Disclaimer: I do not own LOTR or any of the characters. No profit is made from these stories, they are merely for the enjoyment of myself and anyone who cares to read them.



A Walk Out Of Reach





Chapter Three

Twice Legolas had to hide from the bands of orcs hunting him. His injury slowed his movements considerably and he had been unable to evade their pursuit for long. The first time they strayed so close to him he could hear them breathe. The second time he almost stumbled into their midst, so muddled was his mind from poison. Only his sharp elven hearing had alerted him in time to take cover high in the trees. He hid amongst the dense foilage struggling to control his rapid breaths as he watched them pass.

It was this last foray into the trees that aggravated his injury again. The flow of blood from his wound had finally slowed but the strain from the climb had caused the bleeding to begin anew. Angry at himself for his weakness Legolas crouched amongst the limbs and tore more strips of cloth from his cloak. He wrapped them around his midsection and pulled the edges together in a tight knot.

The loss of blood was beginning to take it's toll. The paleness of his features was enhanced by the dark circles forming under his eyes. His skin was clammy and sweaty and he was so light headed it was difficult to think clearly. To make matters worse an unnatural heat had begun to radiate from his body. The black spots dancing before his eyes were a constant companion to his misery. Even his movements were un-elven like. The poison in his blood hindered his body's natural healing abilities. With great reluctance he finally gave in to his weakness.

Legolas looked around then cast his sight on the forest floor far below. He would not climb down for he feared darkness would claim him before he reached the ground. Besides, even if he did reach the ground, he would not be able to walk far. Grimacing he stifled a groan as his eyes searched for his pursuers. Finding none he listened carefully and heard their heavy footfalls heading away from him. He sighed tiredly.

Coming to a decision he grasped the branch above him and pulled himself further up into the thick, green canopy. He looked around at the various branches searching for some that would suit his need. Spotting what he was looking for the elf precariously made his way over to a thick twist of knarled limbs. It was perfect. His body needed rest and he would not find it on the ground. The danger was too great.

He rested his palm on the trunk of the tree and closed his eyes in concentration. The exhausted elf silently asked for the protection of the tree while he rested. It's leaves rustled in agreement. Legolas could feel it's anxiety for his safety and he offered his reassurance quietly, "Worry not. I need but a little rest I shall be fine." His mouth turned up in a small smile as he offered his thanks to the tree.

The woodland elf breathed in deeply, letting the comforting scent of pine soothe his mind as he slipped his quiver and bow off his shoulder. The white handles of his knife tucked in his quiver caught the light of the rising moon.

Grasping his weapons firmly in his hands he scooted over to the cluster of branches and gingerly stretched out his aching body. He was tired beyond reason. His body had been pushed beyond it's limits and he could go no further. Making sure his weapons were secure at his side he finally allowed himself to give in to the darkness pulling at his mind. Slowly Legolas' eyes glazed over then drifted closed as consciousness fled him.

The trees regarded his still form with dismay. They could feel the shadows taking hold of the elf and whispered to one another in despair. The fate of this firstborn was uncertain. Legolas' silent protector moved it's limbs closer gently cradling the elven treasure in it's charge, hiding him from hostile eyes.

The cloth around Legolas' side slowly blossomed red.