"So, you are Calaen's son?"
Elladan rolled his eyes, and nudged his twin sharply in the ribs. "Let me introduce you to something that is rather useful in these awkward situations. It is called subtlety, and you would do well to learn how to use it in your life, otherwise someone may just kill you."
"I was only curious," protested Elrohir. He shook his head in annoyance, and then turned back to Aradan. "Yes, Estel told us that you are Calaen's son."
The younger Elf bit his lip, but nodded slowly. "That is true, although...I wish it were not. Maybe that sounds awful, to be speaking in such a way about my own father."
"No, if you were treated in the same way as Legolas, then there is no shame in your words," said Elrohir reassuringly. "Calaen is a nasty piece of work, and does not deserve to have lived the life of luxury which he clearly has been doing."
"We all believe that you are no follower of Calaen's, but what do you want to happen now?" asked Elladan. "It does not matter if you think he should be allowed to live, or even if you want him to live. After all, he is your father, and it is only normal that you should feel something towards him, no matter what he has done."
Aradan nodded slowly, and looked out of the window. "I want two things, I think. I want him to live, because he is my father, and despite what he has done, he raised me and cared for me. But there is a part of me that wants to see him dead, because I know how much he must hate me, for I betrayed him. He wants to come after me, and get me for what I have done. Calaen never breaks his word, and that is why I am afraid. Valar, I must sound like a coward."
"Anyone would feel the same," said Elrohir. He paused, and glanced over at Elladan, who was lying on the other bed, fiddling with the bandage around his shoulder. "Stop playing with it. What's wrong?"
"Hmm? Oh, it is just a little sore, that's all," replied Elladan, still absent-mindedly plucking at the bandage.
"For the love of the Valar, can you never stay still?" demanded Elrohir, moving from his own bed and over to the other.
Aradan watched as the twins spoke, quietly trading gentle insults, though the great love and respect they shared for each other was clear. Elrohir pulled his brother's tunic down off his shoulder, and inspected the bandage. He rolled his eyes and shot Elladan an exasperated look. All he got back was a shrug of the shoulders, which made him cry out: "Ai Elbereth, will you please stop moving?"
"Which of you is the eldest?" asked Aradan, concealing a smile at the antics of the two.
"I am," said Elladan proudly.
"Only by thirty-eight seconds," added Elrohir. "It is only thirty-eight seconds, 'Dan, and that is nothing to boast about, it is nothing important."
"That may be so, but I have thirty-eight more seconds of intelligence and cleverness than you do" said Elladan.
"I hate to tell you this, o wise one, but they are the same thing," smirked Elrohir.
Elladan opened his mouth to argue that point, but thought better of it when he realised that his brother was right. Instead, he turned to Aradan, and said: "Ignore him. So, why did you want to know?"
"I was just curious," replied Aradan. "I actually thought that Elrohir was the elder, for the way he treats you is akin to the way that an elder brother treats a younger. I meant no offence by that; it was just an...observation."
"No offence taken," said Elladan quietly, though Elrohir noticed that he had tensed, and was clearly not happy at all.
They sat in silence for a while, each one doing something to keep themselves occupied. Aradan stared out of the window, savouring the beauty of Rivendell; Elladan drummed his fingers on the bed, running over what had just been said to him; and Elrohir finished tightening his twin's bandage. It was eventually Aradan who broke the silence.
"I would like to finish looking around your home if that is alright," he said. "Calaen kept me shut up in those Valar forsaken caves, so it was very rare that I was allowed out. I have never seen a place with beauty that can rival that of Rivendell."
"And you probably never will, unless you go to Lórien," replied Elrohir. "Why don't you go down to the gardens? It is a nice day, and it is always relaxing to sit outside. It clears your head."
Elladan drew his knees up to his chest, and watched as Aradan smiled and left the room. He had not taken offence by what the younger Elf had said to him, but realisation had suddenly struck that he should be the one looking out for Elrohir, not the other way around. He sighed deeply, and passed a hand through his hair.
"Aradan did not mean anything by his words," said Elrohir, "yet you seem to have taken them to heart."
"Of course I did, and why shouldn't I?" demanded Elladan. "He was right. You are the one who acts the elder, but it should not be so. I never thought about it before, but it is true. You have always looked out for me, protected me, and made sure that I am never in any trouble. I'm sorry, 'Ro, but it has to stop."
