The Stone of Malinya: Repost

by Goody-Goodie

Aragorn summons Gimli and Legolas to accompany him on a quest to recover a great treasure, that will take them to a land of deceit, hatred, and pain (Complete)

3. More Trouble in Brelan

"Risorine, what is the meaning of this?" Aragorn asked. His head was starting to ache from so much happening in so little time.

 Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas did not draw their weapons for they were trapped nicely and did not think escape would be possible at the moment. They could not fall back, the door to the cavern had shut behind them, and if they did move to draw their weapons or attacked they would undoubtedly be shot, despite how quickly they could move. For the moment they had few options.

 "You look surprised, Lord Elessar, and here I thought you were known for being able to read men's emotions and intentions so well." Risorine gloated. "Drop your weapons now or they will be forced from you by arrowheads." He was clearly in command of the men before them as they raised their bows higher at his words. The friends exchanged a brief glance and dropped their weapons to the ground, sword, axe and bow respectfully, then took a step back.

Aragorn and Legolas exchanged a brief look, assuring each other that they still held a weapon; Legolas had his long knife hidden beneath his cloak, and Aragorn a dagger in his boot. Risorine smirked and walked up to the three casually, not even bothering to draw his own sword.

 "You are the leader of these outlaws that have been plaguing this city?" Aragorn asked, clearly confused.

 "I am, and have been for years." Risorine smirked, proud for having so fooled the King.

 "But you are a Man of Gondor," Aragorn continued, unbelieving, "And have been in my service as long as I have reigned."

 Risorine shook his head as if ashamed he had to explain, "I've lived in Brelan all my life but left this place several years ago and travelled to Gondor, to learn of its secrets and ways of life. Very quickly though I found myself a member of your guard and rising in stature as the Great War drastically lowered the soldiers under your command. I was not sure what I was hoping to accomplish when I first became a member of your company; I had not planned on staying long after all, and I had my duties here in Brelan. But eventually I found it was almost nothing to rise to the rank of captain of your guards and decided to stay longer than planned," Risorine explained, obviously very pleased with himself.

 "And once in this position you used your influence to suggest I come here, to Brelan." Aragorn reasoned, "For what final purpose, may I ask?"

 "At first I wished you to influence our king. Our laws must be changed as well as our economy. Gondor is strong and I knew you would have the strength to do this. If the two countries align Brelan would eventually adapt the greater laws of Gondor. But then I heard of another more pressing reason to bring you here," Risorine continued, his smiling never leaving his face.

 "The Stone," Aragorn said. His eyes narrowed and he glared daggers through the man he had trusted with his life, but had never really gotten to know. Perhaps if he had taken the time to speak with him he could have seen this coming.

 "Yes," Risorine's eyes twinkled and his voice became wistful, "The Stone of Malinya, a treasure of the rarest sorts. I also heard word from the company you sent here months ago relating the tale of the Stone, for those men think of me as a dear and trusted friend. I knew you could not resist Malinya's temptation and I was right." Risorine opened his mouth to say more but was interrupted when he heard a soft curse from Legolas.

 "Traitor," The elf whispered, fully aware the man had heard him. When Risorine looked toward him and their eyes locked he continued, "You are a traitor twice over. A man has a duty to hold to his homeland and you have broken this duty by harming your own kindred inside Miscalanth's walls. But worst of all you took an oath when you became Aragorn's captain. An oath that should not be taken lightly, you have sworn upon honor and pride to protect him at all costs. Now it is clear that you have none of the virtues necessary for such a post."

 Legolas's words were answered with a swift backhand from Risorine. The elf's head flew back but his stance remained firm. He stood up tall and unharmed, seemingly not even dazed from the blow. This angered Risorine and he struck him once more; the effect was the same but blood now trickled from Legolas's split lip. The elf casually wiped the blood away and as Gimli tensed into a fighting stance several of the men around them stepped closer and drew their swords but Risorine stopped them with a wave of his hand.

 "You lecture me of honor and pride? The three that would hold secret meetings and lie to kings of countries in order to gain what they wish. You come to Brelan only to steal the Stone from us and bring it back to Gondor in triumph."

 "It was you, the people of Brelan that stole the Stone from the peoples of Middle-Earth. We intend only to return it," Gimli said growling, not at all pleased by his friend's treatment.

 "We did not steal the Stone. It was the elves of this land, they stole it for themselves and hid it but told us not where," Risorine defended, but was not entirely convincing.

 "We have learned much in our time here, Risorine, and uncovered many lost truths, but that is not one of them," Aragorn said calmly but there was a silent rage burning in his eyes.

 "You speak of things of which you know nothing. We have long known the Stone to be in Brelan and have searched for it for many years. The Elves hid it well and we could not recover it."

 "And if you had found it what would you have done? I have doubts of its safe return," Legolas replied.

 Risorine glared hard at him, his teeth grinding, "You have been a nuisance from the moment you stepped foot in my business and my patience is all but spent, so I suggest you watch your tongue." Risorine swiftly pulled a knife from his belt and held the tip to the elf's throat. Legolas met the man's gaze, never flinching, and nodded only slightly. Risorine smirked triumphantly.

 "It is as you ask," Legolas said after the knife was pulled away, "I will watch my tongue closely." With this he let out a sharp whistle, so loud and shrill that it surprised the men around them. The three friends moved into defensive postures as did their captors, expecting them to attack. It was a great surprise when the attack came from behind.

 With amazing speed and a great whinnying the two horses attacked the men surrounding their masters. Jarinel rushed into the circle of attackers, pushing back those in his way and stepping over those that leapt away in surprise. Hasufel did much the same and charged through without regard for the men in search of his master, Aragorn.

 The horses could do little damage but their presence was distraction enough to allow Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas to surprise the men before them. As the outlaws turned to the horses the three rushed forward; Aragorn and Gimli picked up their weapons from the ground, but Legolas moved straight ahead, his knife unsheathed, not needing his bow at the moment.

 For several moments the valley floor became a mass of confusion. Legolas, Aragorn, and Gimli went forth, attacking those in their way and putting them to the ground. Aragorn swept around and locked swords with a man, then twisted away and hit him hard under the chin with the hilt. Gimli swung his axe, but his target leapt back and fell to the ground. The dwarf lifted his axe once more to strike but it was unnecessary as a hoof landed on the man's chest, effectively knocking the wind from his lungs.

 Legolas ducked under a man's arm, swung his knife without looking and then continued on as he felt his blade connect. He was making his way to the horses. Their attackers would quickly realize the horses were simply a distraction and he did not wish to see them hurt in their attempts to help their masters.

 Suddenly more men appeared. Aragorn realized they had been keeping watch just around the great hill in which they had stepped from. They were being surrounded quickly and had to get away as soon as possible. Legolas saw this as well and at the same moment the two friends once more let out a sharp whistle. The horses reacted immediately, with Hasufel racing toward Aragorn and Jarinel pushing his way to Legolas.

 "Thank you my friend," Aragorn said as he took a hold of Hasufel's saddle and jumped upon his back. The horse neighed with pleasure to see his rider was well and immediately began to gallop away to get him to safety. Aragorn reined the horse in though, just as they reached the outskirts of the group of men and turned to spot his friends.

 Legolas was gracefully mounting Jarinel, using the horse as leverage to kick a man in the jaw before he hopped on. Once seated on his horse the elf spotted Gimli nearby and then saw Aragorn quite a distance away.

 "Aragorn, go! I have Gimli!" He shouted as he urged Jarinel forward. The horse replied immediately, pounding through the rows of men once more. Jarinel sped through the crowd as if it didn't exist, focussing on the small figure fighting off attackers left and right. Legolas leaned dangerously far to the side and as they raced past Gimli the elf snagged him by the neck of his cloak, stopping him in mid-swing and struggled to pull him onto the horse's back.

 Aragorn hesitated a moment at Legolas's call, reluctant to leave without assuring his friends' safety. As he waited several men approached him, swords high, but Aragorn was the better swordsman and had the advantage of horseback. With several quick sword strokes he dispatched of the men then turned to see Legolas and Gimli safely upon Jarinel's back. Only then did he turn and speed his own horse deep into the woods, only too aware of the arrows now falling around him.

 Gimli grunted as he was tossed onto the back of the horse. The ride started out oddly, with both him and Legolas attempting to gain their balance, but eventually they steadied themselves and rode on smoothly. Their pursuers were close behind, as were their arrows. Gimli turned to look back at them and only then realized that instead of being in his usual position behind Legolas, the elf had foolishly placed him at the front of the horse.

 Arrows now fell all around them, some coming dangerously close but many missing and falling short for it was hard to aim in the dim light of morning. Legolas charged the horse ahead faster, weaving him through the increasingly dense forest. He looked down at Gimli, pleased that he was safe and holding on tightly to the horse's mane. He could see Aragorn some ways ahead of them, managing to navigate the forest quite well, but their pursuers were close behind Jarinel. They would not be for long though. They had no horses that Legolas had seen and would quickly be lost behind them while on foot.

 A grunt of frustration huffed out of Gimli as he tried to become accustomed to the unusual seating on the horse. He had never before sat at the front and very few times had they ridden at such speeds, through woods. Normally he would hold on to Legolas and wait for the ride to end, but now he had to take a hold of Jarinel's mane and even found himself trying to help in directing the beast, but Legolas needed no such assistance.

 Crazy elf. Would it have taken so long to put me in my usual seat? Gimli wondered. Then he turned, startled as an arrow suddenly imbedded itself deep into the base of a tree they were passing. Legolas easily manoeuvred Jarinel away from the tree, trying to zigzag through the woods to confuse the archers.

 Aragorn turned to check on his friends, causing his horse to slow slightly. Legolas noticed this and waved to him to continue their retreat. Aragorn seemed to accept this, satisfied they were out of harm, and turned his horse again and continued away from the field as fast as Hasufel could take him through the dark woods.

 It was at this moment that two things struck. First realization struck Gimli that Legolas had not placed him in this position by chance. No, that sneaky elf had put him in front so that he may use himself to shield his friend from the arrows that were raining down upon them. Gimli growled, not appreciating being treated as one who needed protecting and turned to give Legolas a good, long, loud lecture on the subject, but all that came from his mouth was a warning of "Look out!"

 The second strike was that of an arrow finding its mark.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 The pain began in his left shoulder, there was a brief feeling of weightlessness and then a whole new pain ignited within his entire left side. Legolas knew he had been shot. This hadn't been the first time, or the worst as far as injuries go, but it was the chance with the worst timing.

 The arrow landed deeply in Legolas's left shoulder, and the force of the hit combined with Jarinel's speed sent the elf flying helplessly from the horse's back to land hard on his side with his head banging roughly against a jutting rock. The arrow went in deeper as the impact broke off the shaft and the only thing keeping him from crying out was the lack of air in his lungs.

 "Legolas, no!" Gimli called out helplessly as he tried to reach for his friend too late and could only watch him tumble painfully to the ground. Jarinel immediately stopped when he lost his rider, sending Gimli pitching forward slightly. The horse back-tracked immediately and stood before the elf, pawing his hoofs on the ground in an attempt to get him to rise.

 Legolas looked up from his sprawled position on the ground and tried to blink away the pain and confusion. His shoulder radiated with pain that would not be silenced and he found himself staring blankly at Gimli as the dwarf's lips moved but he heard no sound.

 "Get up you blasted elf. Hurry!" Gimli said, his voice sounding more panicked than it had in recent memory. Legolas responded and slowly attempted to rise to his feet, only to find that he had injured his knee as well and fell back against a tree, shocked by the new stabbing pain. Gimli was not pleased with his friend's lack of progress in rising and attempted to free himself from Jarinel's back to assist him.

 Legolas watched Gimli trying to get off the horse's back then he turned and in the dim light saw that their pursuers were closing in on them and they had rage on their tongues and blood in their eyes. The elf knew he would not make it back on the horse before they came, and could barely stand as it was, let alone ride. If Gimli did get down to help him they would not be able to escape without a fight, and Legolas knew he was in no condition for a battle. Assessing their situation as quickly as his muddled mind allowed, and taking into account the still falling arrows, Legolas decided.

 "Go Gimli, meet up with Aragorn," He commanded, trying to make his voice firm as he once more tried to stand.

 "Are you mad? I shall not leave you here." Gimli seemed genuinely shocked and even stopped his struggles for a moment.

 The men were almost upon them now and an arrow landed dangerously close to Gimli's head. Legolas could spend no more time arguing with the dwarf and called out to Jarinel.

 "Caw hortha! Celeg hon o si, Jarinel. Aphad Aragorn. Im iest ha." Top speed. Swift him from here, Jarinel. Follow Aragorn. I wish it.

 Gimli knew little elvish but what he had just heard angered him. What angered him more was when the horse reluctantly obeyed Legolas. With a neigh of protest Jarinel set his sights straight ahead and away then raced off after Aragorn. Gimli shouted in protest but could not free himself from his seat and was forced away along with the horse. He shouted curses at the elf for he knew he would be far from him by the time he slowed the horse and managed to climb off and by then Legolas would be overtaken by Risorine and the men pursuing them.

 Legolas sighed in relief as Jarinel obeyed his wishes and raced off with an infuriated Gimli desperately trying to get off. He knew his friend was mad and had every right to be, but he saw no point in risking both of them being captured, or even killed. Legolas now had to worry only about himself. Cradling his left arm against his chest he pulled his knife free from his belt as he hobbled to the other side of the tree to protect himself from falling arrows.

 The approaching men stopped before the tree, clearly not planning on going after Gimli and Aragorn, who were quickly becoming lost in the distance. With a smirk several of Risorine's men made their way around the tree, flanking all positions in order to completely surround their prey. Legolas tensed from his position.

 Bows drawn and notched the men converged around the tree, ready to attack, but as they circled around the trunk they found that there was no one there. The men shared a confused look.

 "Where did he go?" One asked.

 Suddenly the slightest rustle of leaves drew their attention above and a great cloaked figure dropped onto them.

 Legolas hadn't been sure he would be able to climb the tree with an arrowhead in his shoulder, but desperation had driven him up the tree's limbs. He had thought to escape through the tree tops but in his current state he could not be as silent as he needed and would not have gone unnoticed. Jumping from the tree he at least decided he would fight them until the end. He landed atop a rather large man, whose arrow shot high into the air as he fell. The jump jarred Legolas's twisted knee but he ignored it and faced the other men around him. He counted twelve in his sights now, and undoubtedly more behind the tree's base.

 His pursuers made the first move, and a smart one as they all attacked at once. The elf managed to twist out of the way of the first two, causing them to slam into one another, but as he turned to swipe away a man approaching on his left, he was tackled to the ground from the right. He landed once more on his shoulder and bit his tongue to keep from crying out as he kicked at his attacker. The man who had tackled him was sent flying away but two more took his place and rushed the elf, keeping him on the ground and pinned on his stomach.

 "Stop struggling. You only make this harder on yourself." One of the men commented, but Legolas continued to wrestle them off.

 The fight was quickly draining from the elf though. The pain from his shoulder and knee was so excruciating he wanted to scream, and his knife had been forced away from him. Rough hands held him to the ground, too many to count but he continued to struggle, landing several blows and knocking off many of the men. Finally one man grew so impatient that he took hold of the shaft of arrow protruding from Legolas's shoulder and twisted the arrowhead mercilessly. The pain was so incredible that Legolas's body bucked with its force and then a great moan escaped through his gritted teeth. When the pain went down the elf found his whole body was wracked with tremors from the shock.

 "That's better," The foreign voice commented as his hands were tied roughly behind his back, "You have courage but you're a fool. You are but one man. Did you hope to escape from us all?"

 The energy was gone from Legolas now, and his eyes were glazed over from pain. The men hauled him to his feet and dragged him through the forest, uncaring about the blood dripping from his back or the obvious limp afflicting his left side.

 "Come on, Risorine's waiting, and he's not going to be happy," One man said, tugging at Legolas's arm.

 "What about the other two?" Another asked.

 "There's nothing to be done now. We'll take this one to Risorine and find out what he wishes to do next," The first replied, frowning deeply as Legolas was continually unable to keep up.

 The men talked little during the walk back to the hilltop, and Legolas found himself wishing they had not gotten so far away before being caught again. After several minutes the pain died down in his shoulder since his captors had stopped pushing him forward, and Legolas spoke for the first time in their meeting.

 "This is an ill course of action, for all of you," He said calmly, skilling his voice to sound wise and logical.

 "Why is that? You seem to be the one in an awful fix," The first man remarked, laughing at his own words. But he listened when it became clear Legolas meant to continue.

 "I am a companion of Lord Elessar, King of Gondor who has open to him the ear of Lord Vecery. You will be found eventually and punished for your crimes. You will be hanged at the very least for the crime of treason towards your country, for that is without question what you have done. Your only chance of living through this is to turn away from Risorine, and this path of destruction. It does nothing but cause chaos and fear in the very streets which you claim to fight for," Legolas said, his voice sounding reasonable and his eyes meeting no one's as he walked, being careful not to stumble.

 There were a few moments of silence among the men before the man at his side tugged roughly on his arm once more, "You have a smooth tongue young man, but you are being taken to Risorine and we will not be persuaded from our goals."

 Legolas suddenly stumbled as he walked, his mind too jumbled to be disappointed he hadn't reached his captors.

Young man?

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 "Stop you damn horse! I do not know what Legolas told you but you will stop and let me down immediately!" Gimli cried, infuriated. His best friend was back there, injured and practically defenceless and he could not help him because he was being kidnapped by a blasted horse. Minutes had passed and still Gimli could not get Jarinel under control. What he wished the horse to do was to turn around and speed back to Legolas, but he would gladly settle for the beast to simply stop so he could get down.

