A/N: Here it is at last... I'm sorry it took so long again, but I'm a bad and lazy girl... Plus I hadn't finished writing the next chapter since a couple of things needed some time to mature in my mind... Anyway, I would like to answer to a couple of reviews...
MarySuesREvil: First, let me congratulate you for your screen name, I love it! Now, about the details you brought my attention to. (BTW, thanks a million for that!) First about Celeborn leaving Middle-earth with Galadriel. I must have been really, really tired when I wrote this because I *do* know Celeborn remained behind when Galadriel left. I will change that line when I revise the story. Which should happen as soon as I finish it. Anyway thanks for pointing this error out to me. Now about Mirkwood becoming Eryn Lasgalen since the beginning of the 4th Age. Somehow, when I began writing this story, I thought the name change had occurred farther into the 4th Age, like a decade or two after the beginning of the 4th Age. So in my mind this story was set between the two (I had even planned to include, or at least imply, the name change in the epilogue). But a few chapters ago I had a sudden urge to check the dates in the appendixes, and realised my mistake. However I decided to keep going with the name Mirkwood since I had used it from the beginning. Though I also plan to change it to Eryn Lasgalen when I revise the story ;-)
LegolasLover2003: You say that it's been a long time since there was Legolas angst... But he's always been worrying either about his friend(s), his father, his brothers... So from my point of view the angst has never really stopped for him... Anyway I hope you'll find what you're looking for in this chapter with the flashbacks to Legolas' childhood. BTW, thanks for teaching me yet another funny english expression. After "going bananas" (when I came across it by chance the other day while looking up another word in my dictionary I realised it was a real expression), "to have the smarts". I'll have to check this one some day... ;-)
To all the others (who I praise as much as the others) : thank you for spending a few seconds to write your opinion about this story. All your kind words are what makes it all worth it, so please keep them coming ;-)
As always, thanks to Candice who beta'd this chapter and who's being very patient with me...
Now, on with the story!
Chapter 18
The Weight of Memories
Legolas came across Aragorn as he was looking for him through the Palace's corridors.
"Aragorn, I know where the creature and Gimli are. And they are not in the same place," the Elf said.
"What do you mean?" Aragorn asked with a frown.
"The creature no longer possesses Gimli," Legolas explained, "but my father."
"King Thranduil? Are you sure?" Aragorn enquired.
"I am afraid I am," Legolas replied with a sad smile.
"But since when did - " Aragorn paused as he realised. "His odd orders, the troops sent west…"
"Aye," Legolas confirmed. "I also have good reasons to believe Gimli is somewhere in the dungeons. We have to go there quickly and retrieve him before it is too late. I know of a way to enter the dungeons unnoticed, I do not think anyone else knows about it. I used it a long time ago but it is probably still accessible."
As Aragorn nodded Niyan came to meet them in a hurry.
"My Lords!" he called, his face pallid.
"Aye, Niyan?" Aragorn greeted. "Where is Ethiannor? You two were supposed to meet me in a few minutes."
Niyan paled even more. "A group of Elves just found him dead, my Lord," he answered in a whisper. "All I know is that he was on something he would not tell me about and wanted us to part ways in order to be more discreet."
Aragorn silently closed his eyes and clenched his fists. "We must put an end to all this quickly," he said mainly directing his words at Legolas. "Enough have lost their lives at the hands of this creature."
Both Legolas and Niyan nodded their agreement, and Aragorn went on. "Then our first priority is to neutralise the creature. Which means searching the dungeons for Gimli comes second," he said looking at Legolas.
"But if Gimli is wounded he might need urgent healing!" Legolas protested.
"Legolas," Aragorn interrupted, "up till now all the creature's former hosts and all those that came in its way were found dead. I am sorry but wherever Gimli is at the moment," he went on with sorrow in his voice, "he is more than likely - "
"He is still alive, I am sure of it!" Legolas insisted heatedly. "I see no reason why we would not have found his body had he been killed. He is hidden there, in custody and with drastic access restrictions because he is still alive and knows. Aragorn, checking the dungeons will only take us a hour or so. The creature has been among us for days, one more hour will not make much difference."
"One hour could make all the difference," Aragorn objected. "How many orders will the creature be able to give through your Lord within a hour? It has already sent three companies and your two brothers to a likely death."
Niyan had not been directly informed about the latest news and had not dared intervene but had soon put one and one together. As for Aragorn he knew he had touched a subject close to Legolas' heart if the Elf's drawn face was any indication.
Legolas hesitated. He hated being torn between his will and his duty. The lives of his people would depend on the decision they made. The choice between his people and his friend was hard to make for the second time that day.
"We could find a way to keep it occupied. To keep it away from both the dungeons where it could find us and from any important decision of any kind," Legolas offered with a hint of hope in his voice.
As Aragorn began shaking his head slowly Legolas decided to give his strategy a more personalised turn.
"If Gimli is still alive we cannot fail him and leave him to stagnate there. When Merry and Pippin were captured by Orcs they were likely to be killed long before we caught up with them but we kept faith and followed the track for days through Rohan to Fangorn forest." Legolas saw in Aragorn's eyes that *he* had touched a subject close to the former Ranger's heart. "When Frodo and Sam went to Mordor alone, no one would have given much of their lives but - "
"All right!" Aragorn exclaimed with the look of one who knew in advance he would not win that argument, while Legolas bore a triumphant smile. "Legolas, you will go to the dungeons while I keep King Thranduil busy."
Legolas' smile instantly faded and he shook his head firmly. "That is absolutely out of the question. You are a King yourself and it would not be wise to tempt the creature now that we know with certitude where - or rather who - it is."
"Then someone else will have to do it," Aragorn concluded.
Niyan perceptibly straightened when both Lords simultaneously turned to him.
"Niyan, if I recall correctly, you used to work on the diplomatic company before becoming a soldier," Aragorn noted. "Is that right?"
"Absolutely my Lord," Niyan confirmed, "three years in Rohan."
"Did you have a change of career because of lack of diplomatic talent?" Aragorn questioned.
"No my Lord, because of personal reasons," the young man replied.
