Behind Blue Eyes
Chapter 6: Coming home, leaving again
(Elrond)
The sounds of pounding hooves alert me that the riders have returned, the scouts I sent to find my two missing adopted sons. Quickly going down the stairs I take in the laughing faces of both Elladan and Elrohir, behind them the sounds of hooves become more deafening.
" Racing?" I ask my two sons who nod and look behind them to watch as a large bark bay and a bright gray mount come pounding around the corner, only to skid to a halt with a fierce whinny. The gray rears up slightly and then comes down with a snort, pawing at the ground. The bay only shakes his head, the bit shanks making a jingling noise before he shoves his nose into the gray. The rides jump from their backs, their smiling faces full of laughter.
" I won!" the bay rider laughs, flinging his arms into the air happily. The rider of the gray holds onto his horses' head, watching the human bathe in his triumph.
" Aye, you may have won Estel, but I will get you back someday!" the blonde laughs at his friend.
" Welcome back boys." I draw their attention back to me and I smile, noting the amazed look on their faces.
" Adar." Estel breathes and comes to embrace me, a gesture I respond to, patting the boy's back lightly. His companion comes and bows slightly, his eyes watching me very closely.
" Please, Legolas you are like one of my son's you don't have to bow." I laugh when he straightens and I quickly embrace him. His laughter rings in my ears and I feel much more alove now that all my children, minus Arwen who is staying with her grandmother, are home and safer within the Rivendell boarders.
" Come, allow the stable boys to tend to the colts." I tell them and as soon as the words come from my mouth a young, compared to my age, elf comes and takes both horses bridles, leading the horses to their stalls. I begin my way up the stairs with my boys following, their laughter and jokes making me smile as well. Coming into the study I don't even have to indicate for them to seat themselves, for all the boys randomly plop somewhere with a sigh. Elladan and Elrohir are arguing over the comfortable chair in front of my desk, while Estel and Legolas watch.
" You had it last time!" Elladan snaps and I shake my head.
" How can you remember back that far?" Elrohir ask, his voice taking on a tone of mock amazement. Estel falls over laughing while Legolas only smiles and seats himself on the floor, back against the wall and long legs spread out before him.
" Come now, sit somewhere." I sigh and the boys finally seat themselves somewhere. Picking up a scroll I quickly glance at it, then push it aside for later. Gazing at my sons I notice how much they have all grown. My biological sons really haven't changed, if anything they have become far more like devils than when they were younger, but my two adopted boy, there are a few major changes.
My Estel is now a young man, his hair has grown longer and is in need to a trim, and his youthful face has more of a weathered look to it, but they eyes still haven't changed. Inside those ice blue depths I can still see the youth I brought into my home all those years ago, so loving and trusting. Estel's voice has deepened and he has grown large and husky like his father, but the elven ways that were taught to him are still in use. Unlike most human men Estel is not as headstrong as boys his age are apt to be, he is much more focused on his goals, and doesn't waste any time with needless thoughts. His footfalls are light and no energy spared on useless maneuvers, everything is measured out and planned.
" Adar?" I stop my thoughts when Estel's voice cuts through them, I blink and look at my son.
" You wanted to talk to us about something?" I nod and quickly take up a scroll that was sent by messenger a few days ago.
" Yes, this came by messenger a few days ago from Gandalf the Grey." I begin but stop when excited talk fills the room. All my children have met and been around the wizard, and have often enjoyed his visits.
" He wishes to come here for a visit, but can not remember the way. He has asked for someone to go to the human settlement of Bree and get him. He says he will be awaiting the arrival in the inn of the Prancing Pony." I finish the scroll and silence fills the room.
" I will go and get the Wizard Adar." Estel says sighing and getting to his feet. I look at my son, the Ranger.
" You have only just got home Estel. You must be weary, Ella." Estel holds up his hand and I stop, watching the youth with curious eyes.
