this chapter, it is kinda pointless but at the same time not as I needed to get into a bit of a back history and character development - especially Legolas - sometime, so I though I may as well do it all in one chapter.
*****
The Eaters of the Dead
Chapter Two
Arrivals and many meetings
*****
To say that the journey to Rivendell had been awkward was a complete understatement. Legolas knew that it would be far from pleasant, but this, this was just unnerving. Culdôr and Dúelen did everything but follow Legolas' orders, including making their own strongly worded suggestions over what should and should not be done along the way. It was infuriating for the young prince and it was only the restricting hand of Gilnen that stopped him from quiet often hitting one of the supposed wizened Elves with something heavy.
Yet, surprisingly, they were not the ones that bothered Legolas the most. The Elf Rastur was strange to the prince and the fact that Legolas knew next to nothing about him was slightly unsettling. The tall, dark haired Elf was obviously not one of the Sindar, thus leaving open the question of what was he doing in Mirkwood in the first place. Everything about him was strange, he barely spoke, whether to agree or disagree with either of the opposing parties, he would keep completely to himself, riding somewhat behind the rest and lying as far away as possible at nights and, most disturbing of all, Legolas could always sense Rastur's eyes upon his back. It was worrisome, to feel the Elf's steady gaze always upon him, and as Legolas found out, Rastur made no secret of his actions. Even when Legolas turned, Rastur did not look away and, if anything, made his stares more obvious.
With all these factors playing a part in the journey of the Elves of Mirkwood, it was no surprise that Legolas exhaled a long and thankful sigh as they all looked down upon the valley-set palace of Rivendell. The waterfalls that surrounded were peaceful and comforting, their light spray reaching even the five companions upon their horses at the top of the large, water rimmed basin. Like all the other times that Legolas had visited the house of Lord Elrond Half-Elven, the trees and various bushes were in full bloom, the flowers gracing the air with their sweet sent as the greens and gold's of the leaves fluttered in the breeze. It was a wondrous sight to the eyes, and one that Legolas would never tire looking upon, no matter how long he lived.
Spurring his horse on, Legolas made his way to the winding path that snaked its way between trees and boulders alike to finally reach a small bridge on which it was possible to cross the great river into the very heart of Rivendell.
"My prince," Culdôr's voice stopped him before he could start his way down the path. "Perhaps you should not go first; it would be unseemly for you to do so as well as dangerous."
With his back turned to the others, Legolas sighed deeply while closing his eyes and counting to ten in his head in order to stop him from saying something that they would all deem 'uncouth' for a member of the Royal family. "I shall be fine, Culdôr," Legolas replied as evenly as he could. "'Tis Rivendell, there is no harm to be found here."
"But, your highness, it would be inappropriate for a prince to-"
"Culdôr, to you everything that I do would be inappropriate." Legolas interrupted, his voice clipped from his weariness "so let us be over with it and you learn to accept the things that I do as something that you can not change." With that he whispered to his horse and, before anyone else could object, was swiftly making his way down the path, hearing only the light laughter of Gilnen as he departed their company.
The overhanging trees made the air cool and slightly damp as Legolas rode - now at a more dignified pace - along the well worn dirt road. A faint whistle from above alerted him to the presence of the Rivendell guards and, with a smile, he whistled back, mirroring the previous one.
Almost instantaneously, a dark haired Elf dropped from the trees above him and landed just in front of the princes' now stopped horse. With a smile, the Elf walked up to the right side of Legolas and patted his leg in a sign of greeting.
"My prince, it is good to see you again," the Elf said, his smile reaching his dark, mischievous eyes.
"Ah, Elrohir," Legolas replied, address the Elf before him. "How goes all with you and yours? Good I should hope."
The Elf smiled and inclined his head. "All is well. We have not had a threat of the Orcs that were once seen long ago near these borders and we live without the fear that I hear your kingdom does. The Winter Solstice also went well and undisturbed, thus blessing us with such a fruitful spring. Father is well, as is little Estel - not so little anymore mind you." At this both Elves laughed.