"As you have heard, we need to keep King Thranduil busy for at least one hour. This is a mission of great importance so answer me honestly. Do you think yourself capable of it?"
"I believe so, my Lord," Niyan confirmed. "If I pretend to come in your name he will certainly receive me. From then on I am quite confident I will be able to keep him busy. The diplomat I was associated with in Rohan was quite fond of long debates."
Aragorn nodded. "All right. Make up whatever you wish as long as you keep him in his study and do not raise the creature's suspicion. Do not take any inconsiderate risks. If you feel your life is at stake, withdraw immediately. Did I make myself clear?"
"Yes my Lord," Niyan confirmed.
Aragorn hesitated. "Do you think you would be able to give us two hours?"
"No more trouble than one, my Lord."
* * * * *
Aragorn swiftly followed Legolas through the gardens.
"Are you sure of the way?" the former Ranger enquired.
"Positive," confirmed Legolas.
It was only when they reached the very end of the gardens that Legolas stopped next to a wall covered with ivy. His hand searched the surface for a few seconds until he stilled and smiled.
As he pushed aside a section of ivy a dark recess was revealed. Approximately one yard inside was an opening in the ground.
"What is that?" Aragorn asked.
"A long forgotten aeration system. The back of the dungeons is right below us. All we have to do is go down there. The height is reasonable," Legolas assured.
Aragorn nodded and prepared their torches. As Legolas was about to go down the opening first he enquired: "How do you know about this passage if no one else knows about it?"
Legolas hesitated. "It would be a long story, and we do not have much time. Maybe another day," he offered before disappearing into the opening.
* * * * *
A very young Legolas slid down to the ground and smirked. The others would never find him there. The rules specified they were not supposed to leave the gardens for the palace, but he was not in the palace, was he? Legolas thought with a mischievous smile. This time he would beat them at their own game.
Legolas undertook to get to know the place. He had never been there - his father would have never allowed it. He seemed to be at the very end of a long and dark corridor, and was surprised to discover the place was very poorly lit.
If it was not for the few torches every now and then on the walls, the place would be plunged in complete darkness.
About to explore further, Legolas suddenly froze right on spot, slightly intimidated by the sound of shouts and growls. Where did they all come from? He ventured a look down the corridor. There were cells on both sides and arms sporadically reaching out for the Elven guards. That was not the way he had pictured the dungeons.
Legolas jumped when a growl resounded very close to him. Only then did he realise that only a few yards from him on his right was an inhabited cell. Its occupant was observing him closely while clutching the cell's bars tightly.
Lured by curiosity, Legolas could not help but step closer to examine the creature. Was that an Orc? He had never seen one for real before but he had seen illustrations in books. He had long thought the descriptions were exaggerated but it seemed they were not for he had never seen such an ungraceful being. However the look full of hatred had not been transcribed.
The Orc was still observing him, and as it pressed its face against the bars its eyes narrowed and gleamed with avidity.
Before Legolas knew it the Orc had thrown its arm at him. Legolas barely had the time to feel the Orc's hand on his neck before a strong arm picked him up from behind and pulled him away from the cell.
In retrospect Legolas would realise much later that he had been very close to losing his head that day - literally. But the only thing he would remember from the few seconds that followed was a blurred chaos mixed with growls, someone shouting at the Orc, more growls, until his feet reached the ground again.
Legolas instantly turned round and was somewhat relieved to recognise Valendil, one of his father's Captains.
The older Elf crouched until he was eye level with Legolas and examined him quickly to make sure he was all right.
"This is no place for a child, my young Prince," said Valendil before standing up. "Please allow me to lead you back to the door."
Firmly holding his shoulder and pushing him forward, the Captain did not leave Legolas much choice.
"But this is a great place to hide!" Legolas complained as they walked past more cells.
Valendil frowned and eyed him with a grave look. "Who are you hiding from?"
"The other children!" Legolas replied as though it should have been obvious. "They will never find me here and I will win the game!"
The Captain smiled softly. "Probably, but this is a dangerous place and I will not allow you to stay here. Come on, follow me."
Legolas complied with a disappointed pout.
* * * * *
Legolas and Aragorn silently explored the main level of the dungeon, examining cell after cell carefully. They had started their search from the back end of the dungeons where they had landed, and were now drawing close to the front door, still unsuccessful.
When they eventually reached the front end of the dungeons they could do nothing else than admit their mistake.
Aragorn shook his head sadly. "I suppose you must have been wrong in your assessment. Come on Legolas, we have lost enough time," he concluded as he went for the door. "Legolas?"
But the Elf was no longer listening. He was walking towards the side wall, using his torch to light a concealed door Aragorn had not noticed until then.
"Where does that lead?" Aragorn asked as he moved next to Legolas.
"To a wing of the dungeons that has been disused since long before my birth," the Elf replied.
Aragorn observed his companion as his hand slid down the chink between the door and the wall.
"It is no longer sealed…" Legolas whispered. "It should have been sealed…"
"You have been away from Mirkwood for years, maybe your Lord has had it unsealed during your absence," Aragorn offered.
"I think not," Legolas objected. "He is the one who had it sealed in the first place and he would never have it otherwise under any circumstances."
"Too long a story as well, I suppose?" Aragorn guessed.
Legolas did not answer. Instead he turned the handle and pushed the door open.
"No longer locked either…" he muttered. "There is something wrong here. My Lord would have never allowed access to this part of the dungeons. Unless he was possessed by a certain creature, in which case it did not have access to the too remote memory that explained the forbidding…"
Too long a story indeed, Aragorn gathered. "Then let us go in there," he said aloud.
Legolas nodded. "Forget not your torch, it will be much useful down there," he advised. "And watch your step," he added almost anxiously as he walked through the door.
Aragorn frowned at him before following him down a flight of circular stairs. Why would they need the torches any more there than they already had? He could not imagine the circumstances if this place had been disused since long before the Elf's birth, but Aragorn knew with certitude that Legolas *had* been there before.
* * * * *
Legolas reluctantly kept walking in front of the Captain, the strong hand on his shoulder still pushing him forward, until they were only a few yards from the front door.
