From Fog to Starlight
6 / ?
***
Bright sun crept under the heavy drapes in the healing room, spilling light onto the tiles. Legolas noted the contrast of the rays on the floor to the rest of the room's darkness and once again was grateful for elven sight. Even in the dimness, he could see the fine details of the carvings in the room. His eyes moved to find a figure sitting in a nearby chair. "Elladan?"
A smile met his. "Good morning. You look much better today, how are you feeling?"
Legolas quickly took an internal inventory. He noted the nightshirt now covering his body. Ready access to the bandages was no longer needed; it was a good sign. "My head feels much better, as does my shoulder."
Nodding, Elladan stood and approached the bed. "You've rested for more than two days. The herbs ada has given you seem to be working on all of the injuries expect for the wound on your leg. The poison in that is still challenging us – but we shall not be defeated." Pausing, he rose and gestured to the window. "Are you ready for a bit of sunlight?"
Smiling back, Legolas shifted and nodded. He watched as the drapes opened to show a fine early spring day. There was still a nip of chill in the air, but the trees were showing their first buds and Legolas took great comfort in limited view from his bed.
He felt something brush his mind and shifted his attention from the arched windows to the door. He noted Elladan turning toward the door in confusion. Moments later, Elrond entered, followed by another, who was carrying a tray of food.
"Good morning." After a quick perusal, Elrond's smile reached his eyes, making them twinkle at Legolas. He offered thanks to "Erestor" as the elf set the tray on a table close to the sick bed. A polite introduction to Erestor, one of the lord's advisors, followed.
The scent of the food pulled at Legolas, and he found himself genuinely hungry for the first time in days. The pleasant aromas were encouraging to his stomach, rather than a challenge, and he rose up on the bed to peer at the tray.
Elrond moved toward the bed in case assistance was required, but Legolas was pleased to find his arm muscles strong and responsive; his shoulder was healing. Elrond stacked pillows behind him and he sank into the comfortable support. He watched as Elladan gave a quick report of his improving condition to his adar, then took his leave with Erestor.
Placing the tray on Legolas' lap, Elrond pulled off the dish covers and encouraged him to sample the food. Selecting a muffin and tea for himself, he settled into a chair close to the bed.
Finishing some fruit and cheese, Legolas smiled as his tea cup was refilled. "So, I have a name." He studied his healer for a moment. "I also can piece together a few things that I remember, but it's not enough to allow me to understand my purpose here."
Sitting up from the pillows, Legolas stared intently at Elrond. "There is danger here, this I know. Something threatens the peace of Imladris. Something, I fear, that may threaten you. The feeling of danger in my mind is strong, and yet I can not touch the details."
Elrond looked back with an air of serenity. "Even in this time of peace, there will always be forces that threaten these lands. The coming of the Istari certainly shows that the Valor have concerns about Middle Earth. But our safety does not reside on your shoulders alone. You came bearing information and when you are healed and ready, we will have it. But Legolas, do not seek to carry a bigger burden than you need."
Legolas sank back in frustration. "There is much I should know. Much I should remember. And yet it escapes me." Shaking his head, he turned and quirked a small smile. "I can't force my mind to open, that much I know. But what happened between us days ago, perhaps you might again be able to ..."
Elrond raised a hand. "No. I would not force something of that nature. That – blending – that we shared was quite -- unique. It should not be used to force your mind to recover before you are ready."
Legolas studied him, "What we shared was not part of your normal healing abilities? I know some of the Eldar can see into minds, I thought that what you did was part of that process."
Elrond rose, took the tray from his patient's lap and set it aside. He sat down on the pallet and took Legolas's hand in his own. "I did not do that alone, Legolas. We experienced it together. We achieved it together. That was not a normal healer's trance. Indeed, that was not something I would ever try with an unknown patient."
"But my lord, we have not met before, have we?"
"Nay, this was your first trip to Imladris. And the last time I was in Greenwood, it was for a council of war, long before you were born," The image of an intricately sewn tapestry appeared to Legolas, bringing a name with it. "Oropher. He was my king's adar."
"Yes," Elrond replied. "I was the herald of Gil-Gilad and we met with Oropher during the great war."