It had been close to twenty years since Legolas had last visited and he still remembered the little human baby that the Lord had under his care. He had named him Estel, the hope of the free people of Middle-Earth, as he was to be, once old enough, the future king of Gondor. All Elves had placed their faith in the small baby, hoping that he would prevent them from further dying out or passing over the great sea.
Legolas harbored fond memories of the small child who would have only been nigh on four years old when they met, and it was with a slight laugh at how he remembered Estel had found his ears fascinating. The child would spend hours sitting upon Legolas' lap and sucking on his pointed ears or twirling his little hands about the lengths of the Mirkwood princes' hair.
"What?" another voice cut through Legolas' reminiscing, "no question of well being for your dear friend?" the voice belonged to another Elf that also jumped from the trees, this time making his way to the left side of the prince. Looking from right to left, Legolas was astonished once again at how alike the two twins looked - there was simply no telling them apart if you did not know them.
"Oh Elladan," Legolas sighed, trying to keep his face a straight as possible and not laugh "you should know that I never liked you!"
Elladan swatted his leg yet laughed at the princes' words, "the only reason you do not like me is for the fact that I am your rival in archery!"
"Elladan," Elrohir warned, "you know that every time you sort to challenge Legolas you were bested! So hush yourself." At the way the younger of the two talked to the elder, Legolas could no longer keep his straight face and his musical, light laughter filled the air once again.
"'Tis good to hear you laugh once more, my prince," Elladan offered to the mounted Elf.
"Just as it is good to see you after so many a year," Legolas replied, "both of you."
"Now come, were is your escort?" Elladan inquired and at the guilty face that Legolas pulled, the twins looked to each other, exchanging worried glances.
"Do not tell us that you came here alone again. You know it is not safe on these roads." Elrohir reprimand the blond rider, his face half way between anger and concern.
Again Legolas laughed and rolled his eyes, "you two are worse than your father." He informed them, "yet fear not, I did not come alone, I merely left them behind as they were aggravating me." The relief was evident on the twin's faces and again Legolas saw just how much alike they really were. "But come, we must be off else they catch up to me and tell me off in much a worse manner then you two have."
Both twins turned on their heels, let out high-pitched whistles, and within a matter of moments, two horses came stealthily through the undergrowth. Elrohir's was a large white charger, much like that of Legolas' while Elladan's was a chestnut brown yet about the same size.
Without another word passing between the three friends, they made their way further down the path, replying to the sentries whistles as they went.
*****
Up close, Rivendell was just as he remembered it, full of life and colour that had long left the fair Greenwood, or as now known, Mirkwood. It was refreshing to be among such a living and noticeably evil free environment, and Legolas drank deeply of the water-vapor filled air. The dampness clung to his clothes and hair, yet not making them drip or become uncomfortable, only cool and revitalizing.
The Elves that he passed all looked at him in wonder, either remembering his last visit or just being plain curious as to what a member of the Sindar division was doing among their midst. It was good to be looked upon in such a matter that differed from his home, for all there regarded him as both untouchable and unapproachable or as a hindrance to their own plans for the forest.
The main entrance of the Last Homely House loomed up ahead; its large doors open as usual. The soft, friendly glow of the candles streamed out, casting lengthy shadows of the marble pillars that stood at the entrance, making the building all the more inviting. Just looking at it, Legolas could feel all the worries of the previous days lifting off his shoulders as he let the warm light elope his senses' and the cool air easy his burdens.
Dismounting at the large marble steps that lead to the greeting hall of the Homely House, the three Elves handed their reins over to a waiting servant who bowed low to all three. They walked up the steps, taking them two at a time and were soon overshadowed by the large building that looked as if it had just emerged out of the growth of the surrounding forest.
