Hello to you all out there in fanfic land! Hope life's treating you well.
Thanks to those that reviewed, and thanks to those who didn't review but
read it anyway. Hope you're enjoying it.
Okay. Some of you might be disappointed in this, but.... This is NOT a Mary- Sue! No lovey-dovey action between Legolas and Ylana. Sorry, but you're talking to the girl who doesn't believe in love. I wouldn't have a clue how to write it. Still, hope you enjoy the rest of the story!!!
Disclaimer: Um.... I'm dead, buried in the ground with worms and other things crawling all over my rotting corpse. Yeah. I'm Tolkien, and they all belong to me. Whatever. Hopefully, by now, you guys know better.
The Silent Prince
Chapter 7: A Promise Made
Legolas had loosed his arrow when the first of the great wolves was still feet away. It caught the beast in the throat, and the wolf sent out a chilling death howl as it crashed to the ground.
It's rider crawled out from under the body, shouting something in his own foul language.
Legolas winced, wishing he could cover his ears as he had at the Council when Gandalf had spoken the Black Language. But to do that would invite death. Instead, he pulled out another arrow and launched it strait into the Orc's black heart.
More Wargs sprang out of the woods, snarling and spitting, their riders shouting and waving their curved scimitars. They wasted no time in attacking the Company.
Aragorn let out a battle cry as the first Warg approached him. Before he could swing his sword, however, an arrow caught the beast in the side, causing it to roar and topple over. A quick glance to his left showed him that Ylana had now joined the fray, much to his delight and relief. Then his attention returned to the battle as the fallen Warg's rider advanced on him with his weapon raised.
The hobbits, their swords out and ready, looked on with terror. Though they had heard the others speak of the wolves of Isengard, this was their first glimpse of them.
The beasts were huge, reaching almost the height of a Man. They wore collars with huge spikes around their necks, and the fires of Isengard burned in their eyes.
"Are we to do nothing?" Frodo cried. "I want to help my friends!"
"Patience, Frodo," Gandalf advised. "Do not be so quick to rush into danger. There are other ways to aid besides swinging your sword!"
The wizard's words did little to ease Frodo's heart, and he continued to watch the battle apprehensively.
Legolas had traded his bow for his knives, preferring to use them in the close confines of this battle. Their white handles flashed in the sun as he ducked, whirled, and drove one of them into the heart of the Warg in front of him. Another slice took care to the Wolf-rider.
~Ha!~ he thought with grim satisfaction. ~That should---~
"Legolas!" came a cry of warning. "Look out!"
The Elf whirled, knives ready, but it was too late. A Warg, having managed to sneak up behind him, lunged forward, its teeth sinking into the young prince's leg.
Legolas cried out in pain as he sank to the ground. He raised his knives, ready to slit the beast's throat.
But he never got the chance. An arrow sailed through the air and struck the beast. A second arrow impaled the Wolf's rider to the ground.
Legolas rose slowly to his feet, wincing at the pain in his mangled leg. He ignored it as best as he could, quickly re-sheathing his knives and once again relying on his bow. He was not out of the fight yet, not while there were still Wargs to be felled. "You will take me so easily, Saruman," he said softly as he readied an arrow.
Frodo breathed out a sigh of relief as he saw the male Elf climb to his feet. Since he could not fight, he had been watching the battle closely and had cried out a warning when he saw the two Wargs circle his friend. ~This must be one of the hosts of Isengard sent by Saruman to capture him,~ he thought, clutching Sting tighter. ~We mustn't let them succeed!~
Ylana waited until she saw Legolas climb to his feet before turning her attention to the next Warg. ~Good. He's okay. He doesn't need to stay on that leg long, though. If he does, he runs the risk of it being permanently damaged. Let's see if I can't speed things up a bit...~
In one swift motion, she slung her bow over her shoulder while reaching for the hilt of Dolinril with her other hand. ~I shall give them a reason to fear us,~ she thought grimly, holding the sword out in front of her.
"Wolf-riders of Isengard," she called in a loud, commanding voice, causing every living thing around to turn to her. "I have a message for your master. Tell him that he deals with a power greater than his own, and that he would do well to leave this Company alone."
For a moment, all were silent. Then the Orcs burst into laughter, the harsh sound raking Ylana sensitive ears. But she did not flinch, continuing to stare at the enemy defiantly.
One Orc, still astride a great wolf, urged his mount forward towards the girl, his weapon raised. He would carry the head of this foolish Elf as a prize to his master. Saruman would be pleased indeed.
Before he could relive her of her head, however, the sword in her hands suddenly burst into flame.
The Warg let out a roar as it came to a sudden halt, nearly throwing its rider. The other great wolves---five in all---did the same. They snarled, spit, and pawed at the ground, but would not come any closer to the Elf and her flaming sword.
A smile twisted Ylana's lips. "You are not supposed to know fear," she taunted. "Well, let me introduce you to her."