Somewhere far behind was a sudden shout followed by some growls. Then the sound of metal clashing and someone calling the Captain with urgency.
Valendil had stopped guiding Legolas and was looking back, listening intently. He eventually urged Legolas towards the door one last time. "Go outside. Now," he ordered hurriedly before turning on his heels. The Elf looked back only once as he moved away to make sure Legolas was obeying, and seemed satisfied to see the Elfling's hand on the door's handle.
But Legolas did not open it for he realised no one was paying him any attention any more, too busy were they taking care of whatever was happening in the back of the dungeons.
If he went out now the others would undoubtedly spot him immediately. Maybe he could find a way to remain hidden in the dungeons without the guards noticing him, he thought as he wondered where that door on the side wall led.
Hesitating no longer, he cast one last look around to make sure no one was watching him before opening the concealed door. As soon as he was inside he slowly and silently closed the door.
His grin of satisfaction soon faded as he realised the room he had just entered was pitch black. Not a single torch to light the place. Which was a good thing in a way: it meant the place was no longer in use and no one would think to look for him in there.
Legolas turned round and leant against the door. If he stayed near the entrance anyone opening it even briefly would see him immediately. No, he should hide further in the dark.
Legolas took a tentative step forward, then a second. Now confident, he went on, his arms probing in front of him so as to feel the opposite wall when he would reach it.
But his hands found none and at his fourth step his foot found no ground either. Surprised and unbalanced, he tripped and fell down a flight of stairs.
* * * * *
As soon as they had reached the bottom of the stairs Legolas had suddenly become extremely silent. Every time Aragorn said something the Elf only answered with nods.
Like the upper level, this one was a long corridor sided with cells, and as they walked past they examined each carefully as they had on the other level.
"Is this wing as large as the main level?" Aragorn queried.
Legolas only shrugged.
Aragorn cast a side look to his friend. Legolas seemed ill-at-ease. Almost shivering.
Legolas shuddered as he inspected another empty cell by the light of his torch. Caves or dark places had never made him especially uncomfortable, but this place was different. It had a strange influence on him, he felt oppressed down there. The echo of their steps and voices in particular made him anxious.
Never would he forget the echo of this place.
* * * * *
When Legolas opened his eyes, he was still in the darkness but feeling extremely sore. His head and shoulders were resting uncomfortably against a wall while his legs were slightly elevated - probably laying on the last steps of the stairs he supposed. It was likely he had lost consciousness, but for how much time he could not tell.
As he tried to straighten into a more comfortable position, he yelped with pain as a sharp ache shot through his right shoulder. After a few other painful attempts at moving it he knew with certainty that it was dislocated.
Legolas lifted the hand of his functioning arm to massage his sore temple but stopped as soon as his fingers touched his skin and found dry blood. Suddenly realising he might have more injuries, he began checking all parts of his body: arms, wrists, chest, legs and - ouch. A twisted ankle as well, he noted.
It must have been quite a fall. Too bad he remembered none of it.
Legolas gave a quick look around, even though there was nothing to see. No single light, not even from the door that had led him there and that he could no longer locate. No stars above him to guide his steps. No trees to whisper him his way. Only darkness.
"Captain Valendil?" he tried as he began panicking slightly, but the only answer he got was the echo of his own voice.
He did not like this echo. It was distorted, unpleasant, and it reminded him that he was trapped there alone, no one knowing where he was.
Legolas tried to stand up slowly, making sure not to aggravate his injuries. He supported himself on the wall, grazing his hand against its rough material, but fell back an instant later. Feeling a bit dizzy, he stood still for a second.
He had to climb these stairs, find that door and get out of there. Legolas turned round carefully and crawled to the stairs. Then he began climbing them laboriously, one after the other, helping himself with one arm and one leg only.
Legolas paused after a few steps to catch his breath. The fall had left him exhausted, and he was not sure he would be able to reach the top. For all he knew there could be several levels between him and the door. Maybe he was too far from the main part of the dungeons for someone to hear him if he called.
"Captain Valendil?" he called again, louder than the first time, and once more all he heard back was his own voice.
His eyes stung as they filled with tears. No, he thought, he would not cry. He was a Prince and Princes were strong and did not cry.
His parents or someone would find him soon. But he had hidden there specifically so that no one would find him, so would anyone think to look down there? His hopes scattered as he realised that if the blood on his temple was dry already, it meant he had been there for a while.
His eyes stung more than ever. "Naneth!" he called desperately as his first tears began to fall. "Ada!" he called again, no longer able to hold back his budding sobs as the sound of his voice came back to him once more. (A/N: "Mother", "Father")
Legolas began crying without restraint, dreaming of being somewhere else, anywhere else.
An eternity seemed to pass by until he heard a sound upstairs. Legolas quickly dried his cheeks with the back of his hand and sniffled one last time before looking up. A second later the sudden light of a torch blinded him and he barely saw the Elf holding it turning round to call.
"He is down here! My Lords, down here!"
Almost instantly Legolas' father appeared next to the Elven guard, his face a mask of worry. The next moment Legolas' mother was at Thranduil's side. As soon as she saw her son her face fell.
"Legolas!" she exclaimed with concern before rushing down the stairs, almost knocking over the guard standing in her way.
"Míriel!" Thranduil implored, worried to see his wife going down the sharp stairs so hurriedly.
Míriel soon reached her son. She knelt next to him and took his face between her hands. "Legolas, nín tithen pen…" she whispered, relief shining brightly in her eyes. (A/N: "My little one")
"Naneth," Legolas greeted, instinctively wrapping his arm around his mother's neck as his eyes filled with tears again. (A/N: "Mother")
"Are you wounded?" she queried softly.
Legolas managed to articulate the words shoulder and ankle between sniffles.
"What happened?" she asked next as she lifted him in her arms.
Legolas snuggled up to his mother and between sobs and sniffles tried to explain what happened while she carried him up the stairs. The result was an incoherent assemblage of barely audible words that probably only a mother could understand.