"What are you talking about?" asked Elrohir.
Elladan sighed once more. "You know exactly what I'm talking about, so don't pretend otherwise. I'm older than you, so I should be the one to look out for you."
"Valar, thirty-eight seconds is nothing," cried Elrohir.
"It is to me. I appreciate you doing it, but I don't want it to carry on," said Elladan firmly. "I am going to take on the role of the elder twin, and you are going to take the role of younger. Sorry, but that is how it must be."
Elrohir stared the other Elf in amazement. "I cannot believe you just said that. We are twins, brothers, friends, and we have no set roles. You never complained about this before. Why can't we just carry on as always?"
"Because I don't want my younger brother looking after me!" exploded Elladan. His expression softened then, as Elrohir went across to the window, a look of hurt on his face. "Look, I didn't mean it that way. Can you imagine how you would feel if...if Estel started looking out for you?"
"I would not care," said Elrohir quietly.
"Can you really not see my point of view?" asked Elladan.
Elrohir sighed, and went to sit next to his brother again. "Yes, I suppose so. But I do not do this because I think you need looking after. It is who I am, it is what I do. You know that I have always had to make sure that others are alright. I never meant to make you feel this way."
"I'm sorry," said Elladan quietly. "I'm just being stupid. I overreacted."
"No, you didn't. I can stop being so...protective if you want," offered Elrohir.
Elladan smiled and embraced his twin. "No, don't stop. It is what makes you who you are, so don't go changing for anyone. And you are right, I suppose. Thirty-eight seconds is nothing. We were born on the same day, in the same hour, even in the same minute. So, you were right all along."
"I'm always right," murmured Elrohir.
"Right," laughed Elladan.
Elrohir pulled away from the embrace, and locked sparkling eyes onto his brother's. "Shall we go and see Legolas? I know we said that we would go back later, but maybe he has finished speaking with Thranduil."
"Maybe, but I doubt it," said Elladan. "Still, we can go and check. Now, do you remember what I told you about being subtle?"
"Who's acting like the elder now?" smirked Elrohir.
............................................................................................................
Legolas slowly pulled off his tunic, and watched apprehensively as Lord Elrond began wetting a cloth with the antidote. Aragorn's brow was creased with worry, and he looked as though he were strongly debating something in his mind.
"Is something wrong, Estel?" asked Airëlus.
"No, not really. I was just wondering if it is a good idea to be giving Legolas this treatment at such an early stage," replied the Ranger. "Would it not be better to wait a few days so he can recover his strength?"
"I think that now is as good a time as any," said Airëlus.
Aragorn sighed, and looked over at Legolas. "Mellon nin, I understand how important this is to you, and how long you have been waiting for this, but think about it, will you? Airëlus saved you from death only a few days back, and it was only a few hours ago that you woke up. I know that Airëlus somehow managed to clear you of any wounds, but you are still weak."
"I want to have the antidote now," said Legolas sharply.
"Maybe you do, but maybe it is better to just wait a few days," said Aragorn. "I am sure it is not just I who has no wish to see you in peril again, so soon after being saved."
"He has a point," said Thranduil quietly.
Legolas' eyes flashed as he heard those words. "Ada, surely I have the right to decide what happens to my own body?"
"Yes, but when dealing with something like this, you must think rationally, and I am afraid you are not doing that right now," replied Thranduil, his voice gentle. "Just leave it for today. Alright?"
"Fine," muttered Legolas.
What happened next though, was so quick, that no-one could stop it. He lunged out, and grabbed the piece of cloth from Elrond. Caught off his guard, the Elven-lord stepped backwards, the material falling from his hand and into Legolas'. They all watched in horror as the Prince smiled triumphantly, and held the cloth to his scar.
"Legolas," hissed Thranduil, darting forwards as his son cried out in pain.
Lord Elrond however, reached out with both hands, and with one, he caught Thranduil's wrist, and with the other, he caught Legolas'. "No, you must keep it there. Now that the antidote has touched the affected area, it must not be removed. It is now or never."
Legolas drew in a sharp breath and closed his eyes tightly, all the while cursing himself. The pain was excruciating, as bad as when Calaen had poured the Dolruín on him. He should've listened to the advice given to him, instead of being so irrational.
"You fool," muttered Thranduil, shaking his head angrily. He pulled away from Elrond's grasp, and watched as the Elven-lord pressed the cloth down on Legolas' stomach.