As the rest of the Company looked on in amazement, she let the blade drop so that it was pointed strait at the lead Warg. With a softly spoken word, the flames shot from the blade strait at the wolf. It howled as the flames consumed it, toppling the beast to the ground.
This seemed to serve as a signal for the others to attack. Aragorn, Gimli, and Boromir leapt forward as one, their blades flashing in the sun. Legolas let his bow sing, releasing arrow after arrow. Even the hobbits, kept from the fighting by Gandalf, contributed by shouting words of encouragement.
In what seemed like mere seconds, all the Wargs and Orcs lay dead or dying on the ground.
Legolas looked around in satisfaction, breathing hard. He turned to walk to Ylana, to thank her... and promptly fell onto the ground.
He shook his head in confusion as he climbed back to his feet. He brushed himself off, took another step forward... and once again fell. Only, this time there was a sharp pain that spread like fire from his leg up his side to remind him why he couldn't stay on his feet.
Legolas tried to choke back the cry, but it was too late.
"Legolas!" Ylana was at his side in an instant, concern making her eyes shine. Her gaze swept down his leg and she frowned. "Lie still," she said softly, moving to inspect the wound.
The male Elf shook his head and tried once again to rise to his feet. "I-I shall be fine. It is but a small wound, and we should not tarry here."
Ylana gently pushed him back down. "*Lie still*, you stubborn Elf. You will not be traveling anywhere right now, no matter how much you feel the desire to. If we do not tend to your injury now, it will never heal properly and you could be permanently maimed."
Legolas winced at that thought. He could only imagine his brother's reaction if he were to return home with a limp.
/"Ha! You're so pathetic, Legolas. Not only are you attacked by a Warg and have to be saved by a girl, but you've been permanently injured to boot! You're an embarrassment to Father and to me. I should have killed you when I had the chance."/
The prince closed his eyes and lay back, not knowing what to expect. Why was Ylana being so nice to him all of the sudden? And why did it warm his heart so?
Ylana gestured the hobbits over to her. The others of the Company, seeing that their Elven companion was in good hands, had begun the task of piling up the bodies of the Wargs and their riders. "Sam, there's a small pouch in the pack of food that I brought. Can you get it for me? And bring me the roll of cloth, too. Frodo, I'll need you to rip those up for bandages."
Frodo nodded as Sam ran off towards the pony Bill, who was hitched to a nearby tree.
"Merry, I need for you and Pippin to boil me a pot a water."
Both hobbits nodded and left to do their task.
Legolas watched all of this in amusement, trying his best to ignore the pain in his leg. "And what be *my* task, Fair Lady?" He felt strangely lighthearted, all his anger and moodiness gone at the sight of Ylana being concerned for him.
The Elf-maiden smiled down at him. "Your task, dear prince, is to lie still and try not to move, even if you feel as if you'll die if you don't."
Legolas blinked at her. "So, you're telling me that this is going to hurt?"
She sighed. "I *hope* not, but I make no promises. I fear I've nowhere near the skills of Lord Elrond, but I have been trained in the usage of herbs." Her face brightened a bit. "I could put you to sleep. You wouldn't be able to---"
"No!" Quick as lightning, Legolas's hand shot up and snaked around Ylana's wrist. "Please. I will endure even the worst pain that can be afflicted. Just do not send me to Lorien." ~I can't stand the dreams. *He's* always there, taunting me.~ "Let me remain awake."
The concerned look had reappeared on Ylana's face. "Are you sure?"
He nodded vigorously. "Yes. I am sure."
Ylana didn't looked convinced, but she shrugged. "If that is the way you wish it, then so be it."
Legolas gave a nod of thanks as he let go of her wrist and sank back to the ground. As she turned away to prepare the herbs, he closed his eyes and tried to still his wildly beating heart. ~Thank the Maiar she is so understanding. I will suffer through the very fires of Mordor as long as I don't have to hear his voice again.~ An involuntary shudder passed through his body at the thought of his brother's harsh taunts. He only hoped Ylana wouldn't suspect it was anything other than a spasm of pain.
At the sound of approaching footsteps, Legolas opened his eyes again to find Aragorn kneeling at his opposite side. "How are you feeling?" the Man asked softly, concern written all over his face.
Legolas smiled. "I am fine, though my leg keeps trying to tell me otherwise. And Ylana tells me that I may have more unpleasantness in store."
"Indeed you may." Legolas couldn't help but wince at the loud hissing sound that came from the hot water being poured over Ylana's concoction. "Estel, I may need you to hold him down. That leg needs to be kept as immobile as possible."
Aragorn nodded. "Of course. If Legolas permits it."
The Elf's smile widened. "I can think of no one I'd rather have at my side than my dearest friend."
The Ranger blinked, then returned the smile as he gripped Legolas's hand. "Nor can I," he whispered. "Nor can I."
Ylana bade the others to stay back and allow them some room, then once more turned her silver eyes to Legolas. "Are you ready?" she asked softly.