He was done with his story when they all reached the landing. Legolas sniffled one last time before looking up to the unreadable face of his father with apprehension. The Elven King was probably very displeased with his son.
Thranduil remained silent as he examined Legolas before speaking up. "By the Valar, Legolas, how many times have I told you how dangerous a place this is! You knew you were not allowed to enter the dungeons! And what could possibly possess you to go down there? Your mother and I have been worrying for hours! You could have broken your neck falling down these stairs!"
Legolas recoiled at the harsh tone and snuggled up even closer to his mother as he was on the verge of crying again. "Will I be punished?" he dared in a whisper.
Thranduil took a look at the dishevelled hair, the red eyes, the wet cheeks, the trembling lips, the dangling arm. "I believe being trapped for hours alone in the dark and injured was enough of a punishment already."
Thranduil then frowned and pushed a few strands of hair away on his son's forehead to have a better view of the wound there. "Only a superficial wound," he declared with relief after a few seconds of inspection.
The Elf's hand slowly trailed down Legolas' face until it rested tenderly on his son's cheek. "Eru be blessed you are still in one piece," Thranduil said in a barely audible murmur.
Queen Míriel briefly reminded her husband their son had to be brought to the House of Healing, and Thranduil nodded.
As his mother carried him away, Legolas watched over her shoulder as his father turned towards his men.
"I want this door locked and sealed within an hour. It will then remain that way under all circumstances. That part of the dungeons is no longer in use anyway, and the stairs are way too dangerous." Thranduil paused. "Now I would like to have a word with whoever was supposedly in charge of the dungeons' entrance watch this afternoon."
On their way to the House of Healing Míriel made a detour and entered one of the meeting rooms, assuring him that it would not be long. She then began rummaging in the drawer of a commode.
As Legolas watched over her shoulder again he had a perfect view of his two older brothers, looking at a large map displayed on the table. It seemed they were discussing tactics - or rather Faelernil was explaining tactics while Mîrdolen endured. Faelernil was a young adult, but educated enough to be able to teach the basics of the art of war to his younger brother. As for Mîrdolen he was still a young Elf and, as their father liked to ironically put it, a slightly hyperactive one.
Completely captivated by his older brother's soliloquy, Mîrdolen took a look towards his mother and his younger brother with an expression of absolute boredom painfully engraved on his face.
Mîrdolen frowned at the sight of Legolas' red eyes and pout. Then he smiled mischievously and began making faces at the Elfling. He did not have to wait for long to see the effects: Legolas immediately chuckled and his pout vanished.
"… then the only way is to send troops north to stop their progression. And if you really think I do not see what you are doing in my back, Mîrdolen, you are greatly mistaken."
By the time Faelernil turned to look at his brother Mîrdolen had regained his composure and was looking back at the older Elf with an expression of sheer innocence. Faelernil could only scowl at Mîrdolen for a couple of seconds before turning his attention back to the map.
"As I was saying…" Faelernil started again, clearly annoyed.
Legolas and his mother left the room just as Mîrdolen discreetly winked at him.
* * * * *
The slight smile that had appeared on Legolas' lips at that memory soon faded. He wondered where his brothers were at the moment. He wondered if the fight had already begun. He wondered if they were still all right.
Legolas decided resolutely that he would join them on the battlefield as soon as they would be rid of this creature. In the meantime they would have to take care of all the problems at hand. And hopefully find Gimli alive.
Legolas sighed. He hated this place. He hated what it represented to him. It had always been synonymous of ill events, and not only because of what he had personally lived there. It was no mere fancy if that wing was disused in the first place. Dark events that only the oldest Elves of Mirkwood knew in details had occurred there probably Ages before.
And Legolas hated what that foretold about Gimli's fate. Gimli, his brothers, arguably his father as well… How could one risk to lose most of what he held dear to his heart in so short a time?
"Legolas? Are you all right?" Aragorn asked with concern.
"Let us hurry, shall we?" the Elf answered.
They went on searching until they had almost reached the end of the corridor. At each empty cell their hopes diminished a bit more. It was only when they reached the very last cells that they found what they were looking for.
At the back of one of the cells was a dark form. As Legolas raised his torch in front of him he recognised Gimli. The Dwarf was in a sitting position, his eyes closed, his head slightly tilted to the side, inert. There was a trickle of dry blood on his temple. But Gimli was standing very still, as if…
Oh no, Legolas thought as he felt blood leave his face. They had arrived too late. Gimli was already dead.
Legolas' heart was sinking, filled with despair, when an odd sound came from the Dwarf's direction. Had that been… a snore?? The Elf pricked up his ears… Yes, another snore!
Relieved, elated and suddenly feeling very light-hearted, Legolas burst out laughing.
It seemed the sound of the Elf's laughter waked Gimli up for the Dwarf opened his eyes an instant later. His slightly depressed look turned into a delighted one at the sight of his friends, but before he could say anything Legolas spoke up.
"So it is true," the Elf said, a hint of mischief in his eyes and the slightest smile on his lips. "Dwarves crossing Mirkwood *do* have a tendency to end up in the dungeons."
When Gimli arched an eyebrow Legolas gave an appreciative look around. "I understand. This probably reminds you of your home and you probably feel more comfortable here than among the Court and the pomp of the palace."
Aragorn looked at Legolas with amusement. Funny how the Elf's anxious mood could turn into a humorous one in a matter of seconds.
"I see that some things never change…" Gimli noted with a fake tone of exasperation. "So, my dear companions, are you planning on getting me out of here or will I have to beg you?"
Legolas seemed to ponder the question for a second - undoubtedly in an attempt to annoy his Dwarf friend. "While we had planned on getting you out of here, I suppose some begging could still help," he eventually said.
Aragorn rolled his eyes and decided to go for the cell door himself.
------------------------------
End of chapter eighteen...
I hope you liked this chapter. If you enjoyed it, please click on the review button and leave me a message. No need to listen to a stupid answering machine or to wait for the beep, just leave a few (or many if you feel like it) words. Did you know than only 5 seconds of your time, if used wisely, could make a fanfiction writer's day?
