From Fog To Starlight
Part 7/ ?
Leaning back onto the pillows, Legolas reflected on what had just occurred. He had felt so much in such a little time. These feelings, coupled with his memory loss and confusion, beckoned him to be careful, very careful. It was quite easy to let down his guard with Lord Elrond and yet he felt the vaguest sense of betrayal while allowing it. He couldn't understand why his allegiance should be called into question over these feelings. His headache began to return in force and he decided he needed to focus on something else before the pain took control of his body again.
Shifting, he sat up and began to page through the book. Reviewing the drawings, he recognized some of the plants listed. Most from his battlefield medicine training he supposed – but again, it was odd to know some facts and yet not know from whence they came.
His finger continued to run the outline of an Altheas plant when he heard the door to the room open. Looking up, he spied Elrohir coming in with a basket filled with bottles.
"Ada asked that I bring these into you. He said that you would be assisting in the updating of our library." Settling the basket on the side table within easy reach, he pulled out a few bottles. "Each is marked with the plant's name – these are the dried varieties." He shifted from one foot to the other and then his voice took on a stern tone. "I'm also to inform you that there is no time limit to completing the herbal journal. You are not to tire yourself, you are not worry about finishing at a set time, you are not to work without sufficient light, you are not to work if the pain increases, you are to be sure to take proper meals while working, Glorfindel we'll need more water, and you are not to..." his voice trailed off.
Legolas couldn't help releasing a laugh as his companion lost track of the list. "I assume these instructions come directly from your adar? Perhaps while giving orders to others in the room?"
Sheepishly, Elrohir grinned. "Of course. But there were at least three more admonishments that I was given, and now I do not remember the rest. Ada was speaking rather quickly and he was also giving directions for treatment of the Dúnedain and their party. And as you can see, I remembered more of his commands, than not. Unfortunately, they weren't all directed at me."
Chewing on his bottom lip, Elrohir reached for the bottles. "Mayhap, this is too soon. I'll have these set aside and you can being to work on them when you're stronger."
Quickly gathering the bottles in his arms, Legolas gave him a warning stare. His eyes soon softened. "Do not remove these. If I am to be kept abed for the next few days, I shall be forced into darkness if I have nothing to occupy my time." Pausing, he grinned saucily at Elrohir. "You wouldn't want to report to your adar that I had just faded away due to a broken and bored heart, now would you?"
Rolling his eyes, Elrohir relented. "I would not want to report that I was directly responsible for the demise of a prince of Greenwood, no."
"Mirkwood," Legolas corrected.
Startled, Elrohir angled his head. "I beg your pardon?"
"I know that you and your family have tried to be polite by calling it Greenwood. But it has not been truly green for some time. Even our own kind now call it Mirkwood – as the darkness has grown so stronger. I will not take offense at it being called what it is. Perhaps, one day when the shadow has been conquered it will regain its full beauty and its name."
The silence grew between them. Nodding sadly, Elrohir took his leave. "Just remember, the completion of the journal is not worth risking your recovery. Do only as much as you can and rest more."
Legolas watched as Elrohir quietly took his leave, shutting the door behind himself.
Pushing off the melancholy that pulled at his heart as he thought of his home, Legolas took out a quill and some ink. Looking at the first bottle, he began to work on the herbal drawings.
***
The stars were only beginning to glisten as Legolas settled into sleep. He shifted on the bed, feeling the pull of the bandages where Elladan had changed the poultice on this leg earlier. The wound had stopped bleeding, but was still not healing.
His dreams were littered with bits and pieces of memory, most not enough to fully grasp. Listening to a conversation, he felt that he was just getting to something relevant when he was startled into wakefulness. Looking around the room, he spied no healer – and yet he knew he had heard something. Long nights in the forest on patrol had shaped his defensive skills and there was no question that someone was close.
Pushing himself up in his pallet, he looked around the room more intently. Seeing nothing out of place, he settled back down and waited. A tense period of time passed and then he heard the light footfall on the balcony and the rattle of a tree branch. Quickly grabbing his new staff, Legolas swung himself up from the bed. Ignoring the pain that shot up his leg, he moved toward the open windows. Peering out into the night, he could only spy the slight shifting of trees in the wind. Whomever had been near his rooms was gone.
The pain in his leg intensified as the question of his safety passed, and he was shaking quite a bit by the time he returned to the bed. Looking over to assure that his pack and knives were close, Legolas lay in the darkness for several candlemarks before sleep claimed him.
***
Elevenses were being served by the time Legolas awoke. Elladan was in the room preparing a poultice for his leg and he was surprised at the lateness of the morning.