Confused, Legolas looked at the hand holding his. Before his journey here, they had never met, and yet he felt a sense of belonging here that he would only attribute to familiarity. It unsettled him, this connection he felt. His distress must have been noticeable, as Elrond softly rubbed his thumb over Legolas' hand, and he immediately loosened the crushing grip he had on the healer.
The sensation that encompassed his mind shifted from a feeling of strength to a more soothing and relaxing presence. Starting, he turned toward the doorway and remembered the earlier feeling of something warm brushing his mind and then growing in strength – and how he knew Elrond was approaching. He would need to consider this further.
Elrond's voice drew him back, "What is it?"
Legolas shook his head. "A small flash, but nothing I can explain."
Legolas watched as Elrond considered pressing the question, then let it drop. "You said that you remembered more?"
Unconsciously tightening his grip again, Legolas said, "A family. I can remember my adar, two older brothers and births of my two younger sisters." He stopped as a pain laced through him, "The death of my naneth." He felt Elrond's second hand cover their entwined ones – gentle reassurance washed over him.
Offering a sad smile of gratitude, he continued. "I captain a squad of archers on the borders of Greenwood. Something happened on one of our last patrols – I don't know what. I know I returned home to report to my king -- I was injured – and whatever we discussed was not met favorably by him or his advisors."
Leaning forward, Legolas earnestly pleaded, "I know what I saw was genuine – my mind was not clouded by my injuries or..." He stopped, struggling to piece together the fragments. "Something happened to my patrol, my report was dismissed as the result of pain and poison. And yet, I know whatever it was that I saw, it was real. I have flashes of an argument with my king, trying to get him to agree to..." He stopped again in frustration.
Looking down at the hands holding his, he grimaced. "They did not want to believe me, or hear me, I know not which. I know that I argued with the king and left to come here to offer a warning to you. My first days of travel were tense, as I felt that I was being followed. Now, I do not know if that feeling was real or just a concern because of the events that led to my departure."
Placing his free hand on Elrond's forearm, Legolas studied the detailed embroidery for a moment. "I can not provide enough detail to clarify further. At least, not yet."
Elrond slid a hand up to Legolas' shoulder. "The injuries you sustained in the journey here would have felled many an elf. They surely would have killed a man. You heal at an accelerated rate, but you can not discount the damage that you suffered – nor the poison that still resides in your body. Three days ago you did not know your heritage, your place or your name. Do not dismiss the progress you have made here."
Taking a deep breath, Legolas calmed himself. "I don't dismiss the healing powers from you and your family that have helped me. I am only impatient to repay my debt."
"There is no debt here, Legolas, be sure of that. My sons did only what was expected of them, what I would expect of myself. You are welcome to heal here without concern for payment."
Before Legolas could respond, Elrond pulled his hands away and stood. "Perhaps this will lift your spirits a bit." He walked toward the corridor and opened the door. Gesturing to someone out of view, Elrond returned with a finely carved staff. The wood branched at the top into two sections and padded cloth was sewn into the crook. Returning to the bed, he eyed Legolas. "This should allow you assistance to stand. We are still treating your leg with an herb infused poultice to combat the poison; I do not believe it will support you yet. Let us see, if this will allow you access to the balcony."
Pulling his bedclothes aside, Legolas swung his legs to the side of the sleeping pallet. Elrond slid a supportive hand around his waist and he rose, settling the staff under his right arm to supplement his weak side. Straightening, he tried to balance firmly on both feet, only to feel his injured leg collapse. Leaning into Elrond, he waited as the pain peaked and then began to recede.
"Perhaps, standing is enough for this day."
Elrond had turned his head slightly and Legolas could feel the warm breath as he spoke close to his ear. A slight shiver traversed his body in response. He could feel Elrond's arm tighten its hold. He canted his head to meet the healer's eyes and felt as if a flash of fire sparked between them. Breathless, he stood peering, then pulled himself back. Lightening his tone, he replied. "No, you have promised me the balcony my lord, and we shall achieve it."
Squaring his shoulders, he moved the staff and his wounded leg forward. Leaning into Elrond, he could feel the supple muscles of the swordsman's arm as it supported him. His first steps were uncoordinated as he struggled to get his body to compensate for its injuries. After a few strides, elven agility engaged and he was able to walk with minimal support from his caretaker.