 Of course he could get down, but not easily. If the horse would not stop then Gimli would receive a worse fall than Legolas if he jumped off, especially at the speed in which the horse was moving as it tried to catch Aragorn. All Gimli could do was shout and had even pulled at its mane but it still would not stop.

 When he noted that they were beginning to catch up to Aragorn he took in a deep breath and shouted as loud as he could, "Aragorn stop this horse!"

 Aragorn actually jumped in his seat and reined Hasufel in at the call. Jarinel raced toward him, seeming only too happy to stop now that he had caught up with the King of Men. Gimli could see the shocked horror on Aragorn's face as he took in that the horse had only one rider.

 "Where is Legolas?" He asked immediately, looking behind them in hopes of spotting the elf.

 "He was shot and has most likely been taken by Risorine by now. Quickly, help me off this beast and speed us back to him," Gimli said, once more trying to escape the horse's back.

 "Was he all right? How bad was he hurt?" Aragorn asked, unable to keep himself from scanning the woods, expecting Legolas to pop up at any moment.

 "He was shot, as I said. Beyond that I do not know but he took an arrow to the shoulder and appeared to have injured his leg as well for he could not stand. Aragorn!" Gimli cried as he received no help in getting off the horse.

 "How could I not have seen?" Aragorn mumbled to himself, sliding off Hasufel and moving to help the dwarf.

 "How indeed?" Gimli asked, not truly angry but wishing Aragorn had noticed the elf was missing, for it would have made things much easier for all of them.

 "I turned only twice for these woods are hard to navigate on horseback. I saw the white of Jarinel's coat through the darkness and assumed all was well," Aragorn said softly, looking for an explanation for his lack of observation.

 "What is done cannot be undone. Now hurry, we have an elf to get back to." Gimli pointed out, grimacing as he was lifted onto the back of Hasufel.

 At least this beast is under control. He thought to himself as Aragorn climbed on once more, swiftly and gracefully. With no more words Aragorn sped the horse forward through the thick trees once more. Jarinel followed silently behind, not forgetting Legolas's order to follow Aragorn as he wished.

 "How did you come to be a horse-master Gimli?" Aragorn asked as they rode, very much feeling the long minutes between them and their friend.

 "The crazy elf. After he fell from the horse he persuaded it somehow to ride off without him, with me stuck upon its back. I swear that elf's immortality will end with the blade of my axe if he does not stop acting so foolish." Gimli grumbled from his usual position, now behind the rider.

 Aragorn frowned, worried that Legolas's immortality could end at all. He only now realized how little he knew about the man who had protected him for so long, Risorine. He did not know what this man's motivations were, or even how his mind truly operated for Aragorn had missed his opportunity to learn these things. One thing Aragorn did not like was not knowing his enemies or what they might do, especially ones that held his friends captive.

 The forest was becoming clearer in the light of morning but this also changed the look of the forest from what they had seen shortly before.

 "Where did he fall Gimli?" Aragorn asked, not slowing Hasufel's gallop.

 Gimli looked over his surroundings, not yet recognizing anything. "Nothing here seems familiar, it must have been further into the woods." They continued to ride until Gimli spotted the tree that he recognized Legolas to have leaned against after he fell, "There! It was there!"

 Aragorn stopped and jumped swiftly and smoothly from the horse's back to quickly sweep the ground. Gimli remained in the saddle, knowing he would be getting back on shortly and would only step on any tracks Aragorn might find.

 Aragorn knew they had lost precious time for Gimli said he had been forced upon Jarinel's back for long minutes and they had then had to ride back into the forest. Searching the ground Aragorn easily read the signs and frowned; the blood in the grass told him the most.

 "There was a fight about a quarter of an hour ago, which Legolas did not win for he was gravely outnumbered; there are more tracks here than I can count." He followed the footsteps slightly farther, making sure of their path, "They headed back to the field with the hilltop." He announced. He began to walk back to Hasufel and stopped as a glimmer in the grass caught his eye. Stooping down he picked up Legolas's long knife and suppressed a growl of rage. Gimli did not though and his eyes spoke of murder when he saw the elf's discarded weapon.

 Aragorn tucked the knife away in his belt and wordlessly joined Gimli on Hasufel. They charged forth once more, Jarinel beside them, heading back into a battle they had just left.

 ~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|

Young man indeed. Legolas thought to himself as he was walked through the woods, flagged by over a dozen guards. At first he had rolled his eyes at the comment, thinking that the man had been taunting him, or had simply forgotten his true age as Gimli sometimes did. But soon he realized that there was no jest in the man's voice, and he truly believed Legolas to be younger than himself. An unlooked for smile came upon his face as he thought of this. These men did not know he was an Elf, or that he had already lived more lifetimes than they could dream of. The Mist of Concealment had yet to wear off, so they most likely thought him to be a man of only twenty-five or so.

 As his captors pushed him along, leading him to the traitor Risorine, he reminded himself to keep up the façade of a Man. Though these rebels appeared to be against Brelan's ways he had no way of knowing if they would also be against the Brelans' hatred for elves and decided not to risk finding out, for it was obvious that Risorine already held a deep hatred for him.

 Speaking of which …

 "Where are the others?" Risorine asked sternly. They had finally reached the open field where he had been waiting for them; he had stayed behind to look over the cavern they had retrieved the Stone from. When he saw only one prisoner he did not look pleased.

 "They got away; we could only catch this one." The man reported, pushing Legolas forward. Risorine grinned when the elf flinched.

 "No need to worry then. Lord Elessar will be back for him. If I know anything about the man I know he will not leave a companion behind. Especially one so trusted as this," Risorine scoffed, clearly showing the offence Legolas did to him simply by being the preferred company of Aragorn.

 "But how well do you truly know the king? Perhaps as well as he thought he knew you?" Legolas asked, attempting to place doubt into Risorine's mind, for he knew doubt caused a man to make mistakes.

 "I know him well enough. Of course that is no thanks to you, stealing away every opportunity I had to learn more of him and his secrets. You alone are the reason I was never fully in the King's confidence and you nearly ruined everything. I do not know how you always managed to be everywhere, and hear everything but you made yourself quite a nuisance, as you are now." Legolas could see the anger building in Risorine's eyes as he recalled all the occasions he had interfered in Risorine's plans. He clearly blamed Legolas for the failure of so many of his schemes; the elf had kept him from eavesdropping on Aragorn and gaining the king's confidence, and had been mostly responsible for stopping the assassination attempt on Lord Vecery. And now Legolas discovered that simply by talking to Aragorn and keeping him busy he had interfered greatly with Risorine's plot.

"Perhaps it is time you redeemed yourself. You may start by explaining to me how I can gain entrance to this secret cavern you three emerged from."

 Legolas had seen Risorine looking over the great stone as they approached and smiled, knowing the man would never be able to open it. It was elvish magic and could only be opened if one had the key, which Risorine would not get. Legolas considered telling him how to open it, knowing it would only anger him when he learned that a man, elf and dwarf were necessary. As far as Risorine knew there were no elves in Brelan and Gimli had just gotten away. But he decided to lie for now, and keep up his young human façade.

 "I know not. Aragorn opened the door. It matters little anyway, the Stone will never be yours to hold Risorine," Legolas said.

 This angered the man and he once more stepped toward the elf with his knife drawn, "Do you think me a fool? I know you did Elessar's scavenging, finding his clues to the Stone while he was busy with that fool Vecery. Now you will tell me how to open this door or I will cut the words from your tongue."

 "I know not the words you wish to hear therefore they cannot be cut away," Legolas replied evenly, not drawing away from the steel.

 Risorine's eyes grew darker and then he looked down and saw the round container attached to Legolas's belt. He reached down and took it from him, then quickly opened it, revealing the scroll and map inside.

 "It seems that you steal not only Stones but sacred scrolls as well. At least I now know where you found your information. Read to me these words," Risorine commanded Legolas as if he were a dog, holding the scroll open before him. The elf did not even look at the words but instead continued to hold Risorine's gaze.

 "I cannot," He replied finally, "It is a form of elvish, a language I do not read. It was Lord Elessar that translated this and led us here, as you know he reads and speaks the elvish words."

 Risorine studied Legolas a moment and, after reading only truth in Legolas's words, grunted in frustration and rolled the map up once more. "Yes, I am quite aware of his association with all that is elvish. Horrible race. They should have left these shores long ago." He muttered, mostly to himself.

 That answers one question, Legolas thought, it would most definitely not be wise to reveal myself. Then suddenly the ground began to tip. His head was light and his knees weak as he watched the world shift around him. He had lost more blood than he thought from the arrow, which was still imbedded in his shoulder, and it was beginning to affect him. Removing the point now would only worsen the blood loss greatly so he was thankful for its presence, but it pained him tremendously. His knee could barely be bent and pain shot through him when the slightest pressure was placed on it. Fighting past the fatigue and fog in his mind he dimly realized that Risorine was still speaking and he had not heard what the man had said.

 "We should leave swiftly. We must get away from here and cover our tracks before Elessar returns, for he can track across great distances and lead Lord Vecery's men to our location. One of you, secure him on your horse then let's be off," Risorine ordered.

 Legolas looked up, concerned that he hadn't noticed the men now entering the field on horseback, leading rider-less steeds behind them. The elf was surprised by how many men Risorine appeared to have under his command, and for the first time wondered if their cause was perhaps just, and if Brelan's laws did need to be changed. If so many men opposed them, how fair could they be?

 These brief thoughts were quickly extinguished as his captors pushed him ahead once more, deliberately placing pressure on his injured shoulder. He was suddenly reminded of just what kind of men these were. They were cruel and there was no pity in their eyes. He sensed no quest for freedom here, only a quest for power.

 Despite the lightness of the push he suddenly found himself falling to the ground, his leg being unable to support him and his bound arms unable to balance him. He bit back a cry as he hit the ground and his shoulder was assaulted once more. He felt fresh blood trickle from the wound.

 "What is wrong with him?" Risorine asked curiously from a distance as he jumped into his saddle.

 "He was shot in the shoulder, that's how we got him off the horse." A man replied as he dragged Legolas to his feet.

 "Will be he all right?" Risorine continued.

 "I doubt it, he's lost a lot of blood," The man said, not knowing it was elvish blood that flowed through his veins and he could therefore survive twice what a man could.

 "Just make sure he doesn't die. We shall need him alive before this is done." Risorine noted coldly, and then began to lead the group away from the brightening valley and into the woods.

 Legolas was dragged to a horse and forced atop it, and then the largest of his guards, a great burly man with a scruffy beard climbed on as well. The elf leaned forward immediately, trying to keep the man from colliding with his injured shoulder. The guard allowed this as it made it easier for him to ride the horse.

 Legolas briefly rested his head on the horse's neck and discovered that it was a kind horse, but had a cruel master. The horse understood Legolas as well and felt he was in pain so kept the ride as steady as possible, which was difficult since the group was moving along at a full gallop.

 The woods around him were unfamiliar, as was the entire region of Middle-Earth they now rode through but he tried to keep track of their location, noting landmarks he would need to recognize should he escape. His friends were far behind by now, but they were safe and had the Stone of Malinya, and he was sure they would protect it. But Legolas had to admit that his own options seemed very limited and grim.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 "We seem only able to find Legolas's belongings and never the elf himself," Gimli commented drearily as they searched the ground once more. They were now at the base of the hill which held the stairway leading to the Stone of Malinya. Risorine and his men were gone, but the tracks were still quite fresh.

 "Let us hope that the next item of his we find is still in his possession," Aragorn replied, studying the ground with one hand and clutching Legolas's bow in the other. Aragorn remembered that the elf had not picked up the weapon during the fight with Risorine's men and they had found it lying forgotten in the grass. "I for one fully intend to return these items to him, as soon as possible."

 "I as well, as soon as you tell me which direction we must head in," Gimli said, still sitting on the horse. He wished that he had some skill in tracking, so he could be of some help instead of simply sitting on Hasufel's back while Aragorn did all the work. Of course, once they found Risorine and his men Gimli was fully prepared to begin working. He would start by removing Risorine of his head.

 "They had horses after all," Aragorn announced suddenly, finding prints that did not belong to their own steeds. "They must have had more men than we thought. In any case, they all left in that direction. Hopefully they have left clear tracks all along their route. I do not know these lands and if I am forced to guess at which direction they took I fear I will not make the right choices."

 "We will find them. We are the great hunters after all, the ones who tracked a band of Uruk-hai over forty leagues and five in search of lost friends. Surely we can find a band of men on horseback, even in their own woods," Gimli said reassuringly, and Aragorn could find little doubt in the dwarf's voice.

 "You encourage me greatly Gimli, but only time will tell if our choices are wise. We must be off now though." Aragorn climbed onto Hasufel and sent the horse ahead once more; he smiled as he noted Jarinel still galloping closely beside him. As they rode Aragorn kept his eyes on the ground, watching for signs that any men may have left the group or changed direction. After several minutes he found that they were moving steadily east, away from Miscalanth, but he was pleased that their course seemed continually unchanged. Clearly the company had been moving at great speed but Aragorn was confident that they would be able to catch up with the group fairly swiftly.

 "I do not know how long they intend to ride but their tracks are easy to read, we should be able to follow them indefinitely at this rate," Aragorn reported to Gimli, knowing the dwarf knew little in tracking.

 "That is good. If they do not go far we may be able to retrieve Legolas even before the mid-day meal. Though I feel I must point out that we will be hard pressed to explain our sudden disappearance to Lord Vecery," Gimli said.

 "I have little concern for that at the moment, I wish only to find Legolas, and in doing so perhaps throttle Risorine as well. I was a fool. He was my captain, sworn to protect me and I made no effort to speak or learn of him. If I had I may have seen this coming," Aragorn said, his voice was filled with guilt and clearly he felt responsible for Risorine's treachery.

 "Then again you may have done right in not speaking to him, for didn't he say that was what he wished; to earn your trust and learn of Gondor's secrets, to undoubtedly use against you. As you said earlier, we should allow time to show us the wisdom of our actions," Gimli replied, proud to be throwing Aragorn's words back at him in an attempt to assuage him of guilt.

 After a moment of thought Aragorn smiled, "You are wise beyond your years Gimli, sometimes I wonder if Legolas has rubbed off on you too much."

 "Nay, it is simply a gift of all dwarves; we are a very wise folk. So wise in fact that we are clever enough to keep our wisdom a secret, or else men and elves and all other races would be knocking on our doors left and right, wishing for advice in trivial matters. We have no time for this of course, therefore I must swear you to secrecy on the matter. You shall tell no one of our great skills in counsel, except perhaps Legolas if you feel it is necessary." Gimli kept his head high and proud as he said this, but there was a mocking twinkle in his eye.

 "Very well son of Gloin, I shall tell none and keep your secret of wisdom safe." Aragorn assured him, a half smile creeping onto his face.

 "That is good, for I never should have told you in the first place, it is a guarded secret."

 They rode on, Aragorn easily reading the tracks in the brightening morning. Still the men they followed did not change course, and kept on steadily eastward. Aragorn smiled, noting that the tracks were appearing even fresher so he knew they were closing in on their prey. This quickly changed though as he saw the landscape creeping up ahead of them. His smile was wiped away and his heart lurched into his throat as they reached the top of a small uprising in the ground.

 "Gimli, I believe we may need that great Dwarf wisdom to aid us now," Aragorn said softly, his voice constricted now with worry.

 "What is wrong?" Gimli asked, peaking around Aragorn's back.

 "We can track them no further, and I know not which way they have gone."

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 Legolas reluctantly admitted to himself that Risorine was clever in his escape. The man knew that Aragorn would be following them, but thought he would first return to Miscalanth to receive aid from Lord Vecery. Legolas knew better and thought his friends were even now in pursuit of them, but now he knew they would most likely not be followed.

 The entire company was now making their way north by way of a small stream that was just large enough for three horses to gallop side by side in. The water would leave no tracks to follow or even any scent if Aragorn were to return with hunting dogs to search by. Legolas feared he would be on his own.

 There was little he could do now but wait for an opportunity for escape. He silently wished he had some token to drop, much as Pippin had done while captured by orcs, but he had nothing to throw even if his hands weren't tied. His knife was lost to him and he had left his bow on the ground during the first battle. He hoped Aragorn would find it and keep it for him, he was desperate not to lose it for he treasured it greatly as a gift from Galadriel.

 His shoulder ached but it was beginning to numb and his knee did not bother him as long as he did not move it too much. In truth this short ride was doing him good; his leg was healing, he could feel it already, and his wound had stopped bleeding. His strength was returning to him, but he knew it would take much more than his returning strength to escape these men. They watched him closely and aside from his guard who rode with him there were three more horsemen in front and behind him, all ensuring he did not escape.

 Clearly Risorine was smart enough not to underestimate his captive which annoyed him to no end. He would have to wait until they reached their destination before making an escape attempt.

 Legolas tried to remain focussed but they were riding very smoothly, at a steady pace which seemed to be lulling the elf into sleep. His mind began to drift and his thoughts jumbled as they rode. Just as he had reached the brink of sleep he jerked his head up, not allowing himself the pleasure of rest. His body was weary from blood loss but he forced his mind to remain alert. He would not sleep through an opportunity to escape.

 Up ahead of them Risorine led the group out of the stream and into the forest once more. Legolas had a feeling they were close to their destination. The sun was up now and Legolas had enjoyed its warm rays while galloping through the stream, but it had not yet risen high enough to extend its warmth into the dark forest.

