AUTHOR'S NOTE: Hello readers! Nice of you to drop by again! ;p I'll do my
greetings in enumeration form this time:
1) Thank you to all the nice reviewers who have been very supportive and have not insisted that I write something other than this story: Laurelin15, Lizlego, Earwen of Alqualonde, Dagger, Merenwen Luinwel, Gwevyan Baggins, Crystal Fire, Princess of Mirkwood, ArwenUndomiel, Luthien, Elfie, Lady of Mirkwood and Elvire Laodice. I cannot thank you enough, and I hope your interest will continue!
2) To Miranda Nicole: thank you for being the ONLY critic to understand why I am writing this fic. I hope you will continue to read it.
3) To those who flame without even reading: this is the last time I will bother addressing you-good god, I can take a flame or two, but only if it actually has some useful criticism in it and not just silly ranting! How can I take your advice if you have not even read my story? If you're not gong to at least read, then don't flame or review, as simple as that.
4) To all the other reviewers who have told me to write something else: first of all, I guess I should thank you for the compliment that I am a good writer. But I have to make this clear-- I'm not an expert on LOTR. In fact, most of my knowledge is movie-based, and I am only in the process of reading FOTR; I have not touched the other books, including Silmarillion. Thus, to write about anything other than the Fellowship could be disastrous. I'll just end up getting all the names, places, and characters wrong, and the last thing I want is to debase Tolkien's work. Maybe when my Middle Earth knowledge expands a bit I can explore other storylines, but as of now, this is all I can offer. If you really believe I am a good writer, then maybe you can give me chance.
I changed title and summary because I think the original ones have been giving people a negative impression about the story's content.
Trust me, the first three chapters are nothing compared to what's up ahead. It's much too early to judge this story as "stereotypical", so I'm counting on continued support. After all, I'm working my butt off just to get this done!
Anyway, let's get on with it!
THE SACRIFICE
Chapter Three - Guardian
Aragorn set himself down on a large rock beside Legolas, who was at that moment also seated, his eyes fixed steadily in one direction. The Ranger nudged his arm gently.
"How is she doing?" he asked in a low voice, nodding in the direction of the elf's gaze.
Legolas frowned. "She shows it not, but the longing for home still torments her." he said with a sigh, but does not move his watchful eyes from his beautiful charge for even a second. "I only hope her grief will somehow be lessened as time passes."
"I am sure it will." Aragorn said, giving his friend's arm an assuring pat. "With a friend such yourself by her side, she will grow stronger as the days go by."
The prince's face became overshadowed with worry. "She has to." he murmured, shaking his head slightly. "This is but the beginning of our journey. Of many more obstacles to come. I do not wish for anything to happen to her, Aragorn."
Aragorn placed a hand on his shoulder. "Neither do I, Legolas. And nothing will, for we shall not allow it." he told him firmly.
"If I could only find a means to somehow take her ache away, to make her homesickness a little easier to bear. . . "
"Your mere presence consoles her." Aragorn said. "But she has to discover her individual strength on her own accord. I am certain it is what Master Elrond would have wanted for her. Just give it time."
With that, the Ranger stood up and moved on to join Gandalf and the others who were crowded around the fire that had just been built by Boromir.
Dusk was upon them, and it had been a long though uneventful day of traveling. The Fellowship was now camped at the bottom of a small hill for the night, quite relieved by the chance to rest and allow sleep to alleviate the weariness of their sore bodies.
Legolas, being in least need of rest, had been assigned to sentry duty that night. He found it too difficult however, to lay his immediate attention on anything but Armir. Legolas' brow knitted together as he observed the solitary girl seated in the shade of a nearby tree, quietly reading a book.
In the daytime she appeared to be quite normal, almost satisfied and happy. It was when evening fell that her true emotions became too hard to conceal. She separated herself from the rest of the group, and often sat in one corner where she would remain unmoving and silent till the next morning. She had been crying herself to sleep since their departure. . . he could hear her from where he stood watch every night. And each time he would listen to her muted sobs his own heart would wrench horribly, as though her sorrows were also his to bear.
The elf-prince pondered for a while on what he could and should do. At last, after overcoming his uncertainty, he took a deep breath and slowly approached the maiden.
"Armir?" he said softly as he came to her side.
With a small gasp, she glanced up, her head jerking slightly as she did so. Upon recognizing the handsome face, a smile broke though her initial look of surprise, and she shook her head.
"One of these days you shall succeed in scaring me to death!" she said in a tone that was both joking and rebuking.
Legolas chucked as he seated himself on the soft grass beside her. "I have been told that many times." he said with an apologetic smile. "I am sorry for startling you. You seem to be much too preoccupied with what you read."
Armir smiled back. "I am afraid I am not quite as clever and attentive as you are." she admitted, shutting the volume on her lap. "My head flies off to dream worlds when I become too absorbed with my books."
A faint breeze blew just then, pushing a loose lock of Armir's dark hair onto her face. As Legolas reached out unconsciously to brush it back, his fingers came to contact with her silky cheek.
"You are cold, my lady." he murmured, allowing his hand to rest on her face for a moment.
Armir closed her eyes briefly, savoring the warmth of his gentle palm against her skin. "It is a cold night." she mumbled..
"Then perhaps you should come and warm yourself by the fire." :Legolas told her. "It will make you-and myself-feel much better."
He gave her hand an assuring squeeze when he saw the anticipated reluctance on her face. "Please. I do not want you to bear any more needless discomforts."
"All right." Armir finally relented with a small sigh, and allowed him to help her to her feet. "Just for a while."
* * *
"Lady Armir!" Gandalf greeted the girl with a congenial smile. "What a pleasant surprise! How good of you to finally join us."
Armir felt her cheeks redden slightly as everyone in the group suddenly became silent and all attention was drawn towards her. "Why must they always do that?" she thought, gazing uneasily at all the faces turned to her in rapt interest. Their unfailing respect, though well-intended, only made her feel more uncomfortable and out of place. She didn't needed to be treated with so much reverence; she needed to feel more like just one of them.
Aragorn was the first to stand. "Please," he said invitingly, gesturing to the extra space on the fallen log he had been sitting upon. "Have a seat."
Armir hesitated and cast a sidelong glance at the blond elf standing next to her. She knew she was acting like such a silly child, treating Legolas like a nanny she cannot go anywhere without, but the frailty of her spirit seemed to make her unavoidably dependant on him. He was the only one in the company who could truly put her at ease.
Noticing the nervous look Armir had thrown her elf-protector, Aragorn added quickly, "You too, Legolas."
Legolas shook his head, obviously in regret. "I have obligations to attend to." he reminded his friend.
