Disclaimer: I do not own LOTR or any of the characters 'cause if I did, I
certainly wouldn't share the blond elf with anybody LOL! :D No profit is
made from these stories; they are merely for the enjoyment of myself and
anyone who cares to read them.
Thank you, thank you, thank you sooooooooooooooooooooo much for all 159 reviews! I can't believe I've gotten so many. Wow! As someone once said, (Shirebound said it) I walk on the shoulders of giants. So much talent graces these many pages and I'm grateful that everyone has allowed me to be a part of it. Please keep those reviews coming!
BTW....I am soooo sorry I did not post a new chappy this weekend. I was chained to my desk writing my research paper for my Psyche class instead! :( But now, that is done and I can once again focus on the important things in life! ;)
All the spelling and grammar mistakes in this chapter are mine and mine alone. Hope there's not too many. I would also like to say that I am in no way an expert on Middle Earth's geography. I am merely looking at Tolkien's map and making my own interpretations. So forgive me if there are errors in my descriptions of it. ;)
pupulupk: I don't think I quite made your two second deadline! :) But I tried, I really did! Thanks for your review.
Eclipse: Thank you so much for taking time to review this story. I too love Aragorn/Legolas friendship stories. They just make me feel warm and fuzzy all over! :)
Mirage: When I am done with this story, I do plan on writing more. This will be the first summer I've had off in quite awhile so I'm hoping to devote it to writing LOTR stories! Thanks for bringing a smile to my face with your kind review! :)
Midnight: Here's a new chapter for you. Hope you like this one just as much. ;)
Elenora: The language for the setting and time period is something I constantly struggle with. When I'm writing dialogue I always have to close my eyes and see/hear the characters actually saying the words to see/hear if they will work or not. Then after I've finished a chappy I always have to go back and re-read it two or three times to see if their words make sense and sound real. I hope this method continues to work. Thank you so much for the wonderful compliment and I hope you continue to find enjoyment in this story. :)
andrea- Thanks for reviewing! :) Here's the next chapter for ya! ;)
Fantasia: LOL Depending on what???????? Now you've got me worried. :O LOL
Blue Topaz: LOL Now you sound like me! You'd better watch it or you might actually find yourself rolling around in the gutter with a certain elf! ;) I always end up in the gutter, dragging my blond beauty with me, although he is usually kicking and screaming! :D Thanks for the review.
princess-Greenleaf-of-Mir: *cackles evily* Wait to you see this next cliffy! :D *runs and hides * Oh, wait, I almost forgot, * peeks head out for a minute* I'll definately give those stories a looksee! :) *ducks and hides again* Thanks for the review!
Isilwen-Telpefion: When I said Thranduil was not as even tempered as Elrond, I didn't quite mean that he was a meanie. I kinda see him as saying things first without giving much thought as to what he is saying without intending to hurt anyone. I've always imagined him as a stern king but soft where his son was concerned yet hard when it came to "royal" duties and behaviors. Ok, I'll shut up now, did that confuse you enough?? I am working on getting them to Rivendell as soon as possible though. But these little plot bunnies just keep nibbling at my toes and putting up road blocks. ;) Thanks for the review.
merrylyn: I wrote part of this chapter just for you. It's about that "other character" that keeps popping up! LOL I'm sad to say that I'm finally putting the poor thing to rest. After all that it deserves it. Maybe we should have a memorial service???? But, who's to say it won't pop up again, later???? ;) I've plans for it yet for it just refuses to go silently into the night! LOL Poor Leggy and Aragorn, I don't think saying a balrog ate it would save them from the lectures even though their brothers held their tongue in this chapter! But, they don't know the whole story yet! Hey, and thanks so much for the Leggy plushie!!!!! It is just soooooo cuddly! Now I see why you hug it so much! ;) Now that I've got it, I don't know if I can bear to part with it any time soon! LOL I just may end up kidnapping your Leggy plushie here, or maybe holding it for ransom, or something like that! LOL SPCA???? Oh Gawd, hide me, hide me! They're gonna kill me when they see what I've done to the poor thing again in this chapter! Eeeek! Someone hide me, fast! ROTFLMHO!! Thanks so much for your review merrylyn! It really made me laugh at a time I really needed a one! Hope you enjoy this next chapter and as always, thanks so much for reviewing! :)
sabercrazy: Well, I tried hard not to leave you dangling too long from the edge of that cliff! LOL Hey, what's that you muttered???? Oh, I can only imagine what you'll mutter after you read the end of this chapter! LOL Thanks for reviewing! Enjoy! :)
legolasluva: Thanks so much for letting me know how you feel about this story! I hope you continue to like it! :) Here's a new chapter for your enjoyment.