" Ada, you know that two Elves will have a hard time getting into Bree. I can get in and get out without a problem. Besides, I'll have Legolas with me to keep me out of trouble, right Legolas?" The latter directed at the Elf who is still on the floor. At the mention of his name he is on his feet, and nodding.
" Aye, we can get in and out." He counters and looks at me pleadingly. Sighing I put a hand to my forehead, still unsure.
" Adar, I don't want to go into the Human village, let Estel and Legolas go." Elrohir says with an annoyed voice, and I look at both of my boys. They are looking quite tired themselves since they have been out on patrol for the past few days.
" Alright, but you two have to get something good to eat before you leave." I order the two and they nod before racing from the room. I sigh and look at my other two who are smiling at my dilemma.
" Father you know those two wouldn't be here very long anyway. They come home long enough to eat and are off again. This gives them a reason to stay in Rivendell for a while." Elrohir says and puts a hand on my shoulder before laughing. I shake my head knowing what he meant. Since the boys became friends they have been together since, hardly apart. Since that day I adopted the Mirkwood prince I have been quite happy with the results.
(Aragorn)
Biting into a nice, warm piece of venison I glance at Legolas who is eating as well. We are both in our travel clothes, and smell pretty bad since the winter is coming and we have to wear all layers.
" I think we should bathe before we leave." I state and Legolas smiles before putting his spoon into his mouth. Taking it out he leans back in the chair, spoon held like a small sword
" I agree, you smell terrible." I cock and eyebrow at my friend and try to keep a straight face.
" Well you don't smell like Lensarosia's roses either my friend. You sweated just as much as I did and got just as dirty." I point out, pointing my fork at my blonde companion. Legolas laugh and spoon another amount of soup into his mouth before taking some bread. I turn back to my plate, and basically destroy all on it.
" Ya know, inhaling could get the food into your gullet faster." Legolas says and I almost choke at the disgusted look on his face.
" I already tried that, remember? I choked." I state and go back to eating my dinner. Legolas laughs and gazes about the hall. I follow his gaze and notice the bright midday sun coming through the rafters.
" If we are to arrive at Bree tomorrow I say we get going now. Let's meet at the stable in an hour." He says and gets up from the table. Shoving another piece of meat into my mouth I follow, going back to my room where I may bathe and clean up. Opening the large carved door I hurry into my room, locking it behind me. My room is on the shady side of the home, making the sun illuminate the room only slightly. Going to a chest with my clothes in it I gather up a new change of traveling clothes and head for the bathing room. The water is already there and I smile knowing one of the many elves in servitude to my father must have been told to draw the water. Getting into the warm water I sink lower until my muscles begin to relax. Closing my eyes I allow the water to relax both my mind and my body.
(Legolas)
Entering my own room in the house of Elrond I slowly close the door and lean against the wall. All I really wanted to do was sleep in the bed, for it has been a long time since I slept in a decent bed with sheets and no dirt or bugs. Shaking my head I drop my bow and quiver to the floor and stretch my aching back. Groaning I go to the chest that holds my clothes I take out my other traveling clothes and go into the bathroom where I find the water already drawn for me. Smiling I quickly undo the many braids in my hair and allow it to fall about my shoulder. Looking at myself in the mirror I growl at how dull my golden hair has become from lack of care and wash. Getting into the bed I lean back until my whole head is soaked with the water, then reaching for the small bottle of cleaner I rub it into my scalp, making sure that all the grime comes out. Once my hair is cleaned I relax into the water, allowing my thoughts to wander now that I am home. It has been four years that I have lived here with my Uncle and his sons, they were kind enough to take me in after my father's abuse came known. The aches from those beatings are long forgotten and the only remnants of them are the slight stiffness in my back and shoulders and the small white scars that line my back. Other than that I have healed fine. Growing up here among Elrond and his sons have taught me so much, everything I was taught in my home to be law seems to have no meaning here. Like the warrior braids I wear, here they mean nothing but in the Kingdom of Mirkwood they are something you are rated by. I only leave them in as a reminder of why I have them, and that is because I protected my mother until the end, and proved myself a warrior. Yet, my mother died in my arms, right after the Orcs were defeated. Frowning I run my fingertips over the surface of the water, making small ripples. My thoughts swirling around in my head I shake it to block out images I have long buried and kept at bay, including those of what my mother told me before she died. Shaking my head rapidly I decide to distract myself with thoughts of how to get to Bree in a decent time.