Aragorn smiled. "You have been the lookout for successive nights now." he pointed out. "It is only fair that you be given a chance to rest. Tonight I shall stand guard." Before any protests could be made, the man pick up his bow and quiver and walked away, disappearing into the growing darkness seconds later.
As Armir watched him leave with much gratitude in her heart, she felt a firm hand take her elbow. "Come." Legolas' assuring voice whispered in her ear as he steered her around the campfire.
"Would you care for some sausages, Lady Armir?" Merry offered the maiden as she sat down. "Some bacon perhaps?" He held up the frying pan in his hand, allowing the tantalizing smell to drift towards her.
Armir returned his smile and shook her head. "Thank you for your kind offer, but I do not take meat." she confessed.
Sam shot her a look of concern. "Then perhaps you can tell us what it is you prefer to eat. I shall be happy to prepare anything for you." he blurted out.
"Thank you, Master Samwise, but that is not necessary." the beautiful elf declined, turning her blue eyes to him, which caused the bashful hobbit to blush in both timidity and pleasure. "It is all right, I have just eaten some lembas and am quite full."
She watched with certain fondness as Merry, Pippin, and Sam crowded around their pans of freshly cooked supper. She had been initially wary of them because, unlike Frodo, their ways were boisterous and talkative. As she spent more time with them however, she began to find them really sweet and thoughtful creatures, always trying to make her laugh and comfortable in whatever simple manner they can manage.
"Does not eat meat!" she overheard Pippin mumble to his two friends. "Well, that certainly explains why she is so beautiful and her skin is so fair and her body so slender. . . "
"She is. . . wonderful." Sam sighed, his eyes growing somewhat wistful.
"Did you see the way she looked at me when she spoke?" Merry put in, undeniably excited.
Armir placed a hand to her mouth, muffling a faint giggle. The hobbits apparently did not realize her senses were as astute as those of any elf, and she could hear them clearly as they whispered things about her.
She perceived a soft chuckle beside her, and she turned her head slightly to let her eyes rest on the Elven prince.
"Clearly you have secret admirers, Armir." he whispered to her, his eyes dancing with amusement.
"No longer secret." she retorted, unable to resist a laugh herself.
A mark of seriousness then crossed the elf's features. He stared down at the ground in a few seconds of silence. "One cannot blame them." he said, speaking so quietly that Armir suspected he had not really intended for her to hear him make that statement.
As Legolas lifted his gaze back up to her face, their eyes met, and locked on to each other for a long moment. The maiden felt her heart's pace quicken, which seemed to be her body's natural reaction whenever the handsome elf would capture her with the power of his beguiling stare. And as much as she struggled every time to just break the contact and tear her eyes from his, his influence on her was much too great. She was rendered helpless and immobile until he chose to release her.
After what seemed like eternity, he finally did. Greatly relieved, Armir immediately turned her face away and caught back the breath he had stolen from her. She then closed her eyes, saying a silent prayer that he had not heard the uncontrollable beating in her chest. Who knew how far the capacity of his senses stretched? If she weren't in such great need of him she would actually request that he keep his distance. It was the only way she could possibly protect herself from the strength of this charms.
Just then, a sudden warmth enveloped Armir. Her attention was drawn back to Legolas, who had wrapped his own cloak around her shoulders to further shield her from the chilly night breeze. She fought to control an involuntary shiver at the passing contact of his tender arms around her as he did this. Much to her dismay, she found herself desiring that his arms linger round her body for much longer. . . for the whole night even.
"No, you cannot do this, Armir." a voice in her head admonished, contradicting the cries of her heart. "You know you must not fall for him."
The maiden swallowed hard, suddenly wishing that she had never agreed to sit by the fire with Legolas. Why must he do this to her? Why must he always be so kind, so tender, so. . . perfect?
At last she gathered in herself the strength and ability to finally speak. "Diola lle. (Thank you)" she managed to whisper.
Legolas smiled down at her. He allowed his eyes to rest upon hers, thankfully for only a brief moment this time, but long enough to stir her emotions with the way they glistened in the fire light.
"Lle creoso. (You are welcome)." he murmured, before turning away.
* * *
Yet another fine morning had dawned upon Rivendell. As he walked though the lush woods of his father's kingdom, Elrohir took a moment to reflect on the beauty of the home he had not seen for many years. Rivendell was a far cry from the many other places he and his fellow Rangers have traveled to on their expeditions. It was filled with splendor, fond memories, and most of all, a great sense of peace he could never hope to find anywhere else on Middle Earth.
Taking a deep breath, Elrohir paused in his tracks and closed his eyes, allowing his other senses to drink in the calm of his surroundings. This was the primary reason why he and Elladan avoided homecomings as much as possible. Stepping into Imladris only rekindled their yearning for it, and made it all the more difficult to leave once again and return to their duties as wandering Rangers.
They had been there for over a week now, and the next morning would at last be their departure. Elrohir personally would have wanted to prolong their stay a little more, but his twin's determination to leave was far greater than his desire. Elladan made it quite obvious that he refused to linger in that place any longer than absolutely necessary
Elrohir sighed and shook his head as he continued his walk. Poor Elladan. How much more undeserved suffering must be inflicted on him? First, he lost their mother and then his most beloved wife-both to the orcs. And now, his only daughter was taken away from him, most likely forever. He never even got to see her grow up into a young lady, much less know her.
Though Elrohir himself had seen as little of his niece as her father had, he was certain that she must have been a rare and stunning beauty. He had heard testimonies not only from his father and his sister, but from the people of Rivendell themselves. The townsfolk-all her good friends-mourned her absence and missed her terribly. Apparently Armir was their little princess, their beloved favorite as she always spread cheerfulness and goodness wherever she went. Elrohir did not find these praises difficult to believe; her mother Nurréien had also been the loveliest creature he himself has ever known.
"Do you intend to commit to memory every inch of Rivendell, Elrohir?'
The voice that had seemed to call him out of no where made the elf freeze in place. It took him but a moment to realize whose it was and where it was coming from.
"As are you, Elladan?" he said with a wry smile, looking up at the leafy branches of a nearby tree where he knew his brother was perched.
"Yes, well. . . I figured since there was nothing else to do. . ." the voice trailed off.
There was a very soft thud as Elladan jumped from the treetop back on the ground to face his twin. He smiled, though forcefully and somewhat bitterly. Elrohir knew he must have been brooding in solitude for quite a while now.
Elladan was silent for a moment, as he ran his keen gaze over their surroundings. "It will be a while before we may return to this place again." he said softly.
Elrohir nodded. With all the ominous happenings that have been taking place all over Middle Earth, as well as the recent increase in roving orc bands, they would surely find themselves neck deep in work the minute they rejoin their fellow Rangers.