Taraisilwen: I've tried hard to write this in the spirit Tolkien intended. I know I've said that many times before but it continues to be true. It is what drives me to make the words true to how the characters would actually say them. Glad you are enjoying it. I hope you like this next chapter too. :)
pilot3001: I kinda hoped people would find the hair bit funny! I'm glad you did. Thanks for the review. :)
Elentari Manwe: I'm so glad you found my story again! Thanks for taking the time to review! :)
Shandrial: Here's a little more suspense for ya! ;) I'm glad your sticking around! :)
O.B.I.M. : Thanks for reviewing this story! It's nice to see people coming back for more. :)
Imbefaniel: LOL Here's another cliffy! As I've said, they are much more fun to write than read! Thanks for reviewing. :)
BlackRose1356: Here's the answer to your question. :) Hope you like this new chapter. :)
Lady Jaina: I'm so glad you keep coming back! Yeah, I've definitely something in mind! *grins wickedly and looks at the ceiling innocently* Thanks for the review.
xsilicax: Yes, here are our dear twin elves! My aren't they just as beautiful as Leggy??? LOL Thanks for the review. Ha ha, to tell you the truth, Leggy actually did want to look in the river to check his hair but I wouldn't let him. He actually yelled at me for not letting him do that. And would you believe, he actually asked me for a brush too???? Of course I refused! That would have just totally ruined the story so he had to content himself with just feeling his hair! LOL Bad things coming??? Surely I would NEVER do that! *evil grin* Heh, heh! Thanks for reviewing! :)
Kelly Neptunus: Thanks for reviewing again! As I've said before it's nice to see familiar faces popping in! :)
Rain Minstrel: No, me thinks at least one more adventure can be arranged for our dear elf and human! LOL Thanks for the continued reviews! :)
Karri: I didn't get this story out when I said I would in my e-mail. I'm sorry but life just kept interrupting me! LOL Hope you enjoy this little ditty here! :) Info on Leggy's previous adventure will be coming soon! Ok, I absolutely, positively, certainly and most assuredly will get to the trees this next chapter k? I'm making myself a note right now!!!! Thanks for reviewing and taking the time to e-mail me as well! I'm glad you're liking this story! :)
Pipsqueak: Thanks so much for the compliment! I'm so glad you are enjoying this story! Here's more for you! :)
CartiDi: Thanks for adding me to your author and story list! That just made my day! :) I tried to make this chapter a bit longer for you. Hope you like it! :)
Shauna: Yup, you guessed right! Enter the, twins! Yay! Gotta love them too huh? LOL Aaaarg, and here comes an action scene. I'm gonna be wringing my hands writing this one! Glad to hear from you again! :)
Dujoran: I'm not gonna explain that just yet so don't worry. The surprise won't be ruined. :) Thanks for the review!
A last note, if anyone could please tell me (cause I'm absolutely clueless!) how to you make bold and italics show up in the stories???? And you know when you put the three dots at the end of words, well mine always end up as periods. :( Is there a certain method to doing these things???? Help! You can e-mail me any responses or put it up in the review section. Any way is fine with me! Thanks so much. :)
Now, *whew* on to the story!
A Walk Out Of Reach
Chapter Fifteen
"It was not a good idea, admit it."
"Well, you were in total agreement at the time."
"Yes, but little did I know the folly in listening to you."
With his sharp elven hearing Legolas picked up the riders conversation. He recognized the voices immediately and turned to his friend to alleviate his anxiety, "It is your brothers that approach Aragorn. They travel alone for I hear no others with them"
Aragorn stood from his crouched position behind the brush. He grinned as his eyes eagerly sought out Elladan and Elrohir through the trees. It seemed a long while before he could hear what his friend had heard. He smile grew even wider when he realized the twins were in one of their "debates."
"Father will surely be displeased with us Elrohir."
"No, father will be displeased with you. It was your idea to skirt around the southern trail not mine."
The ranger shook his head and laughed softly. Those two would never change. They thrived on their relentless teasing of each other. For that matter, the twins derived a great deal of enjoyment from teasing him as well. But underneath the facade he knew his brothers shared a deep love for the other and their family. Each would readily die to protect their loved ones from harm.
Aragorn turned to the elf, "Come my friend. Let us go and meet my brothers and put a stop to their debate for they have probably been arguing all day."
Legolas laughed lightly and nodded his head. He was in total agreement for he well knew the twins could argue for hours."
The elf and ranger led their horses towards the voices. It did not take long for Aragorn to spot his brothers riding slowly through the trees."
Elrohir pulled his horse up short when he spotted them. He cried in joyful surprise, "Estel! Legolas!" With lightning speed he slid off his horse and rushed to greet his brother and the prince. Elrohir turned his head at his brother's cry and smiled happily when he saw Aragorn and Legolas. The smile lit up his eyes as he dismounted and rushed towards them as well.