(Aragorn)
Walking through the halls to where Legolas's room is I hum a simple Elvish tune to myself. Reaching the door I slowly push it open and peer inside, looking around the room with expert eyes, knowing that if Legolas doesn't want to be found he won't be. Nothing moves in the bedroom and I slowly enter, keeping my step light and silent. Making my way to the bathroom I glance around the corner to find Legolas standing in front of a mirror, half clad and braiding his hair. His fingers move deftly though the long strands, making the twists seem simple and easy. He hums to himself as he does this and while he braids I take in the lithe body of my friend. Granted I have seen him half nude before but now he just seems different. The elf's body is naturally perfect without mishap or anything marring. But Legolas is different, his body is marred, by scars of hatred by his father's hands. Yet these things don't inhibit the elf, for he sees them as an experience that has taught him a great lesson, although he still has yet to tell me what this lesson it.
" Aragorn, stop spying and come in." His musical voice says and I jump at the unexpected sound. Stepping into the room I smile sheepishly at my Elven friend, only to see the laughter in his own eyes.
" I thought you would be ready by now." I tease, crossing my arms and leaning against the wall as Legolas finishes his braids. He picks up a loose green tunic and pulls it over his head and tucks in the front part. He then faces me, a smile on his youthful features.
" I'm ready." He says and goes out of the bathroom, gathering a bag and taking up his cloak and bow he leaves the room. I quickly follow and soon we pass father's Study where I pop my head in to find him at the desk, writing on a scroll.
" Adar, we're going to leave now." I announce and he looks up suddenly.
" Ah, alright. Be safe, be smart and may the Valar protect you both." He says and I nod, backing out of the room. Turning Legolas and I head down the hall and into the mid-day sunlight. Going to the stables, where Elrohir and Elladan are grooming their own horses.
" Going already?" Elladan asks, cocking an eyebrow as I bring my large bay from his stall. After two years of bothering my father and telling him Fenris was too old he finally allowed me to picj my own colt. So the day I went to the field I instantly had my heart set on this large colt with the blaze running down his face, and three white socks. Ramosian is the name of my Bay who is far too intelligent for his own good sometimes. He buts his large head against my shoulder and nearly plows me over trying to get to Legolas and his long legged gray. Kagonesti snorts and stamps his hooves impatiently and Legolas only sighs, picking up the brush and hoof pick.
" Yes if we want to be in Bree in the morning we have to leave now." Legolas says, eyeing his horse as he bends to pick his hooves. Kagonesti has been known for nipping when the master isn't looking, but Legolas keeps a close eye on the young horse. Ramosian stands quietly while I brush his coat until it shines and then pick his hooves.
" We'll see you to the end of the woods." Elrohir says and mounts his own horse, who snorts and paws.
" Horses are impatient today." Elladan remarks and I nod, noting the uneasiness coming from the colts.
" They know Gandalf is coming that is why." Legolas smiles and mounts his horse, and waits for me to do the same. I slowly mount my Bay and situate my packs, nodding I'm ready we start out of Rivendell, never looking back. Both Legolas and I made a pact the first day we went on our first adventure, the after we passed under the bridge we were to never refer to Rivendell as our home until we are safely within her boundaries. Too many people want to know where the hidden Elven Kingdom is, but not many even live to enter the woods.
" C'mon, we have a long road ahead of us my friend." I tell Legolas and kick Ramosian into an easy trot, Legolas soon come sup beside me, his horse matching mine stride for stride.
Immortal Sadness: Okay, there ya go! Two chapters in one day! Please review! REVIEW!