"Strange, is it not?" Elladan murmured thoughtfully, placing a hand on the tree next to him and running his fingers down its smooth bark. "Rivendell never changes. Each time we come home, we see the same sights, the same faces."
He sighed and let his arm fall back to his side. "Save for the one vision I have been yearning to see most of all." he whispered, his sadness reaching out to Elrohir's heart.
Elrohir stepped forward and placed a reassuring hand on his brother's shoulder. "You can still see her again, Elladan." he told him gently. "It should not be too difficult to find her. We can just track down the Fellowship and. . . "
"We cannot." Elladan interrupted him. "Father made it clear. I cannot show myself to Armir now; not while she is one this quest. It will cause her strength and resolve to crumble, and she will fail to fulfill her mission." As he spoke, these seemed to be a twinge of resentment in his tone.
"You are not angry still with Father for sending her away, are you?" Elrohir asked, his dark blue eyes clouding with concern.
"No. I am not." Elladan said quietly. "As much as it hurts me to admit it, I understand that it was necessary for her to accompany the Ring Bearer."
Elrohir caught sight of a tear threatening to fall from his brother's eye as he forced himself to continue speaking. "What is difficult for me to accept is, why did it have to be her? Why my little girl? She was all I had left, Elrohir."
There was a pause as Elladan's voice threatened to crack with emotion. "And she never even knew that. I confess that it is my own fault I never told her how much I love her, but it does not change that fact that I do. How I long to tell her now."
"In her heart, she knows the truth. She understands why you had to leave her behind." Elrohir told him comfortingly. "I am sure she does. Do not be so hard on yourself, Elladan."
"How can I not?" Elladan muttered. "I am a horrid father, and I deserve to be damned."
"Do not say such things. Only a good father can spawn such a fine child." Elrohir said firmly. "Elladan, you have been through enough pain. Do not make your burden any greater by torturing yourself with guilt. What is done is done."
Elrohir squeezed Elladan's shoulder and smiled at him. "Armir is a special girl, thus she was called upon by this great destiny. You must be proud of her for it." he reminded him. "Fate gave her this course, but you cannot be certain that your own path will not cross hers in the future. You will meet again, somehow, someday. Have faith, brother. Have faith."
At long last, Elladan actually smiled back. "Thank you, Elrohir." he said softly.
The tension broken, Elrohir let out a merry laugh. "Come now." he said, giving his twin a light pat on the back. "No more of this doom and gloom. Let us enjoy our last day in peace and pleasure. What do you say we find Arwen and invite her to join us?"
"The best thought I have heard this whole day." his twin agreed, as he slid an arm around Elrohir's shoulder and they continued to walk down the forest trail together.
* * *
Legolas sighed and slipped the Elven knife whose hilt he had just polished back into its sheath. The growing impatience and annoyance in his chest was starting to feel quite uncharacteristic of him.
The Fellowship had taken their midday rest at the edge of a small forest. The hobbits were getting luncheon ready, Boromir was out somewhere exploring the vicinity, Gimli had fallen fast asleep under a tree, and Gandalf was in conversation with Frodo. As for Aragorn and Armir. . .
The elf-prince got to his feet, no longer able to endure sitting still. When Armir had approached him earlier asking to be left alone with Aragorn for a few hours, he was struck with what was undeniably jealousy. Legolas knew that envy was a fault greatly frowned upon by his kind, but he could not help himself.
Every time he saw the them together, he envied the bond that his princess shared with Isildur's Heir. She always seemed to be much more at ease with the man than with him. Legolas knew that this suspicion, of course, was ridiculous. Aragorn was Arwen's devoted lover, and he looked upon Armir as nothing more than a little sister. But what of Armir? Did she look at Aragorn the same way? As a mere brother?
Legolas' bright blue eyes clouded over with slight bitterness. Why did she have to request Aragorn's company instead of his? Was he not the one whom Lord Elrond had assigned to be her companion? Had he proven himself insufficient? Had she grown weary of his presence?
The questions were sowing seeds of insecurity and anger in his heart, and this disturbed the elf greatly. If they went on unanswered, he would surely go mad.
At last, the elf approached Gandalf where he sat in the shade with Frodo.
"Pardon me, Gandalf. Frodo." he said, with a slight nod of his head. "I wish to go for a walk and perhaps scout the area for precaution. Will you be all right here?"
Gandalf looked upon him in thoughtful silence for a few moments. His wise gaze pierced through Legolas. The elf shifted his weight uneasily, but decided to ignore the knowing smile the wizard gave him.
"By all means." Gandalf told him amiably. "Do not worry. We shall get on fine."
"Thank you. I shall be back shortly." And with another courteous bow, the Elven prince took his leave, heading directly for the forest where he knew Armir and Aragorn had gone.
* * *
"What is it?" Frodo asked Gandalf, noting the reflective expression on the old man's face. "Is there something wrong?"
The wizard shook his head and leaned back wearily on the heavy trunk of the tree behind him. "Nothing out of the usual." he said with a secretive smile.
Frodo studied his friend's face for a minute before he seemed to catch on. "Is it about Legolas?"
Gandalf sighed and stroked his long gray beard. "Yes." he admitted, then decided to just come out and let the hobbit in on his thoughts. "Poor lad. His feelings grow deeper rooted as each day passes. Soon he shall find them quite impossible to conceal, much less suppress."
Frodo's brows knitted together. "Feelings?" he mused, before further realization dawned upon him. "You think Legolas has feelings for Lady Armir?"
Gandalf chuckled. "My boy, I know he does. It is quite obvious, really" he told the hobbit. The smile then slowly faded from his face and was replaced with mild anxiety as he shook his head. "Though I cannot say I approve. . ."
Frodo looked at him in surprise. "You do not?" he repeated. "But why? I think they would make a fine match; I know not why I had never even considered the thought sooner."
"On normal circumstances, I would have absolutely no qualms about Legolas and Armir sharing something special." Gandalf said slowly and gravely. "But we live not in normal circumstances. We are on a quest, and a dangerous one at that. One which carries upon it the fate of the entire Middle Earth. It is not the time for falling in love. Too much is dependent on the success of the Fellowship."
The wizard sighed and looked pensively at the direction in which Legolas had gone. "I fear only an ill future for Thranduil's son, should he allow his feelings to get in the way. He must see this, and stop-- before he brings pain upon himself."
* * *
The fallen leaves on the ground made no sound even as Legolas' feet treaded upon them. The brooding crease on his fair brow deepened as he scanned the surroundings, every sense keen for any telltale sound or sight. Aragorn and Armir could not be every far off. It shouldn't be too difficult to find them, no matter how carefully they may try to avoid him in their desire for solitude.