 "Should we bind his eyes?" Legolas's guard called out to Risorine. Clearly the man didn't want him to know the location of their hide-out.

 "Not unless you plan on letting him escape so he can lead others here," Risorine replied. He had a distinct confidence about him now; a confidence that Legolas knew he had not had before. It seemed that while in the company of the men who served him, Risorine thought himself to be above all others.

 His guard grunted, knowing he had just been insulted and not liking it; several of the men snickered around him. Legolas kept his peace and instead concentrated on their route, needing a focus to keep his tired mind alert.

 They reached their destination a few minutes later. Legolas saw it before his captors did and came to the conclusion that either these woods were not entered often or this was a place of common knowledge that the people of Miscalanth now thought was abandoned. Their home base was completely out in the open. There were several tightly packed trees all around it but there was no attempt made to hide the building.

 Legolas thought it must have been the home of some rich hermit, for he could think of few others who would build such a large estate in the middle of nowhere. The house was large with a roof that just reached the top of the lower trees. It was a plain structure with no frills such as shudders or decorative pillars. There was a defensive aspect to it as well; the entire home was built from solid stone, not wood as would be expected in the forest. There were almost no windows and the few he saw were small and narrow, and appeared to be set very high in the rooms they were in.

 There were a few attributes that Legolas assumed these outlaws had added themselves; such as the beginnings of a stone wall, and a watch tower in one of the higher trees. All in all it was a good, strong structure, perfect for such men.

 "Home sweet home," Risorine whispered up ahead, not expecting anyone to hear.

 They rode up to the building and dismounted. Legolas was surprised to find that Risorine had even more men here, left to guard or tend to the base. The amount of followers that the elf had seen was nearing fifty; then he lowered that count, remembering they had killed several of them in their initial fight.

 Legolas was hauled roughly off the horse by his guard, who was still in a foul mood. He landed on his good leg first and tried to keep his weight off his twisted knee but was unable to as he was dragged forward. The pain ignited again, not as bad as before, but Legolas bit it back and walked as normally as he could between the two men guarding him. They took him closer to Risorine and stopped, obviously waiting for the man's instructions.

 Risorine smiled at the home he hadn't seen in five or more years, glad to be back and pleased with the progress his men had made in his absence. He turned to the men holding Legolas and his grin widened, becoming crueller.

 "Lock him up; I'll see to him later. For now I have a letter to write." Risorine announced, then headed towards the front door of the house, "And keep a guard on him. He's rather clever when he chooses to be." Then he entered the house, not looking back.

 Legolas looked up to see that two more men had come to guard him after hearing Risorine's words. Whatever way he had done it Risorine had clearly gained the respect and obedience of these men, and still held it after so many years.

 His guards hauled him around the house, bringing him in through a side entrance. After passing through a short, stone hallway they came to a firm wooden door, barred with metal boards to fortify it. One of the guards opened it and the others shoved him in, not caring as he crashed to the floor. He heard the sound of metal clanging and knew he was being locked in.

 He sat up after a few moments, allowing the pain to die down, and looked around his prison. The walls were hard stone, and there were no windows or furnishings. The stone was cold to the touch and Legolas felt as though he were in an underground cavern. No light could enter, leaving him alone in the dark.

 I suppose I should find a way out of here, Legolas thought to himself. His arms were beginning to ache from being tied so tightly behind him and he needed to free them. Taking a deep breath he painfully bent his legs into his chest, wincing as his injured knee protested. Resolved now he somersaulted backwards, putting most of his weight on his right shoulder, and pulled his arms beneath his legs and then over them. When he landed he was in a great deal of pain but his hands were now in front of him.

 He ached all over and feared he had just used what little energy he had left. He wanted to work on loosening the ropes around his wrists but couldn't find the strength. Leaning against the cold stone he let out a long sigh. He needed to rest, even if only for a few minutes. His injuries were robbing him of his strength and he needed to let himself heal. He laid his head back, finally found a position which didn't cause him too much pain and relaxed. Sleep claimed him in moments.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 Hasufel's hoofs pounded on the forest floor as the horse galloped towards Miscalanth at full speed. Aragorn and Gimli were holding on tightly to remain on the speeding horse, which Aragorn was urging even faster. They had been unable to find Legolas themselves and knew they would need help so were making their way back to the city. Lord Vecery and his men knew the area and may know where the rebels had taken their friend. It had pained them greatly to turn back, for it seemed to them like they were abandoning Legolas, but without proper guidance it would be foolish to go after Risorine alone. They may find themselves becoming lost very easily, and then they would be no good to their friend.

 It took nearly two hours to reach Miscalanth's walls, despite Hasufel's best efforts. The ride was emotionally gruelling for both Gimli and Aragorn, and they only hoped they hadn't taken too much time. Both of them had been silent for the trip, each lost in their own thoughts of grief or guilt.

 When they reached the Castle of Hileris the guards seemed pleased to see them, and quickly took their horses. It was obvious they wished to say something but Aragorn and Gimli would not give them the chance and ran to the castle doors as soon as they were dismounted. They sped through the castle, not letting anything slow them until they reached the King's hall. The guards moved to stop them but the man and dwarf easily side-stepped their efforts and burst into the great hall.

 "Lord Vecery!" Aragorn shouted as they entered. The King of Brelan sat on his throne and shot the two a shocked looked, mingled with relief. Sorinth was with him, his arm in a sling, but he was also pleased to see the pair.

 "Lord Elessar, how wonderful to see you well. When we could not find you or your companions this morning we worried that the rebels had somehow harmed you," Lord Vecery said and Aragorn sensed genuine concern in his words.

 "It is a long and complicated story Lord Vecery, but unfortunately you are not too far from the truth. The rebels did attack us. Gimli and I managed to escape but my companion Salogel has been taken captive," Aragorn said emphatically. He did not usually show strong emotions while in the presence of other lords, or even in public, but at the moment he didn't care. He needed this man's help if he wanted to find his friend.

 "The young man who saved my life?" Lord Vecery asked. At Aragorn's nod he cast down his eyes, "Yes, they would not be happy with him for his interference."

 "We were able to track them quite a distance, far past Miscalanth's walls," Gimli said, making sure the king understood they at least had a starting point.

 "We lost their tracks when they crossed a stream and did not know enough about your lands to guess their course." Aragorn added.

 "You did right to come here. We will find your friend. Sorinth, gather your greatest trackers and hunters and have them ready to leave in the hour. They will go with Lord Elessar to track down and stop these rebels once and for all," Vecery ordered.

 Sorinth bowed, accepting the order and then started to leave the room to make sure it was seen through. Aragorn admired him for still doing his duty despite his injury.

 "Did you by chance recognize any of the men who attacked you? We have reason to believe some of the rebels may still live in Miscalanth and even within these walls," Lord Vecery said, needing all the information the two could offer to help find 'Salogel'.

 "There was one that we recognized without mistake," Gimli replied, his voice coated with anger and hatred.

 "The leader of the rebels is Risorine, my former captain," Aragorn said spitefully.

 "What?" Sorinth stopped in his tracks and turned back to the room, forgetting the task appointed to him.

 "You're sure?" Lord Vecery asked, quickly rising to his feet.

 He's shocked, Aragorn thought, more than he should be.

 "There is no doubt in my mind Lord Vecery. He is their leader," Aragorn said, and a great sadness filled the King's eyes.

 "But Risorine was …." Sorinth was stopped by a gesture from Lord Vecery.

 "I am well aware of what Risorine was Sorinth," Lord Vecery said sadly. There was sorrow in his eyes, but also great disappointment.

 Realization dawned on Aragorn and a great fury ignited in him, "You knew! You knew Risorine was a man of your country and you said nothing! Why? Why did you not tell me?"

 "Peace, Lord Elessar, please," Lord Vecery pleaded, and the great look of regret in his eyes was all that calmed Aragorn down, "We did know he was of our country for it was us that sent him to Gondor. Before we risk an alliance with a country we must first know if it is a strong, proud and noble nation. Risorine was sent some years ago to investigate the potential of Gondor. We allowed him all the time he wished but when he did not return after several years we thought him dead, for we had heard of the Great War, despite its distance from our lands."

 "When he came back with you," Sorinth continued, "we intended to question him on his absence but never found the opportunity. As you know it has been somewhat chaotic in this country for some time. Risorine was a trusted servant to Brelan, we thought he must have good reason not to return."

 "That still does not explain why you kept this information from us," Gimli pointed out.

 "I am sorry Master Dwarf, but we thought it best to keep silent until we spoke with Risorine," Lord Vecery replied.

 "I am still grieved by this deception but I will let it pass for it seems that Risorine does well in fooling those around him. He has been the captain of my guards for several years now, and still I did not see this treachery coming," Aragorn said, his voice relaying the guilt he felt in the matter.

 "Lord Elessar I cannot express enough my apologies in this matter. Risorine was a trusted member of my staff for years as well. I thought him loyal." Vecery admitted softly.

 "That appears to be what he is best at, instilling loyalty, for the men under his command are very devoted to him as well. But these are things to be discussed at later times. For now we must find them," Aragorn said once more.

 "Yes, we must. Sorinth, fetch the men, quickly." Vecery ordered once more. Sorinth bowed again and raced from the room to fetch the men he would need to track the rebels.

 "If it pleases you Lord Vecery, my companion and I must retire to our rooms to prepare before we ride out again," Aragorn said as casually as he could. They both needed to leave before Vecery began to ask questions regarding how, where, or when they were captured, for he had not yet thought of a believable excuse.

 "Of course, and please accept my apologies once more."

 "I do. We shall return and I will bring you the traitor to be judged as both of us see fit." Aragorn promised, and then he and Gimli left the hall.

 "That was easier than I expected," Gimli commented as they made their way to their rooms.

 "Yes, thankfully their shock kept them from asking too many difficult questions. They will ask eventually, I know, but if we can keep from answering their questions until after we have found Risorine and Legolas, then I care not if Vecery knows the truth," Aragorn said. His prime concern now was getting Legolas back. In the bag at his side he held one of the greatest treasures of Middle-Earth, the Stone of Malinya, but he could think of nothing that he wanted more than the safe return of his friend. He hated having to ask for help, but this was not his land or his people, so he had no choice.

 Gimli was worried as well. Legolas had been injured when he left him, and who knew how the outlaws were treating him? Probably not well if Risorine's earlier actions had been any indication.

 When they reached their rooms Aragorn said, "We will not be leaving again for nearly an hour; we should rest for a time until then. It has been a hard and long few days, and we should rest before the long ride and battle ahead of us."

 "Very well, but only for an hour's half or so," Gimli agreed, and then retired to his room.

 Aragorn entered his room as well and fell onto the large bed inside. Sleep would not come to him, he knew this, but he could rest his weary body and try to clearly think over all that had happened. He laid and tried to think but his mind kept drifting back to the fact that he had left a friend behind in a time of battle. He had simply continued riding as his friend lay hurt and fighting for his life.

 His mind drifted and the guilt built up, but his body did earn some rest which would sustain him for many hours.

 When a half hour passed Gimli knocked on his door and came into his room. He found Aragorn sitting on the edge of his bed, his mind focussed entirely on the Elven knife he twirled between his fingers.

 "He'll be back, Aragorn. He won't leave us knowing how many arguments I've won," Gimli said and was graced with a shadowed smile from Aragorn.

 "The Mist of Concealment has worn off by now. Risorine once told me he did not understand elves or why they remained in Middle-Earth. I think it was his way of showing his hatred," Aragorn admitted, still twirling the knife.

 "Well if Legolas is anything he's resourceful. They will not easily discover his true identity," Gimli said.

 Aragorn was about to reply when an envelope suddenly appeared from beneath his door. He moved to pick it up, then stopped. "Lord Elessar" was clearly written on the envelope, in Risorine's handwriting. Aragorn flung open the door and chased after the guard walking away down the hall. He caught up to him easily, grabbed his shoulder and twirled him around to face him.

 "Who sent this? Where did it come from?" He asked fiercely, holding up the envelope.

 The guard was young and surprised by the aggression in such a noble lord's voice, "It arrived a few minutes ago. A man came to the gates and asked that this letter be delivered to you. I do not know who it was."

 "Send word that he is to be followed, immediately," Aragorn ordered.

 "He took off swiftly on horseback after he delivered it. He is undoubtedly far from here by now," The guard replied, still scared.

 Aragorn sighed in defeat and the anger seemed to drain from him as he released the firm grip he had on the guard's shoulder.

 "Damn." He whispered, knowing it would be futile to take chase of someone with such a head start. With a nod of his head he sent the guard away once more.

 "What does it say Aragorn?" Gimli asked, not sure if he truly wished to know.

 Aragorn ran his hand through his hair then marched back into his room with Gimli, shutting the door behind him. "We shall find out."

 He tore open the seal and pulled free the paper inside. As he shook it open a single lock of golden hair fell to the floor.

 Aragorn picked it up, his eyes showing a deep and powerful fury burning within him, then he closed his fist around it tightly. It was clear he wished to release his anger but for now he held himself in check and forced his mind to concentrate on the words before him:

My Dear Lord Elessar,

It seems I am not the only man who lives by deception. Congratulations on finding the Stone of Malinya, it was a very fantastic feat, but do not get too attached. It seems you left something behind in your haste to leave, but don't worry, I shall take good care of it for you. I have found that 'Salogel' is simply full of surprises and information.

If you wish to see him alive again you will bring me the Stone, and you will come alone. You will go into the woods once more, the field where the Stone was found, at nightfall of this evening. If you try any tricks he will die. You will give me the Stone in exchange for his life. If you do not follow these instructions I will send you worse than a lock of hair.

See you at nightfall.

From Risorine and his new elf friend.

"He knows," Aragorn said, and then allowed the letter to sail to the floor.

 ~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|

 Legolas lay on the cold stone floor of his cell, gasping for breath. In the distance he could hear water running. A great river flowed somewhere nearby, and its sound resonated into his mind with a numbing force every time his pulse pounded.

 His shoulder was still bleeding heavily and his head ached, along with the rest of his body. A great weariness began to overtake him and he felt his eyelids begin to droop. But he would not allow them to close. It was not natural for his people to sleep with closed eyes and he knew that he was actually closer to unconsciousness than sleep. Pain wracked his body but that did not bother him nearly as much as the chill in his heart, left by Risorine's hatred and malice.

 An hour ago he had awoken from his light rest because of an ache in his head. It had been a different kind of pain than he had felt before; it was very sudden and familiar. He raised a hand to his forehead and noticed his skin glowed palely.

 The Mist of Concealment has worn off, he thought to himself sorrowfully as he raised the hood of his cloak over his head. He knew he would have to be careful if he did not wish to reveal his identity to his captors. They had treated him roughly as it was by not tending to any of his injuries or feeding him (which he didn't really mind) but had for the time left him alone. He didn't think that would be the case if they knew him to be an elf.

 Not long after he realized this he heard voices and footsteps approaching. There was a jangle of keys and the door to his cell was opened. Legolas feared that the darkness around him would betray him and the luminescence of his skin, but luck was with him. The sun was in just the right position to beam into the short hallway and as Risorine entered his cell so did enough light to brighten the room.

 Legolas rose to his feet as he entered, refusing to remain below the Man, and found his leg was sturdier than he thought it would be; it still pained him but the muscles had almost mended themselves. Risorine smirked at the small act of defiance. Legolas tensed, ready to lash out at his captor, but decided now was not the time for escape as several armed guards appeared at the door.

 "I see you're hardly worse for wear. You better hope Lord Elessar is willing to give up the Stone to keep you that way," Risorine said. He clearly enjoyed having Legolas at his mercy and the Elf could still see the anger in the Man's eyes, though he covered it with smugness.

 "As I have said before, the Stone of Malinya will never be yours Risorine. Now what is it that you wish?" Legolas asked, eager for the man to leave.

 "Not much. Just stand still and this will be over in a moment," Risorine said as he took a step closer and revealed the knife he had hidden from view.

 Legolas acted on instinct and slammed away the man's wrist with his open palms, causing him to drop his weapon. Moving swiftly, Legolas drove his elbow into the man's face then dove for the knife. Risorine stumbled back, his nose bleeding, and was steadied by one of his guards. Legolas had barely gotten his fingers around the hilt of the weapon when a heavy boot slammed down on his wrists, causing him to drop his prize. With his free foot, the guard trapping him kicked the knife away. Legolas glared up at the man, who smirked triumphantly. His arms still trapped, Legolas rolled forward on the balls of his feet then pulled himself backwards with all his might, freeing himself from beneath the man's feet and causing his captor to fall.

 He began to rise but didn't see the kick coming until it was too late and couldn't block it as it connected with his head. The elf flew back into the wall, shouting in agony as his injured shoulder took most of the impact. The guards pounced on him them, five in all, and held him in place against the wall. When he tried to struggle once more his head was slammed into the hard stone, banishing all thoughts for pain instead. He suddenly noticed his hood had fallen down during the fight.

 "That was unnecessary," Risorine commented as he approached, wiping a drop of blood from his split lip. There was anger in his eyes and he delivered a swift punch to Legolas's ribs, who was unable to double over due to the restricting hands upon him.

 Risorine bent down and picked up his knife, then held it to his captive's throat. But Legolas would not give the Man the pleasure of seeing him flinch from its touch, or see fear in his eyes so he stood calm and defiant.

 This angered Risorine further but he moved the knife and simply cut off a lock of the elf's hair.

 "This is all I need." He said, then turned to leave the room. "Bind him tighter." He ordered as he reached for the door.