Chapter 6: Coming home, leaving again
(Elrond)
The sounds of pounding hooves alert me that the riders have returned, the scouts I sent to find my two missing adopted sons. Quickly going down the stairs I take in the laughing faces of both Elladan and Elrohir, behind them the sounds of hooves become more deafening.
" Racing?" I ask my two sons who nod and look behind them to watch as a large bark bay and a bright gray mount come pounding around the corner, only to skid to a halt with a fierce whinny. The gray rears up slightly and then comes down with a snort, pawing at the ground. The bay only shakes his head, the bit shanks making a jingling noise before he shoves his nose into the gray. The rides jump from their backs, their smiling faces full of laughter.
" I won!" the bay rider laughs, flinging his arms into the air happily. The rider of the gray holds onto his horses' head, watching the human bathe in his triumph.
" Aye, you may have won Estel, but I will get you back someday!" the blonde laughs at his friend.
" Welcome back boys." I draw their attention back to me and I smile, noting the amazed look on their faces.
" Adar." Estel breathes and comes to embrace me, a gesture I respond to, patting the boy's back lightly. His companion comes and bows slightly, his eyes watching me very closely.
" Please, Legolas you are like one of my son's you don't have to bow." I laugh when he straightens and I quickly embrace him. His laughter rings in my ears and I feel much more alove now that all my children, minus Arwen who is staying with her grandmother, are home and safer within the Rivendell boarders.
" Come, allow the stable boys to tend to the colts." I tell them and as soon as the words come from my mouth a young, compared to my age, elf comes and takes both horses bridles, leading the horses to their stalls. I begin my way up the stairs with my boys following, their laughter and jokes making me smile as well. Coming into the study I don't even have to indicate for them to seat themselves, for all the boys randomly plop somewhere with a sigh. Elladan and Elrohir are arguing over the comfortable chair in front of my desk, while Estel and Legolas watch.
" You had it last time!" Elladan snaps and I shake my head.
" How can you remember back that far?" Elrohir ask, his voice taking on a tone of mock amazement. Estel falls over laughing while Legolas only smiles and seats himself on the floor, back against the wall and long legs spread out before him.
" Come now, sit somewhere." I sigh and the boys finally seat themselves somewhere. Picking up a scroll I quickly glance at it, then push it aside for later. Gazing at my sons I notice how much they have all grown. My biological sons really haven't changed, if anything they have become far more like devils than when they were younger, but my two adopted boy, there are a few major changes.
My Estel is now a young man, his hair has grown longer and is in need to a trim, and his youthful face has more of a weathered look to it, but they eyes still haven't changed. Inside those ice blue depths I can still see the youth I brought into my home all those years ago, so loving and trusting. Estel's voice has deepened and he has grown large and husky like his father, but the elven ways that were taught to him are still in use. Unlike most human men Estel is not as headstrong as boys his age are apt to be, he is much more focused on his goals, and doesn't waste any time with needless thoughts. His footfalls are light and no energy spared on useless maneuvers, everything is measured out and planned.
" Adar?" I stop my thoughts when Estel's voice cuts through them, I blink and look at my son.
" You wanted to talk to us about something?" I nod and quickly take up a scroll that was sent by messenger a few days ago.
" Yes, this came by messenger a few days ago from Gandalf the Grey." I begin but stop when excited talk fills the room. All my children have met and been around the wizard, and have often enjoyed his visits.
" He wishes to come here for a visit, but can not remember the way. He has asked for someone to go to the human settlement of Bree and get him. He says he will be awaiting the arrival in the inn of the Prancing Pony." I finish the scroll and silence fills the room.
" I will go and get the Wizard Adar." Estel says sighing and getting to his feet. I look at my son, the Ranger.
" You have only just got home Estel. You must be weary, Ella." Estel holds up his hand and I stop, watching the youth with curious eyes.