Also, I will probably post the flashback scenes as one separate fiction in a couple of days, so if some of you get author alert, don't get all excited thinking I posted the next chapter of this story... But if you want to get all excited anyway feel free to do so...
Next chapter: Confrontation
MarySuesREvil: First, let me congratulate you for your screen name, I love it! Now, about the details you brought my attention to. (BTW, thanks a million for that!) First about Celeborn leaving Middle-earth with Galadriel. I must have been really, really tired when I wrote this because I *do* know Celeborn remained behind when Galadriel left. I will change that line when I revise the story. Which should happen as soon as I finish it. Anyway thanks for pointing this error out to me. Now about Mirkwood becoming Eryn Lasgalen since the beginning of the 4th Age. Somehow, when I began writing this story, I thought the name change had occurred farther into the 4th Age, like a decade or two after the beginning of the 4th Age. So in my mind this story was set between the two (I had even planned to include, or at least imply, the name change in the epilogue). But a few chapters ago I had a sudden urge to check the dates in the appendixes, and realised my mistake. However I decided to keep going with the name Mirkwood since I had used it from the beginning. Though I also plan to change it to Eryn Lasgalen when I revise the story ;-)
LegolasLover2003: You say that it's been a long time since there was Legolas angst... But he's always been worrying either about his friend(s), his father, his brothers... So from my point of view the angst has never really stopped for him... Anyway I hope you'll find what you're looking for in this chapter with the flashbacks to Legolas' childhood. BTW, thanks for teaching me yet another funny english expression. After "going bananas" (when I came across it by chance the other day while looking up another word in my dictionary I realised it was a real expression), "to have the smarts". I'll have to check this one some day... ;-)
To all the others (who I praise as much as the others) : thank you for spending a few seconds to write your opinion about this story. All your kind words are what makes it all worth it, so please keep them coming ;-)
As always, thanks to Candice who beta'd this chapter and who's being very patient with me...
Now, on with the story!
The Weight of Memories
Legolas came across Aragorn as he was looking for him through the Palace's corridors.
"Aragorn, I know where the creature and Gimli are. And they are not in the same place," the Elf said.
"What do you mean?" Aragorn asked with a frown.
"The creature no longer possesses Gimli," Legolas explained, "but my father."
"King Thranduil? Are you sure?" Aragorn enquired.
"I am afraid I am," Legolas replied with a sad smile.
"But since when did - " Aragorn paused as he realised. "His odd orders, the troops sent west…"
"Aye," Legolas confirmed. "I also have good reasons to believe Gimli is somewhere in the dungeons. We have to go there quickly and retrieve him before it is too late. I know of a way to enter the dungeons unnoticed, I do not think anyone else knows about it. I used it a long time ago but it is probably still accessible."
As Aragorn nodded Niyan came to meet them in a hurry.
"My Lords!" he called, his face pallid.
"Aye, Niyan?" Aragorn greeted. "Where is Ethiannor? You two were supposed to meet me in a few minutes."
Niyan paled even more. "A group of Elves just found him dead, my Lord," he answered in a whisper. "All I know is that he was on something he would not tell me about and wanted us to part ways in order to be more discreet."
Aragorn silently closed his eyes and clenched his fists. "We must put an end to all this quickly," he said mainly directing his words at Legolas. "Enough have lost their lives at the hands of this creature."
Both Legolas and Niyan nodded their agreement, and Aragorn went on. "Then our first priority is to neutralise the creature. Which means searching the dungeons for Gimli comes second," he said looking at Legolas.
"But if Gimli is wounded he might need urgent healing!" Legolas protested.
"Legolas," Aragorn interrupted, "up till now all the creature's former hosts and all those that came in its way were found dead. I am sorry but wherever Gimli is at the moment," he went on with sorrow in his voice, "he is more than likely - "
"He is still alive, I am sure of it!" Legolas insisted heatedly. "I see no reason why we would not have found his body had he been killed. He is hidden there, in custody and with drastic access restrictions because he is still alive and knows. Aragorn, checking the dungeons will only take us a hour or so. The creature has been among us for days, one more hour will not make much difference."
"One hour could make all the difference," Aragorn objected. "How many orders will the creature be able to give through your Lord within a hour? It has already sent three companies and your two brothers to a likely death."
Niyan had not been directly informed about the latest news and had not dared intervene but had soon put one and one together. As for Aragorn he knew he had touched a subject close to Legolas' heart if the Elf's drawn face was any indication.
Legolas hesitated. He hated being torn between his will and his duty. The lives of his people would depend on the decision they made. The choice between his people and his friend was hard to make for the second time that day.
"We could find a way to keep it occupied. To keep it away from both the dungeons where it could find us and from any important decision of any kind," Legolas offered with a hint of hope in his voice.
As Aragorn began shaking his head slowly Legolas decided to give his strategy a more personalised turn.
"If Gimli is still alive we cannot fail him and leave him to stagnate there. When Merry and Pippin were captured by Orcs they were likely to be killed long before we caught up with them but we kept faith and followed the track for days through Rohan to Fangorn forest." Legolas saw in Aragorn's eyes that *he* had touched a subject close to the former Ranger's heart. "When Frodo and Sam went to Mordor alone, no one would have given much of their lives but - "
"All right!" Aragorn exclaimed with the look of one who knew in advance he would not win that argument, while Legolas bore a triumphant smile. "Legolas, you will go to the dungeons while I keep King Thranduil busy."
Legolas' smile instantly faded and he shook his head firmly. "That is absolutely out of the question. You are a King yourself and it would not be wise to tempt the creature now that we know with certitude where - or rather who - it is."
"Then someone else will have to do it," Aragorn concluded.
Niyan perceptibly straightened when both Lords simultaneously turned to him.
"Niyan, if I recall correctly, you used to work on the diplomatic company before becoming a soldier," Aragorn noted. "Is that right?"
"Absolutely my Lord," Niyan confirmed, "three years in Rohan."
"Did you have a change of career because of lack of diplomatic talent?" Aragorn questioned.
"No my Lord, because of personal reasons," the young man replied.