 Legolas was forced away from the wall and onto his knees. He was held tight as his wrists were cut free and then tied behind his back once again, tighter than before. One of the guards holding him stared at him hard for a few moments, noting that there was something odd about him that he hadn't noticed before, but he was unable to pinpoint what it was. As Risorine opened the door to leave the cell a great mass of light surged in, brightening the room considerably. It had been the glow of the elf's skin that originally gained the man's attention, but as the light filtered into the room the guard noticed something else about their prisoner.

 "Captain, come back!" The guard yelled immediately, backing away in surprise. "You must see this!"

 "What is it?" Risorine asked, becoming annoyed and not wishing to see any more of their 'guest.' As he entered the cell again he began to close the door behind him and in the darkness also noticed the difference in their prisoner's features. His curiosity peaked, and as he stepped forward a theory began to form in his mind.

 Legolas, who was still being forced to kneel on the cold stone, was hauled to his feet by Risorine. The Man had a tight hold on his hair and tilted his head back roughly, clearly revealing his Elven features.

 "Elf." Risorine spat the word as if it sickened him, and then threw Legolas roughly to the floor. He landed silently, refusing to put words to his pain. Risorine stared hard at him for a moment, truly seeing his enemy for the first time. "Lord Elessar's deceptions run deeper than I thought, and this is the worst offence of all." A new fire erupted behind Risorine's eyes, kindled by a different kind of hatred; a much darker kind. He knelt in front of Legolas, his eyes narrowed in anger as if that would intimidate the warrior. "Then he shall simply have to pay for his deceptions. Elves have not walked within our borders for centuries, and they will not do so again."

 Legolas laughed softly, despite the situation, "I think you would be surprised by how wrong you are." He said, remembering his meeting with Algoral. If there had been a single elf in a troupe of only seven he couldn't help but think there were probably more elves in Brelan. When he saw Risorine's confusion he elaborated, "I met another of my kind within your borders and he told me he has lived among your people for years."

 "You lie through your teeth Elf," Risorine replied without doubt, emphasizing his passion with a swift kick to Legolas's unprotected ribs. "As do all your kind. There is good reason we despise your people in this land, and it runs deeper than simple dislike as it has for centuries. You are not just unwelcome, you are forbidden. But do you know the main reason why there are no elves in Brelan? Because the penalty for them to walk here is death. I would kill you myself but I may yet have use for you," Risorine remarked, then rose to his feet.

 "Lord Elessar is more of a fool than I thought for bringing you here, to the land that most despises you."

 "Obviously you have not been to the Dwarf lands," Legolas mumbled as he began to regain his breath.

 "How could you call someone friend who would risk you life so openly? I wonder if he will be willing to trade the Stone for you; it is clear he cares naught for your well-being," Risorine said, ignoring the comment. He was enjoying tormenting the elf and attempting to put doubt to the relationship he knew to be so strong.

 "I came to Brelan of my own will. I had hopes of freeing your people from their ignorance about the Elder, but now I see that may not be possible. Your hatred runs deep and is unwarranted," Legolas said.

 "We know more than enough. You had best hope your friends come for you. If they don't I may just hand you over to Lord Vecery. He hates your kind more than any other I know. I would love to see what punishment he would enforce, not just on you but on your friends as well." Risorine left Legolas to think this point over and exited the cell, taking his men with him.

 Legolas shook his head ruefully, pitying the Man for his ignorance and hatred. His head ached and his knee had been badly jarred, but worst of all, the blood flowing from his open wound was greater than before, and it was not long until unconsciousness overtook the elf once more. His last thoughts were of the beauty of the Stone of Malinya.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 Aragorn entered the King's hall for the second time in the same hour, followed closely by Gimli, having formed a new plan of rescue to retrieve their friend.

 "Lord Elessar, my men are ready and at your command," Lord Vecery said as he entered.

 "Thirty men await you outside. I thought a small company would be best for this outing." Sorinth added.

 "You may tell them to stand down, at least for now. I received a letter from Risorine and he wishes to make a trade with me, tonight at dusk. He will return Salogel in exchange for a great treasure that I carry," Aragorn replied cryptically, not knowing how much he could tell this man for now.

 "And what is this treasure?" Lord Vecery asked. Aragorn wished he hadn't.

 "I am afraid I cannot tell you," Aragorn said, honestly regretful.

 "You cannot tell me? Can you tell me why not?" Lord Vecery asked indignantly.

 Aragorn shook his head, "No. I am sorry to keep this from you, but I must insist you not press me on this matter."

 "If I am to help you Lord Elessar I must know I can trust you. This Man betrayed me as well. I am just as involved in this matter as you and I refuse to have secrets kept from me on this. This is my kingdom, my land ….."

 "And it is my friend we go after." Gimli announced suddenly, interrupting the old king. "Forgive me my lord but our company has suffered nothing but hardships while in your land and yet we have held none of this against you during our stay here. Lord Elessar is a proud king and he must be allowed his secrets to keep, as you have kept from us, but let us not lose sight of what is important here. We have the chance to capture Risorine and bring him to justice, as well as retrieve Salogel. Do these petty things truly matter so much?"

 Lord Vecery appeared deep in thought for long moments, and then spoke: "You speak the truth Master Dwarf, and I do not like things to be kept from me but I must understand and respect Lord Elessar's secrecy and hope that it has good reason."

"It does, I assure you," Aragorn replied.

 Lord Vecery took in a deep breath, resignedly and asked, "What is your plan then?"

 Aragorn nodded in thanks of the man's understanding and said, "Risorine instructed me to come alone, to the field where Salogel was taken and bring with me this treasure. Of course I have no intentions of doing this, coming alone that is. I will have need of your men, for I wish to arrive early and hide them in the surrounding forest. When Salogel is safe they will reveal themselves and you shall have Risorine and all his followers to do with as you please."

 "Very well, you may take whom you need. Be careful though, as much as I would like to capture and punish Risorine for his crimes we must first help your friend," Lord Vecery said. Aragorn appreciated the sincerity in his voice.

 "I will ensure his safety," Sorinth announced.

 Lord Vecery turned to him, a patient and understanding look on his features, "You are injured, Sorinth. You will stay here." It was then that Aragorn truly noticed the bond between these two. They were of the right ages to be father and son, and acted as though they were in some fashions. Lord Vecery had no heir and Aragorn did not doubt that Sorinth would be ruler of Brelan when the old King passed away.

 "This Man saved my life, a debt I intend to repay as best I can; I am obliged to go. Besides, I know the bordering forests well, they will need me," Sorinth's eyes burned with conviction. Whether approved or not, he would be going.

 "Very well," Lord Vecery nodded, "But be careful."

 "I will. I must go tell the men of our new course of action." He bowed and left the room.

 "Thank-you for your understanding Lord Vecery, it will not be forgotten," Aragorn said respectfully.

 "How long until you depart?" Vecery asked, hoping inside to end this situation quickly.

 "Three hours. We want to be there before Risorine, perhaps scout the area." Gimli announced.

 "I wish you luck then. I'm sure you have much to do."

 "Of course." Aragorn knew they were being dismissed, but did not mind. Though the matters they spoke of were pressing, Lord Vecery still had a city to run. Aragorn knew all too well how he felt; torn between duty and emotion. They left the hall with no more words.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 "That went well," Gimli commented once out in the corridors.

 "Let us hope things go as well for Legolas. Too long he has been with these men, and I fear what may happen if he is their prisoner much longer," Aragorn said, raw emotion tingeing his voice. He had had a great deal of emotions assaulting him lately and it was beginning to affect him. He could handle joy, betrayal, worry and anxiety, but to take in so much at once it became almost overwhelming. But he was handling it well, he just wished he didn't have to keep deceiving the men and king who helped him; it felt wrong, despite its necessity.

 "Do you know how badly Legolas was injured?" Aragorn asked. He had asked before when they were rushed and still searching and had not received a clear answer from the Dwarf. Aragorn had tried to avoid asking at all but finally he did. He felt he should be prepared to deal with his friend's injuries, however severe.

 Gimli sighed, obviously not pleased with the topic, "He was shot in the shoulder as I said; hard enough to knock him off the horse. He injured his leg when he fell, for he could not immediately stand, but I saw no blood. When Jarinel sped me away I could see him standing, ready to fight; the shaft of the arrow had broken off but it was still imbedded in his shoulder. I cannot say how he fared in the battle."

 "We will have to hurry then, and be very careful around Risorine. Though the injuries you speak of would not be fatal to an Elf Risorine knows who he is now. I have my doubts of the kindness of his treatment and the state we may find him in." Aragorn grimaced.

 When they reached Aragorn's room once more they went inside. Aragorn sat at the edge of his bed and dropped his head into his hands. For long minutes nothing, and everything, was said. Feelings and thoughts could be understood through the silence between the two companions. Worry and anxiety were prevalent.

 Eventually Aragorn stood and opened a small cabinet beside the wall. He pulled out his pack and withdrew from it the Stone of Malinya. It glowed and pulsed with a light so pure and spectacular it had to be watched. The Man and Dwarf were unwillingly pulled into the sight of it and for long minutes they simply stared at its beauty, drawn into its mass of colors and light. Finally Gimli spoke:

 "Will you give it to him? Put one of the greatest treasures in all of Middle-Earth, in the hands of that madman."

 Aragorn continued to gaze into the Stone, his vision never wavering, but his mind clearly moving and turning swiftly. When he looked up he replied, "I will let him believe I have given it to him and that will be enough. Though Risorine may be granted sight and perhaps touch of Malinya's Stone, it will never be his. He shall know no beauty or light for a long time if I have my way."

 "Its beauty is captivating, especially at first sight. We may be able to use that against them," Gimli commented. His strategic mind immediately sought out advantages wherever possible, and he knew the Stone was their best one.

 "You may be right my friend," Aragorn commented, "I could sit and stare at its beauty until my final hours. Let us hope that Risorine may see the beauty of it as well, and not just its power." He reluctantly began wrapping the Stone in its cloth once more and placed it back in his bag, knowing they would have no need of it for several hours. The time would pass slowly.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|

 Legolas laid in darkness, not moving, barely seeing and trying not to feel. His bright eyes stared straight ahead as he walked through his dreams where he thankfully felt no pain. The sun shone brightly and the birds sang at the sight of him in this dream world; a world so very different from the one he now lived in.

 The pain coursing through him had begun to die down and in its place a great weariness overtook him, until he was forced into sleep. He had lost much blood and his body was running out of energy, trying to heal his many injuries. The sleep would help; it would refresh him and help him when he awoke, if he awoke. He had been given no chance to look over his injuries to judge their seriousness and at the edges of his dreamland there was a tinge of worry. If his body only needed rest so he could heal himself he would be fine, but if his wounds were worse than he thought than he was dying and may not ever awaken.

 But these thoughts were on the far borders of his dreamscape, places he did not visit while he walked through the peaceful woods. So the worries did not bother him here and he continued along through the forest, enjoying the sights and smells of nature. Blissfully unaware that he actually lay on a cold stone floor and his body around him was weakening.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|

 "Aragorn, they're ready," Gimli announced, peaking his head into the Man's room.

 Aragorn did not rise from his bed, but remained hunched over, staring into his hands. Gimli sighed, thinking he was once more studying Legolas's blade, but as he stepped closer the Dwarf saw that the King of Men was again gazing deep into the Stone of Malinya. He at first worried that Aragorn had been pulled into its beauty, his thoughts and expression seemed so intense, but then he realized that though the Man was staring at it Aragorn was not truly *seeing* the Stone.

 "What are you thinking about?" Gimli was surprised he'd asked the question, not usually being one to pry into others' business. But Aragorn seemed so deep in thought that he couldn't help his curiosity.

 "I was recalling a conversation we had, long before we left for Brelan. I told you both something that I myself had almost forgotten in this chaos. Something that may help us, and Legolas," Aragorn replied as he lifted his head, the first shadow of a smile crossing his face.

 Gimli stared at him for a moment in confusion as he also tried to recall their conversation and any way the Stone could aid them. After a moment he got it. "The Stone has the power to heal."

 Aragorn's smile widened, "That it does, or so it is said. Though how it works and to what extent I do not know. But hope remains and we must find Legolas quickly for he may need this more than the races of Middle-Earth."

 Gimli moved out of the way as Aragorn rose and walked past him. He concealed the Stone and placed it in his bag once more and was ready. The two left the castle and headed to the stables. Aragorn was pleased to find Hasufel had been saddled for him, and the men of Brelan were already upon their steeds, awaiting his arrival and orders.

 Jarinel neighed loudly from a corner of the stable and Aragorn pitied the great horse. He would allow no one to ride him other than Legolas and could therefore not be brought with them, but it was clear he longed to be free to find his master and friend. Aragorn walked up to the horse and his presence calmed him. Jarinel allowed him to stroke his muzzle. The man looked to make sure none were close enough to hear him then said:

 "I am sorry Jarinel, but you must stay behind. I promise I will find Legolas and bring him back to you. Be good for these men until he arrives."

 Jarinel neighed again, almost indignantly but was slightly calmer than before. Aragorn gave him a final pat of assurance then returned to Hasufel. Gimli had already been assisted onto the horse's back and Aragorn climbed up to join him. Once outside Sorinth came up to them; his arm was no longer in a sling but his shoulder was heavily bandaged.

 "Sorinth, I do not believe it wise for you to accompany us, as Lord Vecery has said you are injured. But I know you will come no matter what my advice, so I can only thank you for your loyalty to Salogel, it is greatly appreciated," Aragorn said honestly.

 "It is nothing; I just always repay my debts. If you would, which direction do we ride in, and what will be the length of our journey?" The Man asked, brushing aside Aragorn's praise.

 "East, for the most part," Aragorn replied, "Though sometimes the path verges. We are headed to a large field, with a great hill beside it, covered in rocks. The journey back took nearly two hours at Hasufel's top speed."

 "Then it shall take us no longer. I believe I know of where you speak, but will be more sure when you show me the paths you took getting there. Please, lead the way and I shall advise as I see fit," Sorinth said, moving aside to allow Aragorn to lead the men.

 "Very well," Aragorn said.

 Sorinth turned and spoke to his men, thirty in all, "We're moving out! Lord Elessar will lead us for as long as he may. We head east at full speed!" Aragorn nodded his thanks as the man clearly passed command of his men to the king.

 "Let's go," Gimli said behind him, "We've only got so many hours before dusk."

 Aragorn looked up, the sky was darkening and the sun would set in nearly four hours; they had to be swift. He kicked his heels against Hasufel's flanks and set him forward at top speed. Behind him he heard the hard pound of hooves and knew Sorinth and his men were close behind. As they sped through the forest, dodging around trees Aragorn thoughts were divided between worry and revenge. He promised himself that Risorine's time was coming to an end.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

Legolas walked through the forest, enjoying the sights and smells of nature; it was calm and peaceful here, as everything should be. He suddenly stopped walking and listened. He could hear water running nearby. This confused him for he knew that no stream or river flowed anywhere near the section of wood he walked in. He began to follow the sound, curious as to what could be causing it and where it could be coming from. He walked and walked but the sound never came any closer; the water seemed to be running just out of his reach. Frustration began to fill him, despite being in this peaceful land. Still he walked, searching, desperately now, to find the river that he knew should not be there. The sound became louder, but still just as far away and Legolas began to jog to catch it.

 He was so intent on his destination, so tuned to his sense of hearing and direction that he did not notice the world was fading around him. The sky blackened and lowered, the trees around him blurred, then faded together to form black walls about him, and the leaves beneath his feet hardened and became cold, until he was walking on solid stone.

 He still could not find the water. It had to be close. It had to be somewhere. Then a new sound was added to his darkening world; footsteps. Several pairs of footsteps that were approaching swiftly. And there were voices; they were distant and rough. Perhaps they would know where the water was. He ran now, towards the voices, pushing through blackness, desperate to find this lost river. Where was it? How could an entire river be hidden? How could he be so lost? The sounds were all around him yet he could reach none of them. Water, footsteps, voices, water, footsteps, voices, water, footsteps, voices……….

 The sounds continued, pulsing through his thoughts with every stride of his legs. He ran and ran, then stopped! Silence.

 The footsteps had ceased. The voices had quieted. Then the sound of running water suddenly became loud. Very loud; almost as if he was standing in its path.

 He looked up into the darkness. He was under a waterfall……

 ……. Legolas awoke with a start, blinking his already open eyes and shaking his head to clear away the droplets of water. He was soaked from head to foot and there was a puddle forming around him, red from the mix of water and blood. A satisfied laugh came from above him and he looked up to see several of Risorine's guards crowded into the cell. One was holding a now empty water pail.

 "Get up Elf!" The man with the pail ordered, his smirk disappearing and quickly changing to anger when he caught Legolas's defiant stare. "We won't fall for your tricks. Rise!"

 Legolas got the impression that the men had been trying to get him to rise for some time, and they had been the sources of the voices and footsteps from his dream. It disturbed him that he had not awoken when they first arrived; it showed how unresponsive his body was becoming.

 The first man kicked him harshly in the ribs to speed him up, as if that would help him rise any faster. The men were already impatient with him, it had taken a bucket of water to get him to even respond to them, and they were not willing to wait for him to rise on his own. Now that he would be able to walk he was grabbed by the elbows and hauled to his feet; they cared nothing for his injuries and one man even deliberately pressed down on his shoulder, pressing into the wound. Legolas tensed but did not flinch or react in any way, refusing to give him satisfaction; but his heart broke as the true hatred these Men held for his people became clear. It was not simply the malice of one Man that was against him, it was the malevolence of an entire nation.