Legolas nodded as he clinched Aragorn's hand and squirmed a bit. There was now a dull ache added to the sharp pain in his leg, and he longed to get up and walk it off. "As ready as I shall ever be."
Ylana nodded, then closed her eyes and placed her hand over her heart. As Legolas watched in curiosity, she began to murmur softly in Elvish. "What is she doing?" he whispered, afraid of disturbing her.
"It's a healing prayer," the Ranger murmured in reply. "I've heard Lord Elrond say them numerous times. I'm not exactly sure what's she's saying--- some of the words are in a dialect I've never heard---but it's supposed to evoke the power and grace of the Valar to assist her and aide you in a swift recovery."
"Oh," the Elf said, blinking. "I hope it works."
Ylana finished her prayer and opened her eyes. "Here we go." With that, she scooped some of the potion up with her fingers and smoothed it onto his wound.
The Elf ground his teeth and squeezed his eyes shut at the intense burning sensation, but let no cry escape his lips. ~I am strong,~ he thought fiercely. ~At least I am among friends who care about me.~
Another wave of pain washed over him. Legolas nearly crushed his friend's hand, but still made no sound. Aragorn was whispering comforting words to him while Ylana profusely apologized. But he hardly heard them.
~They really do care for me. Even though I've given them no reason to, they still care. By the Valar, how did I get blessed with such wonderful friends?~
It did not last much longer. Ylana finished tying the last bandage and sat back to survey her handiwork, looking pleased. "I believe it is safe to say that you will live, Master Legolas," she said with a smile. "Already your leg is healing. I do believe you can even walk without much more than a sliver of pain."
With help from Aragorn, Legolas sat up. With wonder, he realized that Ylana's words were true. Only a dull ache remained were only minutes ago there had been nearly-unbearable pain. He turned to her with eyes full of awe. "My deepest thanks, Lady Ylana."
Her smile widened. "No thanks are needed. I'd do anything for a friend." Then she turned to Gandalf, her face becoming serious. "And walk we must, Mithrandir. For I fear that these Wargs were merely scouts. Were they to return without Legolas, or fail to return at all, then a second, more powerful force was to be sent in."
The wizard shook his head. "Though I fear you may be right, we will go no further tonight."
"But---"
Gandalf lifted his hand, and the Elf immediately fell silent. "I am not without good reason. You were correct earlier when you said that we were entering a dangerous part of the forest. It is a place I do not wish to travel at night and already it grows late. If the Orcs are to come, I'd rather fight them here where it will simply be us against them. If they catch us deeper in the forest, then we will have many things besides Orcs after us."
For a long moment, Ylana simply stood there. Though she looked at ease, the others knew that she was contemplating the wizard's suggestion and weighing it against what she believed was right.
Finally, she gave a curt nod. "We shall rest here tonight as you say, Mithrandir. But I shall keep watch."
Though the idea of an Orc attack was scary, the Road-weary Company--- especially the hobbits---were only too happy at the chance for some extra sleep. Only Ylana remained tense and alert, watching the forest around them warily as the other sat up camp.
Legolas swore that he was able to help and, after much protesting from Aragorn, finally convinced the Ranger to help him stand. He wobbled a bit on his first step, but was soon walking around with barely more than a limp.
Aragorn watched him apprehensively for a moment. When he was sure the Elf was fine and wasn't about to fall over, he joined Boromir in the search for firewood.
~Amazing how much better I feel,~ Legolas thought as he searched for Ylana. ~My friends aren't mad at me, my leg's going to be fine, and we've sent Saruman the message that we are not to be messed with. I only hope that Ylana is wrong about the Orc's attacking. I don't know if I've got enough energy left to fight them off. Not now. I've hardly slept since we left Rivendell... By the Valar, where *is* she?~
A slight rustling of leaves and the sound of a boot scraping bark caused the prince to look up. Shielding his eyes with one long, slender hand, he could just make out Ylana standing on one of the topmost branches of the tree that towered above him.
He had to smile. "It seems as though I am not the only one who enjoys sleeping in trees," he called softly, knowing full well that she could hear him.
There was more rustling of leaves as Ylana nimbly leapt from tree branch to tree branch, finally landing on the ground in front of him.
Legolas's smile widened. "So, do you agree that trees are worthwhile companions?"
Ylana's far off look told the male Elf that she hadn't heard a word he had just said. "Ylana?"
She blinked as if only just realizing that he was there. "Forgive me, my liege. I wasn't---I was lost in thought."
Legolas felt his heart sink and his smile vanished. "I thought we were back on a first name basis," he said softly.
She sighed and gave him a smile. "You're right. My apologies, Legolas. It's just... I feel that there is more of Saruman's army out there, just waiting to attack. These woods are full of evil. I'm just trying to find a suitable lookout. That's why I was in the tree. There will be no sleep for me tonight."
"And did you find the tree acceptable?"
"Indeed I did." She paused. "Legolas, I'm sorry for invading your privacy. I know what a sacred thing that is, but I was worried for you. I promise I won't do it again. Unless you start acting very strangely..." Here her eyes glittered.