His brother's enthusiastic embrace nearly knocked Aragorn over. He took a step backwards to steady himself and returned the embrace just as fiercly. Just as Elrohir let him go Elladan grabbed hold of him and hugged him so tightly his ribs felt like they would break.
Legolas fared no better and had to endure tight embraces and slaps on his back from the twins. A hiss of pain escaped his lips when Elladan unknowingly jarred his side. The elf twin pulled back, concern written in his eyes. Only then did he take note the dried blood that stained the prince's tunic and leggings. Elladan's eyes narrowed as he studied his human brother and his friend, "I should have known you two would find trouble." he told Aragorn, "And here I was telling Elrohir that you would both be fine." He shook his head, "Though I am not sure I want to know, what happened to you?" he asked his adopted brother.
Elrohir had grown still at his brother's questioning and he too studied his little brother and the prince taking note of their haggard appearance. Puzzlement filled his eyes when he saw Aragorn's cloak. Had he brought an elflings cloak instead of his own? He looked at Aragorn and waited for him to answer Elladan's question.
Aragorn fidgeted under his older brother's glare. Why did he always feel like a child who had been caught sneaking out of his bedroom window when they looked at him like that? He suddenly found himself at a loss for words. Luckily, Legolas came to his rescue.
The elf's voice shook slightly as the memories from the last few days tumbled through his mind, "Peace friends. We are well though we did meet with a little trouble." Legolas frowned at the disbelieving look Elrohir was throwing him. His shoulders slumped and he knew they would not get away without telling what had befallen them. He decided to only give them the barest of facts, "Alas, I was shot by the black arrow of an orc. Fortunately, Aragorn was able purge the poison from my body and I am well." He made no mention of the fact that he and Aragorn had separated for he did not wish to deal with the lecture that would surely follow such a confession.
Noticing the discomfort of his younger brother and Legolas, Elladan put his hand on his twin's arm before he could scold them both, "I feared you would cross their path Legolas, for orcs roam these woods in abundance. I do not understand the reason though. Long has it been since they roamed this far from Dol Guldur. Why they are roaming so close to the Anduin's eastern shores now, I know not."
Legolas met Elladan's steady gaze with his own, "Yes, it has been long. But come, we waste time talking. We must seek shelter soon for dusk approaches and too many orcs wander these woods at night."
Elrohir nodded his head grimly. "Yes, and when we find shelter I would have a look at both of you."
Aragorn resisted the urge to groan. Elrohir could be just too overprotective at times. Unfortunately, nothing he could say or do would dissuade the elf from seeing for himself that both he and the prince were indeed fine. Well, he had to amend that last statement. Perhaps he was fine, but Legolas on the other hand was still on the mend. He sighed tiredly giving in to the inevitable, "Come, let us be off."
All four quickly mounted their horses and rode softly into the darkening woods. ****************************************
Just as the last rays of sunlight settled behind the mountains Elladan spotted a small cave a little ways in from the shores of the river. He almost didn't see it for it was well hidden by large boulders and thick brush. Though the prospect of using a cave for shelter was not appealing to any of them, no other choice was before them. With great reluctance they inspected the cave for hidden dangers while Elladan concealed the horses in the trees.
Once the cave had been inspected, they brought in their packs and rested them against the wall. Estel and the three elves settled themselves in the close confines of the cave. It was too small to stand upright but if they stooped over they could move around without too much difficulty. Aragorn had started a small fire to ward off the evening chill. The smokeless fire burned merrily, giving off a warm glow.
"I'm fine Elrohir! There really is no need to check the bandage again." Legolas pushed the probing hands away with annoyance.
Elrohir narrowed his eyes at the prince. He was growing more and more frustrated with each passing moment. Elven prince or not, Legolas would concede to having his injury looked at whether he liked it or not. "If you do not let Estel see to your wound Prince Legolas," he stressed the title with a sarcastic grin, "Elladan and I will hold you down while Estel looks at it!" To prove his point, he pushed on the prince's shoulders quite forcefully.
Legolas let out an exasperated breath at the threat and held his hands out in mock surrender. He knew when he was outnumbered. The twins would make good on the threat and he had no wish to endure the humiliation, "Very well. I shall let Aragorn see to wound though it pains me not at all. There is no need to fuss!"
Elrohir merely shrugged and smiled in triumph. He had seen Legolas flinch when Elladan bumped his side and knew the injury had been a serious one. Orc arrows were notorious for their tainted tips and only a few elves and humans were strong enough to overcome the deadly poison, and then, only if treated quickly.