 He took a calming breath when they reached the outdoors once more. Though he had not been in the cell for very long it was still very confined and dark, and he had yearned for the sight of the outdoors, though he had still been able to clearly smell it. A sigh of relief actually passed his lips as he stepped into the sun's golden rays and immediately felt his skin begin to warm and dry.

 When he stopped his guards forced him ahead, surprising him and pulling on his shoulder once more. This time he hissed through his teeth. He considered lashing out at the guards, knowing he could overpower just the two of them even in his weakened state, but he looked behind him and realized they were not alone. Once more Risorine had sent half a dozen men to guard him; the Man was not underestimating him.

 They reached the front of the rebels' hide-out and Legolas saw Risorine, readying his horse along with several others. There were a few rider-less horses as well and he knew one would be for him.

 "Bring him here." Risorine ordered when he saw them, showing no interest in the elf's dampness, then quickly turned back to inspecting his saddle bag. As Legolas was brought forward the Man turned to him; his moves crisp with anger. He was still seething from finding out about his true identity and Aragorn's deceptions. Legolas was glad. Finally this Man knew the sting of betrayal.

 "Well, it is time to find out if Lord Elessar truly values your immortal life. I highly doubt it, but we shall go and see at the very least," Risorine said. He continued to downplay the bond of friendship between the two, not understanding how any Man could trust or befriend an Elf. Yet he knew that their friendship was strong and that still angered him, for it was a bond he had never had in his life.

 "I would try to persuade you from this course of action, but I fear you are too much of a fool to heed sound advice," Legolas replied, shaking his head and truly pitying these people for their ignorance. As much as he tried to understand them, he simply could not. And for this reason he could not entirely forgive their hatred, despite having the compassionate heart of his people. Deep down he was beginning to despise them, simply due to their hatred of him.

 "Let us go and we shall see who the fool is. If Lord Elessar truly is willing to trade the Stone of Malinya for your life, then it will prove to be him. Especially since your life will be forfeit either way, as will his." Risorine smirked and mounted his steed. His hair fell softly on his shoulders as he positioned himself, straight and tall, and he looked every bit a leader; confident and cunning. Legolas mentally added deceptive, cowardly and ignorant to his list of qualities as well.

 Legolas had known that Risorine had planned to kill him for some time. Had suspected it in the beginning and been sure after the discovery of his true race. But his announcement that he planned to end Aragorn's life as well surprised him, for that was an act that would not go unnoticed.

 The men prepared to ride out and Legolas was dragged toward an empty horse. It was the very horse he had been forced to ride to their home, and it remembered him. This time they were more prepared for his company and allowed him to ride alone. He was forced into the saddle, grimacing in discomfort, and his hands were tied to it as well. He would not be able to jump off the horse, and just in case he tried to encourage the beast to speed him away, its reins were tied to those of the horses' before him. Risorine's was one of the horses which he was attached to. The man smirked, slapped his heels against his horse's flanks and sent them on their way at top speed. He had obviously wished to surprise Legolas with the sudden gallop, but even with his hands bound behind him the elf had perfect balance while atop the great creature. When Risorine noticed this his lips thinned in anger, and he sped the group even faster.

 As they rode Legolas felt his body begin to relax with the rhythm of the horse. His shoulder was healing, finally, as the blood had stopped flowing and he had been given a short chance to rest. But his body was tired from fighting to keep him alive, so was still exhausted. His thoughts were drifting, as were his senses, but he had to stay focussed. Aragorn would have a plan; that much he knew. He would need to be alert and ready to help or do his part in whatever it was the king was going to do.

 His head started to droop with exhaustion once more and he found it harder and harder to concentrate on his surroundings. Looking up he noticed the sun was swiftly setting. They would arrive at the field by dusk.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 "Aragorn, I feel I must bring something to your attention." This was the first time Gimli had spoken since they set out nearly an hour ago. He was used to trying to attempt conversations while riding behind someone, but they were not usually travelling at such speeds.

 "What is it Gimli?" Aragorn asked, tilting his head back to hear him better but keeping his eyes on their course.

 "If Risorine knows Legolas is an elf, how are we to keep this information from these Men?" Gimli asked, indicating those that rode behind them.

 "We shall have to hope for chance to be by our side. I have brought with me the Mist of Concealment; I found it in Legolas's chambers. We shall simply have to search for, or make, an opportunity to use it on him, before these Men discover his identity," Aragorn replied. It had been a question plaguing his mind as well. He had planned enough ahead to bring the Mist but beyond that he knew he would have to see how the circumstances unfolded themselves.

 Sorinth was true to his word; they had ridden swiftly and arrived in the field where Legolas had been taken, only two hours after they left Miscalanth.

 "This is where we last saw them," Aragorn announced, stopping and dismounting Hasufel.

 "I think they came from that direction." Gimli added, pointing into the forest ahead of them.

 "Yes, that would make sense. These woods are not well used and it would be unlikely for them to be found. There is much to do before sun fall, we must hurry." Sorinth ushered them unnecessarily.

 Dusk was still two hours away, and they were glad for the time. Sorinth explained that he knew the forest quite well and led his men to areas that they could hide until their quarry arrived.

 "They should stay back quite a distance," Aragorn suggested, "Risorine's men will know these woods well also, and know where to look for that which is hidden."

 Sorinth agreed and the large bulk of his men were placed a great distance away from the valley. They would be able to see all and approach quickly enough, but they would not be spotted by those who did not know they were there, and they could not hear anything from the field. This was what Aragorn wanted.

 What he didn't want was anyone close enough to hear any conversation in the valley, but this was exactly what Sorinth gave him. While most of his men kept away, Sorinth and a single guard set themselves among the boulders on the high hill overlooking the field. Aragorn wished to argue that they would be seen, but in truth he could not. It was a good hiding spot; Sorinth would easily be able to see Aragorn's signal and they would not be easily spotted. He simply wanted none of Brelan's men in hearing range. But if they did not shout their voices would not be easily heard.

 By the time all the men were positioned it was nearly dusk. They had not waited a moment too long. Aragorn and Gimli were the only ones visible in the field and they were hard pressed to see the men of Brelan, hiding in the forest. Hasufel was the only horse visible, for obvious reasons the Men had been forced to leave their steeds far behind in the woods.

 The Stone weighed heavily on Aragorn's shoulder as he paced the valley floor. The treasure they had sought to bring peace to the lands seemed to be causing nothing but pain, betrayal, and misery. He idly wondered why the good things in life were so few; even those things made to be good seemed to turn against him.

 Gimli was nervous as well. He did not like waiting and was impatient so passed the time fiddling with his axe; changing its position and checking and re-checking its blade.

 Looking out into the forest Aragorn could see none of Sorinth's men, and was impressed by their skills in stealth. His head snapped around suddenly, drawn by the sounds coming from the other side of the valley. Gimli noticed this and stood straight and alert.

 "They're coming," Aragorn whispered, knowing the Dwarf had not heard them yet.

 Just as the last rays of sunlight filtered through the tips of the trees, the sound of hooves became clear in the distance.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

Legolas knew he had to save his strength, so he let his body relax and his mind drift as they rode towards the valley in the descending sunlight. Despite the evil these Men seemed to fill them with, the forests were actually quite beautiful. Especially at this time, the pivotal moment where night and day meet and then quickly part ways. He always loved this time of day. But there were several factors that were ruining it for him. His fatigue, the pain he was in, and the fact that the object in his direct line of sight was the back of Risorine's head; an object he desperately wanted to impale with an arrow.

 They continued riding and Legolas let his gaze wander around the woods. He spotted a type of tree he did not recognize, which was curious to him. He greatly wished to see it, talk to it, but he knew that was out of the question. As they passed closely by another tree of its kind he promised he would return and learn of it, if he could. When they neared the valley Legolas noticed something else in the woods. Unnatural shadows were moving in the darkness. They did not belong to plant or animal and he knew that they were Men. And not Risorine's men.

 When he realized this he averted his gaze, but not too quickly as to draw attention. He simply hung his head low and watched the forest closely from the corner of his eye. They were close now; Risorine would soon be dealt with by Aragorn, or hopefully by him. Legolas knew the men in the woods were there to help him, sent by Aragorn and Gimli. His muscles tensed and his body became alert as he prepared for the battle that would soon be coming. He just wished he wasn't so tired.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 As the sounds of hoof beats drew nearer Aragorn had to fight the urge to unsheathe his sword as he would normally do when an enemy approached. And Risorine was an enemy, it was all Aragorn saw him as now. To keep his hands from his weapon they instead sought out his pack at his side. He placed his palm over the cloth protectively, as if assuring himself it was still there.

 Gimli took a step forward, axe high. Aragorn put out an arm and stopped him. "Wait. They will come to us." He said. It was clear the Dwarf was out for blood but would try to contain himself as best he could. Aragorn wondered if it might not have been better if he had hidden in the woods with Sorinth.

 The company at last came into view and Gimli saw pure hatred burning within Aragorn's eyes as he caught sight of Risorine, sitting high and smug upon his dirty brown horse. Shortly behind the betrayer came Legolas and Aragorn's gaze and expression quickly shifted. His friend was alive; he felt a breath of relief leave his lungs as his eyes continued their gathering.

 Legolas was indeed alive, clearly, but he was also bound, bruised, damp, and covered in blood. Far too much blood, thought Aragorn. The elf looked far too weak; his head was hung low and his body slumped with fatigue. He heard a low growl emit from Gimli, and the axe was lifted once more. Aragorn again had to stop him with a touch of his hand.

 "Greetings Lord Elessar," Risorine called out as he dismounted, his voice far too cheerful. "So glad you could make it. But I did tell you to come alone."

 Aragorn fought down his anger and adopted a look of calm as he cast a casual glance Gimli's way, "He would not be left behind." He explained with a shrug.

 Risorine actually laughed, "Very well, it matters little." He turned and snapped his fingers at several of his men. Aragorn did a quick count; Sorinth's company outnumbered them by more than a half a dozen.

 At Risorine's command two men approached Legolas's horse. One man cut him free from the saddle, while keeping his hands still bound, and the other pulled him forcefully off the horse. Legolas landed roughly and was very grateful his leg had ceased to pain him, but he did stumble and was pitched forward slightly. The larger man took him by the hair and forced him to stand, dragging him forward until he was slightly past Risorine. He then shoved the elf onto his knees, so he was facing Aragorn and Gimli, then took a single step back. He had a sword drawn at his side.

 "Here is mine. Where's yours?" Risorine asked, his objectivity obvious.

 Aragorn looked at Legolas, being able to see him clearly now despite being on the other side of the valley. The length of the field suddenly seemed as long as the River Anduin. The archer's face was bruised, quite badly. And they were fresh, for if he had received them in the initial fight several hours ago they would have faded. It was clear Risorine's men had not treated him well. But Aragorn had to force himself not to smile as he met the elf's eye. Legolas was indeed weak, but not nearly so much as he had let on. His eyes were wide and alert since neither Risorine nor his men could now see his expression. He tilted his head to the right and then clearly blinked three times, signalling to Aragorn that he knew there were other Men in the forest. He would be ready when they attacked.

 "Release him and you may get it," Gimli replied, then grumbled, "Or something worse."

 "Clearly you do not know the rules of this game Master Dwarf. You give us what we want and you get him back. If you don't give it to us," The man beside Legolas lifted his sword to the elf's bare throat, "I think you know what happens."

 "Untie him at the least," Requested Aragorn, stalling now, "As a show of good faith."

 The man beside Legolas looked to Risorine, who shook his head. "I have no faith in you good King of Gondor who would lie to kings and even his own captain. You will give me the Stone now or he dies." The steel bit in deeper and Legolas pulled away. The man stepped closer, until he was right behind the elf and took him by the hair to steady him as he pressed the sword to his throat. He was now right where Legolas wanted him.

 Aragorn saw the blade draw blood from his friend's throat and knew he could stall no longer. He reached into his pack and withdrew the Stone of Malinya and held it high. It was not as beauteous as before. Its light had faded while in Aragorn's care, for it could sense the Man was being deceitful in some way. Still he held it up high, to make sure Risorine and Sorinth both saw. That was the first signal.

 Legolas felt the wave of joy and warmth pass through him from the Stone, but he could pay it no mind in his current situation. The steel bit in deeper.

 "What is that?" The guard with Sorinth asked up on the hill.

 Sorinth shook his head, unable to hear much from down below, "I do not know; perhaps a sacred relic of Gondor."

 "Release him," Aragorn repeated, dropping his arm and taking the Stone from sight.

 Risorine nodded towards his man and Legolas's hair was released and the sword lowered, but the Man did not back away. "Give me the Stone and he will be freed."

 Aragorn took a last, longing look at the Stone and then lobbed it across the field, intentionally causing it to land far from Risorine's reach, but clearly in his sight. When the Stone of Malinya left his fingers it began to glow once more with its previous beauty, and Risorine and all his men were stunned by the sight of it, at least for a moment. The throwing of the Stone had been the second signal.

 Aragorn met Legolas's gaze once more and offered a quick and purposeful nod. Arrows flew suddenly from the forest, striking several of Risorine's men and one of the horses.

 Legolas stood quickly, head-butting the man behind him. The man was taken by surprise and fell back, but retained his sword and quickly recovered after stumbling. Legolas turned around and kicked the man swiftly in the stomach, knocking him down before he could let loose a single stroke of his weapon.

 The rebels were quickly pulled from the trance the Stone's beauty had put them in and they realized the danger around them. It had been a trap. Now they had to decide whether to fight or retreat. They had no way of knowing how many men they fought, or where they were. Risorine was urging his men forward, telling them to hold their ground, but few listened.

 Arrows continued to fly through the air and Legolas tried to stay low. He needed to find cover and free himself from his bonds. Looking around him he saw most of Risorine's men were in retreat, and the men of Brelan were appearing from the forest. Some had swords drawn and ran forward, while others stayed back and notched more arrows to their bows. Legolas had to drop to the ground suddenly as an arrow flew towards his chest. Were not these men sent here to help him? He thought, but forgave them instantly, knowing that a Man's aim with a bow was not always true. He struggled to rise without the use of his hands, and without injuring himself further.

 Risorine fumed as he dodged arrows and approached one of the Men of Brelan. He quickly ran his sword through the Man's stomach, desperate to release some of his anger. Aragorn had deceived him again and was cheating him out of his prize. Looking across the field he saw the Stone, so close, but not close enough. If he went after it he would be captured or killed. He knew he must retreat, but he also knew he must make Aragorn pay for his loss. Unsheathing a knife from his belt Risorine stalked forward as he saw the King of Men running across the field to join the battle.

 Aragorn and Gimli raced to engage the rebels with sword and axe drawn and ready. Aragorn stopped for only a moment to pick the Stone of Malinya up from the ground and put it safely back in his pack. Gimli passed him in this time and joined the battle first. He would later comment that the legs of a Dwarf finally outran those of a Man.

 When Aragorn raised his eyes he was struck by a great sense of danger and he looked around to find the source. Risorine was approaching swiftly, knife drawn dangerously but he was too far; Aragorn could not reach him in time. All he could do was shout a warning and run forth as swiftly as possible.

 Legolas had just gotten to his feet once more when he heard Aragorn shout his name in warning. He turned around to seek out the danger and found Risorine was directly behind him. The elf could not defend himself in a fight while his arms were still bound behind his back and he began to back away. Risorine did not wish to fight him. Without hesitation the man took a step towards Legolas, bringing them almost face to face, and gripped his shoulder tightly in one hand. With the other hand he plunged his dagger deep into the elf's unguarded torso.

 Legolas gasped, overwhelmed with pain and surprise, and was kept upright only by Risorine's death grip on both his shoulder and the knife which was held firmly in place. Risorine brought his head forward and whispered to him, "I told you Lord Elessar would pay for his deceptions."

 The man twisted the knife ruthlessly before he withdrew it, causing even more damage and creating a larger slice in the elf's belly. Legolas glared at him for a moment, pain, hatred and anger all etched into his face. Then his body slackened and he fell onto his knees. He took a long wheezing breath and continued to fall until he hit the hard earth, already red from blood.

 Risorine smiled and as he turned away he wiped the blood from his dagger. He had the look of a man who was very satisfied with himself. "Retreat! Fall back!" He ordered his men as he mounted his horse, still smiling broadly and rode away from the scene. The ones who had not yet fled followed him, also on horseback.

 Aragorn reached Legolas too late, the damage was done. He dropped down beside the elf and turned him over gently.

 "Legolas, can you hear me?" He asked while pulling cloth and bandages from his bag.

 The elf's eyes were glazed over but Aragorn saw recognition in them, "Aragorn." He smiled, then grimaced as Aragorn applied pressure to the wound in his side to stop the blood flow. Gimli suddenly appeared as well, his axe blood red with revenge. He quickly cut free his friend's hands as Aragorn continued to look over the wound. The tightness of the ropes did not escape his notice, or the bleeding of his wrists. Anger fuelled in the Dwarf from the clear mistreatment of his friend, but he fought it down for now and concentrated on helping and healing him.

 "You're going to be fine Legolas, hold on," Aragorn instructed as he pulled herbs and bandages form his bag. The truth was though, he was very worried. His friend had already lost a great deal of blood and the new wound in his abdomen was very serious. The knife had gone deep and the blood was flowing heavily. If he was a Man Legolas would have died already, and Aragorn knew not how much more his Elven body could handle.

 "Risorine?" Legolas asked, his voice weak and eyes straying over the area, taking in the end of the fight.