He laughed, causing the rest of the Company to smile. It had been awhile since the Elf had truly laughed, and it lifted everyone's heart to hear that musical sound.
"If that is the case, then you may be in my mind a bit", he said teasingly. "For you will find that I am quite a strange creature."
"Then I am in good company." Another pause. "So. Am I forgiven?"
Legolas gave her a bow. "All is forgiven...if you will forgive me for being so short with you and Estel."
Ylana waved her hand in a dismissive gesture. "There is nothing to forgive. You were upset, and we were not helping matters much."
Legolas nodded. "Good. Now that we are friends again, perhaps you would allow me to join you and speak with you."
She gave him a smile as she headed deeper into the forest. "You need not ask, Legolas. I always enjoy your company. Besides, I can keep a better eye on you this way."
He lifted an eyebrow. "What? Now I'm some fragile piece of pottery that bears constant surveillance? You do wonders for my pride, Ylana."
She shook her head. "I never said anything of the like, Legolas," she said softly. "We've already been attacked by Wargs, no doubt sent to retrieve you. Unless I am mistaken---and I pray to Iluvatar that I am---there are more Orcs out there, ready to attack. If I keep you close at hand, then they will not be able to get at you so easily. I know, quite well, that you are not fragile. Except, perhaps, in your trust."
The prince stopped and blinked at his companion. But she just smiled and continued walking. "Come! What is it you wish to speak with me of? We have time before darkness falls. Then you must rest, for I see that you are weary."
He nodded as he hurried to catch up with her. "Indeed I am. But I would forgo my rest in order to speak with you."
Again Ylana stopped and turned to him, her eyes searching his face questioningly. "What is so important that it cannot wait, Legolas? What do you wish to tell me?"
"I wanted to thank you for helping me, and for being concerned for my well- being."
She offered him a smile. "You are my friend, Legolas. I am simply doing what any good friend would."
He gave her a sad smile. "You'd be surprised."
Ylana's smile turned into a frown. "What do you mean?"
The blond Elf checked to see if they were far enough away from the camp to be out of earshot before turning back to his companion. "Have you ever been betrayed, Ylana?" he asked softly, his eyes full of hidden pain. 'Especially by someone who had been close to you your entire life? It is one of the worst feelings you can experience. It can scar you for life..." He trailed off, not trusting himself to continue, and wondered if he'd said too much.
~So *that's* what happened to him.~ "Believe it or not, I know something of the feeling," she said just as softly, turning to stare off into the forest. But Legolas knew that she was looking at something much further away. "Though I suspect my betrayal is a bit different than yours."
"Why do you say that?"
"My family's dead," she answered, still not looking at him. "Mother, Father, brother. All killed by Orcs. Arwen's been my best friend all my life. She means the world to me. When I became a warrior, I swore to look after her. To protect her forever. Even in the Undying Lands. A life-debt, if you will. When she became engaged to Aragorn... I nearly lost it. All I could think of was the Undying Lands. Arwen had forsaken her immortality, meaning that she would stay in Middle-Earth and die. I, however, would travel to the Undying Lands and spend eternity alone. No family, no close friends. Only if I die and journey to the Hall of Mandos will I be able to see those I care about again." A lone tear fell from her eyes, and she angrily brushed it away. "A betrayal of the heart," she whispered. "I loved them all, and they left me to spend eternity alone."
Legolas felt his heart go out to the female Elf as he watched her angrily fight back tears. ~She understands,~ he thought. ~I thought no one could ever understand, but she does.~
He reached out and gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Ylana," he said, turning her around so that he could stare deeply into her eyes. "*I'll* be there for you, in the Undying Lands. I promise."
She looked up at him, finally allowing her tears to fall freely. But she managed a smile. "Thank you," she managed to whisper. "Thank you so much."
"You're welcome," he whispered back, pulling her close.
Legolas knew then that he loved her. Oh, it was not the kind of love that Aragorn shared with Arwen. The kind that Galadriel shared with Celeborn, though he had no doubt it could easily turn to that. This was the kind of love that was shared only by close friends, the kind that would gladly die for the other.
He smiled. Though it was not quite in the way that he had expected, he knew he had found the one he wanted to spend eternity with.
After a moment or two, Ylana let out a sigh and pulled away. "I'm sorry," she said, wiping her eyes. "I usually don't break down like that.":
Legolas smiled. "'Tis all right, Fair Lady. That's what I'm here for."
"For which I am thankful." She shook her head. "What am I doing? It's late. You need rest, and I need to be in a tree."
"I guess." He looked back towards the camp, an uneasy look on his face.
The female Elf gave him a knowing grin. "Don't worry. I'm sure Lorien will be kind to you tonight."
"I hope you are right." He gave her a bow. "Good night, mellon-nin." (1)
"Good night, Legolas."
The prince nodded one last time, then turned to walk back to camp. He'd only taken a few steps when he turned back around, another question on his lips.
