Imbefaniel: Are you SURE you want to do that? If you do let me know what happens. LOL

Ch 25 The cave's song

The twins had eaten breakfast in Elladan's room. They did not want to be seen until some of the color had faded. Elrond could not help but chuckle every time he thought of how the twins looked as they barged into his room.

Thranduil found Elrond in the gardens. "I must return to Mirkwood, mellon nin. I have enjoyed being here, but now I must say namaarie for now. Diola lle for my new sons," he said with a smile.

Elrond laughed and said, "Saes amin. Aa' menle nauva calen ar'te hwesta e' ale' quenle. Diola lle for my new son."

"Ta nae amin saesa," replied Thranduil. He then mounted and the rest of his escort did the same.

Thus it was that King Thranduil of Mirkwood had as escort two colorful elves-one blue, one purple. He merely said, "I only have one request. When you DO meet with Estel and Legolas, please do not do TOO much damage to them. I rely on Legolas' counsel. I would rather not to have to teach someone else the diplomatic skills."

Elladan laughed and said, "As you wish, Your Majesty. We will be careful that there will be no lasting damage. Perhaps we will meet them on the road to Mirkwood."

"I seriously doubt that," replied the king. "They are aware that I would be leaving today, and should have realized your father would send you two with me." The retinue continued on their way.

*Back at the cave…

Estel and Legolas awoke, and made some breakfast. They decided to explore the rest of the cave. They left their mounts at the mouth, and lit two torches. As they proceeded into the interior, they noticed the same fine white sand on the floor. There must be an opening further back, as they could feel a warm breeze fan their faces. Although neither was completely frond of caves, this one was…different. Their torches cascaded down the walls like liquid rainbow, coalescing in pools of light near the floor.

Legolas and Estel entered a vast chamber. They stood, awed, as they surveyed the scene. The torches were not needed, as light shone from the walls and ceiling. It was a warm golden light. As they stood there, they could hear the murmur of what appeared to be voices raised in song.

They searched for the source of the sound, but saw no one. Legolas realized the sound actually came from the walls. He could almost make out words, but when he focused his attention on the song, it diminished. He could only hear it when he did not force himself to hear.

Estel, meantime, was running his hands across the walls, trying to see where the illumination came from. Like Legolas, he noticed he could hear the song only if he did not force himself to hear.

The two friends stood there, letting the sound wash over them. It was refreshing as a spring shower, and as warm as Anar at noon. Reluctantly, they resumed their exploration. They could hardly wait to show the twins and Elrond what they had discovered.

Translations:

Aa' menle nauva calen ar'te hwesta e' ale' quenle - May thy paths be green and the breeze on thy back.

Ta nae amin saesa - It was my pleasure

Saes amin - My pleasure