"Why is it causing him so much pain?" asked Aragorn desperately, as his friend cursed violently.
Airëlus grimaced, and put both hands on Legolas' shoulders to hold him still. "The Dolruín stayed in his skin, which is what makes the scar burn in the way that it does. This antidote has reacted with it, and all of the Dolruín is being brought back to the surface, through the wound. There is no other way."
"Valar, why didn't you tell me it would be this bad?" hissed Legolas, slamming his head back against the pillows.
"They did, but you paid no attention," snapped Thranduil. "Of course you didn't, for you thought you knew best. Damn it, Legolas, you have only yourself to blame this time."
"Thranduil," said Gandalf quietly.
"Well, it is his own fault," muttered the King.
Legolas bit down hard on his lip, and clenched his fists. He wanted to admit that the others had been right and he had been wrong, but of course, his pride forced him to remain silent. Suddenly though, a wave of pain worse than before washed over him, and he cried out and tried to push Elrond's hands away.
"No more," he breathed.
"Get it off him," snapped Thranduil, his anger now being overtaken by worry. "This isn't making it any better. You are only causing him more pain."
"If I stop now, then we must go through this whole procedure again," said Elrond, as Aragorn stepped forwards and caught Legolas' wrists, holding him still.
Airëlus rested the tips of his fingers on his brother's shoulders, channelling as much strength into him as possible. Gandalf also sat beside the bed and put one hand on Legolas' forehead. He whispered mystic words, which only he and Airëlus understood. Pain continued to course through Legolas, but it was not as bad as before.
"It is alright, ion-nin," soothed Thranduil. "It will only be a few more minutes, and then it is over."
"I'm sorry, Ada," said Legolas through gritted teeth, his eyes closed tightly.
The King shook his head slightly. "Just keep quiet until Elrond has finished. I am quite sure that wasting energy on speaking is not helping you at all."
The door opened then and Elladan and Elrohir came in. The expressions on their faces would've been funny if it was at any other time. They looked at everyone crowded around their friend, before moving forwards apprehensively.
"What in all of Middle Earth are you doing to him?" asked Elladan.
"Ridding him of something most unpleasant which has tortured him for a long time," replied Gandalf.
Elrohir's brow creased in confusion. "And is it necessary to cause him so much pain in order to do that?"
"Just be silent, both of you," said Elrond sharply. "We have nearly finished, so I will explain everything then."
Legolas exhaled deeply, his eyes still closed. He could feel warmth from both Airëlus and Gandalf's fingers, which were still resting on his shoulders and forehead. Aragorn still held him by the wrists, but had lessened his grip now. Elrond still had the cloth pressed against his stomach, whilst Thranduil was pacing up and down. The twins looked on in interest, each of them wondering at the goings on.
"Alright, I think that should be enough," Elrond declared, after what seemed an age. He slowly pulled the cloth away, though he watched as Legolas bit down on his lip, clearly dreading what he would see. When everyone drew in sharp breaths, the Prince tensed.
"What has happened?" he asked in a low voice.
"I think it best if you look yourself," replied Thranduil quietly.
"No, I do not want to," said Legolas. "Now that it is time to see the end result, I don't really want to."
"And I really think that you should," pressed Thranduil.
Holding his breath, Legolas slowly opened his eyes. He glanced first of all at those surrounding him, but their faces remained impassive. Body trembling slightly, the Prince lowered his gaze. What he saw made him cry out in surprise. Harsh letters which had once burned brightly were gone. In fact, there was nothing to suggest that there had ever been a scar there. His skin was pale and flawless, as it had been a long time ago.
"Valar..." he whispered. "It...it has gone."
"Yes, you are free," said Elrond quietly. "You will never have to be faced with that again, it will never torment you."
Thranduil sighed in relief, silently thanking the Valar over and over again. Airëlus rested his fingers on Legolas' shoulders for a moment longer, before removing them and stepping away from the bed, whilst the afore-mentioned Prince just shook his head in wonder and disbelief.
"Maybe I will wake up soon, and all of this will be a dream," he mused.
Elrond smiled, and slowly shook his head. "No, this is definitely not a dream. Or at least, it used to be a dream. Now it has become a reality. You have what you wanted."