"As you have heard, we need to keep King Thranduil busy for at least one hour. This is a mission of great importance so answer me honestly. Do you think yourself capable of it?"
"I believe so, my Lord," Niyan confirmed. "If I pretend to come in your name he will certainly receive me. From then on I am quite confident I will be able to keep him busy. The diplomat I was associated with in Rohan was quite fond of long debates."
Aragorn nodded. "All right. Make up whatever you wish as long as you keep him in his study and do not raise the creature's suspicion. Do not take any inconsiderate risks. If you feel your life is at stake, withdraw immediately. Did I make myself clear?"
"Yes my Lord," Niyan confirmed.
Aragorn hesitated. "Do you think you would be able to give us two hours?"
"No more trouble than one, my Lord."
Aragorn swiftly followed Legolas through the gardens.
"Are you sure of the way?" the former Ranger enquired.
"Positive," confirmed Legolas.
It was only when they reached the very end of the gardens that Legolas stopped next to a wall covered with ivy. His hand searched the surface for a few seconds until he stilled and smiled.
As he pushed aside a section of ivy a dark recess was revealed. Approximately one yard inside was an opening in the ground.
"What is that?" Aragorn asked.
"A long forgotten aeration system. The back of the dungeons is right below us. All we have to do is go down there. The height is reasonable," Legolas assured.
Aragorn nodded and prepared their torches. As Legolas was about to go down the opening first he enquired: "How do you know about this passage if no one else knows about it?"
Legolas hesitated. "It would be a long story, and we do not have much time. Maybe another day," he offered before disappearing into the opening.
A very young Legolas slid down to the ground and smirked. The others would never find him there. The rules specified they were not supposed to leave the gardens for the palace, but he was not in the palace, was he? Legolas thought with a mischievous smile. This time he would beat them at their own game.
Legolas undertook to get to know the place. He had never been there - his father would have never allowed it. He seemed to be at the very end of a long and dark corridor, and was surprised to discover the place was very poorly lit.
If it was not for the few torches every now and then on the walls, the place would be plunged in complete darkness.
About to explore further, Legolas suddenly froze right on spot, slightly intimidated by the sound of shouts and growls. Where did they all come from? He ventured a look down the corridor. There were cells on both sides and arms sporadically reaching out for the Elven guards. That was not the way he had pictured the dungeons.
Legolas jumped when a growl resounded very close to him. Only then did he realise that only a few yards from him on his right was an inhabited cell. Its occupant was observing him closely while clutching the cell's bars tightly.
Lured by curiosity, Legolas could not help but step closer to examine the creature. Was that an Orc? He had never seen one for real before but he had seen illustrations in books. He had long thought the descriptions were exaggerated but it seemed they were not for he had never seen such an ungraceful being. However the look full of hatred had not been transcribed.
The Orc was still observing him, and as it pressed its face against the bars its eyes narrowed and gleamed with avidity.
Before Legolas knew it the Orc had thrown its arm at him. Legolas barely had the time to feel the Orc's hand on his neck before a strong arm picked him up from behind and pulled him away from the cell.
In retrospect Legolas would realise much later that he had been very close to losing his head that day - literally. But the only thing he would remember from the few seconds that followed was a blurred chaos mixed with growls, someone shouting at the Orc, more growls, until his feet reached the ground again.
Legolas instantly turned round and was somewhat relieved to recognise Valendil, one of his father's Captains.
The older Elf crouched until he was eye level with Legolas and examined him quickly to make sure he was all right.
"This is no place for a child, my young Prince," said Valendil before standing up. "Please allow me to lead you back to the door."
Firmly holding his shoulder and pushing him forward, the Captain did not leave Legolas much choice.
"But this is a great place to hide!" Legolas complained as they walked past more cells.
Valendil frowned and eyed him with a grave look. "Who are you hiding from?"
"The other children!" Legolas replied as though it should have been obvious. "They will never find me here and I will win the game!"
The Captain smiled softly. "Probably, but this is a dangerous place and I will not allow you to stay here. Come on, follow me."
Legolas complied with a disappointed pout.
Legolas and Aragorn silently explored the main level of the dungeon, examining cell after cell carefully. They had started their search from the back end of the dungeons where they had landed, and were now drawing close to the front door, still unsuccessful.
When they eventually reached the front end of the dungeons they could do nothing else than admit their mistake.
Aragorn shook his head sadly. "I suppose you must have been wrong in your assessment. Come on Legolas, we have lost enough time," he concluded as he went for the door. "Legolas?"
But the Elf was no longer listening. He was walking towards the side wall, using his torch to light a concealed door Aragorn had not noticed until then.
"Where does that lead?" Aragorn asked as he moved next to Legolas.
"To a wing of the dungeons that has been disused since long before my birth," the Elf replied.
Aragorn observed his companion as his hand slid down the chink between the door and the wall.
"It is no longer sealed…" Legolas whispered. "It should have been sealed…"
"You have been away from Mirkwood for years, maybe your Lord has had it unsealed during your absence," Aragorn offered.
"I think not," Legolas objected. "He is the one who had it sealed in the first place and he would never have it otherwise under any circumstances."
"Too long a story as well, I suppose?" Aragorn guessed.
Legolas did not answer. Instead he turned the handle and pushed the door open.
"No longer locked either…" he muttered. "There is something wrong here. My Lord would have never allowed access to this part of the dungeons. Unless he was possessed by a certain creature, in which case it did not have access to the too remote memory that explained the forbidding…"
Too long a story indeed, Aragorn gathered. "Then let us go in there," he said aloud.
Legolas nodded. "Forget not your torch, it will be much useful down there," he advised. "And watch your step," he added almost anxiously as he walked through the door.
Aragorn frowned at him before following him down a flight of circular stairs. Why would they need the torches any more there than they already had? He could not imagine the circumstances if this place had been disused since long before the Elf's birth, but Aragorn knew with certitude that Legolas *had* been there before.
Legolas reluctantly kept walking in front of the Captain, the strong hand on his shoulder still pushing him forward, until they were only a few yards from the front door.
Somewhere far behind was a sudden shout followed by some growls. Then the sound of metal clashing and someone calling the Captain with urgency.