But Ylana was already gone.
(1)Mellon-nin---------------------my friend
Okay. Some of you might be disappointed in this, but.... This is NOT a Mary- Sue! No lovey-dovey action between Legolas and Ylana. Sorry, but you're talking to the girl who doesn't believe in love. I wouldn't have a clue how to write it. Still, hope you enjoy the rest of the story!!!
Disclaimer: Um.... I'm dead, buried in the ground with worms and other things crawling all over my rotting corpse. Yeah. I'm Tolkien, and they all belong to me. Whatever. Hopefully, by now, you guys know better.
The Silent Prince
Chapter 7: A Promise Made
Legolas had loosed his arrow when the first of the great wolves was still feet away. It caught the beast in the throat, and the wolf sent out a chilling death howl as it crashed to the ground.
It's rider crawled out from under the body, shouting something in his own foul language.
Legolas winced, wishing he could cover his ears as he had at the Council when Gandalf had spoken the Black Language. But to do that would invite death. Instead, he pulled out another arrow and launched it strait into the Orc's black heart.
More Wargs sprang out of the woods, snarling and spitting, their riders shouting and waving their curved scimitars. They wasted no time in attacking the Company.
Aragorn let out a battle cry as the first Warg approached him. Before he could swing his sword, however, an arrow caught the beast in the side, causing it to roar and topple over. A quick glance to his left showed him that Ylana had now joined the fray, much to his delight and relief. Then his attention returned to the battle as the fallen Warg's rider advanced on him with his weapon raised.
The hobbits, their swords out and ready, looked on with terror. Though they had heard the others speak of the wolves of Isengard, this was their first glimpse of them.
The beasts were huge, reaching almost the height of a Man. They wore collars with huge spikes around their necks, and the fires of Isengard burned in their eyes.
"Are we to do nothing?" Frodo cried. "I want to help my friends!"
"Patience, Frodo," Gandalf advised. "Do not be so quick to rush into danger. There are other ways to aid besides swinging your sword!"
The wizard's words did little to ease Frodo's heart, and he continued to watch the battle apprehensively.
Legolas had traded his bow for his knives, preferring to use them in the close confines of this battle. Their white handles flashed in the sun as he ducked, whirled, and drove one of them into the heart of the Warg in front of him. Another slice took care to the Wolf-rider.
~Ha!~ he thought with grim satisfaction. ~That should---~
"Legolas!" came a cry of warning. "Look out!"
The Elf whirled, knives ready, but it was too late. A Warg, having managed to sneak up behind him, lunged forward, its teeth sinking into the young prince's leg.
Legolas cried out in pain as he sank to the ground. He raised his knives, ready to slit the beast's throat.
But he never got the chance. An arrow sailed through the air and struck the beast. A second arrow impaled the Wolf's rider to the ground.
Legolas rose slowly to his feet, wincing at the pain in his mangled leg. He ignored it as best as he could, quickly re-sheathing his knives and once again relying on his bow. He was not out of the fight yet, not while there were still Wargs to be felled. "You will take me so easily, Saruman," he said softly as he readied an arrow.
Frodo breathed out a sigh of relief as he saw the male Elf climb to his feet. Since he could not fight, he had been watching the battle closely and had cried out a warning when he saw the two Wargs circle his friend. ~This must be one of the hosts of Isengard sent by Saruman to capture him,~ he thought, clutching Sting tighter. ~We mustn't let them succeed!~
Ylana waited until she saw Legolas climb to his feet before turning her attention to the next Warg. ~Good. He's okay. He doesn't need to stay on that leg long, though. If he does, he runs the risk of it being permanently damaged. Let's see if I can't speed things up a bit...~
In one swift motion, she slung her bow over her shoulder while reaching for the hilt of Dolinril with her other hand. ~I shall give them a reason to fear us,~ she thought grimly, holding the sword out in front of her.
"Wolf-riders of Isengard," she called in a loud, commanding voice, causing every living thing around to turn to her. "I have a message for your master. Tell him that he deals with a power greater than his own, and that he would do well to leave this Company alone."
For a moment, all were silent. Then the Orcs burst into laughter, the harsh sound raking Ylana sensitive ears. But she did not flinch, continuing to stare at the enemy defiantly.
One Orc, still astride a great wolf, urged his mount forward towards the girl, his weapon raised. He would carry the head of this foolish Elf as a prize to his master. Saruman would be pleased indeed.
Before he could relive her of her head, however, the sword in her hands suddenly burst into flame.
The Warg let out a roar as it came to a sudden halt, nearly throwing its rider. The other great wolves---five in all---did the same. They snarled, spit, and pawed at the ground, but would not come any closer to the Elf and her flaming sword.
A smile twisted Ylana's lips. "You are not supposed to know fear," she taunted. "Well, let me introduce you to her."
As the rest of the Company looked on in amazement, she let the blade drop so that it was pointed strait at the lead Warg. With a softly spoken word, the flames shot from the blade strait at the wolf. It howled as the flames consumed it, toppling the beast to the ground.