"Yes, I do, and there is no way I can ever thank you, Lord Elrond. But I am more grateful than you know," said Legolas quietly. Then he paused, and glanced up at his father. "Ada, do not be angry with me. At least it has gone now."
Thranduil rolled his eyes, though everyone saw the way he swiftly concealed a joyful smile. "Hmm, I suppose so. Legolas, you need rest now. What do you think, Airëlus?"
The fair haired Elf nodded, and gently pulled the white tunic back down over his brother's head. "Yes, I agree. That foolish stunt has weakened you, and there is only so much I can do to help. I could keep on healing you for as long as I wanted, but your body would become used to being helped by other powers, and would lose the ability to heal naturally. Sleep is what you need now."
"Yes, but you must tell me tomorrow," said Legolas, leaning back on the pillows. "Ada said that if I followed your orders, then you would reveal everything tomorrow. I am doing what you tell me."
"You would've fallen asleep even if you hadn't been told to," muttered Gandalf, shaking his head slightly.
Elrond laughed as he propelled the twins to the door. "Quite so. Now, Elladan and Elrohir, I need you both to go to the rooms in which the Fellowship are staying, and tell them that there will be a meeting of great importance in the late afternoon. Estel, go with them. I am sure they will be eager to hear how Legolas fares."
The Ranger inclined his head briefly, before turning back to look down at Legolas, who was struggling to stay awake. "I will see you tomorrow, mellon nin. Rest, and you will feel well again soon."
"Alright," said Legolas, smiling vaguely.
Gandalf shook his head once more, before turning and following Aragorn and the twins. Lord Elrond put the phial back in his pocket and folded up the cloth, before he also left the room, leaving the Royal Family alone. Airëlus was just about to say something, but paused when he saw that Legolas was asleep.
"His eyes are closed," said Thranduil quietly.
Airëlus looked down at his brother, and smiled. "Yes, but there is no need to worry. Of course he is weak, but it is nothing which will prove fatal to him. Just give him a few days, and he will be back to normal."
"Thank the Valar," muttered Thranduil. He paused then, and sighed deeply. "I should not have let him have the antidote so soon."
"Ada, you tried to tell him," said Airëlus gently. "I suppose you were right in saying that he has only himself to blame for that pain."
Thranduil sighed, and looked down sadly at his son. "Maybe. But then, it was more than likely my temper speaking. When I get angry, I say things that I do not mean, and end up hurting those who I care about."
"Everyone does that," said Airëlus quietly.
"But I should know better than to go on at Legolas," snapped Thranduil, his eyes flashing. He jerked his head towards the door then. "Come, let us speak elsewhere. Will Legolas be alright alone, or does he need someone close by, just in case?"
"No, he should be fine," replied Airëlus. "But we can check up on him every so often, if that will ease your worry."
Thranduil nodded once, before turning on his heel and sweeping from the room. Gandalf and Lord Elrond were waiting outside though, deep in conversation. The Elven-king arched an eyebrow at their grave expressions, waiting for either of them to explain what they had been speaking about.
"We have just been discussing a very serious matter," said Gandalf seriously. "In all that has happened we have all but forgotten about the Ring. It can only remain here for a limited amount of time."
"Your son was chosen to represent the race of Elves in the Quest, and I see no reason why anything should change," continued Elrond. "But we must hold a meeting with the other Fellowship members, to hear what their views are, and if they still want to be part of it. Of course, you will also have a say in it, where Legolas is concerned."
Thranduil glanced at Airëlus, who had come up silently beside him, and then looked back into where Legolas was asleep. "I know what my wishes are, and I do not even need to think about them. But we will talk in your study, Elrond."
The two Elven-lords and Gandalf walked down the corridor, and Airëlus quietly shut Legolas' door, before turning and following them.
............................................................................................................
Legolas-gurl888: Hiya! Don't worry, I'm not ignoring you, but my computer has a virus, which is all explained below. I'll try and e-mail you at some point tomorrow, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to get near a computer. Ugh, technology. Can't live with it, can't live without it. Kinda like men...
OK, I have some apologies to make. First of all for the delay in updating. My computer has a nasty virus, and I can't get on the Internet, so I'm using my grandmother's computer at the moment. I also haven't been able to see my reviews, so I can't answer any questions yet. My own computer should be fixed (hopefully) some time next week, but until then, I don't know how frequent the updates are going to be. I can use my grandmother's computer of course, but as I don't live with her, it's kinda hard. Sorry about all the problems, Misto
Elladan rolled his eyes, and nudged his twin sharply in the ribs. "Let me introduce you to something that is rather useful in these awkward situations. It is called subtlety, and you would do well to learn how to use it in your life, otherwise someone may just kill you."