Satisfied, Elrohir moved to sit beside Elladan while Aragorn set to work. He lifted the prince's tunic and a small cry of dismay escaped him before he could stop it. Legolas looked at him sharply.
"Blood stains the bandage my friend. Now I can understand why you did not want me to see to your wound." He looked at the prince and shook his head, "I fear the ride down the side of the mountain was the cause of this. The long ride downhill strained the wound."
Legolas said nothing. Though the wound had pained him a little during their ride he did not feel the need to tell Aragorn of it for the pain was truly was but a little thing. Well, what was done, was done. He knew Aragorn was right and nothing he could say would change anything.
The ranger continued to work swiftly muttering angrily under his breath. "Even with his sharp elven hearing, Legolas could only make out a few of the words. Something about stubborn elves and wring his neck. He smiled to himself, careful not to let Aragorn see his amusement. The ranger was certainly not pleased with him at the moment and he did not want to provoke him further.
With gentle care Aragorn tugged the bandage off and cleaned the wound. He turned to his brother, "Elladan, hand me my pack please."
The twin grabbed the pack and moved next to Aragorn. He handed it to his human brother and bending low, inspected the prince's wound for himself. "You have aggravated the wound much Legolas, for blood still seeps from it." The prince shot him an annoyed glare and Elladan chuckled. He crouched next to Legolas and continued to watch the ranger work in silence.
Aragorn chose several fresh leaves from his pack and set them aside. Then he grabbed the edge of his cloak and tore several long strips from it. He directed his older brother without even realizing he was doing it, "Elladan, hold these leaves over the wound while I wrap it," From across the fire Elrohir's eyes widened in sudden understanding as he watched his brother wrap the prince's midsection.
The elf started laughing and could not stop, even when the others turned and looked at him in puzzlement. Elrohir finally managed to get his laughter under control and said between breaths, "Here I thought you had mistaken an elflings cloak for your own Estel. I should have know the reason would prove to be much more amusing." He continued to laugh softly to himself.
Soon Elladan joined in much to the annoyance of his human brother. Aragorn turned to look at Legolas and found a wide smile on the prince's fair face as well. He shook his head in disgust, "There is but little I find amusing in this matter. In case it has slipped your notice brother, Legolas almost died. Much did I despair of ever restoring him to health."
Elrohir stopped laughing immediately and said softly, "I do not make light of the prince's injury Estel. I know the seriousness of the wound as well as you for thrice have I felt the black poison." The grin appeared on his face again despite his efforts to stop it, "But, you have to admit Estel, your cloak is a funny sight to behold."
Aragorn felt a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. A soft chuckle escaped him when he looked at the remnants of his cloak. "I don't suppose you have a spare cloak in your pack Elrohir? That would be far more useful than your teasing."
The twin stood and walked over to his pack. He pulled out the extra one he always carried and tossed it to his brother. His eyes twinkled with mischief, "You are indeed lucky on this journey Estel. First you and Legolas evade capture, then cheat death and now thwart the cold."
The ranger rolled his eyes at the exaggeration, though a small part of him knew his brother was right. They were lucky. He set the cloak aside and returned his attention to his friend. Aragorn tied the last knot on the bandage and made sure the wrappings were secure. With a tired sigh he sat down next to his friend and let himself relax for the first time in a long while. Even though his brothers were almost as bad at mothering him and Legolas as his father was, it was still good to be with them again. He always felt comforted by their presence and knew that they would not let him come to any harm. Relaxed at last he closed his eyes and let the small fire slowly lull him into a light doze.
"Estel."
Elladan's voice startled him and he jumped slightly. He turned to find his brother crouched in front of him, concern etched on his face. "How long has it been since you have taken rest?"
Aragorn shrugged his shoulders unwilling to admit he'd only managed to snatch a little rest here and there.
The elder twin placed his hand on his brother's shoulder, "Come Estel, lay here next to Legolas and take some rest. It looks as if you could use it. Elrohir and I will keep watch this night."
Already deep in sleep, Legolas' eyes gazed deep into his elven dreams. He lay next to the fire covered warmly with Elrohir's cloak. Aragorn gave in to his tiredness and moved next to his slumbering friend. A sigh of contentment escaped him as he stretched out next to the prince. Though he knew his friend was well the ranger reached over and rested his hand lightly on Legolas' chest. The elf's even breathing dispelled his doubts and he lay on his back and clasped his hands loosely over his chest. He was only dimly aware when Elladan covered him with his cloak for sleep had caught him quickly and pulled him into its comforting darkness.
********************************************************
Aragorn bolted upright, angry shouts having woken him from his sleep. He searched for Legolas and his brothers but found the small cave empty. Alarm rang through him when he heard the angry shouts again, this time accompanied by the sounds of clashing metal. Without thinking the ranger grabbed his sword and ran outside.