" Ada, you know that two Elves will have a hard time getting into Bree. I can get in and get out without a problem. Besides, I'll have Legolas with me to keep me out of trouble, right Legolas?" The latter directed at the Elf who is still on the floor. At the mention of his name he is on his feet, and nodding.
" Aye, we can get in and out." He counters and looks at me pleadingly. Sighing I put a hand to my forehead, still unsure.
" Adar, I don't want to go into the Human village, let Estel and Legolas go." Elrohir says with an annoyed voice, and I look at both of my boys. They are looking quite tired themselves since they have been out on patrol for the past few days.
" Alright, but you two have to get something good to eat before you leave." I order the two and they nod before racing from the room. I sigh and look at my other two who are smiling at my dilemma.
" Father you know those two wouldn't be here very long anyway. They come home long enough to eat and are off again. This gives them a reason to stay in Rivendell for a while." Elrohir says and puts a hand on my shoulder before laughing. I shake my head knowing what he meant. Since the boys became friends they have been together since, hardly apart. Since that day I adopted the Mirkwood prince I have been quite happy with the results.
(Aragorn)
Biting into a nice, warm piece of venison I glance at Legolas who is eating as well. We are both in our travel clothes, and smell pretty bad since the winter is coming and we have to wear all layers.
" I think we should bathe before we leave." I state and Legolas smiles before putting his spoon into his mouth. Taking it out he leans back in the chair, spoon held like a small sword
" I agree, you smell terrible." I cock and eyebrow at my friend and try to keep a straight face.
" Well you don't smell like Lensarosia's roses either my friend. You sweated just as much as I did and got just as dirty." I point out, pointing my fork at my blonde companion. Legolas laugh and spoon another amount of soup into his mouth before taking some bread. I turn back to my plate, and basically destroy all on it.
" Ya know, inhaling could get the food into your gullet faster." Legolas says and I almost choke at the disgusted look on his face.
" I already tried that, remember? I choked." I state and go back to eating my dinner. Legolas laughs and gazes about the hall. I follow his gaze and notice the bright midday sun coming through the rafters.
" If we are to arrive at Bree tomorrow I say we get going now. Let's meet at the stable in an hour." He says and gets up from the table. Shoving another piece of meat into my mouth I follow, going back to my room where I may bathe and clean up. Opening the large carved door I hurry into my room, locking it behind me. My room is on the shady side of the home, making the sun illuminate the room only slightly. Going to a chest with my clothes in it I gather up a new change of traveling clothes and head for the bathing room. The water is already there and I smile knowing one of the many elves in servitude to my father must have been told to draw the water. Getting into the warm water I sink lower until my muscles begin to relax. Closing my eyes I allow the water to relax both my mind and my body.
(Legolas)
Entering my own room in the house of Elrond I slowly close the door and lean against the wall. All I really wanted to do was sleep in the bed, for it has been a long time since I slept in a decent bed with sheets and no dirt or bugs. Shaking my head I drop my bow and quiver to the floor and stretch my aching back. Groaning I go to the chest that holds my clothes I take out my other traveling clothes and go into the bathroom where I find the water already drawn for me. Smiling I quickly undo the many braids in my hair and allow it to fall about my shoulder. Looking at myself in the mirror I growl at how dull my golden hair has become from lack of care and wash. Getting into the bed I lean back until my whole head is soaked with the water, then reaching for the small bottle of cleaner I rub it into my scalp, making sure that all the grime comes out. Once my hair is cleaned I relax into the water, allowing my thoughts to wander now that I am home. It has been four years that I have lived here with my Uncle and his sons, they were kind enough to take me in after my father's abuse came known. The aches from those beatings are long forgotten and the only remnants of them are the slight stiffness in my back and shoulders and the small white scars that line my back. Other than that I have healed fine. Growing up here among Elrond and his sons have taught me so much, everything I was taught in my home to be law seems to have no meaning here. Like the warrior braids I wear, here they mean nothing but in the Kingdom of Mirkwood they are something you are rated by. I only leave them in as a reminder of why I have them, and that is because I protected my mother until the end, and proved myself a warrior. Yet, my mother died in my arms, right after the Orcs were defeated. Frowning I run my fingertips over the surface of the water, making small ripples. My thoughts swirling around in my head I shake it to block out images I have long buried and kept at bay, including those of what my mother told me before she died. Shaking my head rapidly I decide to distract myself with thoughts of how to get to Bree in a decent time.