 Aragorn and Gimli both grimaced and look behind them; Risorine had gotten away, along with several of his men. Many men lay dead on the ground; some were rebels and some were of Brelan. Sorinth appeared suddenly, there was a curious look on his face and he stared hard at first Aragorn and then Gimli. But he was also clearly concerned and eager to help.

 "Is there anything ….." Aragorn did not let him finish.

 "We can care for him, go after Risorine. Find him!" The King ordered vehemently. Sorinth nodded in agreement, knowing he himself had little skill in healing. Several of his men had already taken chase after the rebels, using the horses of the ones slain. Aragorn whistled absently and Hasufel came forward. "Take him. Quickly." Sorinth complied, mounted Hasufel and sped away.

 The three friends were left alone in the field, with only the dead for company.

 Aragorn and Gimli turned their attention back to their friend on the ground; his breathing was becoming more laboured and his skin was pale. He was fading quickly and they knew it. They would have to act soon or the prince of Mirkwood, and their dear friend, would be lost.

 "Gimli, come and keep pressure on this, I must inspect his shoulder as well," Aragorn explained as the Dwarf and Man switched position. Gimli pressed the cloth against the stab wound and tried to give his friend a reassuring smile. It was returned weakly.

 "This was not quite the reunion I had planned," Legolas said, talking in quick breaths as he lay on his side.

 "Nor I, lad, but I should have, knowing you." Legolas usually hated when Gimli called him lad, but at the moment he didn't mind that much. But he winced as Aragorn prodded at his injured shoulder.

 "It is not infected but he's lost so much blood. If I remove the arrowhead it will only be worse," Aragorn announced.

 Gimli looked up, hopeful, "What about the Stone?"

 "I am unsure Gimli. If we decide to use it I shall have to remove the arrowhead, for it cannot be healed over. This will make the blood loss worse, removing it would kill him," Aragorn explained, his voice dropping with sadness and frustration.

 "But if the Stone does work ……." Gimli continued and was cut short.

 "And if it doesn't than we have doomed him!" Aragorn pleaded.

 "Do it Aragorn," Legolas said from below, sick of being talked about and not to. "I am lost if you do not." The elf could feel it, his vision was fading, his thoughts were becoming blurred and his soul seemed restless, as if it no longer fit his body. He was dying, and he did not wish it.

 Aragorn's fists gripped his knees tightly as he tried to decide what to do. He bit his lip and ran his hand through his hair.

 "I shall try," Aragorn replied at last, getting up and retrieving his bag from beside Gimli. He removed the Stone of Malinya along with another bundle of bandages. His fingers began to probe the injury gently. The arrowhead was in deep now; he would have to go into the wound, then pull it free. "This will hurt." He announced sorrowfully, "Gimli, hold him down."

 The Dwarf did as asked of him and kept his friend in place. Legolas and Aragorn took a large breath at the same time. His fingers reached into the wound until he grasped what was left of the shaft of the arrow, then he quickly hauled it free. Legolas was too tired to fight it back and screamed in pain. Gimli held him down as his body arced in pain and both the friends' hearts cracked a little at the sound of his screams. Legolas slumped to the ground, exhausted and breathing heavily. Aragorn quickly placed several bandages over the wound after throwing away the arrow in disdain. Taking another deep breath to compose himself he picked up the Stone of Malinya, not allowing its beauty to steal a single of his thoughts.

 He needed to do this, he had to save his friend, he had to be strong and stop his hands from shaking. Memories of all those he had ever lost suddenly flew to his mind, and he fought to push their images away.

 As he held the Stone over his friend, who lay hurt and bleeding so badly, all he could do was curse Risorine and his treacherous soul. But more than that, he cursed himself. For bringing his closest friend to a land that hated him and being the cause of his pain. And he cursed himself for his stupidity; he had no idea how to harness the power of Malinya's Stone.

 Gimli looked down at Legolas, so peaceful and quiet despite the pain he must be in. Then he realized he was far too peaceful and his eyes had become glazed and stared, unfocussed, into the distance. The Dwarf moved the hand that was holding the bandage, placed it on his friend's chest and felt nothing.

 "Aragorn, he's not breathing."

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|

Ceral had been a stable boy his entire young life and in that time he had seen very few horses as fine as the white beauty that stood before him. He surpassed all others in the stable and even compared to the king's own steed the horse was proud and fair, but unfortunately quite wild at the moment.

 Jarinel neighed and kicked in the stable, disliking being caged, and hating even more to be away from his master. He did not know where Legolas was, but he was supposed to follow the Man, he knew that. Aragorn had left some time ago though, and he was trapped within these walls unable to follow.

 Ceral approached the horse slowly. He was concerned for the creature and knew it would hurt itself if it didn't calm down. Desperate, he tried to talk to the horse, but only made things worse, "Easy boy, it's okay. I'm sure your master will be back soon." But Legolas would not be back for some time; Jarinel knew this because he had been forced to leave him behind in the forest. His struggles became even greater and the walls shook around him.

 The stable boy threw away all caution, refusing to let such a fine horse be so tormented. Ceral unclasped the hook from the door and swung it open, freeing the horse from its captivity. Jarinel sped away, not slowing as men crossed his path and were forced to jump out of the way. He needed to find his master, or the Man at least and follow him as Legolas wanted. Jarinel knew which direction Aragorn had left in, remembered their earlier outing quite well, and took off for the forest line. Ceral watched him go, knowing he would be in trouble, but not caring for the moment as he watched the spectacular horse disappear into the horizon.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 Aragorn's eyes snapped up in shock at the Dwarf's words. He reached out and gently rolled Legolas onto his back once more. He laid his head on the elf's chest and listened. It was true, he no longer drew breath, but his heart was still beating, faintly.

 "Legolas, no. You must fight, please," Aragorn pleaded silently as a cold feeling of dread crept through his spine.

 "Come Elf, you cannot leave us now," Gimli admonished, his voice rising with anger and despair.

 Aragorn suddenly felt a tingle of warmth in his fingertips and he looked down to see the Stone of Malinya was glowing in his palm. It no longer shone in a bright rainbow of colors, instead it gleamed a fierce, pure white light. A look of understanding and acceptance passed over the Man's face and he suddenly knew what to do.

 He reached out and pushed Gimli's hand off Legolas's chest and began to undo the tunic, revealing the bloody chest beneath.

 "Aragorn, what ……" Gimli was stopped by the intense look in the Man's eyes.

 "Be quiet Gimli, please," Aragorn asked desperately and the Dwarf was silent. The King of Men took the Stone of Malinya and rested it on Legolas's chest, with his own hands wrapped tightly around the orb. A hush fell over the valley as the air stilled and all sounds of nature quieted. The light glowed intensely. Aragorn's eyes blazed as they reflected its brightness, and then suddenly the light spread, filling the Man's form with a radiant glow. Warmth spread through his hands, then arms and soon through his entire body and he could feel Malinya's true power coursing through him as he silently prayed that it would be enough.

 Gimli looked on, his eyes confused but hopeful. He had no understanding of the magic of the Elves or the Stone, but he had great faith in both of his companions and that was what all his wishes and hopes were based on.

 Words began to flow from Aragorn's mouth and the Stone brightened as they slowly became louder and more intense. The glow of the Stone in the darkness lit up Legolas's skin, which no longer glowed on its own, but still the Elf did not move or draw breath.

 Aragorn continued, his body hunched and sweat dripping from his forehead. His eyes flew open as he suddenly stopped chanting and instead gazed deep into the Stone as its light became almost blinding. He knew that he and the Stone of Malinya were now connected, wrapped together in a spell that must be finished, but he felt himself weakening. The light of the Stone stopped brightening, having seemed to reach its peak and Aragorn somehow knew it was not enough.

 "Gimli put your hands on the Stone," Aragorn ordered through gritted teeth as he tried not to break his concentration. Gimli was hesitant to comply, not wishing to interfere in the spell the Stone was casting. But Aragorn seemed sure and the Dwarf did as asked of him and placed his hand over the top of the Stone of Malinya.

 He was immediately drawn in, connected, and the Stone ignited with a new intensity as the warmth and light washed over him as well. The two friends stared into the Stone for as long as they could, marvelling at its beauty, but eventually had to lower their eyes as the light became too strong. It felt like nothing and everything; there was a great power running through both of them, but there was also a great weariness creeping into their bodies.

 As the intensity of the light reached its pinnacle it exploded, like a wave crashing on the sand. The Man and Dwarf were released from the spell and the force of the Stone's power threw them to the ground. The Stone of Malinya floated a hair's breath above Legolas's chest, its light spreading everywhere. Then the light faded, the air relaxed and the Stone dropped to the ground, landing tiredly beside Aragorn.

 Aragorn and Gimli lay on the ground for a moment, unable to move. A great exhaustion had seeped into their very bones and their minds were a momentary blur. They both pushed past their fatigue and brought themselves up onto their elbows. Their eyes met only briefly and then their gaze dropped to the form in front of them.

 "Legolas?" Aragorn's voice was as weak as his body but he forced himself to sit up and look at his friend.

 The elf lay on the ground, showing no signs of life. He had not moved or drawn breath; but he looked peaceful. A sound of anguished protest passed Aragorn's lips and he fell to the ground once more, half from exhaustion and half from grief.

 Gimli saw as much as Aragorn; their friend was motionless. But he also picked up something Aragorn had missed. In the surrounding darkness he could see that Legolas's skin was glowing on its own once more.

 The silence in the field was broken as Legolas took in a huge gasp of air, and his body arced in life. One breath became two, and suddenly the elf was alive. He coughed harshly several times, clearing his lungs of old air, but then his breathing settled into a silent, steady pace. Aragorn bolted upwards and Gimli leaned in closer, both of them feeling the great fatigue leaving their bodies. As Aragorn leaned forward he felt a sudden burning pain in his left side and shoulder; he put his hand to his side but could find no wound. Looking across from him he saw that Gimli was rotating his shoulder blade, as if it was paining him as well. But just like the fatigue the pain was quickly fading and died away in seconds.

 Aragorn tore his thoughts from the pain and looked down on his friend whose immortal life was miraculously intact. He placed a hand on Legolas's chest, needing to touch him and feel life flowing through him once more.

 Then his eyes opened and he spoke. Aragorn and Gimli's hearts rejoiced to hear his voice.

 "What has happened here?" Legolas asked, pushing himself up on one arm. His voice was scratchy and filled with confusion as he looked at his friends and wondered what could bring such hardened warriors so close to tears.

 Aragorn reached forth and embraced the elf tightly; his body was trembling with joy, "Much my friend, much has happened." The Man said, his voice cracking with relief. Legolas returned the gesture weakly, still confused.

"Elf, if you ever worry me like this again then I swear you will meet with my axe in an untimely end. And your blasted horse will shortly join you as well," Gimli said, but his voice held no malice, only relief and joy.

 Legolas chuckled softly, and Aragorn and Gimli smiled broadly. They could all feel that even without words or actions something had changed between them. Something they could not quite describe or understand. From that day on the three friends shared a bond that was stronger than friendship, it was deeper and felt from within their very souls for they had been connected to each other by the Stone of Malinya. It was a connection that could not be broken, nor wished to be.

 Legolas tried to sit up, Aragorn and Gimli each supported one of his shoulders to assist him. The elf shied away from Aragorn's touch and flinched. The Man was confused by the action, but soon saw the cause. Though Legolas was alive he had not been completely healed. The wound on his shoulder was not as deep as it had been, and it was no longer bleeding, but still it remained. Looking down he saw the elf's stomach still sported a large gash as well, though no longer close to life threatening.

 As Legolas wrapped an arm around his waist he sat up higher and stared straight ahead for a moment, his memories of the past few hours quickly returning. He looked down at his stomach in confused awe and carefully rolled his shoulder. He remembered what had happened and knew he should be dead.

 "How is this possible?" He asked, and both the Man and Dwarf knew of what he spoke.

 "I'm not sure if it can be explained; I don't know exactly how myself, and I witnessed the miracle, for it could be called no less," Gimli replied.

 Aragorn picked up the Stone and stared at it as its myriad of colors returned. He held it up to the others, a small smile at the corners of his lips, "It was Malinya's Stone that healed you my friend. But it takes a great deal of power to restore the immortal life of an Elf, and the Stone alone had not the energy to do so. It needed to draw strength from other sources."

 "Us." Gimli guessed and Aragorn nodded.

 "I did not hold enough energy myself and needed your assistance. The Stone took as much as it could but even that was not enough to heal him completely it seems. That is why his wounds were not fully healed and we are so exhausted," Aragorn said. None of the three had yet risen from the ground for none could find the strength.

 Legolas looked down at his former wounds once more and turned to Aragorn and then Gimli, infinite gratitude visible in the depths of his eyes, "Thank you my friends, I am lucky to have companions such as yourselves."

 "There is no need for thanks. Having you back with us alive and well is more reward than could be asked for," Aragorn said, placing a hand gently on Legolas's shoulder.

 The moment of joy the three shared suddenly broke as Legolas looked out to the bodies of the dead and his eyes darkened and filled with sadness from the loss of life. "Risorine has gotten away." It was a statement not a question.

 "Yes, but we will find him," Gimli assured him. After a few moments Aragorn and Gimli felt their strength had returned almost completely, but Legolas was still quite weak. He reluctantly allowed them to help him to a nearby tree; they placed him on the ground to rest against its trunk. No sooner had he laid back his head than it snapped up again, and his body was alert.

 "There are horses coming; they approach swiftly." He reported.

 Aragorn could not yet hear them and asked, "Do you know who they are?"

 Legolas closed his eyes and listened, "I believe I can hear Sorinth, but I cannot be sure."

 "Aragorn, they cannot see him like this," Gimli commented, gesturing to Legolas who no longer appeared as anything other than an elf.

 Aragorn could hear the horses now, "You are right, but the Mist of Concealment is stowed in Hasufel's saddle; we have no way of getting it until Sorinth returns. Stay behind us Legolas, and pretend yourself injured; they may pay you no mind."

 Legolas nodded and sighed deeply as he pulled the hood of his cloak over his head, getting very tired of these deceptions.

 When the hoof beats almost reached the valley Legolas began to stand, using the tree for support as he cradled his left side. Aragorn saw this and quickly forced him to the ground once more, "Stay down." He ordered, "A Man would be dead from your injuries."

 "An elf would be as well." Gimli pointed out, but nothing more was said on the matter as Legolas sat down; too tired to argue.

 Sorinth rode into the field, followed closely by most of his men; they had lost only a few members in the initial fight. The captain did not look happy.

 Aragorn stepped forward to engage them, not allowing them time to ponder Legolas's condition, "What news, Sorinth?"

 Sorinth bowed his head, clearly ashamed by the news he carried, "I am sorry my Lord, Risorine and the other rebels have gotten away. They know their way through these woods well and we could not follow them in this darkness."

 It had indeed become dark quickly; when the sun went down the woods became black and the moon was only at half its strength, shedding hardly enough light to see by. Aragorn desperately wished they had caught him.

 "Very well; it would be foolish to go after them this night then. They cannot be tracked in this darkness and we would be wandering around aimlessly in the dark until morning's light if we tried. Or most likely become lost ourselves." Aragorn knew it would be best to go back to Miscalanth, regroup and then take chase after Risorine, but his heart yearned for satisfaction. And he worried about time. Mainly the time Risorine would have to get away.

 "If we do not find them tonight they will be beyond our reach by the sun's breaking." Gimli pointed out.

 "I know Gimli, but there is little we can do unless you can follow them by scent. We have no way of knowing where they head," Aragorn said, frustrated.

 "I know." A voice sounded from behind them. All heads turned as Legolas rose silently, this time on his own power.

 "They have a base, further into the woods. They will go there." He said strongly, leaving no room for doubt.

 "Can you lead us there?" Sorinth asked, just as eager as the others to find Risorine.

 Legolas's reply was cut off by Aragorn, who raised a hand to stop their conversation. He turned to Legolas; the elf could see the warning in the Man's eyes.

 "Havo dad, Legolas," Sit down Legolas. Aragorn said, taking a great risk as he switched his speech to Elvish.

 "Im sinta manke Risorine na." I know where Risorine is. Legolas pointed out, not backing down.

 "Lle aen harwa ar' aa na utu." You are injured and may be discovered. Aragorn's voice held only concern now and Legolas's eyes softened and paled. His next words were softer, almost pleading.

 "Im tha san i andelu. Risorine naglak. Sina na lye ere' assa, Estel." I will take the risk. Risorine must be caught. This is our only chance, Estel. Legolas stood his ground firmly, knowing that Risorine must be caught that night and given no chance of escape. He saw the struggle going on within Aragorn; he wished for justice to be dealt against this man as well, but he also feared for his friend's safety in his weakened state.

 He lay dead at my feet only moments ago; I cannot put him in danger again, Aragorn thought to himself.

 Legolas seemed to read his mind and said, "I willingly accept the danger." Then added, "Risorine sinta ya Im." Risorine knows who I am.

 "By the Valar, speak in the Common Tongue. Must I remind you, you are the only ones who know the tongue of Gondor?" Gimli said dramatically, covering for their usage of the Elvish language.

 "My apologies Gimli," Aragorn said absently. The Man and Elf held each other's gaze for a long time, exchanging so much without words. Finally Aragorn nodded and turned to the Men of Brelan. "We ride out tonight. Salogel will lead us." Then he turned and strode toward Hasufel, "Come my friend, you may ride with me."