Valendil had stopped guiding Legolas and was looking back, listening intently. He eventually urged Legolas towards the door one last time. "Go outside. Now," he ordered hurriedly before turning on his heels. The Elf looked back only once as he moved away to make sure Legolas was obeying, and seemed satisfied to see the Elfling's hand on the door's handle.
But Legolas did not open it for he realised no one was paying him any attention any more, too busy were they taking care of whatever was happening in the back of the dungeons.
If he went out now the others would undoubtedly spot him immediately. Maybe he could find a way to remain hidden in the dungeons without the guards noticing him, he thought as he wondered where that door on the side wall led.
Hesitating no longer, he cast one last look around to make sure no one was watching him before opening the concealed door. As soon as he was inside he slowly and silently closed the door.
His grin of satisfaction soon faded as he realised the room he had just entered was pitch black. Not a single torch to light the place. Which was a good thing in a way: it meant the place was no longer in use and no one would think to look for him in there.
Legolas turned round and leant against the door. If he stayed near the entrance anyone opening it even briefly would see him immediately. No, he should hide further in the dark.
Legolas took a tentative step forward, then a second. Now confident, he went on, his arms probing in front of him so as to feel the opposite wall when he would reach it.
But his hands found none and at his fourth step his foot found no ground either. Surprised and unbalanced, he tripped and fell down a flight of stairs.
As soon as they had reached the bottom of the stairs Legolas had suddenly become extremely silent. Every time Aragorn said something the Elf only answered with nods.
Like the upper level, this one was a long corridor sided with cells, and as they walked past they examined each carefully as they had on the other level.
"Is this wing as large as the main level?" Aragorn queried.
Legolas only shrugged.
Aragorn cast a side look to his friend. Legolas seemed ill-at-ease. Almost shivering.
Legolas shuddered as he inspected another empty cell by the light of his torch. Caves or dark places had never made him especially uncomfortable, but this place was different. It had a strange influence on him, he felt oppressed down there. The echo of their steps and voices in particular made him anxious.
Never would he forget the echo of this place.
When Legolas opened his eyes, he was still in the darkness but feeling extremely sore. His head and shoulders were resting uncomfortably against a wall while his legs were slightly elevated - probably laying on the last steps of the stairs he supposed. It was likely he had lost consciousness, but for how much time he could not tell.
As he tried to straighten into a more comfortable position, he yelped with pain as a sharp ache shot through his right shoulder. After a few other painful attempts at moving it he knew with certainty that it was dislocated.
Legolas lifted the hand of his functioning arm to massage his sore temple but stopped as soon as his fingers touched his skin and found dry blood. Suddenly realising he might have more injuries, he began checking all parts of his body: arms, wrists, chest, legs and - ouch. A twisted ankle as well, he noted.
It must have been quite a fall. Too bad he remembered none of it.
Legolas gave a quick look around, even though there was nothing to see. No single light, not even from the door that had led him there and that he could no longer locate. No stars above him to guide his steps. No trees to whisper him his way. Only darkness.
"Captain Valendil?" he tried as he began panicking slightly, but the only answer he got was the echo of his own voice.
He did not like this echo. It was distorted, unpleasant, and it reminded him that he was trapped there alone, no one knowing where he was.
Legolas tried to stand up slowly, making sure not to aggravate his injuries. He supported himself on the wall, grazing his hand against its rough material, but fell back an instant later. Feeling a bit dizzy, he stood still for a second.
He had to climb these stairs, find that door and get out of there. Legolas turned round carefully and crawled to the stairs. Then he began climbing them laboriously, one after the other, helping himself with one arm and one leg only.
Legolas paused after a few steps to catch his breath. The fall had left him exhausted, and he was not sure he would be able to reach the top. For all he knew there could be several levels between him and the door. Maybe he was too far from the main part of the dungeons for someone to hear him if he called.
"Captain Valendil?" he called again, louder than the first time, and once more all he heard back was his own voice.
His eyes stung as they filled with tears. No, he thought, he would not cry. He was a Prince and Princes were strong and did not cry.
His parents or someone would find him soon. But he had hidden there specifically so that no one would find him, so would anyone think to look down there? His hopes scattered as he realised that if the blood on his temple was dry already, it meant he had been there for a while.
His eyes stung more than ever. "Naneth!" he called desperately as his first tears began to fall. "Ada!" he called again, no longer able to hold back his budding sobs as the sound of his voice came back to him once more. (A/N: "Mother", "Father")
Legolas began crying without restraint, dreaming of being somewhere else, anywhere else.
An eternity seemed to pass by until he heard a sound upstairs. Legolas quickly dried his cheeks with the back of his hand and sniffled one last time before looking up. A second later the sudden light of a torch blinded him and he barely saw the Elf holding it turning round to call.
"He is down here! My Lords, down here!"
Almost instantly Legolas' father appeared next to the Elven guard, his face a mask of worry. The next moment Legolas' mother was at Thranduil's side. As soon as she saw her son her face fell.
"Legolas!" she exclaimed with concern before rushing down the stairs, almost knocking over the guard standing in her way.
"Míriel!" Thranduil implored, worried to see his wife going down the sharp stairs so hurriedly.
Míriel soon reached her son. She knelt next to him and took his face between her hands. "Legolas, nín tithen pen…" she whispered, relief shining brightly in her eyes. (A/N: "My little one")
"Naneth," Legolas greeted, instinctively wrapping his arm around his mother's neck as his eyes filled with tears again. (A/N: "Mother")
"Are you wounded?" she queried softly.
Legolas managed to articulate the words shoulder and ankle between sniffles.
"What happened?" she asked next as she lifted him in her arms.
Legolas snuggled up to his mother and between sobs and sniffles tried to explain what happened while she carried him up the stairs. The result was an incoherent assemblage of barely audible words that probably only a mother could understand.
He was done with his story when they all reached the landing. Legolas sniffled one last time before looking up to the unreadable face of his father with apprehension. The Elven King was probably very displeased with his son.