The hall was just as the prince remembered, large and yet not straight. It was more of a rounded room, with many smaller and straight corridors coming of the main hall in all directions. Seats lined the walls where no opening stood and various tapestries hung from the earthen painted walls, each outlining a different revolutionary time in the Elven history upon both Middle-Earth and Beleriand. A large fireplace was against the middle of the far most wall and stretched half way to the high, arched ceilings of the waiting chamber, its flickering flames giving the room a tranquil feeling. Patterns of flowers were painted in white upon the circular floor and the pillars which supported the ceiling at various points in the room were adorned with intricate carvings of vines and leaves, snaking their way up to the ceiling and to the light of the sun.
"Father is in a meeting at the present time," Elrohir informed the prince while leading him down the second hall to the right of the fireplace, "so in the mean time I will show you to your room so you may rest from your journey."
"Much thanks," Legolas replied, "I would not have wished to greet your father in such a state anyway," he said whilst looking down on his travel dirtied clothes. The greens and browns had become more or less one shade of dusty brown from the dirt of the road and grime of the path that ascended the Misty Mountains. "When my escort arrives-"
"We will house them as far away from you as possible!" Elladan laughed having read Legolas' thoughts.
"Thank you. It will do me good to be away from their disapproving glares, though Gilnen is with them." He conveniently left out the disturbing feeling that he had received from Rastur throughout the entire journey, not wishing to bother his friends with such strange thoughts.
"We will put him in his normal room and you in yours." Elladan smiled while taking his brothers place in leading Legolas to the end of the hall.
"Your room has remained untouched and is still as isolated as possible, though you do have a neighbor." Elrohir piped up from behind the other two.
"Who is staying in this end of the house?" Legolas questioned, his curiosity getting the better of him. No one ever came up this hall as it was just unused bed chambers and that was why when he first came here, many centuries ago, he had requested to be put up in this wing for it had been quiet and a place were he had no fear of running into anyone who would either seek his advice or further disapprove of his tactics.
"Why Estel, of course," Elrohir said as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
"Estel?" Legolas asked, fearing that his ears had failed on him. "Why ever is Estel up here?'
As they passed a room that was obviously in use, Legolas realized that it must be his. The hall was not kept in ill repaired but was not the most cleansed of them all. There were five rooms adjacent to the hall, three on the left and two on the right and Legolas' was the last on the left. What was now known as Estel's room was the last on the right, and almost opposite to the prince's.
"The same reason as you, I believe," Elrohir concluded while opening the door for their guest. "He likes to be alone a lot; I think he feels as if he does not fit in here. Father and we two try all we can, but he is still alone in the technical sense as there is none other of his kind. Yet other than that he fits in fine, 'tis just sometimes that he wishes to be alone so he chose to stay up here."
Legolas just nodded his head in understanding. He may not have been the only one of his race where he lived, but he was one of the only ones who thought like he did. That was one of the reasons that he liked Rivendell so much, as all the Elves there were more concerned with outside matters then with the treasure and self-importance that his woodland kind were.
"We will come and get you for dinner," Elladan said whilst pulling the door closed, "if there is anything that you need, you know where to find us. There should be water in the bath already if you wish to bath and I think a few of your outfits are still on the hangers."
"Thanks," Legolas whispered, half to himself as the door was shut behind him. Sighing, the prince went and sat on the edge of the bed and began pulling off his boots whilst taking in his surroundings. Almost nothing had changed since his last visit yet he could tell that the room had been cleaned frequently, always ready for one of his unexpected arrivals. The room was luxurious and large, almost as big as his royal suite in his own home, and open, allowing the fresh air and the sounds of the falling water to travel through. It was painted in greens and gold's, like that of the outside world in which he was now staying. The high arched ceiling was of a golden-brown and supported gold painted vines and leaves with a mural of a bird sitting among the golden leaves of a mallorn tree. The rest of the walls were painted in different shades of green, working from the darkest at the top and the lightest at the bottom where it blended into the carved stone floor. A fireplace was on the wall right of the door and the bed further down, while the opposite wall opened up to reveal his wash room. The other wall was practically non-existent as the entire space opened up to a large balcony.