They arrived at the railing of the balcony, neither at first noting the accomplishment. Legolas could feel Elrond's undivided concentration on him, but he was taken in by the beauty of the vista before him. The gracefully soaring arches of Last Homely House were woven in and out of the trees seamlessly. It appeared that its master had grown the buildings, rather than constructed them. The waterfall at the end of the valley still had a bit of ice and it glittered in the morning sunlight, sending shimmering flecks in every direction.
Shifting, Legolas drew his eyes from the view in front of him and focused on his host. In a hushed voice he said, "The songs do not do your lands justice, my lord. Your creation is beyond description."
Tenderness reflected back at Legolas. "Many have toiled joyously to build what you see. It gladdens my heart that you appreciate it. I know it is greatly different from the palaces of Greenwood."
Legolas raised his free hand to Elrond's heart. "These lands reflect their master. I sense an openness that bids welcome to me – nay, to all visitors. And for this welcome, I'm quite grateful."
Each studied the other for an endless moment, then Legolas turned to face the valley. He leaned back into the warmth of Elrond, feeling the healer's arms slip about his waist in support. If he felt the embrace tighten a bit and a warm breath in his ear, he wasn't going to spoil the moment by a comment or action.
****
After viewing the valley in a comfortable silence, its lord related the history of Imladris to occupy Legolas as they continued absorb the scenery. It allowed both elves to focus on something other than the problems at hand and their pressing needs. Finally, he assisted Legolas back to his pallet and settled him in.
The healer handed him the travel journal they had set aside. "Do you wish for me to stay while you review this? It might bring back additional information."
"No, thank you. Now that I know some of what I face -- not to mention who I am – I do not anticipate the same problems as before. You have responsibilities calling you, I will not keep you hostage to hold my hand."
There was no movement and Legolas looked up to study his face. The lord leaned down, pausing until Legolas felt himself begin to tense. "I would not be hostage, if I remained willingly. Do not fear to ask for help from me Legolas, I offer you anything it is in my power to give. Do not doubt that."
Legolas raised his hand to touch the lord's brow and then settled instead for gripping his shoulder. Nodding, he said. "I do not doubt what you tell me. I will review the journal and the rest of the contents of my satchel. If I come upon more memories that are of help or a problem, I shall send for you at once."
Elrond granted his acceptance, promised to return after luncheon and took his leave.
Legolas started to read his journal and then smiled as he heard one of the healers working in the attached storage room. He realized that Elrond may have left his side, but that didn't mean he had agreed to leave him completely unattended.
The journal brought back fragments of thoughts, but was not sufficient to define the evil that haunted his mind. Turning back to one of the earlier entries, he noted that the writings were not exclusive to his patrol reports, as certain sections were quite personal. He found poems, drawings of elves – both friends and family – as well as still life portraits of his favorite trees and flora.
Luncheon was served as he finished his second review of the tome and after tucking into his meal, he returned to the book. Deciding there was no more to be gained from its details, he pulled his satchel from the floor and reviewed the rest of its contents. Ivory handled knives were attached to the bundle, pulling one from its sheath, he felt the comfortable weight in his hand. These his body knew well, even if his mind could not remember where he had obtained the weapons.
A folded oilskin cloth was next, he opened it to find a fine set of quills for writing and some charcoal sticks for drawing. Carefully repackaging these, he set them aside. A few healing herbs, some lembas and basic travel items were next, nothing to indicate more than he was proficient at packing and light travel. Reaching down in the bottom of the sack, he pulled out a small intricately carved box. Sliding open the leather thong fastener, he peered inside. Several personal trinkets lay in the forest green velvet lining. Taking each out for examination, he paused at one special item. His mind was unclear in its significance, but his heart told him it was of great value. Frustrated with the additional questions the items brought forth, he finally repacked all of the items, save for the oilskin and set the satchel back upon the floor.
Eyeing the wooden staff leaning against the wall, Legolas gave thought to another foray to the balcony. Deciding that scenery would not be as delightful when viewed alone, he set aside that option. Pulling the oilskin packet to him, Legolas picked up his journal and began to draw.
***
Elrond entered the Healing Rooms to find his patient bent intently over his journal. Approaching, he looked for signs of agitation or concern, but found none. Setting the book he carried on a nearby table, Elrond moved closer. He stopped short of the bed and watched as Legolas added what appeared to be the finishing touches on a drawing of the views from his bed. Detailed sketches of the ceiling, the statuary and the healing cupboards were on the page. A sketch of the tea cup with the herbal tincture gave him an idea.
