Disclaimer: I don't own any of this. Not even the quotes.

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Passion makes the world go round. Love just makes it a safer place.
Ice T, The Ice Opinion

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Rivendell. She sighed with relief. Soon she would have a proper hot bath, hot food and a soft warm bed to herself. The only drawback to this arrangement was Legolas would go his own way as well. The thought bothered her more than she wanted to admit. After confessing her feelings for him, she feared he would pull away from her or worse, back her into a corner. He did neither but in his own subtle way let her know that he felt the same and was willing to see where it led.

Pity that adventure had to be put on hold until after they reported to Elrond.

Legolas smiled as Rivendell came into view. As much as he loved the land, he needed the peace and beauty of the place to make him feel completely at ease. He was hoping that the dreamy atmosphere of the place would convince her to remain there for a while with him. There were so many things he wanted to ask her and to tell her. But his duty to Elrond was foremost in his mind. Once that was completed, he would be free to pursue other matters with her.

A smirking Haldir met them at the gate. "My, my," he mused evilly as he eyed Legolas' dirty clothing. "Aren't we a sight? Looks like you haven't even bothered to comb your hair while you've been out."

Legolas scowled darkly with annoyance and Annowe put a restraining arm on his. "You'd best remember who you are addressing, elfling!" she snapped irritably. "This is the Prince of Mirkwood."

Haldir's bright eyes narrowed at her. He dared not insult one of Ulmo's daughters, as much as he would like to. Instead, he gave Legolas a disdainful look, turned on his heel and marched off.

"Arrogant bastard," she grumbled.

"Agreed," Legolas replied as he began walking down the hall.

"Figures we would run into HIM first off," she sighed as they turned the corner to Elrond's meeting room.

"Step," he reminded her just in time.

She hopped over it. "I know that wasn't there the last time I was here," she muttered darkly, looking back at the offending marble.

"That's because the last time you were here, this room did not exist," Elrond replied drolly as he rose from the window seat and walked toward them.

Legolas grinned at her as he greeted the elf. Annowe laughed.

"I do believe you are correct," she admitted and kissed Elrond on each cheek in greeting.

"Now, would you like some refreshments before we begin?" he asked.

"Oh, yes! Can I have some sweet fruits?" Annowe asked eagerly. "Those are my favorite!"

Elrond smiled indulgently and motioned to a page to bring them fruit, bread and water. The three of them discussed their findings over their small feast.

"Master Elrond," Annowe finally asked, unable to contain her curiosity any longer now that her stomach was full. "Is it true that The One Ring has been found?"

Elrond sighed and rose from his chair, returning to the window and gazing out to the garden below. There was no point in trying to keep it quiet any longer, he realized.

"Yes," he said quietly.

She swore. Legolas drew in a sharp breath and looked at her nervously. No one swore like that around Elrond.

He turned to face them both.

"Legolas, you may leave us now," Elrond made it more of a command than a request. Legolas was only too happy to make a hasty exit as he could see Annowe's temper beginning to rise.

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