Having completed the removal of his shoes, he walked slowly to the balcony - his favorite aspect of the entire room. It was shaped into an autumn leaf with the railings made to look like the branches of the tree and the table and chairs that sat upon the marble surface matched, with the table in an identical shape as the floor. It overlooked and, to an extent, stretched over one of the numerous gushing waterfalls of Rivendell and yet was perfectly enclosed by trees on both sides of the bank to allow the prince his privacy.
Twilight was falling upon the land, making the many lanterns and small fire- lit lights glow within the trees with a stronger intensity and it seemed to Legolas that the very waterfall seemed to blaze with a light of its own.
Breathing deeply of the air, Legolas at last allowed himself to relax. He need not worry about Culdôr or Dúelen, nor fret about the strangeness of Rastur. He was at peace - or at least until he had to convince Rivendell of his plan in aiding the human villages to the west.
Heading to the bathroom, he found his bath already drawn and waiting for him. Lighting a few of the scattered candles that lay about the large bath and wash stand, he first went and opened the small closet that was within the room. He found that many of his garments - some for hunting, some for dining and councils - still hung there, unmarked and well taken care of. Choosing one of silver and light blue, he stripped himself of the dirt and mud covered clothes that he had worn for the last few days, submerged himself into the warm, scented water and allowed the pains of his body to leave him and evaporate in the bath.
Immersing his head under, he paid special attention to getting the knots and grime out of his hair before letting himself relax and bask in the comfort that the bath provided.
After what seemed like hours, the prince emerged, dried himself off, and dressed, surprised that the chosen tunic and pants still fit him perfectly. Opening a draw, he found the comb that he had left there so long ago and started to work the knots and kinks out of his now clean hair.
A soft bang from in his sleeping chambers made him stop mid stroke and when the noise was repeated, he placed the comb down, switching it with one of his long knives while blowing out the candles.
His mind was racing as he pulled the silvery filigreed blade free of its scabbard with nothing more then a silent hiss. Who could possibly be in his room at such a time of night, and without permission? Memories of the time that he was attacked in his own room in Mirkwood by the assassin that he was positive that Culdôr had sent flooded back to him, and for some reason his mind was automatically drawn to Rastur.
Legolas walked sideways, silently placing one foot over the other and keeping his back to the wall as he made his way over towards the door. Taking the golden door handle in his left hand, he slowly turned it down, making sure not to allow it to make even the slightest noise. Pushing the door open only far enough for him to slip out of, Legolas inwardly cursed his lack of thought in lighting a few candles before he went for his bath. The room was pitch black apart from the soft glow that illuminated the veranda and a few feet in front of it.
Over near the fireplace he could hear labored breathing, and, using the past knowledge of the layout of the room, Legolas slowly and quietly made his way over, letting his eyes adjust to the dark. When he was half way to the inglenook he could make out the outline of a figure, crouching down, facing the hearth with his back to the Elf. Apparently the stranger had not yet heard Legolas' approach.
Gripping the dagger tightly in his right hand, Legolas took a deep breath and charged forward, grabbing the figure by the back of the neck and hauling him to his feet while turning the man around and then pressing the sharp of the dagger to his throat. The stranger let out a startled gasp but once the blade was in place went dead still, barely even breathing.
"Who are you and just what do you think you are doing in here?" Legolas questioned, making his voice as dangerous as he could and by the slight tremble that ran through the figure, he knew that it had worked.
"I could ask you the same thing." the figure stated bravely, but when Legolas pressed upon his dagger, he hastily added, "you do not remember me, prince Legolas?"
Legolas' mind raced as he tried to put the voice to a face and then to a name and yet the only possible person that he was able to come up with seemed impossible. "Estel?" he questioned, his confusion evident in his voice.
The figure seemed to relax within his grasp a little, "of course it is me. Who else do you think would be sneaking about in your room at this time of night?" the man asked with a hint of laughter in his tone.