He looked from the page up to find his patient regarding him with a slight grin. Returning it, Elrond gestured to the book. "May I?"
Instead of handing the book up, Legolas shifted on the pallet to allow Elrond room to sit beside him. Settling on the edge of the bed, they reviewed the newest additions together. Expressing his frustration at the lack of progress, Legolas sat back with a sigh.
"You will require several more days of bed rest, with limited time allowed for walking or standing." Elrond explained after Legolas admitted to considering a slow escape to the balcony. "Until we have completely treated poison, any significant movement may make the injury worse. Not to mention, a fall would do great damage to the unhealed wound."
At Legolas' heavy sigh, Elrond almost laughed. He well knew the frustration of being bed bound when there was so much to do and experience in the world. The knowledge of having millennia before you did not diminish the boredom of awaiting the extermination of orc poison from your body. At least, Elrond thought wryly, he is not watching his comrades marching off to the next battle from a healing tent. Shaking away the memories, Elrond offered up his suggestion.
"I may not be able to assist with speeding your permanent removal from the healing halls, but I do have a way to keep you busy and allow myself some assistance as well."
Noting the eager sparkle in Legolas' eyes, Elrond moved to pick up the book he had discarded earlier. "You show much skill with pen and drawing. Our herbal lore books need updating." Opening up the volume, he gestured to a half filled page that contained a picture of a plant with a written description.
"We have sketches of the plants in the wild, so that they may be obtained and identified. However, we still need to have these volumes expanded. Sketches of the seedlings, and the dried herbal plant forms need to be added to our journals." Pointing to the empty sections of the pages, Elrond watched as Legolas took in the labels and blank space.
"If you are willing, I will have several samples brought to you. You may begin to add to our records by assisting in the drawing and cataloging of the plants in their other forms. It will be easy enough to achieve this task from your bed, and the samples are portable enough that we may bring all of the required items to you."
A beaming smile greeted the suggestion, as Elrond found himself captured as a strong sensation of joy washed through him – it was as if he had been drawn into a brief, but fervent embrace. The feelings receded to leave subtle warmth in his heart.
"It would be my honor to assist in adding to your library." Legolas pulled back a bit. Eyes downcast, his voice softened. "My interests in drawing and its details were not considered useful for a captain of the border patrols. It would give me pleasure to be able to share my nominal gifts with someone else."
Leaning in towards Legolas, Elrond studied him for a moment. Concentrating on the feeling that still radiated, he focused on it. The warmth sparked and began to increase. Laying a hand upon his shoulder, Elrond endeavored to share what he felt. The effect was immediate. At his touch, Legolas' eyes opened in surprise. The air seemed to crackle between them. A feeling of connection and unity surged and was reflected back to him. Maintaining the contact, he said, "Do not diminish your gifts to me, I see nothing nominal about the talents displayed in that journal."
Backing his words with a feeling of assurance, Elrond watched the shift of emotions as they played across Legolas' eyes. Realizing not only could he share these sensations, but communicate through them as well, he fell silent. The tide of these sensations began to shift – Elrond could feel a hesitancy and curiosity emanate from Legolas. Signaling encouragement, he waited to see if the uncertainty faltered. As Legolas struggled with his emotions, Elrond was content to wait. He felt a shift in their tether, as a new feeling floated towards him. Before he could identify it, the moment was broken as Glorfindel entered the healing rooms.
"Elrond, one of the northern Dúnedain patrols was caught by orcs. Our outpost has sent a runner asking that we prepare for several casualties."
Elrond withdrew his touch from Legolas and immediate felt bereft. Rising, he began to give orders to prepare for the arrival of the injured. Turning from the doorway, Elrond noted the contemplative look on Legolas' face.
About to offer a word of encouragement, he watched as Legolas shuttered his eyes. "See to your patients, my lord, I do not require assistance or company at this moment."
Glorfindel reappeared with a chest of herbs and Elrond followed him from the room. Walking down the hall, he reflected that Legolas probably didn't know he had caught that last glimpse of him shuddering and slumping back onto the pallet. They may have been interrupted, but this exploration of the connection between them was, by no means, finished.
TBC...
***
a/n: Once again thank you to my kind reviewers, I appreciate the comments on each chapter!