Legolas clenched his teeth and tried to keep his negative thoughts at bay. Jealousy gets one no where, he had to remind himself. Furthermore, there was nothing to be jealous about. Absolutely nothing.
Just then, he caught sight of a silvery-blue shimmer amidst the distant trees. The elf narrowed his eyes and ventured closer. As he did so the rest of his senses picked up on what his eyes had perceived. There was the sound of faint burbling. The scent of moist earth meeting fresh water. Instantly he was able to tell that he was near a stream or brook of some sort.
He continued his approach, muting the thuds of his footfall till they were virtually imperceptible. He was certain his quarry was somewhere very close by. . . he could feel it.
All of sudden, his ears picked up the crunching sound of footsteps behind him. Reacting with incredible speed, the elf drew his knives from their sheaths and whirled around to wield them at his trailer.
There was a fierce clash of metal against metal as a sword met his knives. Legolas blinked in surprise as he gazed at the familiar face before him.
"Aragorn!" he said, retracting his weapons quickly. "You should have not snuck up on me like that. What do you think you are doing?"
The Ranger smiled back at him wryly as he sheathed his own blade. "I think it is I who deserves an answer to that question." he responded. "Are you not supposed to be at camp with Gandalf and the others?"
Ignoring his inquiry, Legolas peered around the man anxiously. "Where is Armir?" he asked, not bothering to hide the over abundance of concern in his voice.
Aragorn pointed in the direction of the stream, where Legolas had been heading. "Over there. She has asked to be given some privacy for a while." he replied calmly.
Legolas' head whirled back to face Aragorn, his eyes wide with alarm. "You left her alone?" he exclaimed. "You should not have! She cannot be allowed to wander off by herself. She. . ."
Aragorn held his arm, silencing him. "The Lady desired a bath, Legolas." he told the agitated elf, a slight twinkle in his eyes. "I could not deny her of it. She asked that I give her space and just keep watch for intruders. Would you have preferred that I stood by and watched her as she bathed?"
Legolas stared back at his friend, taken aback by a mixture of astonishment and embarrassment. "A bath?" he repeated. "Was that all she wanted this whole time? Was it the only reason for her wanting to be left in your care?"
Aragorn nodded. "Of course." he answered. "All your worries were for nothing."
Legolas shook his head, still full of confusion and offense. "If that was all she desired, then why did she have to ask it from you?" he demanded. "She could have just as easily talked to me. I am, after all, her guardian."
Aragorn smiled. "That you are." he agreed. "But I am her brother."
Legolas raised his eyebrows. "Therefore. . .?"
Aragorn sighed. "Therefore, she would feel much more comfortable asking me to accompany her." he explained. "Guardian or not, Legolas, she still does not know you that well."
The elf's frown deepened. "What does she take me for? A rogue who would dare invade a lady's privacy?" he said, sharpness cutting into his words. "After all I have done, can she still not see that I have only good intentions?"
For a moment, Aragorn was silent. Crossing his arms over his chest, he gazed upon his elf friend with concern.
"Legolas," he said finally. "I know not from where your resentment comes, but I can assure you-there is nothing going on between Armir and myself. She is my little sister. I cannot see her as anything more, and neither will she of me."
The serenity of the man's voice and the sincerity on his face stuck Legolas with shame. His face immediately softened.
"Amin hiraetha." he apologized quietly, lowering his head. "You are right. I have been foolish. It is just. . ." He paused, not quite sure how to explain himself.
Legolas then felt Aragorn's strong hand upon his shoulder. He lifted his gaze to meet his, and found understanding in his friend's warm eyes.
"You are quite taken with her, are you not?" the Ranger said, the words coming out more as a statement than a query.
Legolas took a deep breath. "Yes." he finally admitted. "I guess I am." He turned his face away, feeling sudden awkwardness overcome him.
Aragorn chuckled softly. "And you find this shameful?"
"Of course not!" Legolas said defensively, jerking his face back up.
"Then why does it seem to bother you? Is there a problem?"
Legolas shook his head and sighed. "It is just that. . . I have never felt this way about anyone before." he murmured. "It frightens me Aragorn, and I know not what to do. I cannot stop thinking about her. Moment upon moment, I just want to be near to her. The desire I have to touch her and hold her close grows stronger each day. . ."
The elf cut himself off, realizing in humiliation that he was revealing too much.
Observing his discomforted stillness, Aragorn patted Legolas' back. "You are in love for the first time, my friend. It is as simple as that." he told him. "And it is nothing to be ashamed or frightened of."
Legolas managed to return the man's smile, though weakly. "It is just so strange, so different. Never in my life have I imagined I could look upon or care about a maiden this way." he whispered. "I thought at first that it was merely a passing fancy, but now I realize it is so much more."
"Do you not wish to let her know how you feel?" Aragorn asked gently.
Legolas stared at him, his eyes widening with shock. "I cannot!"
"Why is that?"
Legolas raised an eyebrow at him. "Was it not you who warned me to be careful? To be mindful of my feelings for her?"
Aragorn laughed. "Yes, but that was before you opened up to me and set free the truth in your heart." he said. "Now I know your feelings cannot be any more faithful." He paused. "Moreover, I have been witness to Armir's reactions towards you."
Legolas' attention was caught immediately. "And. . .?" he pressed, his voice shaking with urgency.
Aragorn smiled mysteriously. "They will be for you to discover on your own. I dare not risk your affections by pre-empting the workings of a young maiden's heart."
He placed a firm hand on the elf's shoulder. "But I will advise you this, Legolas." he told him solemnly. "If your love be true, it will find its own way. You will not even have to ponder or worry on it. It will just happen, and you shall not be able to fight it. You can never deny that which is true."
Just then, a rustling of leaves nearby caught the two friends' attention, and they quickly fell silent.
"Aragorn?" a soft voice called.
A moment later, Armir appeared before them, her dark hair still damp and her fair skin free from dirt, more immaculate than ever. As she became aware of the elf's presence, she paused in surprise.
"Legolas!" she said, an unidentifiable look crossing her face. "What. . .?"
Aragorn stepped up quickly to offer an explanation. "He was worried about our whereabouts and came to check on us." he told Armir.
The elf nodded to confirm the man's statement. "Are you finished here, my lady?"
"Yes." the girl answered, turning to her guardian and giving him a shy smile. Legolas sucked in his breath as her blue eyes came to meet his. Fighting against the paralyzing effect her presence had on him, he offered her his arm. She took it, and with Aragorn behind them they made their way back to the camp where the rest of the Fellowship were.
Thoughts raced through Legolas' head as he walked with the beautiful maiden by his side. Aragorn was right. He was very much in love with Armir. Of that there was no doubt.
The question now was, what could he possibly do about it?