Smiling also, Legolas released the man and tucked the dagger into the back of his breeches. "Oh the usual - unnamable evils, assassins, royal guards - nothing out of the ordinary."
A started cry of surprise came from Estel as he once again turned to the fireplace and this time Legolas saw what he was doing. He had been starting to light a fire. "We have to talk," Estel laughed out, "but let me finish getting your fire going, unless you want to hold a knife to my throat again?" he questioned, receiving the laughter that he sort from the prince.
"You remembered me?" Legolas half asked and stated, "how? You were so young." He was starting to relax from his fright already and, strangely enough, it was relieving to know that the man remembered him, even if he did not know why.
The fire was crackling within the fenced off hearth before Estel replied, and even then, he grabbed the Elf's elbow and lead him out to the balcony to sit upon the chairs and watch the night. "One rarely forgets a friend, even from many a year past. Besides," he added with a large smirk, "I seem to remember that you had rather nice ears!"
"You remember that?" the blond chocked out between his laughs. "I had hoped that you would have forgotten that small detail."
"How could I? Both Elladan and Elrohir delight in reminding me what a handful I was for the prince of Elves."
"You were no more handful then they, for I remember that they used to get up to all sorts of things," Legolas said while looking upon the man for the first real time since they had started to converse. Estel had grown up, had changed much over the years that had left no imprint upon his Legolas' own face and it was slightly sad to think that once he used to bounce the small child on his lap and tell him stories of the great battles that he had participated in. The man was tall; he had noticed that in the room, almost as tall as himself which was strange among the race of humans. He was studier built though, his muscles easily seem through his clothes unlike that of Legolas' that could only be seen when in use, but were there nonetheless. Estel's eyes were dark, like the clouds on a stormy day, and his hair was shoulder length, wavy and somewhere between black and dark brown. He still held most of the facial features that he had when he was but a child, though a small stubble now grew upon his chin and upper lip.
"Indeed they did, and still do, even to this day," Estel agreed with the prince's last statement. "So," he asked, "tell me about these nameless evils and assassins."
Legolas just sighed, not wanting to bring up such troublesome facts in the face of the calmness that he felt. "Perhaps another time, for the assassin at least. As for the nameless evil, you will find out soon enough."
"I gather this is not a social call then?" Estel asked, slight disappointment in his voice as he shot a quick sidelong look at the Elf that sat on the other side of the table. Legolas looked just as he remembered him, having not aged in the many years since he had looked upon him with the eyes of a child. Yet something had changed in the Elf, he seemed to carry more worries then what he could recall. Legolas seemed to act differently now, more proper then he remembered, as in his memories, he always saw the Elf squirming and laughing under his touch as he sucked on his ears, or playing hide and seek with him once he was old enough to wander about.
"Why are you up here, in this long forgotten wing?" Estel asked, his voice soft and gentle, not wishing to upset the Elf.
"The same reason as you, I should gather." Legolas replied while looking at his newly found friend.
"To hide? But why, I hear you are an all powerful diplomat these days. Kings and Queens alike bow down before you."
Legolas laughed at the suggestion of the royal lines that he knew bowing to him. "Not so, my friend, 'tis not so at all." Turing his gaze back to the rushing waters of the fall, Legolas made up his mind to continue, allowing the human into a small part of his mind, heart and world that he had never confided in anyone before. "People do not like being told that they are wrong, Estel, that is one thing that will do you well to know. They like to believe in themselves, think that they are right no matter what the subject, and while I may be a so called 'powerful and convincing' diplomat, I have not the support nor love that people tend to believe." Sighing to himself, he gave Estel time to think over what he had said, knowing that the human lingered on every word that he had spoken into the air, storing it to his memory for further reference.