"I was only curious," protested Elrohir. He shook his head in annoyance, and then turned back to Aradan. "Yes, Estel told us that you are Calaen's son."
The younger Elf bit his lip, but nodded slowly. "That is true, although...I wish it were not. Maybe that sounds awful, to be speaking in such a way about my own father."
"No, if you were treated in the same way as Legolas, then there is no shame in your words," said Elrohir reassuringly. "Calaen is a nasty piece of work, and does not deserve to have lived the life of luxury which he clearly has been doing."
"We all believe that you are no follower of Calaen's, but what do you want to happen now?" asked Elladan. "It does not matter if you think he should be allowed to live, or even if you want him to live. After all, he is your father, and it is only normal that you should feel something towards him, no matter what he has done."
Aradan nodded slowly, and looked out of the window. "I want two things, I think. I want him to live, because he is my father, and despite what he has done, he raised me and cared for me. But there is a part of me that wants to see him dead, because I know how much he must hate me, for I betrayed him. He wants to come after me, and get me for what I have done. Calaen never breaks his word, and that is why I am afraid. Valar, I must sound like a coward."
"Anyone would feel the same," said Elrohir. He paused, and glanced over at Elladan, who was lying on the other bed, fiddling with the bandage around his shoulder. "Stop playing with it. What's wrong?"
"Hmm? Oh, it is just a little sore, that's all," replied Elladan, still absent-mindedly plucking at the bandage.
"For the love of the Valar, can you never stay still?" demanded Elrohir, moving from his own bed and over to the other.
Aradan watched as the twins spoke, quietly trading gentle insults, though the great love and respect they shared for each other was clear. Elrohir pulled his brother's tunic down off his shoulder, and inspected the bandage. He rolled his eyes and shot Elladan an exasperated look. All he got back was a shrug of the shoulders, which made him cry out: "Ai Elbereth, will you please stop moving?"
"Which of you is the eldest?" asked Aradan, concealing a smile at the antics of the two.
"I am," said Elladan proudly.
"Only by thirty-eight seconds," added Elrohir. "It is only thirty-eight seconds, 'Dan, and that is nothing to boast about, it is nothing important."
"That may be so, but I have thirty-eight more seconds of intelligence and cleverness than you do" said Elladan.
"I hate to tell you this, o wise one, but they are the same thing," smirked Elrohir.
Elladan opened his mouth to argue that point, but thought better of it when he realised that his brother was right. Instead, he turned to Aradan, and said: "Ignore him. So, why did you want to know?"
"I was just curious," replied Aradan. "I actually thought that Elrohir was the elder, for the way he treats you is akin to the way that an elder brother treats a younger. I meant no offence by that; it was just an...observation."
"No offence taken," said Elladan quietly, though Elrohir noticed that he had tensed, and was clearly not happy at all.
They sat in silence for a while, each one doing something to keep themselves occupied. Aradan stared out of the window, savouring the beauty of Rivendell; Elladan drummed his fingers on the bed, running over what had just been said to him; and Elrohir finished tightening his twin's bandage. It was eventually Aradan who broke the silence.
"I would like to finish looking around your home if that is alright," he said. "Calaen kept me shut up in those Valar forsaken caves, so it was very rare that I was allowed out. I have never seen a place with beauty that can rival that of Rivendell."
"And you probably never will, unless you go to Lórien," replied Elrohir. "Why don't you go down to the gardens? It is a nice day, and it is always relaxing to sit outside. It clears your head."
Elladan drew his knees up to his chest, and watched as Aradan smiled and left the room. He had not taken offence by what the younger Elf had said to him, but realisation had suddenly struck that he should be the one looking out for Elrohir, not the other way around. He sighed deeply, and passed a hand through his hair.
"Aradan did not mean anything by his words," said Elrohir, "yet you seem to have taken them to heart."
"Of course I did, and why shouldn't I?" demanded Elladan. "He was right. You are the one who acts the elder, but it should not be so. I never thought about it before, but it is true. You have always looked out for me, protected me, and made sure that I am never in any trouble. I'm sorry, 'Ro, but it has to stop."