Thank you, thank you, thank you sooooooooooooooooooooo much for all 159 reviews! I can't believe I've gotten so many. Wow! As someone once said, (Shirebound said it) I walk on the shoulders of giants. So much talent graces these many pages and I'm grateful that everyone has allowed me to be a part of it. Please keep those reviews coming!
BTW....I am soooo sorry I did not post a new chappy this weekend. I was chained to my desk writing my research paper for my Psyche class instead! :( But now, that is done and I can once again focus on the important things in life! ;)
All the spelling and grammar mistakes in this chapter are mine and mine alone. Hope there's not too many. I would also like to say that I am in no way an expert on Middle Earth's geography. I am merely looking at Tolkien's map and making my own interpretations. So forgive me if there are errors in my descriptions of it. ;)
pupulupk: I don't think I quite made your two second deadline! :) But I tried, I really did! Thanks for your review.
Eclipse: Thank you so much for taking time to review this story. I too love Aragorn/Legolas friendship stories. They just make me feel warm and fuzzy all over! :)
Mirage: When I am done with this story, I do plan on writing more. This will be the first summer I've had off in quite awhile so I'm hoping to devote it to writing LOTR stories! Thanks for bringing a smile to my face with your kind review! :)
Midnight: Here's a new chapter for you. Hope you like this one just as much. ;)
Elenora: The language for the setting and time period is something I constantly struggle with. When I'm writing dialogue I always have to close my eyes and see/hear the characters actually saying the words to see/hear if they will work or not. Then after I've finished a chappy I always have to go back and re-read it two or three times to see if their words make sense and sound real. I hope this method continues to work. Thank you so much for the wonderful compliment and I hope you continue to find enjoyment in this story. :)
andrea- Thanks for reviewing! :) Here's the next chapter for ya! ;)
Fantasia: LOL Depending on what???????? Now you've got me worried. :O LOL
Blue Topaz: LOL Now you sound like me! You'd better watch it or you might actually find yourself rolling around in the gutter with a certain elf! ;) I always end up in the gutter, dragging my blond beauty with me, although he is usually kicking and screaming! :D Thanks for the review.
princess-Greenleaf-of-Mir: *cackles evily* Wait to you see this next cliffy! :D *runs and hides * Oh, wait, I almost forgot, * peeks head out for a minute* I'll definately give those stories a looksee! :) *ducks and hides again* Thanks for the review!
Isilwen-Telpefion: When I said Thranduil was not as even tempered as Elrond, I didn't quite mean that he was a meanie. I kinda see him as saying things first without giving much thought as to what he is saying without intending to hurt anyone. I've always imagined him as a stern king but soft where his son was concerned yet hard when it came to "royal" duties and behaviors. Ok, I'll shut up now, did that confuse you enough?? I am working on getting them to Rivendell as soon as possible though. But these little plot bunnies just keep nibbling at my toes and putting up road blocks. ;) Thanks for the review.
merrylyn: I wrote part of this chapter just for you. It's about that "other character" that keeps popping up! LOL I'm sad to say that I'm finally putting the poor thing to rest. After all that it deserves it. Maybe we should have a memorial service???? But, who's to say it won't pop up again, later???? ;) I've plans for it yet for it just refuses to go silently into the night! LOL Poor Leggy and Aragorn, I don't think saying a balrog ate it would save them from the lectures even though their brothers held their tongue in this chapter! But, they don't know the whole story yet! Hey, and thanks so much for the Leggy plushie!!!!! It is just soooooo cuddly! Now I see why you hug it so much! ;) Now that I've got it, I don't know if I can bear to part with it any time soon! LOL I just may end up kidnapping your Leggy plushie here, or maybe holding it for ransom, or something like that! LOL SPCA???? Oh Gawd, hide me, hide me! They're gonna kill me when they see what I've done to the poor thing again in this chapter! Eeeek! Someone hide me, fast! ROTFLMHO!! Thanks so much for your review merrylyn! It really made me laugh at a time I really needed a one! Hope you enjoy this next chapter and as always, thanks so much for reviewing! :)
sabercrazy: Well, I tried hard not to leave you dangling too long from the edge of that cliff! LOL Hey, what's that you muttered???? Oh, I can only imagine what you'll mutter after you read the end of this chapter! LOL Thanks for reviewing! Enjoy! :)
legolasluva: Thanks so much for letting me know how you feel about this story! I hope you continue to like it! :) Here's a new chapter for your enjoyment.