Approaching the bed, he smiled down at him. "You awake at last! I was beginning to fear an adverse reaction to the latest of our treatments." Putting the bowl and some fresh bandages aside, Elladan peered at him closely. "Did you not rest well last night?"
Legolas looked to the windows that allowed morning sunlight to cascade into his room. "My night was disturbed by dreams and pieces of memories. I believe I shall not sleep soundly until I have a full understanding of my situation."
The healer considered this and then began to treat the wounded leg. "I can understand your frustration, but as ada says, you must not push yourself too hard. It will hurt your recovery to spend strength on memories that could be used to heal your injuries. The rest will come in time."
Trying to defer this subject, Legolas asked, "How do the Dúnedain fare? From the conversations I had last night with the other healers, that many were in greatly wounded."
Elladan answered while tending to each of Legolas' injuries. "Many were seriously injured, both with sword and poison. Adar, Glorfindel and I supervised several healers throughout the night. The men were very lucky, as adar's skills are unparalleled and Glorfindel's extensive. We suffered no losses this day."
Wincing as the bandages were pulled from his leg wound, Legolas reflected on how much Elladan reminded him of Elrond. He had known neither for long, yet the similarities in speech and medical practice were strong indeed. He watched as the twin efficiently cleaned the wound and applied yet another herbal remedy. The neutral face of a healer stayed in place for each action.
"The wound does not improve at all?"
Elladan looked up in surprise and quickly hid his emotions. "It is not worse and we will find the right combination of herbs for the poison. I am just sorry that it is taking so much time."
Legolas realized that he would get no more than this, as healers were notorious for keeping their own counsel when the patient wasn't reacting as they hoped. Sighing, he again looked toward the balcony.
"I should like to go outside for a bit. I believe the sunshine would do me as much good as your herbs."
Uncertainly, his healer looked toward the windows. Rising he approached the doors and stood for a moment. Looking back to Legolas, he raised an eyebrow. "Let me see to something, I shall return shortly."
Amused that the look on Elladan's face directly mirrored what he had seen from Elrond, Legolas watched him leave.
Moments later a small commotion could be heard from the balcony. Scraping sounds, followed by a heavy thump drew Legolas to the edge of his bed. Debating the chances of being caught unattended, he was just reaching for his staff when an elf entered the room, closely followed by Elladan.
Looking from the staff back to Legolas, he said, "I'm sure you had no intention of getting out of bed without assistance." Both eyebrows were raised this time.
Stifling a small grin, Legolas full out lied. "Of course not. I was just preparing for your return."
Smiling, Elladan approached and assisted him to his feet. "I knew that was the answer. It is the same one I would have given to ada." Sparkling eyes shifted as he assisted his patient toward the open doors. "And he would have believed me just as much."
Grinning fully, Legolas entered the veranda and looked about the space. The small table and chair he had seen yesterday were replaced by a long reclining pallet. This one had several pillows propped at the head, allowing for him to sit up easily. He also noticed that the balcony seemed to interconnect to several other rooms by additional archways. This surprised him, until he remembered that he had been quite focused on other experiences yesterday.
The twin helped him to the pallet, and then covered him with a light blanket. One of the healers approached the bed and set up a small table with the basket of herbs for cataloging, the book, extra parchments and assorted quills and ink. A pitcher of fruit juice and glass completed the tableau.
The sunshine warmed him as no tea could and he listened to the whispers of the trees.
Elladan began to take his leave and Legolas stopped him with one last question. "I did not realize these rooms interconnected by balconies as well as the hall. Are all of these healing rooms?"
Turning, Elladan looked back upon the terrace. "There are three rooms here that are interconnected. They are closest to the family wing around the corner. These are usually used for visiting family members or if Elrohir or I are injured on patrol." The family apartments are just down that way." He motioned with his hand. "The primary healing rooms are directly below us. It affords both our family and the injured privacy and quiet."
Looking around, Legolas then gazed back at Elladan. "Then why was I brought here?"
Smiling slightly, Elladan took his leave. "I don't know. My twin and I wondered the same thing. But ada has his reasons for all actions."
Wide eyes watched Elladan complete his exit.
Shaking himself back to the present, Legolas took up his pen, herbs and book.
***
Elladan returned to his father and the other patients. Elrond looked up from his task as his eldest approached, "How does he fare this day?"
Elladan gave his full report and reaffirmed there had been no change for the worse. He also took delight in telling his adar of Legolas' insistence of getting some fresh air and sun. The news was met with a full smile and a sense of relief. "I'm sure the change of scenery will do him well."
Setting aside the wish to have seen to Legolas himself, Elrond returned focus to his existing patient. Elladan peered over. "The poison is vanquished?"
"Yes," he said rising and moving onto the next bed. "This band of orcs attacked with a poison we've seen many times before and the worst of the injured are already greatly improved."