***
Bright sun crept under the heavy drapes in the healing room, spilling light onto the tiles. Legolas noted the contrast of the rays on the floor to the rest of the room's darkness and once again was grateful for elven sight. Even in the dimness, he could see the fine details of the carvings in the room. His eyes moved to find a figure sitting in a nearby chair. "Elladan?"
A smile met his. "Good morning. You look much better today, how are you feeling?"
Legolas quickly took an internal inventory. He noted the nightshirt now covering his body. Ready access to the bandages was no longer needed; it was a good sign. "My head feels much better, as does my shoulder."
Nodding, Elladan stood and approached the bed. "You've rested for more than two days. The herbs ada has given you seem to be working on all of the injuries expect for the wound on your leg. The poison in that is still challenging us – but we shall not be defeated." Pausing, he rose and gestured to the window. "Are you ready for a bit of sunlight?"
Smiling back, Legolas shifted and nodded. He watched as the drapes opened to show a fine early spring day. There was still a nip of chill in the air, but the trees were showing their first buds and Legolas took great comfort in limited view from his bed.
He felt something brush his mind and shifted his attention from the arched windows to the door. He noted Elladan turning toward the door in confusion. Moments later, Elrond entered, followed by another, who was carrying a tray of food.
"Good morning." After a quick perusal, Elrond's smile reached his eyes, making them twinkle at Legolas. He offered thanks to "Erestor" as the elf set the tray on a table close to the sick bed. A polite introduction to Erestor, one of the lord's advisors, followed.
The scent of the food pulled at Legolas, and he found himself genuinely hungry for the first time in days. The pleasant aromas were encouraging to his stomach, rather than a challenge, and he rose up on the bed to peer at the tray.
Elrond moved toward the bed in case assistance was required, but Legolas was pleased to find his arm muscles strong and responsive; his shoulder was healing. Elrond stacked pillows behind him and he sank into the comfortable support. He watched as Elladan gave a quick report of his improving condition to his adar, then took his leave with Erestor.
Placing the tray on Legolas' lap, Elrond pulled off the dish covers and encouraged him to sample the food. Selecting a muffin and tea for himself, he settled into a chair close to the bed.
Finishing some fruit and cheese, Legolas smiled as his tea cup was refilled. "So, I have a name." He studied his healer for a moment. "I also can piece together a few things that I remember, but it's not enough to allow me to understand my purpose here."
Sitting up from the pillows, Legolas stared intently at Elrond. "There is danger here, this I know. Something threatens the peace of Imladris. Something, I fear, that may threaten you. The feeling of danger in my mind is strong, and yet I can not touch the details."
Elrond looked back with an air of serenity. "Even in this time of peace, there will always be forces that threaten these lands. The coming of the Istari certainly shows that the Valor have concerns about Middle Earth. But our safety does not reside on your shoulders alone. You came bearing information and when you are healed and ready, we will have it. But Legolas, do not seek to carry a bigger burden than you need."
Legolas sank back in frustration. "There is much I should know. Much I should remember. And yet it escapes me." Shaking his head, he turned and quirked a small smile. "I can't force my mind to open, that much I know. But what happened between us days ago, perhaps you might again be able to ..."
Elrond raised a hand. "No. I would not force something of that nature. That – blending – that we shared was quite -- unique. It should not be used to force your mind to recover before you are ready."
Legolas studied him, "What we shared was not part of your normal healing abilities? I know some of the Eldar can see into minds, I thought that what you did was part of that process."
Elrond rose, took the tray from his patient's lap and set it aside. He sat down on the pallet and took Legolas's hand in his own. "I did not do that alone, Legolas. We experienced it together. We achieved it together. That was not a normal healer's trance. Indeed, that was not something I would ever try with an unknown patient."
"But my lord, we have not met before, have we?"
"Nay, this was your first trip to Imladris. And the last time I was in Greenwood, it was for a council of war, long before you were born," The image of an intricately sewn tapestry appeared to Legolas, bringing a name with it. "Oropher. He was my king's adar."
"Yes," Elrond replied. "I was the herald of Gil-Gilad and we met with Oropher during the great war."