Taraisilwen: I've tried hard to write this in the spirit Tolkien intended. I know I've said that many times before but it continues to be true. It is what drives me to make the words true to how the characters would actually say them. Glad you are enjoying it. I hope you like this next chapter too. :)
pilot3001: I kinda hoped people would find the hair bit funny! I'm glad you did. Thanks for the review. :)
Elentari Manwe: I'm so glad you found my story again! Thanks for taking the time to review! :)
Shandrial: Here's a little more suspense for ya! ;) I'm glad your sticking around! :)
O.B.I.M. : Thanks for reviewing this story! It's nice to see people coming back for more. :)
Imbefaniel: LOL Here's another cliffy! As I've said, they are much more fun to write than read! Thanks for reviewing. :)
BlackRose1356: Here's the answer to your question. :) Hope you like this new chapter. :)
Lady Jaina: I'm so glad you keep coming back! Yeah, I've definitely something in mind! *grins wickedly and looks at the ceiling innocently* Thanks for the review.
xsilicax: Yes, here are our dear twin elves! My aren't they just as beautiful as Leggy??? LOL Thanks for the review. Ha ha, to tell you the truth, Leggy actually did want to look in the river to check his hair but I wouldn't let him. He actually yelled at me for not letting him do that. And would you believe, he actually asked me for a brush too???? Of course I refused! That would have just totally ruined the story so he had to content himself with just feeling his hair! LOL Bad things coming??? Surely I would NEVER do that! *evil grin* Heh, heh! Thanks for reviewing! :)
Kelly Neptunus: Thanks for reviewing again! As I've said before it's nice to see familiar faces popping in! :)
Rain Minstrel: No, me thinks at least one more adventure can be arranged for our dear elf and human! LOL Thanks for the continued reviews! :)
Karri: I didn't get this story out when I said I would in my e-mail. I'm sorry but life just kept interrupting me! LOL Hope you enjoy this little ditty here! :) Info on Leggy's previous adventure will be coming soon! Ok, I absolutely, positively, certainly and most assuredly will get to the trees this next chapter k? I'm making myself a note right now!!!! Thanks for reviewing and taking the time to e-mail me as well! I'm glad you're liking this story! :)
Pipsqueak: Thanks so much for the compliment! I'm so glad you are enjoying this story! Here's more for you! :)
CartiDi: Thanks for adding me to your author and story list! That just made my day! :) I tried to make this chapter a bit longer for you. Hope you like it! :)
Shauna: Yup, you guessed right! Enter the, twins! Yay! Gotta love them too huh? LOL Aaaarg, and here comes an action scene. I'm gonna be wringing my hands writing this one! Glad to hear from you again! :)
Dujoran: I'm not gonna explain that just yet so don't worry. The surprise won't be ruined. :) Thanks for the review!
A last note, if anyone could please tell me (cause I'm absolutely clueless!) how to you make bold and italics show up in the stories???? And you know when you put the three dots at the end of words, well mine always end up as periods. :( Is there a certain method to doing these things???? Help! You can e-mail me any responses or put it up in the review section. Any way is fine with me! Thanks so much. :)
Now, *whew* on to the story!
A Walk Out Of Reach
Chapter Fifteen
"It was not a good idea, admit it."
"Well, you were in total agreement at the time."
"Yes, but little did I know the folly in listening to you."
With his sharp elven hearing Legolas picked up the riders conversation. He recognized the voices immediately and turned to his friend to alleviate his anxiety, "It is your brothers that approach Aragorn. They travel alone for I hear no others with them"
Aragorn stood from his crouched position behind the brush. He grinned as his eyes eagerly sought out Elladan and Elrohir through the trees. It seemed a long while before he could hear what his friend had heard. He smile grew even wider when he realized the twins were in one of their "debates."
"Father will surely be displeased with us Elrohir."
"No, father will be displeased with you. It was your idea to skirt around the southern trail not mine."
The ranger shook his head and laughed softly. Those two would never change. They thrived on their relentless teasing of each other. For that matter, the twins derived a great deal of enjoyment from teasing him as well. But underneath the facade he knew his brothers shared a deep love for the other and their family. Each would readily die to protect their loved ones from harm.
Aragorn turned to the elf, "Come my friend. Let us go and meet my brothers and put a stop to their debate for they have probably been arguing all day."
Legolas laughed lightly and nodded his head. He was in total agreement for he well knew the twins could argue for hours."
The elf and ranger led their horses towards the voices. It did not take long for Aragorn to spot his brothers riding slowly through the trees."
Elrohir pulled his horse up short when he spotted them. He cried in joyful surprise, "Estel! Legolas!" With lightning speed he slid off his horse and rushed to greet his brother and the prince. Elrohir turned his head at his brother's cry and smiled happily when he saw Aragorn and Legolas. The smile lit up his eyes as he dismounted and rushed towards them as well.