Checking the sword wound to the man's forearm, Elrond continued. "Two of this group were very lucky to escape to the trees. Their injuries were minor."
Elladan reacted with a start. "The Dúnedain fled to the trees? That is not their normal fighting style."
Before Elrond could answer, his patient spoke up. "Not all of our group were Rangers. We came upon a small village hunting party and were sharing camp with them when the attack came." Looking uneasily at Elrond, he asked, "How many of our party made it to the safety of your valley, My Lord?"
"We have treated a half score with serious injuries, plus the two who were mentioned before. All should recover."
Closing his eyes, the man leaned back with a heavy sigh. "We were a full score in party at the camp. Six were of the village hunting party. I saw two of my group fall – but that leaves six unaccounted for."
Elladan's eyes flashed to his father. Turning back to the patient, he asked. "How many orcs did you count?"
"Three score. We were challenged, but not seriously outnumbered. I do not understand what happened. I must know of my missing men."
"Ada..."
Studying his son for a moment, Elrond nodded. "Take your brother and a squad of archers. The missing hunters and rangers must be found."
Offering a promise to return with the missing or their fate, Elladan took his leave.
Giving his patient encouragement and sending him into a healing rest, Elrond moved to the next bed. Turning, he came upon Glorfindel standing in the aisle.
"The crisis has passed and all of the men shall recover. You have been in these rooms for almost a full day. It is time for you to take some sustenance and rest."
Surveying the room, the healer nodded.
"You have taught your assistant's well, mellon-nin, allow them to complete their tasks."
The two headed toward Elrond's private chambers.
"Something bothers you, what is it?"
Looking up at his seneschal, he considered his words. "It is a feeling of ill wind. I have felt on guard since last evening, and I do not know why."
Climbing the stairs, both paused on the landing to look out over the valley as the afternoon sun started to fade. "A darkness is close by – I can sense it. But I do not know what form it yet takes." Elrond shook his head and returned to the climb.
As they reached the hallway, Elrond turned toward the guest healing quarters. He noted a slight smile on Glorfindel's countenance, but did not remark upon it.
Drawing back, Glorfindel moved toward the family wing. "I shall have a bath drawn for you and a meal sent up. Do not tarry over long with the young prince, or both your meal and bath shall be cold."
Smiling at the affected surliness, Elrond entered the guest healing rooms.
He paused at the archway and stood with awe. The late afternoon sun was shining on the balcony and Legolas shone brightly in it. The prince was asleep on the pallet, slightly turned on his side -- to keep the pressure off his injured leg, Elrond assumed – a blanket covering him. Several parchments were strewn about the bed and table. Moving closer, Elrond looked at each in turn: sketches of the valley; a study of the nearby trees; a rough sketch of one of the forest creatures. Leaning over for a better view, he drew back quickly as the paper shifted on its own. A slight chittering sounded from beneath the parchment and Legolas' eyes moved from glazed to alert.
Unnoticed, Elrond watched as Legolas concentrated on the sheaf and peered under it. The prince straightened and then fully lifted the paper. A set of dark beady eyes looked back. Realizing one of the valley's other inhabitants must have crawled onto the balcony, Elrond moved to extract the creature.
Reaching over, Elrond stopped as a voice addressed him. "You cannot be hungry again, I just fed you!"
"Legolas?"
Glancing over, the prince blinked at his host as his ear tips began to turn pink. "My lord, I didn't hear you arrive." He quickly dropped the paper on the animal and turned toward Elrond.
Elrond studied the elegant blush and allowed himself to appreciate the true beauty before him. Watching as the coloring deepened, he finally drew his eyes away and snatched the paper from the pallet.
The beady eyes returned.
"I see I don't find you alone. Shall I apologize for the unexpected visitor – or is he truly uninvited?"
Sighing in defeat and stretching out an arm, Legolas beckoned the creature to move. It clawed its way up and settled on his shoulder, wrapping a thin, but agile, tail around his neck. "It's a family."
Elrond blinked.
Legolas motioned over to a copse of trees on the far right. "Well, this is a she, not a he, and she has young with her. I saw her foraging for leaves on that tree. The buds are still tight and there isn't much nourishment – so I offered a few berries. She's been keeping me company this afternoon."
Elrond watched with amused jealousy as the creature nuzzled Legolas' ear and then settled in with an air of propriety. This elf could serve to surprise and amuse him for centuries – if the past days were an indication.
Schooling his face, he tried to offer serious concern. Knowing he could not hide the sparkle in his eyes, he was ultimately doomed to failure. "I have just left Dúnedain and thought to check in on you before taking my evening meal. Now that I see you are under such careful supervision, I know not to be concerned."