"Humans do not like being told what to do by an Elf, and Elves do not like being advised by one of them who is still thought a mere child. I may be able to convince them of the right way, to see what their errors are and to offer a better solution, but all it does is anger them, and, whilst they do normally take my advice, it is under their own name and accord that they carry it out." The blond archer laughed at what he was next about to say, catching Estel off guard, "most are quite pleased to see me leave and dread when I return - much like Mithrandir who is often referred to as the bringer of bad news!"
A comfortable silence fell upon the two as they both sat there, obviously engrossed in their own thoughts, and, when the silence was broken, it was Estel to voice his opinion. "Well, then they are the fools." He stated firmly, "if they are too blind to see your help as good, then they do not deserve it. And if they do not open their eyes anytime soon, know that you can always come and aid me in Gondor, if the Valar should ever deem the right time for me to come forth."
Nodding his thanks, Legolas just smiled at the ambitious young man. The Elf knew that Estel knew of his true heritage as Lord Elrond had sent him a message before the event, asking for his advice on the subject. At least one person was willing to hear what he had to say on matters and did not shun him for it.
"You will make a good king one day, Estel, but do not rush to it for no good will come of haste."
"If I had parchment and quill, I would write down your words of wisdom so not to ever forget them!" Estel said with a smile that reached his eyes, almost lightening the dark orbs with his mirth. "And if it means anything, I missed you when you left. I may have been a child, but I pined over your absence for weeks, and still do - did since you are sitting in front of me now." He laughed once more, as did Legolas, feeling his joyful mood once again returning to him. "And I am glad that you came back!"
For a long moment, Legolas merely stared at Estel, seeing only truth in his eyes and for once the Elven prince was truly happy. "Thank you, my friend, thank you."
Estel bowed his head, sighed and stood. "Come, dinner will be soon so we may as well get there early."
Just as he finished talking there was a knock at the door and a soft voice called out "Legolas?"
"Come in, Elrohir," Legolas called, easily being able to distinguish the younger twins voice for the hidden merriment that it always carried. Both Legolas and Estel heard the door swing open and soft footsteps cross to the balcony.
"Ah," the middle son of Elrond exclaimed at the sight of Estel standing above the seated Legolas, "I see he found you already and I offer my sincere apologies for that." Smiling and turning to Estel, he shook his finger at the human, "you better not have been sucking on his ear again!"
Rolling his eyes, Estel gave Legolas a forged worried look, "see what I mean?"
Standing, Legolas just looked between the two. Elrohir and Elladan had been his closest friends for Valar knows how long, and Estel, he could see, was fast becoming someone who he could easily grow to like and trust. Turning to the door and walking inside, Legolas called over his shoulder, "I worry about both of you at times."
"Hey!" they both protested at the same time, shooting each other puzzled glances when they heard each others exact reply.
"Creepy," Elrohir exclaimed while walking inside, leaving Estel standing out on the veranda alone.
"Weird," he muttered as he followed his brother, vaguely aware of Legolas' laughter ringing about the walls from inside the sleeping chamber. It was good to have the prince back, to have his voice fill the air and his presence seemed to light even the dark night. It was strange, that such a serious looking being with so many concerns and troubles playing upon his mind, could lift the mood of anyone if they cared to look at him for who he was and not what he was.
As Legolas called out for them to escort him to dinner, Estel only hoped that the news that the archer carried with his arrival was not anything that would take him away again too soon.
"Come now, I think appearing at dinner with you two would not be to 'unseemly' as Culdôr would put it!" the Elf laughed over his shoulder as he tucked a small knife that he always carried into his boot.
"Oh Valar," Elrohir moaned, "do not tell me that he is here?"
"Oh yes," Legolas said sarcastically, with a false smile planted upon his pale features, "he is here - he is always here! Always checking up on what the renegade prince of Mirkwood is doing - 'tis his only thrill in life, I believe, proving me wrong and trying to turn me into a meek little prince who sits upon his throne with his mouth shut!"
"Who's Culdôr?" Estel questioned the whining Elves as he stood in the doorway of the balcony.
"This is going to be interesting!" Elrohir confirmed. "I still remember the last argument that you, he and father got into on your last visit!"