Thranduil remained silent as he examined Legolas before speaking up. "By the Valar, Legolas, how many times have I told you how dangerous a place this is! You knew you were not allowed to enter the dungeons! And what could possibly possess you to go down there? Your mother and I have been worrying for hours! You could have broken your neck falling down these stairs!"
Legolas recoiled at the harsh tone and snuggled up even closer to his mother as he was on the verge of crying again. "Will I be punished?" he dared in a whisper.
Thranduil took a look at the dishevelled hair, the red eyes, the wet cheeks, the trembling lips, the dangling arm. "I believe being trapped for hours alone in the dark and injured was enough of a punishment already."
Thranduil then frowned and pushed a few strands of hair away on his son's forehead to have a better view of the wound there. "Only a superficial wound," he declared with relief after a few seconds of inspection.
The Elf's hand slowly trailed down Legolas' face until it rested tenderly on his son's cheek. "Eru be blessed you are still in one piece," Thranduil said in a barely audible murmur.
Queen Míriel briefly reminded her husband their son had to be brought to the House of Healing, and Thranduil nodded.
As his mother carried him away, Legolas watched over her shoulder as his father turned towards his men.
"I want this door locked and sealed within an hour. It will then remain that way under all circumstances. That part of the dungeons is no longer in use anyway, and the stairs are way too dangerous." Thranduil paused. "Now I would like to have a word with whoever was supposedly in charge of the dungeons' entrance watch this afternoon."
On their way to the House of Healing Míriel made a detour and entered one of the meeting rooms, assuring him that it would not be long. She then began rummaging in the drawer of a commode.
As Legolas watched over her shoulder again he had a perfect view of his two older brothers, looking at a large map displayed on the table. It seemed they were discussing tactics - or rather Faelernil was explaining tactics while Mîrdolen endured. Faelernil was a young adult, but educated enough to be able to teach the basics of the art of war to his younger brother. As for Mîrdolen he was still a young Elf and, as their father liked to ironically put it, a slightly hyperactive one.
Completely captivated by his older brother's soliloquy, Mîrdolen took a look towards his mother and his younger brother with an expression of absolute boredom painfully engraved on his face.
Mîrdolen frowned at the sight of Legolas' red eyes and pout. Then he smiled mischievously and began making faces at the Elfling. He did not have to wait for long to see the effects: Legolas immediately chuckled and his pout vanished.
"… then the only way is to send troops north to stop their progression. And if you really think I do not see what you are doing in my back, Mîrdolen, you are greatly mistaken."
By the time Faelernil turned to look at his brother Mîrdolen had regained his composure and was looking back at the older Elf with an expression of sheer innocence. Faelernil could only scowl at Mîrdolen for a couple of seconds before turning his attention back to the map.
"As I was saying…" Faelernil started again, clearly annoyed.
Legolas and his mother left the room just as Mîrdolen discreetly winked at him.
The slight smile that had appeared on Legolas' lips at that memory soon faded. He wondered where his brothers were at the moment. He wondered if the fight had already begun. He wondered if they were still all right.
Legolas decided resolutely that he would join them on the battlefield as soon as they would be rid of this creature. In the meantime they would have to take care of all the problems at hand. And hopefully find Gimli alive.
Legolas sighed. He hated this place. He hated what it represented to him. It had always been synonymous of ill events, and not only because of what he had personally lived there. It was no mere fancy if that wing was disused in the first place. Dark events that only the oldest Elves of Mirkwood knew in details had occurred there probably Ages before.
And Legolas hated what that foretold about Gimli's fate. Gimli, his brothers, arguably his father as well… How could one risk to lose most of what he held dear to his heart in so short a time?
"Legolas? Are you all right?" Aragorn asked with concern.
"Let us hurry, shall we?" the Elf answered.
They went on searching until they had almost reached the end of the corridor. At each empty cell their hopes diminished a bit more. It was only when they reached the very last cells that they found what they were looking for.
At the back of one of the cells was a dark form. As Legolas raised his torch in front of him he recognised Gimli. The Dwarf was in a sitting position, his eyes closed, his head slightly tilted to the side, inert. There was a trickle of dry blood on his temple. But Gimli was standing very still, as if…
Oh no, Legolas thought as he felt blood leave his face. They had arrived too late. Gimli was already dead.
Legolas' heart was sinking, filled with despair, when an odd sound came from the Dwarf's direction. Had that been… a snore?? The Elf pricked up his ears… Yes, another snore!
Relieved, elated and suddenly feeling very light-hearted, Legolas burst out laughing.
It seemed the sound of the Elf's laughter waked Gimli up for the Dwarf opened his eyes an instant later. His slightly depressed look turned into a delighted one at the sight of his friends, but before he could say anything Legolas spoke up.
"So it is true," the Elf said, a hint of mischief in his eyes and the slightest smile on his lips. "Dwarves crossing Mirkwood *do* have a tendency to end up in the dungeons."
When Gimli arched an eyebrow Legolas gave an appreciative look around. "I understand. This probably reminds you of your home and you probably feel more comfortable here than among the Court and the pomp of the palace."
Aragorn looked at Legolas with amusement. Funny how the Elf's anxious mood could turn into a humorous one in a matter of seconds.
"I see that some things never change…" Gimli noted with a fake tone of exasperation. "So, my dear companions, are you planning on getting me out of here or will I have to beg you?"
Legolas seemed to ponder the question for a second - undoubtedly in an attempt to annoy his Dwarf friend. "While we had planned on getting you out of here, I suppose some begging could still help," he eventually said.
Aragorn rolled his eyes and decided to go for the cell door himself.
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End of chapter eighteen...
I hope you liked this chapter. If you enjoyed it, please click on the review button and leave me a message. No need to listen to a stupid answering machine or to wait for the beep, just leave a few (or many if you feel like it) words. Did you know than only 5 seconds of your time, if used wisely, could make a fanfiction writer's day?
Also, I will probably post the flashback scenes as one separate fiction in a couple of days, so if some of you get author alert, don't get all excited thinking I posted the next chapter of this story... But if you want to get all excited anyway feel free to do so...
Next chapter: Confrontation