They studied each other with great seriousness before both breaking into smiles.
"She seems quite content there."
Ears pinking again, Legolas shrugged. "The forest calls to me. I cannot reach it from here, but I can still commune with its inhabitants." Eyes dropping, he studied one of the sketches on the pallet. "You must think me quite young to be playing with forest animals."
Reaching a hand out to settle on his, Elrond replied, "Nay. I see an elf who still finds wonder in the beauties of life and this valley. Appreciation of what we have been given could never be considered immature."
Elrond enjoyed the tingle as his hand entwined with Legolas'. Focusing on the feeling he leaned forward. The blending that he had felt the day before was there, but greatly dimmed. Concerned, he pressed along the connection, only to find his way slowed – as though a great divide of water separated the two.
Releasing the animal, Legolas gently sat her on the blanket and allowed her to scamper off with several berries clutched in her paws. Seeing her return safely to the trees, he turned back to face questioning eyes. Raising a hand, Legolas ran it up the sleeve of Elrond's robe and settled on his shoulder.
"This... tether between us confuses me. I cannot lay myself open to you when I don't know all that I am. I worry for you, as much as for myself. Perhaps it is best if we temper this connection for a time."
Worried eyes bore into his and Elrond felt the waver of the barrier between them. Studying the prince for a moment he wondered if distance might be the wisest course of action for them. Trusting to his heart, he heard a firm "no" and leaned forward.
Raising his free hand, Elrond cupped Legolas' nape. He reveled in the silken fall of hair as it brushed his knuckles. "Elves have the luxury of time, Legolas." Elrond paused, then resumed his gentle stroking. "I do not choose to rush you or – the blending – that I feel between us. But I ask you to not step away from it either. Trust me -- trust in yourself enough -- to let this exist."
Thumb stroking the finely chiseled jaw, he held firm as Legolas tried to move back. "Nay. Diminishing what we have, for any reason, will not aide what ails you, mellon-nin. This gift we share is too precious to be rejected to the Valar out of fear or uncertainty. Do not lock me out, Legolas, for that act would do more damage than whatever evil we face."
Elrond watched as blue eyes shifted in contemplation. He could feel the barrier between them weakening and strengthening, reflecting the struggle as Legolas weighted what he said.
Interminable moments later, Legolas nestled against his palm in acquiesce. Bringing his other hand up, he tenderly framed Legolas' face and silently asked for permission. This was not something he would force, their first steps must be shared freely and he sought only to give what was truly wanted.
A slight pull on his shoulder brought him the prayed-for answer as he leaned forward into the kiss.
Lips brushing lightly, Elrond reveled in the first taste of his love. His senses were overcome with a freshness the reminded him of the forest after a summer rain. He could still taste the remnants of the sweet berries Legolas had been sharing earlier. Strong arms snaked around his waist, drawing them closer together. Licking at the soft lips, he deepened the kiss. Feeling Legolas' hand span out at his back, he lost himself in this first taste and feel of the elf.
Soft lips parted and Elrond was beckoned in with gentle laps of a tongue playing against his own. The sensations stirred much in him and he felt a slight dizziness. Gentling the kiss, he realized that the barrier between had dissolved. The dizziness was not his own, it belonged to Legolas. He could feel the passion, the hope and the confusion as Legolas felt them. Everything was open to him while they shared this intimate contact.
Awed at this gift, he nibbled on Legolas' bottom lip, softly teasing him. A light, yet loving amusement echoed back at him, coupled with a sense of frustration. Taking stock, Elrond realized he was able to feel more than the emotions that stirred between them. He could feel the light pain of the healing injuries and the strong ache of the sword wound that still challenged them. Noting, the intensity of it, he finally pulled back from the kiss.
"You did not tell us your pain was so strong."
Blue eyes, half lidded with passion rose to meet his. "It has greatly diminished since the battle. Do not concern yourself with it now."
Elrond shook his head, "You must have a great tolerance for pain then, even for an elf. What I shared was not minor." He watched as the portent of that sunk in. Legolas pulled back a bit and Elrond shifted on the pallet to draw the elf fully into his arms. The blending was still between them, but once again reduced to sharing only the strongest of emotions. Cradling the warm body against his, he poured his feelings back into their tether. The strength of his certainty, the conviction that this was truly *right*, the desire that heated his very being – all of these were shared and accepted.
Drawing back slightly, Legolas studied him a moment. His doubts and confusion plainly visible, he accepted that he would trust in the elder's judgment in this matter of their bond. He would trust in his heart and feä, he would trust in Elrond.
TBC....
---
A/N: Thank you to all who have been consistently reviewing, especially with the problems ff.net has experienced! I'm grateful for each and every comment and hope that the wait has been worth it for this update.