* * *
COMING UP. . . Chapter 4 - Darkness
Pls. review! (As much as possible, a signed review! If not, pls. leave an email ad!) Thanks for reading and see you in the next update!
1) Thank you to all the nice reviewers who have been very supportive and have not insisted that I write something other than this story: Laurelin15, Lizlego, Earwen of Alqualonde, Dagger, Merenwen Luinwel, Gwevyan Baggins, Crystal Fire, Princess of Mirkwood, ArwenUndomiel, Luthien, Elfie, Lady of Mirkwood and Elvire Laodice. I cannot thank you enough, and I hope your interest will continue!
2) To Miranda Nicole: thank you for being the ONLY critic to understand why I am writing this fic. I hope you will continue to read it.
3) To those who flame without even reading: this is the last time I will bother addressing you-good god, I can take a flame or two, but only if it actually has some useful criticism in it and not just silly ranting! How can I take your advice if you have not even read my story? If you're not gong to at least read, then don't flame or review, as simple as that.
4) To all the other reviewers who have told me to write something else: first of all, I guess I should thank you for the compliment that I am a good writer. But I have to make this clear-- I'm not an expert on LOTR. In fact, most of my knowledge is movie-based, and I am only in the process of reading FOTR; I have not touched the other books, including Silmarillion. Thus, to write about anything other than the Fellowship could be disastrous. I'll just end up getting all the names, places, and characters wrong, and the last thing I want is to debase Tolkien's work. Maybe when my Middle Earth knowledge expands a bit I can explore other storylines, but as of now, this is all I can offer. If you really believe I am a good writer, then maybe you can give me chance.
I changed title and summary because I think the original ones have been giving people a negative impression about the story's content.
Trust me, the first three chapters are nothing compared to what's up ahead. It's much too early to judge this story as "stereotypical", so I'm counting on continued support. After all, I'm working my butt off just to get this done!
Anyway, let's get on with it!
THE SACRIFICE
Chapter Three - Guardian
Aragorn set himself down on a large rock beside Legolas, who was at that moment also seated, his eyes fixed steadily in one direction. The Ranger nudged his arm gently.
"How is she doing?" he asked in a low voice, nodding in the direction of the elf's gaze.
Legolas frowned. "She shows it not, but the longing for home still torments her." he said with a sigh, but does not move his watchful eyes from his beautiful charge for even a second. "I only hope her grief will somehow be lessened as time passes."
"I am sure it will." Aragorn said, giving his friend's arm an assuring pat. "With a friend such yourself by her side, she will grow stronger as the days go by."
The prince's face became overshadowed with worry. "She has to." he murmured, shaking his head slightly. "This is but the beginning of our journey. Of many more obstacles to come. I do not wish for anything to happen to her, Aragorn."
Aragorn placed a hand on his shoulder. "Neither do I, Legolas. And nothing will, for we shall not allow it." he told him firmly.
"If I could only find a means to somehow take her ache away, to make her homesickness a little easier to bear. . . "
"Your mere presence consoles her." Aragorn said. "But she has to discover her individual strength on her own accord. I am certain it is what Master Elrond would have wanted for her. Just give it time."
With that, the Ranger stood up and moved on to join Gandalf and the others who were crowded around the fire that had just been built by Boromir.
Dusk was upon them, and it had been a long though uneventful day of traveling. The Fellowship was now camped at the bottom of a small hill for the night, quite relieved by the chance to rest and allow sleep to alleviate the weariness of their sore bodies.
Legolas, being in least need of rest, had been assigned to sentry duty that night. He found it too difficult however, to lay his immediate attention on anything but Armir. Legolas' brow knitted together as he observed the solitary girl seated in the shade of a nearby tree, quietly reading a book.
In the daytime she appeared to be quite normal, almost satisfied and happy. It was when evening fell that her true emotions became too hard to conceal. She separated herself from the rest of the group, and often sat in one corner where she would remain unmoving and silent till the next morning. She had been crying herself to sleep since their departure. . . he could hear her from where he stood watch every night. And each time he would listen to her muted sobs his own heart would wrench horribly, as though her sorrows were also his to bear.
The elf-prince pondered for a while on what he could and should do. At last, after overcoming his uncertainty, he took a deep breath and slowly approached the maiden.
"Armir?" he said softly as he came to her side.
With a small gasp, she glanced up, her head jerking slightly as she did so. Upon recognizing the handsome face, a smile broke though her initial look of surprise, and she shook her head.
"One of these days you shall succeed in scaring me to death!" she said in a tone that was both joking and rebuking.
Legolas chucked as he seated himself on the soft grass beside her. "I have been told that many times." he said with an apologetic smile. "I am sorry for startling you. You seem to be much too preoccupied with what you read."
Armir smiled back. "I am afraid I am not quite as clever and attentive as you are." she admitted, shutting the volume on her lap. "My head flies off to dream worlds when I become too absorbed with my books."
A faint breeze blew just then, pushing a loose lock of Armir's dark hair onto her face. As Legolas reached out unconsciously to brush it back, his fingers came to contact with her silky cheek.
"You are cold, my lady." he murmured, allowing his hand to rest on her face for a moment.
Armir closed her eyes briefly, savoring the warmth of his gentle palm against her skin. "It is a cold night." she mumbled..
"Then perhaps you should come and warm yourself by the fire." :Legolas told her. "It will make you-and myself-feel much better."
He gave her hand an assuring squeeze when he saw the anticipated reluctance on her face. "Please. I do not want you to bear any more needless discomforts."
"All right." Armir finally relented with a small sigh, and allowed him to help her to her feet. "Just for a while."
* * *
"Lady Armir!" Gandalf greeted the girl with a congenial smile. "What a pleasant surprise! How good of you to finally join us."
Armir felt her cheeks redden slightly as everyone in the group suddenly became silent and all attention was drawn towards her. "Why must they always do that?" she thought, gazing uneasily at all the faces turned to her in rapt interest. Their unfailing respect, though well-intended, only made her feel more uncomfortable and out of place. She didn't needed to be treated with so much reverence; she needed to feel more like just one of them.
Aragorn was the first to stand. "Please," he said invitingly, gesturing to the extra space on the fallen log he had been sitting upon. "Have a seat."
Armir hesitated and cast a sidelong glance at the blond elf standing next to her. She knew she was acting like such a silly child, treating Legolas like a nanny she cannot go anywhere without, but the frailty of her spirit seemed to make her unavoidably dependant on him. He was the only one in the company who could truly put her at ease.
Noticing the nervous look Armir had thrown her elf-protector, Aragorn added quickly, "You too, Legolas."
Legolas shook his head, obviously in regret. "I have obligations to attend to." he reminded his friend.