"What are you talking about?" asked Elrohir.
Elladan sighed once more. "You know exactly what I'm talking about, so don't pretend otherwise. I'm older than you, so I should be the one to look out for you."
"Valar, thirty-eight seconds is nothing," cried Elrohir.
"It is to me. I appreciate you doing it, but I don't want it to carry on," said Elladan firmly. "I am going to take on the role of the elder twin, and you are going to take the role of younger. Sorry, but that is how it must be."
Elrohir stared the other Elf in amazement. "I cannot believe you just said that. We are twins, brothers, friends, and we have no set roles. You never complained about this before. Why can't we just carry on as always?"
"Because I don't want my younger brother looking after me!" exploded Elladan. His expression softened then, as Elrohir went across to the window, a look of hurt on his face. "Look, I didn't mean it that way. Can you imagine how you would feel if...if Estel started looking out for you?"
"I would not care," said Elrohir quietly.
"Can you really not see my point of view?" asked Elladan.
Elrohir sighed, and went to sit next to his brother again. "Yes, I suppose so. But I do not do this because I think you need looking after. It is who I am, it is what I do. You know that I have always had to make sure that others are alright. I never meant to make you feel this way."
"I'm sorry," said Elladan quietly. "I'm just being stupid. I overreacted."
"No, you didn't. I can stop being so...protective if you want," offered Elrohir.
Elladan smiled and embraced his twin. "No, don't stop. It is what makes you who you are, so don't go changing for anyone. And you are right, I suppose. Thirty-eight seconds is nothing. We were born on the same day, in the same hour, even in the same minute. So, you were right all along."
"I'm always right," murmured Elrohir.
"Right," laughed Elladan.
Elrohir pulled away from the embrace, and locked sparkling eyes onto his brother's. "Shall we go and see Legolas? I know we said that we would go back later, but maybe he has finished speaking with Thranduil."
"Maybe, but I doubt it," said Elladan. "Still, we can go and check. Now, do you remember what I told you about being subtle?"
"Who's acting like the elder now?" smirked Elrohir.
............................................................................................................
Legolas slowly pulled off his tunic, and watched apprehensively as Lord Elrond began wetting a cloth with the antidote. Aragorn's brow was creased with worry, and he looked as though he were strongly debating something in his mind.
"Is something wrong, Estel?" asked Airëlus.
"No, not really. I was just wondering if it is a good idea to be giving Legolas this treatment at such an early stage," replied the Ranger. "Would it not be better to wait a few days so he can recover his strength?"
"I think that now is as good a time as any," said Airëlus.
Aragorn sighed, and looked over at Legolas. "Mellon nin, I understand how important this is to you, and how long you have been waiting for this, but think about it, will you? Airëlus saved you from death only a few days back, and it was only a few hours ago that you woke up. I know that Airëlus somehow managed to clear you of any wounds, but you are still weak."
"I want to have the antidote now," said Legolas sharply.
"Maybe you do, but maybe it is better to just wait a few days," said Aragorn. "I am sure it is not just I who has no wish to see you in peril again, so soon after being saved."
"He has a point," said Thranduil quietly.
Legolas' eyes flashed as he heard those words. "Ada, surely I have the right to decide what happens to my own body?"
"Yes, but when dealing with something like this, you must think rationally, and I am afraid you are not doing that right now," replied Thranduil, his voice gentle. "Just leave it for today. Alright?"
"Fine," muttered Legolas.
What happened next though, was so quick, that no-one could stop it. He lunged out, and grabbed the piece of cloth from Elrond. Caught off his guard, the Elven-lord stepped backwards, the material falling from his hand and into Legolas'. They all watched in horror as the Prince smiled triumphantly, and held the cloth to his scar.
"Legolas," hissed Thranduil, darting forwards as his son cried out in pain.
Lord Elrond however, reached out with both hands, and with one, he caught Thranduil's wrist, and with the other, he caught Legolas'. "No, you must keep it there. Now that the antidote has touched the affected area, it must not be removed. It is now or never."
Legolas drew in a sharp breath and closed his eyes tightly, all the while cursing himself. The pain was excruciating, as bad as when Calaen had poured the Dolruín on him. He should've listened to the advice given to him, instead of being so irrational.
"You fool," muttered Thranduil, shaking his head angrily. He pulled away from Elrond's grasp, and watched as the Elven-lord pressed the cloth down on Legolas' stomach.