This seemed to serve as a signal for the others to attack. Aragorn, Gimli, and Boromir leapt forward as one, their blades flashing in the sun. Legolas let his bow sing, releasing arrow after arrow. Even the hobbits, kept from the fighting by Gandalf, contributed by shouting words of encouragement.
In what seemed like mere seconds, all the Wargs and Orcs lay dead or dying on the ground.
Legolas looked around in satisfaction, breathing hard. He turned to walk to Ylana, to thank her... and promptly fell onto the ground.
He shook his head in confusion as he climbed back to his feet. He brushed himself off, took another step forward... and once again fell. Only, this time there was a sharp pain that spread like fire from his leg up his side to remind him why he couldn't stay on his feet.
Legolas tried to choke back the cry, but it was too late.
"Legolas!" Ylana was at his side in an instant, concern making her eyes shine. Her gaze swept down his leg and she frowned. "Lie still," she said softly, moving to inspect the wound.
The male Elf shook his head and tried once again to rise to his feet. "I-I shall be fine. It is but a small wound, and we should not tarry here."
Ylana gently pushed him back down. "*Lie still*, you stubborn Elf. You will not be traveling anywhere right now, no matter how much you feel the desire to. If we do not tend to your injury now, it will never heal properly and you could be permanently maimed."
Legolas winced at that thought. He could only imagine his brother's reaction if he were to return home with a limp.
/"Ha! You're so pathetic, Legolas. Not only are you attacked by a Warg and have to be saved by a girl, but you've been permanently injured to boot! You're an embarrassment to Father and to me. I should have killed you when I had the chance."/
The prince closed his eyes and lay back, not knowing what to expect. Why was Ylana being so nice to him all of the sudden? And why did it warm his heart so?
Ylana gestured the hobbits over to her. The others of the Company, seeing that their Elven companion was in good hands, had begun the task of piling up the bodies of the Wargs and their riders. "Sam, there's a small pouch in the pack of food that I brought. Can you get it for me? And bring me the roll of cloth, too. Frodo, I'll need you to rip those up for bandages."
Frodo nodded as Sam ran off towards the pony Bill, who was hitched to a nearby tree.
"Merry, I need for you and Pippin to boil me a pot a water."
Both hobbits nodded and left to do their task.
Legolas watched all of this in amusement, trying his best to ignore the pain in his leg. "And what be *my* task, Fair Lady?" He felt strangely lighthearted, all his anger and moodiness gone at the sight of Ylana being concerned for him.
The Elf-maiden smiled down at him. "Your task, dear prince, is to lie still and try not to move, even if you feel as if you'll die if you don't."
Legolas blinked at her. "So, you're telling me that this is going to hurt?"
She sighed. "I *hope* not, but I make no promises. I fear I've nowhere near the skills of Lord Elrond, but I have been trained in the usage of herbs." Her face brightened a bit. "I could put you to sleep. You wouldn't be able to---"
"No!" Quick as lightning, Legolas's hand shot up and snaked around Ylana's wrist. "Please. I will endure even the worst pain that can be afflicted. Just do not send me to Lorien." ~I can't stand the dreams. *He's* always there, taunting me.~ "Let me remain awake."
The concerned look had reappeared on Ylana's face. "Are you sure?"
He nodded vigorously. "Yes. I am sure."
Ylana didn't looked convinced, but she shrugged. "If that is the way you wish it, then so be it."
Legolas gave a nod of thanks as he let go of her wrist and sank back to the ground. As she turned away to prepare the herbs, he closed his eyes and tried to still his wildly beating heart. ~Thank the Maiar she is so understanding. I will suffer through the very fires of Mordor as long as I don't have to hear his voice again.~ An involuntary shudder passed through his body at the thought of his brother's harsh taunts. He only hoped Ylana wouldn't suspect it was anything other than a spasm of pain.
At the sound of approaching footsteps, Legolas opened his eyes again to find Aragorn kneeling at his opposite side. "How are you feeling?" the Man asked softly, concern written all over his face.
Legolas smiled. "I am fine, though my leg keeps trying to tell me otherwise. And Ylana tells me that I may have more unpleasantness in store."
"Indeed you may." Legolas couldn't help but wince at the loud hissing sound that came from the hot water being poured over Ylana's concoction. "Estel, I may need you to hold him down. That leg needs to be kept as immobile as possible."
Aragorn nodded. "Of course. If Legolas permits it."
The Elf's smile widened. "I can think of no one I'd rather have at my side than my dearest friend."
The Ranger blinked, then returned the smile as he gripped Legolas's hand. "Nor can I," he whispered. "Nor can I."
Ylana bade the others to stay back and allow them some room, then once more turned her silver eyes to Legolas. "Are you ready?" she asked softly.
Legolas nodded as he clinched Aragorn's hand and squirmed a bit. There was now a dull ache added to the sharp pain in his leg, and he longed to get up and walk it off. "As ready as I shall ever be."