Leaning back onto the pillows, Legolas reflected on what had just occurred. He had felt so much in such a little time. These feelings, coupled with his memory loss and confusion, beckoned him to be careful, very careful. It was quite easy to let down his guard with Lord Elrond and yet he felt the vaguest sense of betrayal while allowing it. He couldn't understand why his allegiance should be called into question over these feelings. His headache began to return in force and he decided he needed to focus on something else before the pain took control of his body again.
Shifting, he sat up and began to page through the book. Reviewing the drawings, he recognized some of the plants listed. Most from his battlefield medicine training he supposed – but again, it was odd to know some facts and yet not know from whence they came.
His finger continued to run the outline of an Altheas plant when he heard the door to the room open. Looking up, he spied Elrohir coming in with a basket filled with bottles.
"Ada asked that I bring these into you. He said that you would be assisting in the updating of our library." Settling the basket on the side table within easy reach, he pulled out a few bottles. "Each is marked with the plant's name – these are the dried varieties." He shifted from one foot to the other and then his voice took on a stern tone. "I'm also to inform you that there is no time limit to completing the herbal journal. You are not to tire yourself, you are not worry about finishing at a set time, you are not to work without sufficient light, you are not to work if the pain increases, you are to be sure to take proper meals while working, Glorfindel we'll need more water, and you are not to..." his voice trailed off.
Legolas couldn't help releasing a laugh as his companion lost track of the list. "I assume these instructions come directly from your adar? Perhaps while giving orders to others in the room?"
Sheepishly, Elrohir grinned. "Of course. But there were at least three more admonishments that I was given, and now I do not remember the rest. Ada was speaking rather quickly and he was also giving directions for treatment of the Dúnedain and their party. And as you can see, I remembered more of his commands, than not. Unfortunately, they weren't all directed at me."
Chewing on his bottom lip, Elrohir reached for the bottles. "Mayhap, this is too soon. I'll have these set aside and you can being to work on them when you're stronger."
Quickly gathering the bottles in his arms, Legolas gave him a warning stare. His eyes soon softened. "Do not remove these. If I am to be kept abed for the next few days, I shall be forced into darkness if I have nothing to occupy my time." Pausing, he grinned saucily at Elrohir. "You wouldn't want to report to your adar that I had just faded away due to a broken and bored heart, now would you?"
Rolling his eyes, Elrohir relented. "I would not want to report that I was directly responsible for the demise of a prince of Greenwood, no."
"Mirkwood," Legolas corrected.
Startled, Elrohir angled his head. "I beg your pardon?"
"I know that you and your family have tried to be polite by calling it Greenwood. But it has not been truly green for some time. Even our own kind now call it Mirkwood – as the darkness has grown so stronger. I will not take offense at it being called what it is. Perhaps, one day when the shadow has been conquered it will regain its full beauty and its name."
The silence grew between them. Nodding sadly, Elrohir took his leave. "Just remember, the completion of the journal is not worth risking your recovery. Do only as much as you can and rest more."
Legolas watched as Elrohir quietly took his leave, shutting the door behind himself.
Pushing off the melancholy that pulled at his heart as he thought of his home, Legolas took out a quill and some ink. Looking at the first bottle, he began to work on the herbal drawings.
***
The stars were only beginning to glisten as Legolas settled into sleep. He shifted on the bed, feeling the pull of the bandages where Elladan had changed the poultice on this leg earlier. The wound had stopped bleeding, but was still not healing.
His dreams were littered with bits and pieces of memory, most not enough to fully grasp. Listening to a conversation, he felt that he was just getting to something relevant when he was startled into wakefulness. Looking around the room, he spied no healer – and yet he knew he had heard something. Long nights in the forest on patrol had shaped his defensive skills and there was no question that someone was close.
Pushing himself up in his pallet, he looked around the room more intently. Seeing nothing out of place, he settled back down and waited. A tense period of time passed and then he heard the light footfall on the balcony and the rattle of a tree branch. Quickly grabbing his new staff, Legolas swung himself up from the bed. Ignoring the pain that shot up his leg, he moved toward the open windows. Peering out into the night, he could only spy the slight shifting of trees in the wind. Whomever had been near his rooms was gone.
The pain in his leg intensified as the question of his safety passed, and he was shaking quite a bit by the time he returned to the bed. Looking over to assure that his pack and knives were close, Legolas lay in the darkness for several candlemarks before sleep claimed him.
***
Elevenses were being served by the time Legolas awoke. Elladan was in the room preparing a poultice for his leg and he was surprised at the lateness of the morning.
Approaching the bed, he smiled down at him. "You awake at last! I was beginning to fear an adverse reaction to the latest of our treatments." Putting the bowl and some fresh bandages aside, Elladan peered at him closely. "Did you not rest well last night?"