Confused, Legolas looked at the hand holding his. Before his journey here, they had never met, and yet he felt a sense of belonging here that he would only attribute to familiarity. It unsettled him, this connection he felt. His distress must have been noticeable, as Elrond softly rubbed his thumb over Legolas' hand, and he immediately loosened the crushing grip he had on the healer.
The sensation that encompassed his mind shifted from a feeling of strength to a more soothing and relaxing presence. Starting, he turned toward the doorway and remembered the earlier feeling of something warm brushing his mind and then growing in strength – and how he knew Elrond was approaching. He would need to consider this further.
Elrond's voice drew him back, "What is it?"
Legolas shook his head. "A small flash, but nothing I can explain."
Legolas watched as Elrond considered pressing the question, then let it drop. "You said that you remembered more?"
Unconsciously tightening his grip again, Legolas said, "A family. I can remember my adar, two older brothers and births of my two younger sisters." He stopped as a pain laced through him, "The death of my naneth." He felt Elrond's second hand cover their entwined ones – gentle reassurance washed over him.
Offering a sad smile of gratitude, he continued. "I captain a squad of archers on the borders of Greenwood. Something happened on one of our last patrols – I don't know what. I know I returned home to report to my king -- I was injured – and whatever we discussed was not met favorably by him or his advisors."
Leaning forward, Legolas earnestly pleaded, "I know what I saw was genuine – my mind was not clouded by my injuries or..." He stopped, struggling to piece together the fragments. "Something happened to my patrol, my report was dismissed as the result of pain and poison. And yet, I know whatever it was that I saw, it was real. I have flashes of an argument with my king, trying to get him to agree to..." He stopped again in frustration.
Looking down at the hands holding his, he grimaced. "They did not want to believe me, or hear me, I know not which. I know that I argued with the king and left to come here to offer a warning to you. My first days of travel were tense, as I felt that I was being followed. Now, I do not know if that feeling was real or just a concern because of the events that led to my departure."
Placing his free hand on Elrond's forearm, Legolas studied the detailed embroidery for a moment. "I can not provide enough detail to clarify further. At least, not yet."
Elrond slid a hand up to Legolas' shoulder. "The injuries you sustained in the journey here would have felled many an elf. They surely would have killed a man. You heal at an accelerated rate, but you can not discount the damage that you suffered – nor the poison that still resides in your body. Three days ago you did not know your heritage, your place or your name. Do not dismiss the progress you have made here."
Taking a deep breath, Legolas calmed himself. "I don't dismiss the healing powers from you and your family that have helped me. I am only impatient to repay my debt."
"There is no debt here, Legolas, be sure of that. My sons did only what was expected of them, what I would expect of myself. You are welcome to heal here without concern for payment."
Before Legolas could respond, Elrond pulled his hands away and stood. "Perhaps this will lift your spirits a bit." He walked toward the corridor and opened the door. Gesturing to someone out of view, Elrond returned with a finely carved staff. The wood branched at the top into two sections and padded cloth was sewn into the crook. Returning to the bed, he eyed Legolas. "This should allow you assistance to stand. We are still treating your leg with an herb infused poultice to combat the poison; I do not believe it will support you yet. Let us see, if this will allow you access to the balcony."
Pulling his bedclothes aside, Legolas swung his legs to the side of the sleeping pallet. Elrond slid a supportive hand around his waist and he rose, settling the staff under his right arm to supplement his weak side. Straightening, he tried to balance firmly on both feet, only to feel his injured leg collapse. Leaning into Elrond, he waited as the pain peaked and then began to recede.
"Perhaps, standing is enough for this day."
Elrond had turned his head slightly and Legolas could feel the warm breath as he spoke close to his ear. A slight shiver traversed his body in response. He could feel Elrond's arm tighten its hold. He canted his head to meet the healer's eyes and felt as if a flash of fire sparked between them. Breathless, he stood peering, then pulled himself back. Lightening his tone, he replied. "No, you have promised me the balcony my lord, and we shall achieve it."
Squaring his shoulders, he moved the staff and his wounded leg forward. Leaning into Elrond, he could feel the supple muscles of the swordsman's arm as it supported him. His first steps were uncoordinated as he struggled to get his body to compensate for its injuries. After a few strides, elven agility engaged and he was able to walk with minimal support from his caretaker.