 Legolas spun around suddenly, hearing a familiar sound in the distance. He listened for a moment longer then smiled broadly and said, "I do not believe that will be necessary." He whistled sharply and all heard a whinnying reply from the south.

 Jarinel appeared from the shadows, his white coat gleaming in the dim moonlight. He neighed in delight when he found his master and Legolas greeted the horse with open arms.

 "I have missed you my friend. Thank you for finding me." He mounted the horse slowly, for he was still hurt, and was thankful for its lack of saddle or reins for he was too tired to deal with them. "I only hope I can repay you for your loyalty, and regret that I must now bring you into danger once more. I know you have travelled far but we still have some ways to go this night." Jarinel neighed, looking prouder than ever with Legolas sitting atop him once more and seemed only too happy to continue on that night. The horse moved forward suddenly and began to prod Gimli with its nose.

 "Blasted creature," Gimli grumbled, backing away in surprise.

 "I believe he wishes you to ride with us my friend," Legolas said, offering an arm to help Gimli up.

 "This beast is treacherous. I will not ride him." Jarinel made a sound of protest and pawed at the ground, but then poked at Gimli once more.

 "He seems determined," Legolas commented. Gimli gruffed from below and crossed his arms, but eventually gave in.

 "You must promise me you will control this blasted thing."

 "You have my word." Legolas assured him, offering his hand once more. Gimli finally took it and was hefted onto the horse's back. Jarinel displayed his joy by rearing up on his back legs, forcing Gimli to clutch to Legolas to stay on. "I think he likes you."

 "I'd rather he didn't, then our feelings would be mutual." Gimli grunted, but inside he felt quite safe on the horse. He had seen how loyal it was to Legolas, almost to a fault, and that allowed him to trust the animal.

 Aragorn smiled as he trotted over to them on Hasufel, pleased to see things had quickly gone back to the way they were. "I thought you may need these." Aragorn held out Legolas's bow and quiver. The elf's eyes shone with pure delight and relief; he had thought the weapon lost.

 "Thank you my friend." As Legolas took them Aragorn discreetly passed him a small pouch as well. He took it without comment and could tell by its feel and weight that it was the Mist of Concealment. He tied it to his belt quickly but did not know when he may have the chance to use it. It felt good to have his bow slung over his back once more, but Legolas thought something was still missing, "You did not chance to also find my ……."

 Aragorn held out his long knife. Legolas smiled in thanks, took it, twirling it once and appreciating its weight, then sheathed it in his belt.

 "It would seem we are all ready to move along then?" Gimli asked from behind, willing them to move out so Risorine's neck could quickly meet his axe.

 "Sorinth, are you ready?" Aragorn asked.

 Sorinth nodded and replied, "All who are coming are prepared. I have appointed two of my men to stay behind and care for the dead."

 Aragorn nodded his head in respect for the decision, "It is well then. Salogel, please lead the way."

 Legolas sent Jarinel ahead without a word and the others followed silently. There was twenty-four in the band in all and Legolas thought that together they were far too loud, but made no comment. He tried to concentrate on their route instead of his fatigue but his ability to memorize the forests so well made it impossible for him to forget the way to Risorine's 'home'. His body was extremely weary and it had every right to be; he had been dead only minutes ago. Since he knew the way so well he was easily able to guide the horse while letting his mind drift into dream and his body rest. It would only help a little.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 They rode for nearly half an hour when suddenly Legolas halted in a clearing below a hill and turned his horse around.

 "What is wrong? Have you forgotten the way?" Sorinth asked, showing uncharacteristic impatience.

 "Nay, it is only slightly beyond that ridge. I thought we might wish to stop and formulate some semblance of a plan, unless you simply wished to ride in and order Risorine's surrender," Legolas replied. He was tired and it was putting him in a foul mood.

 Sorinth had no reply and dismounted swiftly as did the others.

 "You were right to stop." Aragorn pointed out, "How many of the rebels do you believe reside here?"

 "I cannot be certain but I believe there are fewer at night, for as you have said many of the Men live in the city and have their own homes. Considering their losses in the field by your earlier attack I would guess no more than thirty," Legolas replied.

 Attack plans were considered for several minutes with most of the company offering suggestions. Gimli did not wish to wait but allowed the time for strategy. Aragorn and Sorinth shared a short debate on the advantages of bringing the horses, with Aragorn eventually winning, stating they would not be stealthy enough. Legolas stood a short distance away from the group, allowing them to construct their plans while he listened for voices from beyond the hill. They were faint, even to his ears, but they were not moving or rushed.

 "Let's move out then," Sorinth said and Legolas knew the discussion was over. The Men all began to follow their captain away from the huddle they had made and he moved to pursue them. Aragorn watched Legolas from a distance, observing the new faults in his step. He had been worried that the elf was not well enough to lead them to the base, and he knew that he was not ready for a battle. He noticed Legolas take a step and falter, something he had rarely ever done, even in times of extreme exhaustion. As the elf walked by Aragorn halted him.

 "May I have a word with you Salogel?" He asked, taking Legolas's arm and leading him away from the group, beyond ear's reach. When they were far enough away he said, quite seriously, "I do not wish you to come with us."

 Legolas's eyes widened larger than he thought possible but still Aragorn continued, "Stay here, watch over the horses and rest. You are not fit …….."

 "Aragorn I am not a child, do not treat me as such," Legolas said, unconsciously straightening.

 "Then see reason. You are injured my friend and weary beyond even your capacity to function; do not deny it for I can tell. You are not fit for battle at this time; you know this. And if you will not stay behind for this reason then do it for me. I do not wish to see you injured, or discovered due to your exhaustion." Aragorn's voice held no command, no stature; at this moment he was simply a Man worried for a friend and Legolas recognized this. "You have much strength my friend, but you cannot so easily recover from death. Stay here, rest. I will settle this for both of us."

 Legolas was going to argue further but he could sense how heavily this weighed on Aragorn's mind, just as the Man sensed how truly weakened the elf really was. The Stone of Malinya had done more than deepen their friendship, they were connected now and could almost read each other's thoughts and emotions and feel them as if they were their own. The elf sighed in frustration, accepting Aragorn's argument, and after a moment closed his eyes and nodded, "Very well. It is as you ask; I will not follow with you. But you must promise me that Risorine will not escape either the battle or justice."

 "Thank you. I will see that it's done. I know you do not wish to stay behind but it takes a great burden from my mind," Aragorn said strongly. He clasped Legolas's shoulder in thanks and then moved away toward the group of men. "Let's move out."

 The elf remained where he was and did not look towards the group as they left; in this full darkness they would see the glow of his skin. When he did look he saw Gimli turned to him, slacking behind the rest of the group, and their eyes met for a moment. The Dwarf had obviously been thinking the same as Aragorn and seemed to thank him for staying behind. Legolas waved him away half-heartedly and then they were gone.

 The elf leaned against the closest tree and sank to the ground, cursing his inability to seek revenge or justice; he was unsure which one he truly wanted. The urge to be by his friends and fight alongside them was very strong, but so was his fatigue. Even now he was unsure whether he could rise from his position on the forest floor. He sat lost in thoughts for some time until Jarinel came and poked him into awareness. Legolas turned to the horse and finally smiled, "It would seem you are forced into my company for some time longer."

 Jarinel neighed in delight and Legolas quickly quieted him with his touch. Then he looked toward the hill trying to picture the rebels' base, and wondered when the battle would begin.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 Aragorn hunched low in the brush easily seeing into the small field the house lay in that the rebels used as their base. There were several torches lit around the men that were milling about below, gathering belongings and packing them onto horses and carts. They were seemingly preparing to leave but were in no hurry; Risorine must have assured them that the only one who knew where they hid was dead. Aragorn smiled, knowing how wrong he was.

 Sorinth elbowed him lightly and then pointed to the far east side of the building. Risorine had just exited the house and stood clearly in the light. Aragorn nodded and all around him swords were silently withdrawn. He withdrew his own blade, appreciating its weight, then leaned out slightly from the bush and waved a hand to the other side of the forest, where Gimli and the rest of the Men lay. They saw him and waited. He was to be their leader in this battle and no move was made until he said or did so.

 The Men were tense with anticipation and Gimli's eyes glinted with a thirst for battle and vengeance and he knew his axe would be put to good use that night. These men were outlaws and had to be brought to justice, but worse than that they had stolen his friend and came so close to nearly killing him. This thought ignited fury in the Dwarf and he gripped his weapon tightly, urging Aragorn to order them ahead.

 Aragorn waited for several minutes. He waited almost longer than he should have, until Risorine was near the center of the field, just between the two factions of Brelan Men so he would not be able to escape. He needed to know this Man would not get away; would not lie or trick another, or cause more chaos and death. When he felt the traitor was near enough he sprang forth, silent and nimble, and behind him came his small army of Men.

 Swords clashed loudly for some time.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 He had had every intention of staying behind. He had in fact promised Aragorn that he would not join the battle, and he was a noble elf that kept his word. But when Legolas heard the first sounds of battle he had sprang to his feet as he was energized by adrenaline and found himself unable to sit by idly as his friends put themselves in danger. His bow was clutched tightly in his hand as he raced through the forest, towards the battle. As he drew close he stopped, not willing to completely break the oath he had sworn to Aragorn. He could not join in the battle, but he could help tilt things in their favour.

 Racing up the largest tree he could find he placed himself near the top branches and sat, perfectly balanced. He could not see the entire battlefield, but he did not wish to waste time finding a better spot. He could see Sorinth fighting bravely against two foes at once, but he would soon be overtaken. Pulling free an arrow Legolas notched it in his bow and fired, gritting his teeth as he pulled harshly against his torn shoulder. The arrow was true, despite the elf's injury, and felled the nearest of Sorinth's attackers. The Brelan captain took a step back, surprised, but quickly recovered and engaged his other adversary.

 Legolas notched another arrow and was searching for a new target when he spotted a figure leaving the battlefield. The Man moved swiftly through the forest and Legolas was hard pressed to see him clearly or get a clean shot. The deserter was heading away from the battle as swiftly as possible and the elf saw he would have to pass through a small clearing where Legolas would be able to strike him. He brought up his bow and aimed, waiting for him to reach the field. When he was in clear sight Legolas started to release his arrow, then stopped, recognizing the Man below.

 "Risorine."

 The Man did not deserve such a quick end as the arrow would give him. Legolas dropped from the tree silently, like a hunter stalking its prey. He removed his tattered cloak, knowing it would most likely catch on a branch or rock and give him away. Then he chased silently after Risorine, promising that the Man would not escape again. He found he could follow him quite easily, despite the darkness of the wood. There seemed to be a light guiding his way.

Legolas pushed himself on, keeping Risorine in his sights but not yet overtaking him as he fled. The Man did not yet know the elf was tracking him and would soon slow and drop his guard when he thought no one followed. Legolas knew he had to wait for this to happen because already his limited supplies of energy were draining from him. When he first saw Risorine his anger had fuelled him on but now, after chasing him for some time, he had to force his legs to move and his body to stay upright. But he did not think the chase would last much longer for the Man did not seem to be fleeing in a random direction, he ran as though he had a destination.

 As they raced through the woods Legolas continued to see Risorine quite clearly despite the darkness of the forest and wondered why it was that he could. At first he had thought the moon was beaming into the woods but the trees had quickly become so thick that he knew the light of the half moon could not creep in and there were no other sources of light in the valley, for the Man carried no torch. Ahead of him Risorine turned at a twisted tree and Legolas found the answer to his question; it stopped him in his tracks.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 Aragorn had set his sights on one man and as the battle was engaged he stalked towards him, his intent clear. All around him men fought; the Men of Brelan had at first offered a peaceful solution, assuring the rebels that if they gave themselves up no harm would come to them but the outlaws had insisted on a fight, on Risorine's encouragement, and would not be disappointed. Aragorn saw Risorine; his sword was drawn but he no longer appeared calm and cocky, he looked panicked and seemed to be searching for a way of escape.

 "Coward," Mumbled Aragorn as he approached, then yelled, "Risorine!"

 This drew the Man's attention immediately. He turned to the great King, who never looked more threatening than on a field of battle, and he faltered. No one knew better than Risorine that the King of Men was the mightiest of warriors and would not be felled in battle. As Aragorn came towards him with sword drawn high in the pale moonlight the thought of surrender seemed very appealing. But just before Risorine put down his sword he saw one of his men rushing over to help him; a young lad whose name he did not even know.

 "Lord Elessar," He replied, regaining his composure, "So sorry about your elf."

 Aragorn's eyes burned brighter and Risorine took a step back but his sneer did not diminish. Though his gaze was fixed on Risorine Aragorn still felt the man approaching behind him and turned just in time to block a killing blow from the rebel. He deflected the young man's sword but as it was drawn back the blade sliced across his ribcage, through his tunic and flesh and severed the strap of his pack.

 As Aragorn withdrew to assess his hurt he felt the bag fall from his shoulder and watched as it hit the ground. The Stone of Malinya fell from it and rolled across the field.

 The Stone glowed with its abnormal beauty and all three Men's eyes were drawn to it. Risorine stepped forward in awe, unbelieving that he was so close to the item he longed for so greatly. He knelt before it, greed and desire burning in his eyes. Aragorn moved to intercept the traitor but another man had joined his first opponent and he now had two adversaries to fight off. He struck and parried, attempting to end the fight quickly but the two Men continued to back away and then move in quickly, purposely stalling the King.

 Risorine picked up the Stone of Malinya, still in awe of its beauty, and clutched it selfishly to his chest. His eyes darted around the field daring anyone to try and take his jewel. Now that he had what he wanted he deserted his men to their fate as he raced into the forest and away from the fight. He could reach the river easily and from there continue on to his other hide-out in the next forest, then he could decide his next move. For now he had to get the Stone of Malinya to safety, somewhere that only he could see it, only he could love and hold it.

 Aragorn watched Risorine leave the field from the corner of his eye as he dodged a clumsy swipe of a blade. He was sick of this fight and needed to stop his former captain. Charging forth he easily surprised the two men as he ran between them, then swung around and started the battle anew. His blade was a blur as he went through the men, fighting both at once. Aragorn created an opening for himself by tying two blades together and then, moving faster than his opponent, he stabbed at the Man's stomach. Aragorn swung around as the first man dropped to the ground and faced his second adversary. The smaller man could not fight well when alone and was quickly bested by Aragorn's experienced blade. The King went for the killing blow but at the last second realized how young the rebel was and knew he was most likely deceived into joining with these men so he spared his life and knocked him out with the hilt of his sword.

 Looking around the field he saw the battle dying down but there was no sign of Risorine or the Stone and he hadn't seen in which direction he fled. He let out a shout of frustration and anger. The Stone was gone, the prize they had worked so hard to find, and Risorine had gotten away with it. The traitor had escaped once again like the coward he was and Aragorn hung his head as he realized he had broken his promise to Legolas. The best thing he decided was to ask if any of the Brelans had seen which direction Risorine had fled, perhaps it was not too late to follow him. He approached Sorinth who was tying up one of the rebels. Before he could ask his question though he realized they were missing a stout member of their group.

 "Where is Gimli?"

 Gimli had seen Risorine leaving the field but he had not been able to follow him right away since he was tied up in battle. After disposing of several more of the outlaws of Brelan the dwarf had gone after the traitor but knew it would be hard to catch up, for the Man ran quickly and though Dwarves were natural sprinters they were wasted over long distances. Still Gimli would not allow him to get away without at least attempting pursuit. He was far behind the man but he continued on, intent to catch the traitor who had caused so much pain and chaos. In his opinion his axe had not seen enough of battle that night.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|

 Legolas stood in shock for a moment. Risorine had the Stone of Malinya. How could this be? And how had he escaped the battle so easily? The elf did not know the answers to these questions but he intended to find out. As he began to take off after Risorine again another thought struck him: What of Aragorn? The King had solemnly promised that Risorine would not escape the battle and that he would never hold the Stone of Malinya as his own. Legolas could think of only one explanation for what may have happened and it sickened him. If Risorine truly did have the Stone then Aragorn must have been killed or injured in the battle, for he would not give it up for any other reason.

 Risorine's footsteps were fading but Legolas was conflicted as to which path to follow. His friend could be wounded or dying in the battle behind him and he would never forgive himself if he left him to fulfill his own selfish need for revenge. But he also knew that Risorine had to be caught and punished for his crimes, and that the Stone of Malinya could not stay in his hands. Legolas took off after Risorine, not wasting another second as a new thought struck him; if Aragorn was gravely injured he could use the Stone to heal him, much as the Man had done for him.

 Legolas was filled with a new sense of purpose and that spurred him on with great energy. He raced through the forest once more, his light feet making no sound as his keen eyes sought out the faint light he had been following earlier. He found it easily; Risorine was slowing his pace. The Man continued to run but was constantly looking behind him and checking for danger. He seemed to think there was none.

 The Man finally slowed his pace to a walk and he smiled triumphantly as he looked behind and saw no one. He then continued on his way, walking leisurely. Legolas followed, deciding not to show himself since he was curious as to where the Man may be heading. Risorine left himself completely open to attack as he walked with his gaze fixed on Malinya's Stone but the elf restrained himself from ambushing him and instead climbed into the trees to lessen his chances of being seen.

 As he pursued his prey, watching from the treetops, Legolas became aware of the sound of water nearby; it was a great mass of water, most likely a mighty river, and they were drawing nearer to it. After a few more yards the elf could see a great canyon up ahead of them and noticed that the sound of the water seemed to echo from within it. The river ran deep.