Legolas looked to the windows that allowed morning sunlight to cascade into his room. "My night was disturbed by dreams and pieces of memories. I believe I shall not sleep soundly until I have a full understanding of my situation."
The healer considered this and then began to treat the wounded leg. "I can understand your frustration, but as ada says, you must not push yourself too hard. It will hurt your recovery to spend strength on memories that could be used to heal your injuries. The rest will come in time."
Trying to defer this subject, Legolas asked, "How do the Dúnedain fare? From the conversations I had last night with the other healers, that many were in greatly wounded."
Elladan answered while tending to each of Legolas' injuries. "Many were seriously injured, both with sword and poison. Adar, Glorfindel and I supervised several healers throughout the night. The men were very lucky, as adar's skills are unparalleled and Glorfindel's extensive. We suffered no losses this day."
Wincing as the bandages were pulled from his leg wound, Legolas reflected on how much Elladan reminded him of Elrond. He had known neither for long, yet the similarities in speech and medical practice were strong indeed. He watched as the twin efficiently cleaned the wound and applied yet another herbal remedy. The neutral face of a healer stayed in place for each action.
"The wound does not improve at all?"
Elladan looked up in surprise and quickly hid his emotions. "It is not worse and we will find the right combination of herbs for the poison. I am just sorry that it is taking so much time."
Legolas realized that he would get no more than this, as healers were notorious for keeping their own counsel when the patient wasn't reacting as they hoped. Sighing, he again looked toward the balcony.
"I should like to go outside for a bit. I believe the sunshine would do me as much good as your herbs."
Uncertainly, his healer looked toward the windows. Rising he approached the doors and stood for a moment. Looking back to Legolas, he raised an eyebrow. "Let me see to something, I shall return shortly."
Amused that the look on Elladan's face directly mirrored what he had seen from Elrond, Legolas watched him leave.
Moments later a small commotion could be heard from the balcony. Scraping sounds, followed by a heavy thump drew Legolas to the edge of his bed. Debating the chances of being caught unattended, he was just reaching for his staff when an elf entered the room, closely followed by Elladan.
Looking from the staff back to Legolas, he said, "I'm sure you had no intention of getting out of bed without assistance." Both eyebrows were raised this time.
Stifling a small grin, Legolas full out lied. "Of course not. I was just preparing for your return."
Smiling, Elladan approached and assisted him to his feet. "I knew that was the answer. It is the same one I would have given to ada." Sparkling eyes shifted as he assisted his patient toward the open doors. "And he would have believed me just as much."
Grinning fully, Legolas entered the veranda and looked about the space. The small table and chair he had seen yesterday were replaced by a long reclining pallet. This one had several pillows propped at the head, allowing for him to sit up easily. He also noticed that the balcony seemed to interconnect to several other rooms by additional archways. This surprised him, until he remembered that he had been quite focused on other experiences yesterday.
The twin helped him to the pallet, and then covered him with a light blanket. One of the healers approached the bed and set up a small table with the basket of herbs for cataloging, the book, extra parchments and assorted quills and ink. A pitcher of fruit juice and glass completed the tableau.
The sunshine warmed him as no tea could and he listened to the whispers of the trees.
Elladan began to take his leave and Legolas stopped him with one last question. "I did not realize these rooms interconnected by balconies as well as the hall. Are all of these healing rooms?"
Turning, Elladan looked back upon the terrace. "There are three rooms here that are interconnected. They are closest to the family wing around the corner. These are usually used for visiting family members or if Elrohir or I are injured on patrol." The family apartments are just down that way." He motioned with his hand. "The primary healing rooms are directly below us. It affords both our family and the injured privacy and quiet."
Looking around, Legolas then gazed back at Elladan. "Then why was I brought here?"
Smiling slightly, Elladan took his leave. "I don't know. My twin and I wondered the same thing. But ada has his reasons for all actions."
Wide eyes watched Elladan complete his exit.
Shaking himself back to the present, Legolas took up his pen, herbs and book.
***
Elladan returned to his father and the other patients. Elrond looked up from his task as his eldest approached, "How does he fare this day?"
Elladan gave his full report and reaffirmed there had been no change for the worse. He also took delight in telling his adar of Legolas' insistence of getting some fresh air and sun. The news was met with a full smile and a sense of relief. "I'm sure the change of scenery will do him well."
Setting aside the wish to have seen to Legolas himself, Elrond returned focus to his existing patient. Elladan peered over. "The poison is vanquished?"
"Yes," he said rising and moving onto the next bed. "This band of orcs attacked with a poison we've seen many times before and the worst of the injured are already greatly improved."