Ylana nodded, then closed her eyes and placed her hand over her heart. As Legolas watched in curiosity, she began to murmur softly in Elvish. "What is she doing?" he whispered, afraid of disturbing her.
"It's a healing prayer," the Ranger murmured in reply. "I've heard Lord Elrond say them numerous times. I'm not exactly sure what's she's saying--- some of the words are in a dialect I've never heard---but it's supposed to evoke the power and grace of the Valar to assist her and aide you in a swift recovery."
"Oh," the Elf said, blinking. "I hope it works."
Ylana finished her prayer and opened her eyes. "Here we go." With that, she scooped some of the potion up with her fingers and smoothed it onto his wound.
The Elf ground his teeth and squeezed his eyes shut at the intense burning sensation, but let no cry escape his lips. ~I am strong,~ he thought fiercely. ~At least I am among friends who care about me.~
Another wave of pain washed over him. Legolas nearly crushed his friend's hand, but still made no sound. Aragorn was whispering comforting words to him while Ylana profusely apologized. But he hardly heard them.
~They really do care for me. Even though I've given them no reason to, they still care. By the Valar, how did I get blessed with such wonderful friends?~
It did not last much longer. Ylana finished tying the last bandage and sat back to survey her handiwork, looking pleased. "I believe it is safe to say that you will live, Master Legolas," she said with a smile. "Already your leg is healing. I do believe you can even walk without much more than a sliver of pain."
With help from Aragorn, Legolas sat up. With wonder, he realized that Ylana's words were true. Only a dull ache remained were only minutes ago there had been nearly-unbearable pain. He turned to her with eyes full of awe. "My deepest thanks, Lady Ylana."
Her smile widened. "No thanks are needed. I'd do anything for a friend." Then she turned to Gandalf, her face becoming serious. "And walk we must, Mithrandir. For I fear that these Wargs were merely scouts. Were they to return without Legolas, or fail to return at all, then a second, more powerful force was to be sent in."
The wizard shook his head. "Though I fear you may be right, we will go no further tonight."
"But---"
Gandalf lifted his hand, and the Elf immediately fell silent. "I am not without good reason. You were correct earlier when you said that we were entering a dangerous part of the forest. It is a place I do not wish to travel at night and already it grows late. If the Orcs are to come, I'd rather fight them here where it will simply be us against them. If they catch us deeper in the forest, then we will have many things besides Orcs after us."
For a long moment, Ylana simply stood there. Though she looked at ease, the others knew that she was contemplating the wizard's suggestion and weighing it against what she believed was right.
Finally, she gave a curt nod. "We shall rest here tonight as you say, Mithrandir. But I shall keep watch."
Though the idea of an Orc attack was scary, the Road-weary Company--- especially the hobbits---were only too happy at the chance for some extra sleep. Only Ylana remained tense and alert, watching the forest around them warily as the other sat up camp.
Legolas swore that he was able to help and, after much protesting from Aragorn, finally convinced the Ranger to help him stand. He wobbled a bit on his first step, but was soon walking around with barely more than a limp.
Aragorn watched him apprehensively for a moment. When he was sure the Elf was fine and wasn't about to fall over, he joined Boromir in the search for firewood.
~Amazing how much better I feel,~ Legolas thought as he searched for Ylana. ~My friends aren't mad at me, my leg's going to be fine, and we've sent Saruman the message that we are not to be messed with. I only hope that Ylana is wrong about the Orc's attacking. I don't know if I've got enough energy left to fight them off. Not now. I've hardly slept since we left Rivendell... By the Valar, where *is* she?~
A slight rustling of leaves and the sound of a boot scraping bark caused the prince to look up. Shielding his eyes with one long, slender hand, he could just make out Ylana standing on one of the topmost branches of the tree that towered above him.
He had to smile. "It seems as though I am not the only one who enjoys sleeping in trees," he called softly, knowing full well that she could hear him.
There was more rustling of leaves as Ylana nimbly leapt from tree branch to tree branch, finally landing on the ground in front of him.
Legolas's smile widened. "So, do you agree that trees are worthwhile companions?"
Ylana's far off look told the male Elf that she hadn't heard a word he had just said. "Ylana?"
She blinked as if only just realizing that he was there. "Forgive me, my liege. I wasn't---I was lost in thought."
Legolas felt his heart sink and his smile vanished. "I thought we were back on a first name basis," he said softly.
She sighed and gave him a smile. "You're right. My apologies, Legolas. It's just... I feel that there is more of Saruman's army out there, just waiting to attack. These woods are full of evil. I'm just trying to find a suitable lookout. That's why I was in the tree. There will be no sleep for me tonight."
"And did you find the tree acceptable?"
"Indeed I did." She paused. "Legolas, I'm sorry for invading your privacy. I know what a sacred thing that is, but I was worried for you. I promise I won't do it again. Unless you start acting very strangely..." Here her eyes glittered.