 Risorine smiled to himself, thinking things were finally going his way. The cursed Elf was dead, he had escaped from Lord Elessar, and at last the Stone of Malinya was his, and its beauty was fantastical. He was headed towards the river; once he reached the shore he could follow it to one of his few other hide-aways in the forest then regroup with the few men he had left. Then once his following was rebuilt he would use the Stone to ……… a twig snapped behind him, breaking his thoughts. Risorine spun around, his expression panicked when he saw no one.

 Legolas cursed his fatigue and himself for not being aware enough of his surroundings. He ducked down low in the tree as Risorine's gaze scoured the woods around him. The Man saw no one but still ran away once more at full speed, quite aware that someone must have followed him. Legolas chased after him, no longer caring about stealth.

 He could hear leaves falling and twigs snapping as someone chased him but as Risorine looked behind him he saw no one. Whoever his pursuers were they were quick and he knew that fleeing was his best chance. He ran blindly, desperate to get away but his tracker just came closer and closer. He raced out of the woods and looked behind him; still no one. As he turned back around he only barely stopped himself from falling to an untimely end. He was standing on the edge of a great cliff, one he had visited many times. The river flowed far beneath him, mighty and dangerous; he knew that its rocks were sharp and its current swift. None could survive its waters.

 "Too close." He whispered as he backed away and turned to run again but was stopped when an arrow suddenly dropped from the sky, from the moon itself. The arrow was well aimed and landed inches from Risorine's feet. He tried to flee again the opposite way but once more an arrow stopped him, appearing from nowhere. He tried once more but escape was impossible and the shaft this time buried itself no more than a hair's breath from his foot. Risorine looked into the dark forest but could see no one. It was as if his pursuer aimed from the very heavens; as if something haunted him.

Legolas enjoyed watching the Man squirm but finally decided to show himself after letting Risorine shrink back with fear for a few moments. He dropped from the tree, appearing to fall from the sky, and landed silently in a crouch several yards in front of the Man who dared call himself a warrior.

 Risorine shuddered in horror as he thought that it could not be a Man who chased him but must be a figure from the heavens, sent by the Gods to punish him. As the shape rose to his feet and was illuminated in the moonlight Risorine lost all his composure as he saw the very 'Man' he had killed only hours ago. He was being hunted by the dead.

 "No …. n…no ……. This cannot be. Y …. y…y…you're dead." He whispered, backing away one step for every stride Legolas took forward.

 "Not all things are as they seem, you should know this well Risorine. One thing you should also know; no deed goes unpunished," Legolas said, stalking forward slowly but purposefully.

 If Risorine had had any doubts before that it was a spirit that chased him they were all dashed away as the elf approached, ghostly in form. His feet were silent as they fell, despite the strength and anger in each step. His hair and skin shone in the ethereal manner of the dead and his eyes seemed unnatural, bluer and deeper than the oceans. Risorine was raised to believe in forces beyond his understanding and continued to falter as the 'spirit' approached, knowing what his judgment would be from him. He was not worthy of mercy.

 "Please, wait. I'll …… I'll return the Stone, I'll amend my wrongs." Risorine stuttered.

 Legolas knew the Man was frightened and understood why so played along with his role, "It is too late for that." With these words Legolas took a large stride forward and Risorine backed away farther, too far.

 Legolas sensed it, as only an elf would. The ground was not firm enough, eroded away long ago by the rapid water far beneath them, it barely held itself up. But Risorine was too frightened to notice, too horrified by his own mortality and continued on his path of destruction. Legolas felt the earth shift and knew the ledge would not hold. He ran forward to pull the man away from his fate but Risorine misunderstood the action and fell backwards as he tried to get away.

 "Wait!"

 The ground cracked and groaned, the rocks shifted and Risorine disappeared along with the cliff-face. Legolas leapt ahead, tried to grab him but his fingers grasped nothing but empty air. He pulled himself to the edge and watched as the man fell and fell and fell. Their eyes reflected the same horror as the event unfolded. Risorine made no sound as he plummeted; he simply extended his arms, stared into the night sky above and waited. Legolas watched as long as he could but turned away as the Man's body slammed into the jagged rocks below.

 All feelings of satisfaction and retribution the elf may have felt were drowned by a great sorrow that struck him and almost sent him diving into the water himself. Instead he slowly stretched out his arm, reaching for what he could not grasp. He looked down to the water and watched Risorine's body float away. The Stone of Malinya slipped from the bloody fingers of the dead and sank beneath the water's depths; its beautiful light would never again see the sun's rays.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 Gimli ran through the forests swiftly for he suddenly had a target to aim for. He had been just about to give up his pursuit of Risorine, being unable to find any traces of him, but he had kept going refusing to so easily let revenge and justice be denied. Just when it had seemed that he would only accomplish getting himself lost he had heard a clattering of rocks and then shouting from the edge of the forest. It was not so much revenge but curiosity that now spurred him forward, not knowing what could be the cause of such sounds. The sight that greeted him was not one he expected.

 A figure lay on the ground halfway over the edge of a great cliff. Gimli immediately hefted his axe, thinking the figure to be Risorine, but as he approached it became clear that was not the case. The blond hair of the creature before him belonged to Legolas. He did not move as Gimli came near, though he had to have heard him. His gaze remained turned from the Dwarf as he stared longingly into the raging river below.

 "Legolas?" Gimli's tone held all questions he had, but his voice was soft and curious.

 The elf turned slightly at his name but did not face him; Gimli stayed where he was. Long moments passed until finally Legolas pulled himself up onto his knees and shifted his gaze from the water to the pale moon above their heads. Gimli could almost feel the sorrow emanating from the elf, and wondered what had happened. He spoke eventually, his voice sounding tired.

 "I am weary of this place Gimli. Let's go home." He seemed exhausted beyond measure, as if his very soul ached with fatigue. The dwarf knew he was weary not only in body but he was sick of Brelan; hated the lies, deceit, betrayal, hatred and pain this place had caused him. He could not blame him for wishing to leave.

 "What happened, my friend?" Gimli asked, stepping directly behind the elf.

 Legolas spoke slowly, as if trying to understand himself, "He fell. Risorine, he's dead; the ground could not support him. The Stone, it's gone, lost. We failed. I failed. It was my fault."

 "The Stone is lost? This grieves me greatly but you are not to blame and I will not have you believing so. It is Risorine who should be thought at fault for this horrendous act, him and all his damn followers. They are the reason the Stone was endangered. But if you wish to look even beyond that you may blame all of Brelan; it was their hatred that eventually led to the Stone's destruction," Gimli said firmly, not allowing Legolas to take needless blame when he knew he had done his best, "That's what hate does my friend, it destroys beauty."

 Legolas nodded, understanding and wondering when Gimli became so wise.

 "It will kill ……… Aragorn." Legolas sprang to his feet and took off, out of the clearing and back to the home of the rebels. He had forgotten about Aragorn; the man may even now lie dying and he had lost the healing Stone. He hoped he was wrong but he could not chance being right and raced away, leaving Gimli confused and lagging behind.

~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~

 Aragorn looked over the battlefield and knew he should be satisfied, but the escape of Risorine and loss of Malinya's Stone made all joy leave his heart. He cradled his left side gingerly, slowing the blood flow from the wound as he picked his pack up from the ground. The field was well lit by torches and he could see that the slash looked horrid and pained him but it was not life threatening or greatly debilitating.

 Around him men were being questioned and bound. Some had fought to the death but many had surrendered willingly, after seeing their leader flee they had little to fight for. Sorinth approached him and saw the blood on his tunic.

 "You should have that tended to." He suggested kindly.

 Aragorn shook his head, "I have had much worse, trust me. But I will have it looked at later. How did we fare?"

 "Not badly. We lost none to our numbers but I fear for our Master Dwarf, he has disappeared and no one knows where," Sorinth said, even now looking into the dark forest in search of him.

 "He will return, if he does not become lost. He can hold himself in battle, that much I assure you. Never have you seen an axe so wielded. But still, I wonder where he has gone." Aragorn walked toward the edge of the woods with Sorinth beside him. Sounds of a struggle erupted behind them and the two saw several men struggling with a burly rebel who would not be bound. Sorinth hurried off to help the men restrain him but Aragorn stayed where he was, knowing the situation was well in hand. He took up a torch and headed into the forest, intent to find Gimli for the Dwarf was of little use in forests. He had taken only a few steps when he saw a figure rushing towards him. He pulled his sword instinctively but lowered it as Legolas drew near. The elf slid to a halt when he saw the Man alive and seemingly well. Pure relief was plastered over his face.

 "I had thought you injured or worse," Legolas admitted.

 Aragorn asked, "I received little hurt in the battle, why would you think different?"

 The elf's expression changed so quickly it shocked the man, "Risorine had the Stone of Malinya, and I knew you would not let it go while you lived."

 "Nay I would not. It was taken from me and I was unable to retrieve it in time. I am sorry my friend, I failed you. Risorine has gotten away," Aragorn admitted, not thinking over Legolas's words.

 "He has not. Justice has been rightly served, if one can call it that," Legolas replied, shaking his head, "Even now the traitor lies dead in a great river that flows nearby which I cannot name. His own cowardice felled him but he took with him the great treasure; the Stone of Malinya is gone. Almost I dove in after it, but reason won out over desire for none could survive the fall it took."

 Aragorn had already thought the Stone lost to him, but this news still distressed him, "Gone? Forever? This cannot be. The symbol of peace destroyed by hatred? It is an unfair world in which we live, where evil may find a way to triumph, even in death." Aragorn stated bitterly. His eyes reflected loss and defeat and for long moments the two friends shared in their terrible sorrows.

 "It was my fault, I could not …..…"

 "No, I am sure you did all you could Legolas." Aragorn cut the elf off, not allowing him to take the blame much like Gimli. He was silent for a few moments, but his eyes still shone with disbelief, "So much work and hope lost forever, all due to the fallacies of Men."

 "It was not just Men. The Stone's fate seemed to be decided long before we even arrived here. Perhaps the Stone was lost to us before we ever retrieved it," Legolas said, receiving a confused glance from Aragorn, "True, we found Malinya's Stone with all the best intentions, but within a single day it led to civil unrest in this nation and has already caused the deaths of many. How long could we have protected it and ensured it was used only for good?"

 "You may be right, but should we not at least have been given the chance to try?" Aragorn asked resentfully, cursing the powers of fate with his words.

 For this Legolas had no answer so nodded and said nothing. Aragorn looked to his friend and could tell he was beyond exhaustion and had not yet rested; the archer seemed barely able to stand on his own power.

 "You should rest my friend. We will take care of these men and ensure they are brought safely to Miscalanth," Aragorn said. Legolas sighed and looked up at the moon once more. He was tired; tired of Brelan and its hatred, prejudice and pain. He despised this place and wanted nothing more to do with it. To him it seemed that no good was able to come from this land.

 "Have you seen Gimli?" Aragorn asked, drawing Legolas from his thoughts.

 "Aye, he will be along shortly if he does not become lost. I will go find him and leave you to your duties here." Legolas turned and walked away. Aragorn watched him go, not able to dismiss the weariness in each of the elf's steps, but his thoughts were mostly overtaken by his deep grief from the loss of Malinya's Stone.

 Legolas found all his energy now completely gone, combined with his anguish he could barely stay upright. Such was the reason he so easily tripped over a jutting root and fell hard to one knee. He shook his head to clear the fog from his mind and when he saw a hand appear in front of him he took it without question, assuming it to be Aragorn. It was quite a shock when the strong arm pulled him up and he was brought face to face with Sorinth, who stared at him hard and intently. It was then Legolas realized that in his grief and worry he had forgotten that he wore no cloak or hood, and had not yet used The Mist of Concealment. He was elf-kind and now Sorinth knew this as well.

 "This explains much." The Man gritted out through clenched teeth. He had suspected something was amiss with this 'Man' for some time and now he found his answers, though he had never expected this. Legolas met Sorinth's gaze, his eyes almost pleading for understanding. He tried to pull away but the Man's grip was firm and he did not have the strength to free himself of it.

 "Sorinth, please hear me first before you say more," Legolas asked, quickly taking in their surroundings. Several of Sorinth's men were approaching.

 "I will hear none of your lies. You are as treacherous as these very men we hunted down this night," Sorinth said, his voice becoming dangerously loud.

Aragorn saw what was happening too late but still he ran forward, hoping he could somehow convince Sorinth to keep his discovery quiet.

 "Sorinth, we can explain." Aragorn assured him swiftly as he approached. Sorinth turned to him, his eyes like fire and his jaw clenched.

 "I should have guessed you knew of this Lord Elessar. There is little explanation you can give to excuse these deceptions," Sorinth said. He was a man of honor and pride and would not be lied to or deceived again.

 Aragorn began to speak once more but was cut off as three Men from Brelan approached, leading ahead of them one of the rebels. The outlaw saw Legolas, stiffened and then scoffed, "The elf survived then did he? I knew their kind were unnatural. You Men really do care nothing for Brelan if you align yourselves with this creature."

 And with those words all was lost. A murmur began to echo through the Men in the field, followed by gasps and outbursts of rage as the truth was told and seen by all. Legolas could hide no longer. The air became thick with tension as the Men of Brelan all came in closer, unconsciously circling the archer. Some were curious, others clenched their fists and some were simply amazed, unbelieving that Elves would dare walk in their land.

 Sorinth released Legolas but stood his ground. The elf took a step back and looked over all the faces of the Men around him; he saw little but anger and hatred, all directed toward him. His already weary and sorrowed heart crumbled a bit more as he took in the dark looks and scowls. He was hated for what he was but would no longer hide from it. He dropped his head in sorrow and to shut out the dark feelings being shot at him, for one can only take so much hatred.

 It was then that Gimli arrived in the field, only now catching up from when Legolas had raced away from him. He knew immediately that Legolas had been discovered, his secret was clearly out. In a way it was a relief, but in a worse way it was a burden. The Men crowding around the elf did not look understanding or sympathetic; in fact some looked down right hostile and even clutched their weapons tightly. What Legolas needed was a distraction to make his escape, and someone to watch his back. Gimli hefted his axe and started forward.

 "Legolas run!" He charged at the group but before he could get a swing of his axe Aragorn suddenly appeared in front of him, halting his actions. He had spotted the Dwarf's approach and knew what his reaction would be.

 "No, he will not run from this," Aragorn stated firmly, still holding him back. Gimli looked towards the group once more and saw that Legolas did indeed show no signs of running. In fact he seemed quite determined to stay.

 "Staying is madness, he must flee!" Gimli exclaimed.

 "He will no longer hide from who and what he is. I believe he wishes to face these men, explain to them the lies they have been fed and reveal the truth of the elves."

 Gimli looked at the group of which they stood just out of earshot; they did not look willing to learn, "Crazy elf." He finally conceded and lowered his axe. He stepped forward with Aragorn, both ready to defend their friend in any way necessary.

The group of Men had paid little heed to Gimli, especially since Aragorn had stopped him. They remained where they were around Legolas, dissecting him and judging him unjustly. He was a deceitful, lying, cowardly Elf in their eyes and could never be considered much more.

 "Sorinth listen to me…." Legolas began but was cut off.

 "I will hear none of your words!" Sorinth said again.

 "But his words are important and he has a right to be heard," Aragorn said strongly, his voice the only one of reason.

 "An elf? What rights do you think he has here?" One of the guards asked, eyeing Legolas condescendingly.

 "He has every right! Tell me, what laws has he broken? What sacred trust has he defied simply by being who he is?" Aragorn argued fiercely.

 "Our laws Lord Elessar and our trust; he has broken both," Sorinth stated simply. Aragorn turned to the Man expecting to see what he saw on every other face, but he was hopeful when he noted that though Sorinth was enraged there was no hatred in his eyes.

 Aragorn began to speak once more but was halted by Legolas, who had remained silent for some time, "Peace Aragorn, their minds will not be changed by you." Aragorn looked to his friend and saw a sorrowful acceptance in his eyes that hit the King as hard as if he had been struck.

 Sorinth spoke again, "By our law he will be put under arrest. But he may speak freely now if he so wishes."

 Legolas looked at the Men around him, so full of hatred and malice towards him though he had done nothing to them but exist. He knew all words now would be useless so simply said, "I meant no harm or disrespect to you or your country in coming here."

 "That may well be true but does not discount your actions," Sorinth said, then turned to Aragorn, "I do not believe he is in any shape to attempt escape so he may ride with you, unbound, but when we reach Miscalanth he must be brought directly before our King for judgment."

 "Judgment? You treat him as though he is a criminal!" Gimli pointed out, outraged.

 "He has broken our law." Sorinth reiterated then turned to his men and forced them to break apart and take care of the outlaws who had been quickly forgotten. The guards moved away reluctantly, many shooting death glares in Legolas's direction. Only a few remained behind to ensure that the 'prisoner' did not attempt escape.

 Aragorn approached Sorinth once more, unable to comprehend the injustice unravelling before them. "Sorinth this is wrong, you must know this."

 Sorinth shook his head ruefully, "You speak to the wrong man. If it was up to me I may have released him, pending this explanation of yours, but it is not for me to decide. These matters are for Lord Vecery's judgment. There is nothing I can do."

 Sorinth turned away, unable to meet the elf's penetrating gaze and left to tend to business with their rebel prisoners.

 As he retreated Gimli commented quietly, "Risorine may have been right about one thing after all."

 "And what could that possibly be?" Aragorn asked, unable to fathom agreeing with one so treacherous.

 "There are some things in Brelan that must change." Gimli stated. Aragorn found himself unable to disagree as he watched Legolas walk away, weary in mind, body and soul, and flanked by three alert and hate-filled guards.