Checking the sword wound to the man's forearm, Elrond continued. "Two of this group were very lucky to escape to the trees. Their injuries were minor."
Elladan reacted with a start. "The Dúnedain fled to the trees? That is not their normal fighting style."
Before Elrond could answer, his patient spoke up. "Not all of our group were Rangers. We came upon a small village hunting party and were sharing camp with them when the attack came." Looking uneasily at Elrond, he asked, "How many of our party made it to the safety of your valley, My Lord?"
"We have treated a half score with serious injuries, plus the two who were mentioned before. All should recover."
Closing his eyes, the man leaned back with a heavy sigh. "We were a full score in party at the camp. Six were of the village hunting party. I saw two of my group fall – but that leaves six unaccounted for."
Elladan's eyes flashed to his father. Turning back to the patient, he asked. "How many orcs did you count?"
"Three score. We were challenged, but not seriously outnumbered. I do not understand what happened. I must know of my missing men."
"Ada..."
Studying his son for a moment, Elrond nodded. "Take your brother and a squad of archers. The missing hunters and rangers must be found."
Offering a promise to return with the missing or their fate, Elladan took his leave.
Giving his patient encouragement and sending him into a healing rest, Elrond moved to the next bed. Turning, he came upon Glorfindel standing in the aisle.
"The crisis has passed and all of the men shall recover. You have been in these rooms for almost a full day. It is time for you to take some sustenance and rest."
Surveying the room, the healer nodded.
"You have taught your assistant's well, mellon-nin, allow them to complete their tasks."
The two headed toward Elrond's private chambers.
"Something bothers you, what is it?"
Looking up at his seneschal, he considered his words. "It is a feeling of ill wind. I have felt on guard since last evening, and I do not know why."
Climbing the stairs, both paused on the landing to look out over the valley as the afternoon sun started to fade. "A darkness is close by – I can sense it. But I do not know what form it yet takes." Elrond shook his head and returned to the climb.
As they reached the hallway, Elrond turned toward the guest healing quarters. He noted a slight smile on Glorfindel's countenance, but did not remark upon it.
Drawing back, Glorfindel moved toward the family wing. "I shall have a bath drawn for you and a meal sent up. Do not tarry over long with the young prince, or both your meal and bath shall be cold."
Smiling at the affected surliness, Elrond entered the guest healing rooms.
He paused at the archway and stood with awe. The late afternoon sun was shining on the balcony and Legolas shone brightly in it. The prince was asleep on the pallet, slightly turned on his side -- to keep the pressure off his injured leg, Elrond assumed – a blanket covering him. Several parchments were strewn about the bed and table. Moving closer, Elrond looked at each in turn: sketches of the valley; a study of the nearby trees; a rough sketch of one of the forest creatures. Leaning over for a better view, he drew back quickly as the paper shifted on its own. A slight chittering sounded from beneath the parchment and Legolas' eyes moved from glazed to alert.
Unnoticed, Elrond watched as Legolas concentrated on the sheaf and peered under it. The prince straightened and then fully lifted the paper. A set of dark beady eyes looked back. Realizing one of the valley's other inhabitants must have crawled onto the balcony, Elrond moved to extract the creature.
Reaching over, Elrond stopped as a voice addressed him. "You cannot be hungry again, I just fed you!"
"Legolas?"
Glancing over, the prince blinked at his host as his ear tips began to turn pink. "My lord, I didn't hear you arrive." He quickly dropped the paper on the animal and turned toward Elrond.
Elrond studied the elegant blush and allowed himself to appreciate the true beauty before him. Watching as the coloring deepened, he finally drew his eyes away and snatched the paper from the pallet.
The beady eyes returned.
"I see I don't find you alone. Shall I apologize for the unexpected visitor – or is he truly uninvited?"
Sighing in defeat and stretching out an arm, Legolas beckoned the creature to move. It clawed its way up and settled on his shoulder, wrapping a thin, but agile, tail around his neck. "It's a family."
Elrond blinked.
Legolas motioned over to a copse of trees on the far right. "Well, this is a she, not a he, and she has young with her. I saw her foraging for leaves on that tree. The buds are still tight and there isn't much nourishment – so I offered a few berries. She's been keeping me company this afternoon."
Elrond watched with amused jealousy as the creature nuzzled Legolas' ear and then settled in with an air of propriety. This elf could serve to surprise and amuse him for centuries – if the past days were an indication.
Schooling his face, he tried to offer serious concern. Knowing he could not hide the sparkle in his eyes, he was ultimately doomed to failure. "I have just left Dúnedain and thought to check in on you before taking my evening meal. Now that I see you are under such careful supervision, I know not to be concerned."