They arrived at the railing of the balcony, neither at first noting the accomplishment. Legolas could feel Elrond's undivided concentration on him, but he was taken in by the beauty of the vista before him. The gracefully soaring arches of Last Homely House were woven in and out of the trees seamlessly. It appeared that its master had grown the buildings, rather than constructed them. The waterfall at the end of the valley still had a bit of ice and it glittered in the morning sunlight, sending shimmering flecks in every direction.
Shifting, Legolas drew his eyes from the view in front of him and focused on his host. In a hushed voice he said, "The songs do not do your lands justice, my lord. Your creation is beyond description."
Tenderness reflected back at Legolas. "Many have toiled joyously to build what you see. It gladdens my heart that you appreciate it. I know it is greatly different from the palaces of Greenwood."
Legolas raised his free hand to Elrond's heart. "These lands reflect their master. I sense an openness that bids welcome to me – nay, to all visitors. And for this welcome, I'm quite grateful."
Each studied the other for an endless moment, then Legolas turned to face the valley. He leaned back into the warmth of Elrond, feeling the healer's arms slip about his waist in support. If he felt the embrace tighten a bit and a warm breath in his ear, he wasn't going to spoil the moment by a comment or action.
****
After viewing the valley in a comfortable silence, its lord related the history of Imladris to occupy Legolas as they continued absorb the scenery. It allowed both elves to focus on something other than the problems at hand and their pressing needs. Finally, he assisted Legolas back to his pallet and settled him in.
The healer handed him the travel journal they had set aside. "Do you wish for me to stay while you review this? It might bring back additional information."
"No, thank you. Now that I know some of what I face -- not to mention who I am – I do not anticipate the same problems as before. You have responsibilities calling you, I will not keep you hostage to hold my hand."
There was no movement and Legolas looked up to study his face. The lord leaned down, pausing until Legolas felt himself begin to tense. "I would not be hostage, if I remained willingly. Do not fear to ask for help from me Legolas, I offer you anything it is in my power to give. Do not doubt that."
Legolas raised his hand to touch the lord's brow and then settled instead for gripping his shoulder. Nodding, he said. "I do not doubt what you tell me. I will review the journal and the rest of the contents of my satchel. If I come upon more memories that are of help or a problem, I shall send for you at once."
Elrond granted his acceptance, promised to return after luncheon and took his leave.
Legolas started to read his journal and then smiled as he heard one of the healers working in the attached storage room. He realized that Elrond may have left his side, but that didn't mean he had agreed to leave him completely unattended.
The journal brought back fragments of thoughts, but was not sufficient to define the evil that haunted his mind. Turning back to one of the earlier entries, he noted that the writings were not exclusive to his patrol reports, as certain sections were quite personal. He found poems, drawings of elves – both friends and family – as well as still life portraits of his favorite trees and flora.
Luncheon was served as he finished his second review of the tome and after tucking into his meal, he returned to the book. Deciding there was no more to be gained from its details, he pulled his satchel from the floor and reviewed the rest of its contents. Ivory handled knives were attached to the bundle, pulling one from its sheath, he felt the comfortable weight in his hand. These his body knew well, even if his mind could not remember where he had obtained the weapons.
A folded oilskin cloth was next, he opened it to find a fine set of quills for writing and some charcoal sticks for drawing. Carefully repackaging these, he set them aside. A few healing herbs, some lembas and basic travel items were next, nothing to indicate more than he was proficient at packing and light travel. Reaching down in the bottom of the sack, he pulled out a small intricately carved box. Sliding open the leather thong fastener, he peered inside. Several personal trinkets lay in the forest green velvet lining. Taking each out for examination, he paused at one special item. His mind was unclear in its significance, but his heart told him it was of great value. Frustrated with the additional questions the items brought forth, he finally repacked all of the items, save for the oilskin and set the satchel back upon the floor.
Eyeing the wooden staff leaning against the wall, Legolas gave thought to another foray to the balcony. Deciding that scenery would not be as delightful when viewed alone, he set aside that option. Pulling the oilskin packet to him, Legolas picked up his journal and began to draw.
***
Elrond entered the Healing Rooms to find his patient bent intently over his journal. Approaching, he looked for signs of agitation or concern, but found none. Setting the book he carried on a nearby table, Elrond moved closer. He stopped short of the bed and watched as Legolas added what appeared to be the finishing touches on a drawing of the views from his bed. Detailed sketches of the ceiling, the statuary and the healing cupboards were on the page. A sketch of the tea cup with the herbal tincture gave him an idea.