Aragorn smiled. "You have been the lookout for successive nights now." he pointed out. "It is only fair that you be given a chance to rest. Tonight I shall stand guard." Before any protests could be made, the man pick up his bow and quiver and walked away, disappearing into the growing darkness seconds later.
As Armir watched him leave with much gratitude in her heart, she felt a firm hand take her elbow. "Come." Legolas' assuring voice whispered in her ear as he steered her around the campfire.
"Would you care for some sausages, Lady Armir?" Merry offered the maiden as she sat down. "Some bacon perhaps?" He held up the frying pan in his hand, allowing the tantalizing smell to drift towards her.
Armir returned his smile and shook her head. "Thank you for your kind offer, but I do not take meat." she confessed.
Sam shot her a look of concern. "Then perhaps you can tell us what it is you prefer to eat. I shall be happy to prepare anything for you." he blurted out.
"Thank you, Master Samwise, but that is not necessary." the beautiful elf declined, turning her blue eyes to him, which caused the bashful hobbit to blush in both timidity and pleasure. "It is all right, I have just eaten some lembas and am quite full."
She watched with certain fondness as Merry, Pippin, and Sam crowded around their pans of freshly cooked supper. She had been initially wary of them because, unlike Frodo, their ways were boisterous and talkative. As she spent more time with them however, she began to find them really sweet and thoughtful creatures, always trying to make her laugh and comfortable in whatever simple manner they can manage.
"Does not eat meat!" she overheard Pippin mumble to his two friends. "Well, that certainly explains why she is so beautiful and her skin is so fair and her body so slender. . . "
"She is. . . wonderful." Sam sighed, his eyes growing somewhat wistful.
"Did you see the way she looked at me when she spoke?" Merry put in, undeniably excited.
Armir placed a hand to her mouth, muffling a faint giggle. The hobbits apparently did not realize her senses were as astute as those of any elf, and she could hear them clearly as they whispered things about her.
She perceived a soft chuckle beside her, and she turned her head slightly to let her eyes rest on the Elven prince.
"Clearly you have secret admirers, Armir." he whispered to her, his eyes dancing with amusement.
"No longer secret." she retorted, unable to resist a laugh herself.
A mark of seriousness then crossed the elf's features. He stared down at the ground in a few seconds of silence. "One cannot blame them." he said, speaking so quietly that Armir suspected he had not really intended for her to hear him make that statement.
As Legolas lifted his gaze back up to her face, their eyes met, and locked on to each other for a long moment. The maiden felt her heart's pace quicken, which seemed to be her body's natural reaction whenever the handsome elf would capture her with the power of his beguiling stare. And as much as she struggled every time to just break the contact and tear her eyes from his, his influence on her was much too great. She was rendered helpless and immobile until he chose to release her.
After what seemed like eternity, he finally did. Greatly relieved, Armir immediately turned her face away and caught back the breath he had stolen from her. She then closed her eyes, saying a silent prayer that he had not heard the uncontrollable beating in her chest. Who knew how far the capacity of his senses stretched? If she weren't in such great need of him she would actually request that he keep his distance. It was the only way she could possibly protect herself from the strength of this charms.
Just then, a sudden warmth enveloped Armir. Her attention was drawn back to Legolas, who had wrapped his own cloak around her shoulders to further shield her from the chilly night breeze. She fought to control an involuntary shiver at the passing contact of his tender arms around her as he did this. Much to her dismay, she found herself desiring that his arms linger round her body for much longer. . . for the whole night even.
"No, you cannot do this, Armir." a voice in her head admonished, contradicting the cries of her heart. "You know you must not fall for him."
The maiden swallowed hard, suddenly wishing that she had never agreed to sit by the fire with Legolas. Why must he do this to her? Why must he always be so kind, so tender, so. . . perfect?
At last she gathered in herself the strength and ability to finally speak. "Diola lle. (Thank you)" she managed to whisper.
Legolas smiled down at her. He allowed his eyes to rest upon hers, thankfully for only a brief moment this time, but long enough to stir her emotions with the way they glistened in the fire light.
"Lle creoso. (You are welcome)." he murmured, before turning away.
* * *
Yet another fine morning had dawned upon Rivendell. As he walked though the lush woods of his father's kingdom, Elrohir took a moment to reflect on the beauty of the home he had not seen for many years. Rivendell was a far cry from the many other places he and his fellow Rangers have traveled to on their expeditions. It was filled with splendor, fond memories, and most of all, a great sense of peace he could never hope to find anywhere else on Middle Earth.
Taking a deep breath, Elrohir paused in his tracks and closed his eyes, allowing his other senses to drink in the calm of his surroundings. This was the primary reason why he and Elladan avoided homecomings as much as possible. Stepping into Imladris only rekindled their yearning for it, and made it all the more difficult to leave once again and return to their duties as wandering Rangers.
They had been there for over a week now, and the next morning would at last be their departure. Elrohir personally would have wanted to prolong their stay a little more, but his twin's determination to leave was far greater than his desire. Elladan made it quite obvious that he refused to linger in that place any longer than absolutely necessary
Elrohir sighed and shook his head as he continued his walk. Poor Elladan. How much more undeserved suffering must be inflicted on him? First, he lost their mother and then his most beloved wife-both to the orcs. And now, his only daughter was taken away from him, most likely forever. He never even got to see her grow up into a young lady, much less know her.
Though Elrohir himself had seen as little of his niece as her father had, he was certain that she must have been a rare and stunning beauty. He had heard testimonies not only from his father and his sister, but from the people of Rivendell themselves. The townsfolk-all her good friends-mourned her absence and missed her terribly. Apparently Armir was their little princess, their beloved favorite as she always spread cheerfulness and goodness wherever she went. Elrohir did not find these praises difficult to believe; her mother Nurréien had also been the loveliest creature he himself has ever known.
"Do you intend to commit to memory every inch of Rivendell, Elrohir?'
The voice that had seemed to call him out of no where made the elf freeze in place. It took him but a moment to realize whose it was and where it was coming from.
"As are you, Elladan?" he said with a wry smile, looking up at the leafy branches of a nearby tree where he knew his brother was perched.
"Yes, well. . . I figured since there was nothing else to do. . ." the voice trailed off.
There was a very soft thud as Elladan jumped from the treetop back on the ground to face his twin. He smiled, though forcefully and somewhat bitterly. Elrohir knew he must have been brooding in solitude for quite a while now.
Elladan was silent for a moment, as he ran his keen gaze over their surroundings. "It will be a while before we may return to this place again." he said softly.
Elrohir nodded. With all the ominous happenings that have been taking place all over Middle Earth, as well as the recent increase in roving orc bands, they would surely find themselves neck deep in work the minute they rejoin their fellow Rangers.