They studied each other with great seriousness before both breaking into smiles.
"She seems quite content there."
Ears pinking again, Legolas shrugged. "The forest calls to me. I cannot reach it from here, but I can still commune with its inhabitants." Eyes dropping, he studied one of the sketches on the pallet. "You must think me quite young to be playing with forest animals."
Reaching a hand out to settle on his, Elrond replied, "Nay. I see an elf who still finds wonder in the beauties of life and this valley. Appreciation of what we have been given could never be considered immature."
Elrond enjoyed the tingle as his hand entwined with Legolas'. Focusing on the feeling he leaned forward. The blending that he had felt the day before was there, but greatly dimmed. Concerned, he pressed along the connection, only to find his way slowed – as though a great divide of water separated the two.
Releasing the animal, Legolas gently sat her on the blanket and allowed her to scamper off with several berries clutched in her paws. Seeing her return safely to the trees, he turned back to face questioning eyes. Raising a hand, Legolas ran it up the sleeve of Elrond's robe and settled on his shoulder.
"This... tether between us confuses me. I cannot lay myself open to you when I don't know all that I am. I worry for you, as much as for myself. Perhaps it is best if we temper this connection for a time."
Worried eyes bore into his and Elrond felt the waver of the barrier between them. Studying the prince for a moment he wondered if distance might be the wisest course of action for them. Trusting to his heart, he heard a firm "no" and leaned forward.
Raising his free hand, Elrond cupped Legolas' nape. He reveled in the silken fall of hair as it brushed his knuckles. "Elves have the luxury of time, Legolas." Elrond paused, then resumed his gentle stroking. "I do not choose to rush you or – the blending – that I feel between us. But I ask you to not step away from it either. Trust me -- trust in yourself enough -- to let this exist."
Thumb stroking the finely chiseled jaw, he held firm as Legolas tried to move back. "Nay. Diminishing what we have, for any reason, will not aide what ails you, mellon-nin. This gift we share is too precious to be rejected to the Valar out of fear or uncertainty. Do not lock me out, Legolas, for that act would do more damage than whatever evil we face."
Elrond watched as blue eyes shifted in contemplation. He could feel the barrier between them weakening and strengthening, reflecting the struggle as Legolas weighted what he said.
Interminable moments later, Legolas nestled against his palm in acquiesce. Bringing his other hand up, he tenderly framed Legolas' face and silently asked for permission. This was not something he would force, their first steps must be shared freely and he sought only to give what was truly wanted.
A slight pull on his shoulder brought him the prayed-for answer as he leaned forward into the kiss.
Lips brushing lightly, Elrond reveled in the first taste of his love. His senses were overcome with a freshness the reminded him of the forest after a summer rain. He could still taste the remnants of the sweet berries Legolas had been sharing earlier. Strong arms snaked around his waist, drawing them closer together. Licking at the soft lips, he deepened the kiss. Feeling Legolas' hand span out at his back, he lost himself in this first taste and feel of the elf.
Soft lips parted and Elrond was beckoned in with gentle laps of a tongue playing against his own. The sensations stirred much in him and he felt a slight dizziness. Gentling the kiss, he realized that the barrier between had dissolved. The dizziness was not his own, it belonged to Legolas. He could feel the passion, the hope and the confusion as Legolas felt them. Everything was open to him while they shared this intimate contact.
Awed at this gift, he nibbled on Legolas' bottom lip, softly teasing him. A light, yet loving amusement echoed back at him, coupled with a sense of frustration. Taking stock, Elrond realized he was able to feel more than the emotions that stirred between them. He could feel the light pain of the healing injuries and the strong ache of the sword wound that still challenged them. Noting, the intensity of it, he finally pulled back from the kiss.
"You did not tell us your pain was so strong."
Blue eyes, half lidded with passion rose to meet his. "It has greatly diminished since the battle. Do not concern yourself with it now."
Elrond shook his head, "You must have a great tolerance for pain then, even for an elf. What I shared was not minor." He watched as the portent of that sunk in. Legolas pulled back a bit and Elrond shifted on the pallet to draw the elf fully into his arms. The blending was still between them, but once again reduced to sharing only the strongest of emotions. Cradling the warm body against his, he poured his feelings back into their tether. The strength of his certainty, the conviction that this was truly *right*, the desire that heated his very being – all of these were shared and accepted.
Drawing back slightly, Legolas studied him a moment. His doubts and confusion plainly visible, he accepted that he would trust in the elder's judgment in this matter of their bond. He would trust in his heart and feä, he would trust in Elrond.
TBC....
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A/N: Thank you to all who have been consistently reviewing, especially with the problems ff.net has experienced! I'm grateful for each and every comment and hope that the wait has been worth it for this update.