He looked from the page up to find his patient regarding him with a slight grin. Returning it, Elrond gestured to the book. "May I?"
Instead of handing the book up, Legolas shifted on the pallet to allow Elrond room to sit beside him. Settling on the edge of the bed, they reviewed the newest additions together. Expressing his frustration at the lack of progress, Legolas sat back with a sigh.
"You will require several more days of bed rest, with limited time allowed for walking or standing." Elrond explained after Legolas admitted to considering a slow escape to the balcony. "Until we have completely treated poison, any significant movement may make the injury worse. Not to mention, a fall would do great damage to the unhealed wound."
At Legolas' heavy sigh, Elrond almost laughed. He well knew the frustration of being bed bound when there was so much to do and experience in the world. The knowledge of having millennia before you did not diminish the boredom of awaiting the extermination of orc poison from your body. At least, Elrond thought wryly, he is not watching his comrades marching off to the next battle from a healing tent. Shaking away the memories, Elrond offered up his suggestion.
"I may not be able to assist with speeding your permanent removal from the healing halls, but I do have a way to keep you busy and allow myself some assistance as well."
Noting the eager sparkle in Legolas' eyes, Elrond moved to pick up the book he had discarded earlier. "You show much skill with pen and drawing. Our herbal lore books need updating." Opening up the volume, he gestured to a half filled page that contained a picture of a plant with a written description.
"We have sketches of the plants in the wild, so that they may be obtained and identified. However, we still need to have these volumes expanded. Sketches of the seedlings, and the dried herbal plant forms need to be added to our journals." Pointing to the empty sections of the pages, Elrond watched as Legolas took in the labels and blank space.
"If you are willing, I will have several samples brought to you. You may begin to add to our records by assisting in the drawing and cataloging of the plants in their other forms. It will be easy enough to achieve this task from your bed, and the samples are portable enough that we may bring all of the required items to you."
A beaming smile greeted the suggestion, as Elrond found himself captured as a strong sensation of joy washed through him – it was as if he had been drawn into a brief, but fervent embrace. The feelings receded to leave subtle warmth in his heart.
"It would be my honor to assist in adding to your library." Legolas pulled back a bit. Eyes downcast, his voice softened. "My interests in drawing and its details were not considered useful for a captain of the border patrols. It would give me pleasure to be able to share my nominal gifts with someone else."
Leaning in towards Legolas, Elrond studied him for a moment. Concentrating on the feeling that still radiated, he focused on it. The warmth sparked and began to increase. Laying a hand upon his shoulder, Elrond endeavored to share what he felt. The effect was immediate. At his touch, Legolas' eyes opened in surprise. The air seemed to crackle between them. A feeling of connection and unity surged and was reflected back to him. Maintaining the contact, he said, "Do not diminish your gifts to me, I see nothing nominal about the talents displayed in that journal."
Backing his words with a feeling of assurance, Elrond watched the shift of emotions as they played across Legolas' eyes. Realizing not only could he share these sensations, but communicate through them as well, he fell silent. The tide of these sensations began to shift – Elrond could feel a hesitancy and curiosity emanate from Legolas. Signaling encouragement, he waited to see if the uncertainty faltered. As Legolas struggled with his emotions, Elrond was content to wait. He felt a shift in their tether, as a new feeling floated towards him. Before he could identify it, the moment was broken as Glorfindel entered the healing rooms.
"Elrond, one of the northern Dúnedain patrols was caught by orcs. Our outpost has sent a runner asking that we prepare for several casualties."
Elrond withdrew his touch from Legolas and immediate felt bereft. Rising, he began to give orders to prepare for the arrival of the injured. Turning from the doorway, Elrond noted the contemplative look on Legolas' face.
About to offer a word of encouragement, he watched as Legolas shuttered his eyes. "See to your patients, my lord, I do not require assistance or company at this moment."
Glorfindel reappeared with a chest of herbs and Elrond followed him from the room. Walking down the hall, he reflected that Legolas probably didn't know he had caught that last glimpse of him shuddering and slumping back onto the pallet. They may have been interrupted, but this exploration of the connection between them was, by no means, finished.
TBC...
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a/n: Once again thank you to my kind reviewers, I appreciate the comments on each chapter!