"Strange, is it not?" Elladan murmured thoughtfully, placing a hand on the tree next to him and running his fingers down its smooth bark. "Rivendell never changes. Each time we come home, we see the same sights, the same faces."
He sighed and let his arm fall back to his side. "Save for the one vision I have been yearning to see most of all." he whispered, his sadness reaching out to Elrohir's heart.
Elrohir stepped forward and placed a reassuring hand on his brother's shoulder. "You can still see her again, Elladan." he told him gently. "It should not be too difficult to find her. We can just track down the Fellowship and. . . "
"We cannot." Elladan interrupted him. "Father made it clear. I cannot show myself to Armir now; not while she is one this quest. It will cause her strength and resolve to crumble, and she will fail to fulfill her mission." As he spoke, these seemed to be a twinge of resentment in his tone.
"You are not angry still with Father for sending her away, are you?" Elrohir asked, his dark blue eyes clouding with concern.
"No. I am not." Elladan said quietly. "As much as it hurts me to admit it, I understand that it was necessary for her to accompany the Ring Bearer."
Elrohir caught sight of a tear threatening to fall from his brother's eye as he forced himself to continue speaking. "What is difficult for me to accept is, why did it have to be her? Why my little girl? She was all I had left, Elrohir."
There was a pause as Elladan's voice threatened to crack with emotion. "And she never even knew that. I confess that it is my own fault I never told her how much I love her, but it does not change that fact that I do. How I long to tell her now."
"In her heart, she knows the truth. She understands why you had to leave her behind." Elrohir told him comfortingly. "I am sure she does. Do not be so hard on yourself, Elladan."
"How can I not?" Elladan muttered. "I am a horrid father, and I deserve to be damned."
"Do not say such things. Only a good father can spawn such a fine child." Elrohir said firmly. "Elladan, you have been through enough pain. Do not make your burden any greater by torturing yourself with guilt. What is done is done."
Elrohir squeezed Elladan's shoulder and smiled at him. "Armir is a special girl, thus she was called upon by this great destiny. You must be proud of her for it." he reminded him. "Fate gave her this course, but you cannot be certain that your own path will not cross hers in the future. You will meet again, somehow, someday. Have faith, brother. Have faith."
At long last, Elladan actually smiled back. "Thank you, Elrohir." he said softly.
The tension broken, Elrohir let out a merry laugh. "Come now." he said, giving his twin a light pat on the back. "No more of this doom and gloom. Let us enjoy our last day in peace and pleasure. What do you say we find Arwen and invite her to join us?"
"The best thought I have heard this whole day." his twin agreed, as he slid an arm around Elrohir's shoulder and they continued to walk down the forest trail together.
* * *
Legolas sighed and slipped the Elven knife whose hilt he had just polished back into its sheath. The growing impatience and annoyance in his chest was starting to feel quite uncharacteristic of him.
The Fellowship had taken their midday rest at the edge of a small forest. The hobbits were getting luncheon ready, Boromir was out somewhere exploring the vicinity, Gimli had fallen fast asleep under a tree, and Gandalf was in conversation with Frodo. As for Aragorn and Armir. . .
The elf-prince got to his feet, no longer able to endure sitting still. When Armir had approached him earlier asking to be left alone with Aragorn for a few hours, he was struck with what was undeniably jealousy. Legolas knew that envy was a fault greatly frowned upon by his kind, but he could not help himself.
Every time he saw the them together, he envied the bond that his princess shared with Isildur's Heir. She always seemed to be much more at ease with the man than with him. Legolas knew that this suspicion, of course, was ridiculous. Aragorn was Arwen's devoted lover, and he looked upon Armir as nothing more than a little sister. But what of Armir? Did she look at Aragorn the same way? As a mere brother?
Legolas' bright blue eyes clouded over with slight bitterness. Why did she have to request Aragorn's company instead of his? Was he not the one whom Lord Elrond had assigned to be her companion? Had he proven himself insufficient? Had she grown weary of his presence?
The questions were sowing seeds of insecurity and anger in his heart, and this disturbed the elf greatly. If they went on unanswered, he would surely go mad.
At last, the elf approached Gandalf where he sat in the shade with Frodo.
"Pardon me, Gandalf. Frodo." he said, with a slight nod of his head. "I wish to go for a walk and perhaps scout the area for precaution. Will you be all right here?"
Gandalf looked upon him in thoughtful silence for a few moments. His wise gaze pierced through Legolas. The elf shifted his weight uneasily, but decided to ignore the knowing smile the wizard gave him.
"By all means." Gandalf told him amiably. "Do not worry. We shall get on fine."
"Thank you. I shall be back shortly." And with another courteous bow, the Elven prince took his leave, heading directly for the forest where he knew Armir and Aragorn had gone.
* * *
"What is it?" Frodo asked Gandalf, noting the reflective expression on the old man's face. "Is there something wrong?"
The wizard shook his head and leaned back wearily on the heavy trunk of the tree behind him. "Nothing out of the usual." he said with a secretive smile.
Frodo studied his friend's face for a minute before he seemed to catch on. "Is it about Legolas?"
Gandalf sighed and stroked his long gray beard. "Yes." he admitted, then decided to just come out and let the hobbit in on his thoughts. "Poor lad. His feelings grow deeper rooted as each day passes. Soon he shall find them quite impossible to conceal, much less suppress."
Frodo's brows knitted together. "Feelings?" he mused, before further realization dawned upon him. "You think Legolas has feelings for Lady Armir?"
Gandalf chuckled. "My boy, I know he does. It is quite obvious, really" he told the hobbit. The smile then slowly faded from his face and was replaced with mild anxiety as he shook his head. "Though I cannot say I approve. . ."
Frodo looked at him in surprise. "You do not?" he repeated. "But why? I think they would make a fine match; I know not why I had never even considered the thought sooner."
"On normal circumstances, I would have absolutely no qualms about Legolas and Armir sharing something special." Gandalf said slowly and gravely. "But we live not in normal circumstances. We are on a quest, and a dangerous one at that. One which carries upon it the fate of the entire Middle Earth. It is not the time for falling in love. Too much is dependent on the success of the Fellowship."
The wizard sighed and looked pensively at the direction in which Legolas had gone. "I fear only an ill future for Thranduil's son, should he allow his feelings to get in the way. He must see this, and stop-- before he brings pain upon himself."
* * *
The fallen leaves on the ground made no sound even as Legolas' feet treaded upon them. The brooding crease on his fair brow deepened as he scanned the surroundings, every sense keen for any telltale sound or sight. Aragorn and Armir could not be every far off. It shouldn't be too difficult to find them, no matter how carefully they may try to avoid him in their desire for solitude.