"Why is it causing him so much pain?" asked Aragorn desperately, as his friend cursed violently.
Airëlus grimaced, and put both hands on Legolas' shoulders to hold him still. "The Dolruín stayed in his skin, which is what makes the scar burn in the way that it does. This antidote has reacted with it, and all of the Dolruín is being brought back to the surface, through the wound. There is no other way."
"Valar, why didn't you tell me it would be this bad?" hissed Legolas, slamming his head back against the pillows.
"They did, but you paid no attention," snapped Thranduil. "Of course you didn't, for you thought you knew best. Damn it, Legolas, you have only yourself to blame this time."
"Thranduil," said Gandalf quietly.
"Well, it is his own fault," muttered the King.
Legolas bit down hard on his lip, and clenched his fists. He wanted to admit that the others had been right and he had been wrong, but of course, his pride forced him to remain silent. Suddenly though, a wave of pain worse than before washed over him, and he cried out and tried to push Elrond's hands away.
"No more," he breathed.
"Get it off him," snapped Thranduil, his anger now being overtaken by worry. "This isn't making it any better. You are only causing him more pain."
"If I stop now, then we must go through this whole procedure again," said Elrond, as Aragorn stepped forwards and caught Legolas' wrists, holding him still.
Airëlus rested the tips of his fingers on his brother's shoulders, channelling as much strength into him as possible. Gandalf also sat beside the bed and put one hand on Legolas' forehead. He whispered mystic words, which only he and Airëlus understood. Pain continued to course through Legolas, but it was not as bad as before.
"It is alright, ion-nin," soothed Thranduil. "It will only be a few more minutes, and then it is over."
"I'm sorry, Ada," said Legolas through gritted teeth, his eyes closed tightly.
The King shook his head slightly. "Just keep quiet until Elrond has finished. I am quite sure that wasting energy on speaking is not helping you at all."
The door opened then and Elladan and Elrohir came in. The expressions on their faces would've been funny if it was at any other time. They looked at everyone crowded around their friend, before moving forwards apprehensively.
"What in all of Middle Earth are you doing to him?" asked Elladan.
"Ridding him of something most unpleasant which has tortured him for a long time," replied Gandalf.
Elrohir's brow creased in confusion. "And is it necessary to cause him so much pain in order to do that?"
"Just be silent, both of you," said Elrond sharply. "We have nearly finished, so I will explain everything then."
Legolas exhaled deeply, his eyes still closed. He could feel warmth from both Airëlus and Gandalf's fingers, which were still resting on his shoulders and forehead. Aragorn still held him by the wrists, but had lessened his grip now. Elrond still had the cloth pressed against his stomach, whilst Thranduil was pacing up and down. The twins looked on in interest, each of them wondering at the goings on.
"Alright, I think that should be enough," Elrond declared, after what seemed an age. He slowly pulled the cloth away, though he watched as Legolas bit down on his lip, clearly dreading what he would see. When everyone drew in sharp breaths, the Prince tensed.
"What has happened?" he asked in a low voice.
"I think it best if you look yourself," replied Thranduil quietly.
"No, I do not want to," said Legolas. "Now that it is time to see the end result, I don't really want to."
"And I really think that you should," pressed Thranduil.
Holding his breath, Legolas slowly opened his eyes. He glanced first of all at those surrounding him, but their faces remained impassive. Body trembling slightly, the Prince lowered his gaze. What he saw made him cry out in surprise. Harsh letters which had once burned brightly were gone. In fact, there was nothing to suggest that there had ever been a scar there. His skin was pale and flawless, as it had been a long time ago.
"Valar..." he whispered. "It...it has gone."
"Yes, you are free," said Elrond quietly. "You will never have to be faced with that again, it will never torment you."
Thranduil sighed in relief, silently thanking the Valar over and over again. Airëlus rested his fingers on Legolas' shoulders for a moment longer, before removing them and stepping away from the bed, whilst the afore-mentioned Prince just shook his head in wonder and disbelief.
"Maybe I will wake up soon, and all of this will be a dream," he mused.
Elrond smiled, and slowly shook his head. "No, this is definitely not a dream. Or at least, it used to be a dream. Now it has become a reality. You have what you wanted."
"Yes, I do, and there is no way I can ever thank you, Lord Elrond. But I am more grateful than you know," said Legolas quietly. Then he paused, and glanced up at his father. "Ada, do not be angry with me. At least it has gone now."