(Aragorn)
Walking through the halls to where Legolas's room is I hum a simple Elvish tune to myself. Reaching the door I slowly push it open and peer inside, looking around the room with expert eyes, knowing that if Legolas doesn't want to be found he won't be. Nothing moves in the bedroom and I slowly enter, keeping my step light and silent. Making my way to the bathroom I glance around the corner to find Legolas standing in front of a mirror, half clad and braiding his hair. His fingers move deftly though the long strands, making the twists seem simple and easy. He hums to himself as he does this and while he braids I take in the lithe body of my friend. Granted I have seen him half nude before but now he just seems different. The elf's body is naturally perfect without mishap or anything marring. But Legolas is different, his body is marred, by scars of hatred by his father's hands. Yet these things don't inhibit the elf, for he sees them as an experience that has taught him a great lesson, although he still has yet to tell me what this lesson it.
" Aragorn, stop spying and come in." His musical voice says and I jump at the unexpected sound. Stepping into the room I smile sheepishly at my Elven friend, only to see the laughter in his own eyes.
" I thought you would be ready by now." I tease, crossing my arms and leaning against the wall as Legolas finishes his braids. He picks up a loose green tunic and pulls it over his head and tucks in the front part. He then faces me, a smile on his youthful features.
" I'm ready." He says and goes out of the bathroom, gathering a bag and taking up his cloak and bow he leaves the room. I quickly follow and soon we pass father's Study where I pop my head in to find him at the desk, writing on a scroll.
" Adar, we're going to leave now." I announce and he looks up suddenly.
" Ah, alright. Be safe, be smart and may the Valar protect you both." He says and I nod, backing out of the room. Turning Legolas and I head down the hall and into the mid-day sunlight. Going to the stables, where Elrohir and Elladan are grooming their own horses.
" Going already?" Elladan asks, cocking an eyebrow as I bring my large bay from his stall. After two years of bothering my father and telling him Fenris was too old he finally allowed me to picj my own colt. So the day I went to the field I instantly had my heart set on this large colt with the blaze running down his face, and three white socks. Ramosian is the name of my Bay who is far too intelligent for his own good sometimes. He buts his large head against my shoulder and nearly plows me over trying to get to Legolas and his long legged gray. Kagonesti snorts and stamps his hooves impatiently and Legolas only sighs, picking up the brush and hoof pick.
" Yes if we want to be in Bree in the morning we have to leave now." Legolas says, eyeing his horse as he bends to pick his hooves. Kagonesti has been known for nipping when the master isn't looking, but Legolas keeps a close eye on the young horse. Ramosian stands quietly while I brush his coat until it shines and then pick his hooves.
" We'll see you to the end of the woods." Elrohir says and mounts his own horse, who snorts and paws.
" Horses are impatient today." Elladan remarks and I nod, noting the uneasiness coming from the colts.
" They know Gandalf is coming that is why." Legolas smiles and mounts his horse, and waits for me to do the same. I slowly mount my Bay and situate my packs, nodding I'm ready we start out of Rivendell, never looking back. Both Legolas and I made a pact the first day we went on our first adventure, the after we passed under the bridge we were to never refer to Rivendell as our home until we are safely within her boundaries. Too many people want to know where the hidden Elven Kingdom is, but not many even live to enter the woods.
" C'mon, we have a long road ahead of us my friend." I tell Legolas and kick Ramosian into an easy trot, Legolas soon come sup beside me, his horse matching mine stride for stride.
Immortal Sadness: Okay, there ya go! Two chapters in one day! Please review! REVIEW!