He laughed, causing the rest of the Company to smile. It had been awhile since the Elf had truly laughed, and it lifted everyone's heart to hear that musical sound.
"If that is the case, then you may be in my mind a bit", he said teasingly. "For you will find that I am quite a strange creature."
"Then I am in good company." Another pause. "So. Am I forgiven?"
Legolas gave her a bow. "All is forgiven...if you will forgive me for being so short with you and Estel."
Ylana waved her hand in a dismissive gesture. "There is nothing to forgive. You were upset, and we were not helping matters much."
Legolas nodded. "Good. Now that we are friends again, perhaps you would allow me to join you and speak with you."
She gave him a smile as she headed deeper into the forest. "You need not ask, Legolas. I always enjoy your company. Besides, I can keep a better eye on you this way."
He lifted an eyebrow. "What? Now I'm some fragile piece of pottery that bears constant surveillance? You do wonders for my pride, Ylana."
She shook her head. "I never said anything of the like, Legolas," she said softly. "We've already been attacked by Wargs, no doubt sent to retrieve you. Unless I am mistaken---and I pray to Iluvatar that I am---there are more Orcs out there, ready to attack. If I keep you close at hand, then they will not be able to get at you so easily. I know, quite well, that you are not fragile. Except, perhaps, in your trust."
The prince stopped and blinked at his companion. But she just smiled and continued walking. "Come! What is it you wish to speak with me of? We have time before darkness falls. Then you must rest, for I see that you are weary."
He nodded as he hurried to catch up with her. "Indeed I am. But I would forgo my rest in order to speak with you."
Again Ylana stopped and turned to him, her eyes searching his face questioningly. "What is so important that it cannot wait, Legolas? What do you wish to tell me?"
"I wanted to thank you for helping me, and for being concerned for my well- being."
She offered him a smile. "You are my friend, Legolas. I am simply doing what any good friend would."
He gave her a sad smile. "You'd be surprised."
Ylana's smile turned into a frown. "What do you mean?"
The blond Elf checked to see if they were far enough away from the camp to be out of earshot before turning back to his companion. "Have you ever been betrayed, Ylana?" he asked softly, his eyes full of hidden pain. 'Especially by someone who had been close to you your entire life? It is one of the worst feelings you can experience. It can scar you for life..." He trailed off, not trusting himself to continue, and wondered if he'd said too much.
~So *that's* what happened to him.~ "Believe it or not, I know something of the feeling," she said just as softly, turning to stare off into the forest. But Legolas knew that she was looking at something much further away. "Though I suspect my betrayal is a bit different than yours."
"Why do you say that?"
"My family's dead," she answered, still not looking at him. "Mother, Father, brother. All killed by Orcs. Arwen's been my best friend all my life. She means the world to me. When I became a warrior, I swore to look after her. To protect her forever. Even in the Undying Lands. A life-debt, if you will. When she became engaged to Aragorn... I nearly lost it. All I could think of was the Undying Lands. Arwen had forsaken her immortality, meaning that she would stay in Middle-Earth and die. I, however, would travel to the Undying Lands and spend eternity alone. No family, no close friends. Only if I die and journey to the Hall of Mandos will I be able to see those I care about again." A lone tear fell from her eyes, and she angrily brushed it away. "A betrayal of the heart," she whispered. "I loved them all, and they left me to spend eternity alone."
Legolas felt his heart go out to the female Elf as he watched her angrily fight back tears. ~She understands,~ he thought. ~I thought no one could ever understand, but she does.~
He reached out and gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Ylana," he said, turning her around so that he could stare deeply into her eyes. "*I'll* be there for you, in the Undying Lands. I promise."
She looked up at him, finally allowing her tears to fall freely. But she managed a smile. "Thank you," she managed to whisper. "Thank you so much."
"You're welcome," he whispered back, pulling her close.
Legolas knew then that he loved her. Oh, it was not the kind of love that Aragorn shared with Arwen. The kind that Galadriel shared with Celeborn, though he had no doubt it could easily turn to that. This was the kind of love that was shared only by close friends, the kind that would gladly die for the other.
He smiled. Though it was not quite in the way that he had expected, he knew he had found the one he wanted to spend eternity with.
After a moment or two, Ylana let out a sigh and pulled away. "I'm sorry," she said, wiping her eyes. "I usually don't break down like that.":
Legolas smiled. "'Tis all right, Fair Lady. That's what I'm here for."
"For which I am thankful." She shook her head. "What am I doing? It's late. You need rest, and I need to be in a tree."
"I guess." He looked back towards the camp, an uneasy look on his face.
The female Elf gave him a knowing grin. "Don't worry. I'm sure Lorien will be kind to you tonight."
"I hope you are right." He gave her a bow. "Good night, mellon-nin." (1)
"Good night, Legolas."
The prince nodded one last time, then turned to walk back to camp. He'd only taken a few steps when he turned back around, another question on his lips.
But Ylana was already gone.
(1)Mellon-nin---------------------my friend