His brother's enthusiastic embrace nearly knocked Aragorn over. He took a step backwards to steady himself and returned the embrace just as fiercly. Just as Elrohir let him go Elladan grabbed hold of him and hugged him so tightly his ribs felt like they would break.
Legolas fared no better and had to endure tight embraces and slaps on his back from the twins. A hiss of pain escaped his lips when Elladan unknowingly jarred his side. The elf twin pulled back, concern written in his eyes. Only then did he take note the dried blood that stained the prince's tunic and leggings. Elladan's eyes narrowed as he studied his human brother and his friend, "I should have known you two would find trouble." he told Aragorn, "And here I was telling Elrohir that you would both be fine." He shook his head, "Though I am not sure I want to know, what happened to you?" he asked his adopted brother.
Elrohir had grown still at his brother's questioning and he too studied his little brother and the prince taking note of their haggard appearance. Puzzlement filled his eyes when he saw Aragorn's cloak. Had he brought an elflings cloak instead of his own? He looked at Aragorn and waited for him to answer Elladan's question.
Aragorn fidgeted under his older brother's glare. Why did he always feel like a child who had been caught sneaking out of his bedroom window when they looked at him like that? He suddenly found himself at a loss for words. Luckily, Legolas came to his rescue.
The elf's voice shook slightly as the memories from the last few days tumbled through his mind, "Peace friends. We are well though we did meet with a little trouble." Legolas frowned at the disbelieving look Elrohir was throwing him. His shoulders slumped and he knew they would not get away without telling what had befallen them. He decided to only give them the barest of facts, "Alas, I was shot by the black arrow of an orc. Fortunately, Aragorn was able purge the poison from my body and I am well." He made no mention of the fact that he and Aragorn had separated for he did not wish to deal with the lecture that would surely follow such a confession.
Noticing the discomfort of his younger brother and Legolas, Elladan put his hand on his twin's arm before he could scold them both, "I feared you would cross their path Legolas, for orcs roam these woods in abundance. I do not understand the reason though. Long has it been since they roamed this far from Dol Guldur. Why they are roaming so close to the Anduin's eastern shores now, I know not."
Legolas met Elladan's steady gaze with his own, "Yes, it has been long. But come, we waste time talking. We must seek shelter soon for dusk approaches and too many orcs wander these woods at night."
Elrohir nodded his head grimly. "Yes, and when we find shelter I would have a look at both of you."
Aragorn resisted the urge to groan. Elrohir could be just too overprotective at times. Unfortunately, nothing he could say or do would dissuade the elf from seeing for himself that both he and the prince were indeed fine. Well, he had to amend that last statement. Perhaps he was fine, but Legolas on the other hand was still on the mend. He sighed tiredly giving in to the inevitable, "Come, let us be off."
All four quickly mounted their horses and rode softly into the darkening woods. ****************************************
Just as the last rays of sunlight settled behind the mountains Elladan spotted a small cave a little ways in from the shores of the river. He almost didn't see it for it was well hidden by large boulders and thick brush. Though the prospect of using a cave for shelter was not appealing to any of them, no other choice was before them. With great reluctance they inspected the cave for hidden dangers while Elladan concealed the horses in the trees.
Once the cave had been inspected, they brought in their packs and rested them against the wall. Estel and the three elves settled themselves in the close confines of the cave. It was too small to stand upright but if they stooped over they could move around without too much difficulty. Aragorn had started a small fire to ward off the evening chill. The smokeless fire burned merrily, giving off a warm glow.
"I'm fine Elrohir! There really is no need to check the bandage again." Legolas pushed the probing hands away with annoyance.
Elrohir narrowed his eyes at the prince. He was growing more and more frustrated with each passing moment. Elven prince or not, Legolas would concede to having his injury looked at whether he liked it or not. "If you do not let Estel see to your wound Prince Legolas," he stressed the title with a sarcastic grin, "Elladan and I will hold you down while Estel looks at it!" To prove his point, he pushed on the prince's shoulders quite forcefully.
Legolas let out an exasperated breath at the threat and held his hands out in mock surrender. He knew when he was outnumbered. The twins would make good on the threat and he had no wish to endure the humiliation, "Very well. I shall let Aragorn see to wound though it pains me not at all. There is no need to fuss!"
Elrohir merely shrugged and smiled in triumph. He had seen Legolas flinch when Elladan bumped his side and knew the injury had been a serious one. Orc arrows were notorious for their tainted tips and only a few elves and humans were strong enough to overcome the deadly poison, and then, only if treated quickly.
Satisfied, Elrohir moved to sit beside Elladan while Aragorn set to work. He lifted the prince's tunic and a small cry of dismay escaped him before he could stop it. Legolas looked at him sharply.