Thranduil rolled his eyes, though everyone saw the way he swiftly concealed a joyful smile. "Hmm, I suppose so. Legolas, you need rest now. What do you think, Airëlus?"
The fair haired Elf nodded, and gently pulled the white tunic back down over his brother's head. "Yes, I agree. That foolish stunt has weakened you, and there is only so much I can do to help. I could keep on healing you for as long as I wanted, but your body would become used to being helped by other powers, and would lose the ability to heal naturally. Sleep is what you need now."
"Yes, but you must tell me tomorrow," said Legolas, leaning back on the pillows. "Ada said that if I followed your orders, then you would reveal everything tomorrow. I am doing what you tell me."
"You would've fallen asleep even if you hadn't been told to," muttered Gandalf, shaking his head slightly.
Elrond laughed as he propelled the twins to the door. "Quite so. Now, Elladan and Elrohir, I need you both to go to the rooms in which the Fellowship are staying, and tell them that there will be a meeting of great importance in the late afternoon. Estel, go with them. I am sure they will be eager to hear how Legolas fares."
The Ranger inclined his head briefly, before turning back to look down at Legolas, who was struggling to stay awake. "I will see you tomorrow, mellon nin. Rest, and you will feel well again soon."
"Alright," said Legolas, smiling vaguely.
Gandalf shook his head once more, before turning and following Aragorn and the twins. Lord Elrond put the phial back in his pocket and folded up the cloth, before he also left the room, leaving the Royal Family alone. Airëlus was just about to say something, but paused when he saw that Legolas was asleep.
"His eyes are closed," said Thranduil quietly.
Airëlus looked down at his brother, and smiled. "Yes, but there is no need to worry. Of course he is weak, but it is nothing which will prove fatal to him. Just give him a few days, and he will be back to normal."
"Thank the Valar," muttered Thranduil. He paused then, and sighed deeply. "I should not have let him have the antidote so soon."
"Ada, you tried to tell him," said Airëlus gently. "I suppose you were right in saying that he has only himself to blame for that pain."
Thranduil sighed, and looked down sadly at his son. "Maybe. But then, it was more than likely my temper speaking. When I get angry, I say things that I do not mean, and end up hurting those who I care about."
"Everyone does that," said Airëlus quietly.
"But I should know better than to go on at Legolas," snapped Thranduil, his eyes flashing. He jerked his head towards the door then. "Come, let us speak elsewhere. Will Legolas be alright alone, or does he need someone close by, just in case?"
"No, he should be fine," replied Airëlus. "But we can check up on him every so often, if that will ease your worry."
Thranduil nodded once, before turning on his heel and sweeping from the room. Gandalf and Lord Elrond were waiting outside though, deep in conversation. The Elven-king arched an eyebrow at their grave expressions, waiting for either of them to explain what they had been speaking about.
"We have just been discussing a very serious matter," said Gandalf seriously. "In all that has happened we have all but forgotten about the Ring. It can only remain here for a limited amount of time."
"Your son was chosen to represent the race of Elves in the Quest, and I see no reason why anything should change," continued Elrond. "But we must hold a meeting with the other Fellowship members, to hear what their views are, and if they still want to be part of it. Of course, you will also have a say in it, where Legolas is concerned."
Thranduil glanced at Airëlus, who had come up silently beside him, and then looked back into where Legolas was asleep. "I know what my wishes are, and I do not even need to think about them. But we will talk in your study, Elrond."
The two Elven-lords and Gandalf walked down the corridor, and Airëlus quietly shut Legolas' door, before turning and following them.
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Legolas-gurl888: Hiya! Don't worry, I'm not ignoring you, but my computer has a virus, which is all explained below. I'll try and e-mail you at some point tomorrow, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to get near a computer. Ugh, technology. Can't live with it, can't live without it. Kinda like men...
OK, I have some apologies to make. First of all for the delay in updating. My computer has a nasty virus, and I can't get on the Internet, so I'm using my grandmother's computer at the moment. I also haven't been able to see my reviews, so I can't answer any questions yet. My own computer should be fixed (hopefully) some time next week, but until then, I don't know how frequent the updates are going to be. I can use my grandmother's computer of course, but as I don't live with her, it's kinda hard. Sorry about all the problems, Misto