"Very interesting indeed!" agreed Legolas as the younger of the twins playfully pushed him out the door.
"Come now, little Elf, act smart, you are a prince and should therefore be a role model, do not slouch and get that look off your face," Elrohir mocked, impersonating the voice and posture of Culdôr, yet going completely over the top. Legolas' laughter filled the abandoned corridor and rose higher as Elrohir continued to mock the way that Culdôr bullied the prince into being proper.
"Who's Culdôr?" Estel once again questioned no body in particular, having been left behind in the blonde's room. Sighing, he made for the door, closed it behind him and followed the laughter of the prince as he was literally pushed down the hall by Elrohir, who was all the while raving about how improper Legolas was and that he should not travel alone or go anywhere without a representative or escort.
If Elrohir was indeed doing this Culdôr any justice, Estel had already made up his mind to hate him. Shaking his head at the two Elves, he followed them as quickly as possible, all the while muttering to himself, "and they think I have problems!"
*****
Tbc.
Yes, I know that that was rather lighthearted and fun (cringes at the use of such words) but it will get interesting in the next chapter and then the action should start after that. I mean, you do not seriously think that I could keep up all this 'nice stuff' for too long, do you? Lol. Oh, and if you can not tell, I hate Culdôr, and he is my own character and I love Elrohir hence the mocking scene. I try to give Elladan as much page time as Elrohir, but it is hard, and yet, I know not why I like the younger one more. Strange!
Legolas: told ya she has problems!
Elrohir: oh, you all do not know the half of it!
Minka: Silence! Ok, I hope you liked it, and please tell me what you think. You know that I live for reviews, oh, by the way, what do you think Rastur's problem is? Just curious.
Quick review replies:
Weirdlet, I am glad that you liked this, and the movie. The book was ok, but I read it ages ago so I am about to start re-reading it so I will let people know if it is as good as I once thought!
YunaDax: yes, it is hot here! I hope you are safe and well and not in middle of all those fires down there. Also, I know that you have a few more chapters up, and I will get there to read them, but computer is screwing up and it is hard to get on here just to post, so once it is working better, your story is my first stop!
Serena: I like him like this too! You got a little more into his character this chapter so hopefully it will make it a bit better.
Vana Everyoung: I didn't give him any traveling problems this time, I kinda just skipped over that bit as I am saving all the evilness for later! And seriously, I do not have a secret - as far as I know, but if I knew, I would most certainly share it with you. And look, it was another decent none suspenseful ending! So is the next one! (lol, yes, I have that written as well!)
Gwyn (shortened it): I have an attention span when I want to! Lol. See, I have another chapter already, the third is written as well as the epilogue! Lol.
Hypy: er.YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!! Lol
Rikkali: I am glad that you share my opinion on not copying a script word for word and it will be nothing like that. I mean, the cave thing with be there as that is the point, but at the same time I want to change a lot about it as well. But I must say, I have great plans for Elrohir in a certain scene that I am going to take straight from the movie ("Are you calling *me* a dog?" Lol, know what bit I am talking about?) I am also glad that you could see Legolas saying what he was as it gives it makes it more realistic and gives it that little bit more of intrigue (wait to you see what is coming up!)
Gemstone: Yes, I do believe that this is a first for Legolas character wise and I am happy that I was the one to be able to do it! Lol. And yes, he may be all cocky and overconfident but he is trying to do the right thing so it kinda makes it funnier to write! Umm, you will find out more about Culdôr, Elrond and Legolas and their history next chapter - it is a little different! And yes, hopefully there will be a few laughs, but at the moments you will have to just settle for Elrohir's fine impression of Culdôr! Lol. I am also glad that you enjoy reading what my little twisted mind comes up with! Lol and Shadows Within Darkness Without is on its way.kinda.
LittleSpacedemon and legolaslover: I am glad that you are enjoying it and think that is was well done. Thank you!
Minka