"Blood stains the bandage my friend. Now I can understand why you did not want me to see to your wound." He looked at the prince and shook his head, "I fear the ride down the side of the mountain was the cause of this. The long ride downhill strained the wound."
Legolas said nothing. Though the wound had pained him a little during their ride he did not feel the need to tell Aragorn of it for the pain was truly was but a little thing. Well, what was done, was done. He knew Aragorn was right and nothing he could say would change anything.
The ranger continued to work swiftly muttering angrily under his breath. "Even with his sharp elven hearing, Legolas could only make out a few of the words. Something about stubborn elves and wring his neck. He smiled to himself, careful not to let Aragorn see his amusement. The ranger was certainly not pleased with him at the moment and he did not want to provoke him further.
With gentle care Aragorn tugged the bandage off and cleaned the wound. He turned to his brother, "Elladan, hand me my pack please."
The twin grabbed the pack and moved next to Aragorn. He handed it to his human brother and bending low, inspected the prince's wound for himself. "You have aggravated the wound much Legolas, for blood still seeps from it." The prince shot him an annoyed glare and Elladan chuckled. He crouched next to Legolas and continued to watch the ranger work in silence.
Aragorn chose several fresh leaves from his pack and set them aside. Then he grabbed the edge of his cloak and tore several long strips from it. He directed his older brother without even realizing he was doing it, "Elladan, hold these leaves over the wound while I wrap it," From across the fire Elrohir's eyes widened in sudden understanding as he watched his brother wrap the prince's midsection.
The elf started laughing and could not stop, even when the others turned and looked at him in puzzlement. Elrohir finally managed to get his laughter under control and said between breaths, "Here I thought you had mistaken an elflings cloak for your own Estel. I should have know the reason would prove to be much more amusing." He continued to laugh softly to himself.
Soon Elladan joined in much to the annoyance of his human brother. Aragorn turned to look at Legolas and found a wide smile on the prince's fair face as well. He shook his head in disgust, "There is but little I find amusing in this matter. In case it has slipped your notice brother, Legolas almost died. Much did I despair of ever restoring him to health."
Elrohir stopped laughing immediately and said softly, "I do not make light of the prince's injury Estel. I know the seriousness of the wound as well as you for thrice have I felt the black poison." The grin appeared on his face again despite his efforts to stop it, "But, you have to admit Estel, your cloak is a funny sight to behold."
Aragorn felt a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. A soft chuckle escaped him when he looked at the remnants of his cloak. "I don't suppose you have a spare cloak in your pack Elrohir? That would be far more useful than your teasing."
The twin stood and walked over to his pack. He pulled out the extra one he always carried and tossed it to his brother. His eyes twinkled with mischief, "You are indeed lucky on this journey Estel. First you and Legolas evade capture, then cheat death and now thwart the cold."
The ranger rolled his eyes at the exaggeration, though a small part of him knew his brother was right. They were lucky. He set the cloak aside and returned his attention to his friend. Aragorn tied the last knot on the bandage and made sure the wrappings were secure. With a tired sigh he sat down next to his friend and let himself relax for the first time in a long while. Even though his brothers were almost as bad at mothering him and Legolas as his father was, it was still good to be with them again. He always felt comforted by their presence and knew that they would not let him come to any harm. Relaxed at last he closed his eyes and let the small fire slowly lull him into a light doze.
"Estel."
Elladan's voice startled him and he jumped slightly. He turned to find his brother crouched in front of him, concern etched on his face. "How long has it been since you have taken rest?"
Aragorn shrugged his shoulders unwilling to admit he'd only managed to snatch a little rest here and there.
The elder twin placed his hand on his brother's shoulder, "Come Estel, lay here next to Legolas and take some rest. It looks as if you could use it. Elrohir and I will keep watch this night."
Already deep in sleep, Legolas' eyes gazed deep into his elven dreams. He lay next to the fire covered warmly with Elrohir's cloak. Aragorn gave in to his tiredness and moved next to his slumbering friend. A sigh of contentment escaped him as he stretched out next to the prince. Though he knew his friend was well the ranger reached over and rested his hand lightly on Legolas' chest. The elf's even breathing dispelled his doubts and he lay on his back and clasped his hands loosely over his chest. He was only dimly aware when Elladan covered him with his cloak for sleep had caught him quickly and pulled him into its comforting darkness.
********************************************************
Aragorn bolted upright, angry shouts having woken him from his sleep. He searched for Legolas and his brothers but found the small cave empty. Alarm rang through him when he heard the angry shouts again, this time accompanied by the sounds of clashing metal. Without thinking the ranger grabbed his sword and ran outside.