Legolas clenched his teeth and tried to keep his negative thoughts at bay. Jealousy gets one no where, he had to remind himself. Furthermore, there was nothing to be jealous about. Absolutely nothing.
Just then, he caught sight of a silvery-blue shimmer amidst the distant trees. The elf narrowed his eyes and ventured closer. As he did so the rest of his senses picked up on what his eyes had perceived. There was the sound of faint burbling. The scent of moist earth meeting fresh water. Instantly he was able to tell that he was near a stream or brook of some sort.
He continued his approach, muting the thuds of his footfall till they were virtually imperceptible. He was certain his quarry was somewhere very close by. . . he could feel it.
All of sudden, his ears picked up the crunching sound of footsteps behind him. Reacting with incredible speed, the elf drew his knives from their sheaths and whirled around to wield them at his trailer.
There was a fierce clash of metal against metal as a sword met his knives. Legolas blinked in surprise as he gazed at the familiar face before him.
"Aragorn!" he said, retracting his weapons quickly. "You should have not snuck up on me like that. What do you think you are doing?"
The Ranger smiled back at him wryly as he sheathed his own blade. "I think it is I who deserves an answer to that question." he responded. "Are you not supposed to be at camp with Gandalf and the others?"
Ignoring his inquiry, Legolas peered around the man anxiously. "Where is Armir?" he asked, not bothering to hide the over abundance of concern in his voice.
Aragorn pointed in the direction of the stream, where Legolas had been heading. "Over there. She has asked to be given some privacy for a while." he replied calmly.
Legolas' head whirled back to face Aragorn, his eyes wide with alarm. "You left her alone?" he exclaimed. "You should not have! She cannot be allowed to wander off by herself. She. . ."
Aragorn held his arm, silencing him. "The Lady desired a bath, Legolas." he told the agitated elf, a slight twinkle in his eyes. "I could not deny her of it. She asked that I give her space and just keep watch for intruders. Would you have preferred that I stood by and watched her as she bathed?"
Legolas stared back at his friend, taken aback by a mixture of astonishment and embarrassment. "A bath?" he repeated. "Was that all she wanted this whole time? Was it the only reason for her wanting to be left in your care?"
Aragorn nodded. "Of course." he answered. "All your worries were for nothing."
Legolas shook his head, still full of confusion and offense. "If that was all she desired, then why did she have to ask it from you?" he demanded. "She could have just as easily talked to me. I am, after all, her guardian."
Aragorn smiled. "That you are." he agreed. "But I am her brother."
Legolas raised his eyebrows. "Therefore. . .?"
Aragorn sighed. "Therefore, she would feel much more comfortable asking me to accompany her." he explained. "Guardian or not, Legolas, she still does not know you that well."
The elf's frown deepened. "What does she take me for? A rogue who would dare invade a lady's privacy?" he said, sharpness cutting into his words. "After all I have done, can she still not see that I have only good intentions?"
For a moment, Aragorn was silent. Crossing his arms over his chest, he gazed upon his elf friend with concern.
"Legolas," he said finally. "I know not from where your resentment comes, but I can assure you-there is nothing going on between Armir and myself. She is my little sister. I cannot see her as anything more, and neither will she of me."
The serenity of the man's voice and the sincerity on his face stuck Legolas with shame. His face immediately softened.
"Amin hiraetha." he apologized quietly, lowering his head. "You are right. I have been foolish. It is just. . ." He paused, not quite sure how to explain himself.
Legolas then felt Aragorn's strong hand upon his shoulder. He lifted his gaze to meet his, and found understanding in his friend's warm eyes.
"You are quite taken with her, are you not?" the Ranger said, the words coming out more as a statement than a query.
Legolas took a deep breath. "Yes." he finally admitted. "I guess I am." He turned his face away, feeling sudden awkwardness overcome him.
Aragorn chuckled softly. "And you find this shameful?"
"Of course not!" Legolas said defensively, jerking his face back up.
"Then why does it seem to bother you? Is there a problem?"
Legolas shook his head and sighed. "It is just that. . . I have never felt this way about anyone before." he murmured. "It frightens me Aragorn, and I know not what to do. I cannot stop thinking about her. Moment upon moment, I just want to be near to her. The desire I have to touch her and hold her close grows stronger each day. . ."
The elf cut himself off, realizing in humiliation that he was revealing too much.
Observing his discomforted stillness, Aragorn patted Legolas' back. "You are in love for the first time, my friend. It is as simple as that." he told him. "And it is nothing to be ashamed or frightened of."
Legolas managed to return the man's smile, though weakly. "It is just so strange, so different. Never in my life have I imagined I could look upon or care about a maiden this way." he whispered. "I thought at first that it was merely a passing fancy, but now I realize it is so much more."
"Do you not wish to let her know how you feel?" Aragorn asked gently.
Legolas stared at him, his eyes widening with shock. "I cannot!"
"Why is that?"
Legolas raised an eyebrow at him. "Was it not you who warned me to be careful? To be mindful of my feelings for her?"
Aragorn laughed. "Yes, but that was before you opened up to me and set free the truth in your heart." he said. "Now I know your feelings cannot be any more faithful." He paused. "Moreover, I have been witness to Armir's reactions towards you."
Legolas' attention was caught immediately. "And. . .?" he pressed, his voice shaking with urgency.
Aragorn smiled mysteriously. "They will be for you to discover on your own. I dare not risk your affections by pre-empting the workings of a young maiden's heart."
He placed a firm hand on the elf's shoulder. "But I will advise you this, Legolas." he told him solemnly. "If your love be true, it will find its own way. You will not even have to ponder or worry on it. It will just happen, and you shall not be able to fight it. You can never deny that which is true."
Just then, a rustling of leaves nearby caught the two friends' attention, and they quickly fell silent.
"Aragorn?" a soft voice called.
A moment later, Armir appeared before them, her dark hair still damp and her fair skin free from dirt, more immaculate than ever. As she became aware of the elf's presence, she paused in surprise.
"Legolas!" she said, an unidentifiable look crossing her face. "What. . .?"
Aragorn stepped up quickly to offer an explanation. "He was worried about our whereabouts and came to check on us." he told Armir.
The elf nodded to confirm the man's statement. "Are you finished here, my lady?"
"Yes." the girl answered, turning to her guardian and giving him a shy smile. Legolas sucked in his breath as her blue eyes came to meet his. Fighting against the paralyzing effect her presence had on him, he offered her his arm. She took it, and with Aragorn behind them they made their way back to the camp where the rest of the Fellowship were.
Thoughts raced through Legolas' head as he walked with the beautiful maiden by his side. Aragorn was right. He was very much in love with Armir. Of that there was no doubt.
The question now was, what could he possibly do about it?
* * *
COMING UP. . . Chapter 4 - Darkness
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