Airëlus, has your father spoken to Legolas yet?" asked Elrohir, as he and
Elladan passed the healer in the corridor.
"What? Oh, they spoke yesterday, a while after the meeting. From what I saw, heard and have been told, the talk did not go well," replied Airëlus. "Both got angry, and your father now has one less table, thanks to my father and his temper."
Elladan smiled vaguely at that. "So, Thranduil won the fight, did he?"
"No, Legolas did," said Airëlus, feeling a flicker of amusement at the surprised expressions on the twins' faces. "Our father gave up, and is allowing Legolas to go with Estel, though it is against his better judgement. He is not happy at all, and has spoken to no-one since I saw him last night."
"Hmm, I can imagine he must want to be left alone," said Elrohir. "Are you going to see Legolas now? We'll leave you alone. By the way, have you seen Aradan on your travels?"
"Yes, he is sitting in a tree in one of the gardens," replied Airëlus.
Elladan arched an eyebrow. "Whatever is he sitting in a tree for?"
Airëlus narrowed his eyes, his face darkening slightly. "He has caught sight of the patrols returning, and has been watching their progress. Calaen should be here in the next half hour."
............................................................................................................
Legolas looked up as his bedroom door was opened. "Ada? Oh, Airëlus, it is you. How is he? Have you spoken to him? Is he still angry?"
"I do not know how he is; I have not spoken with him; and sadly, he probably will still be slightly angry," replied Airëlus. "But do not worry; he will come round to the idea eventually."
The Prince made an unconvincing noise of agreement. "Hmm. Airëlus, I have waited long enough. Will you now tell me your story now? You must admit that I have been patient."
"Ye-es," said Airëlus, a sceptical look crossing his fair face. "I will reveal everything soon enough. We can go out onto the balcony and talk. Do you want some breakfast? I can have some sent up here for you."
"I am not hungry, but I suppose you are going to order food anyway?" asked Legolas.
"What do you want? How about a bit of fruit or maybe some soup? It will take a while for your body to get used to the intake of food, but if you go slowly, then everything will get back to normal soon enough," said Airëlus, going across to the door. He opened it and spoke quietly to someone outside. When he turned back, Legolas was out of bed and pulling on a silky blue dressing-gown over his white tunic.
"Don't look so worried, I am well enough to get out of bed," said the golden haired Elf.
Airëlus arched an eyebrow, but said nothing. He folded his arms across his chest, and watched as his brother pulled back the curtains. Sunlight streamed through the window, causing Legolas to hiss, as his eyes were dazzled by the brightness that had been absent from his life for the past two weeks.
"Alright?" asked Airëlus calmly.
Legolas blinked, and rested his hand on the wall. "Fine, thank you all the same for your concern."
"That is quite alright," replied Airëlus. "You know, it will hurt a lot more once you step outside. You have been kept away from the sun for so long, and the one time you were actually under it, you were unconscious. Your eyes and head will hurt a lot, Legolas. I'm just warning you. By the way, you might fall into darkness for a moment, so it will be better if you let me help you. I will only be acting as a support."
The Prince turned again, and glared at his brother. "I will be just fine, I can assure you."
With that, Legolas pushed open the door and stepped out onto the balcony. His head suddenly exploded in pain, and bright lights flashed in front of his eyes. Suddenly, he felt someone grabbing him, and holding him up.
"I warned you," said Airëlus, shaking his head slightly as he pushed his brother gently down in a chair.
Legolas winced, and rested his head in his hands. "Ai Elbereth, it hurts, I admit. It is times like this when I despise the fact that you are older and more intelligent than I am."
"It is common sense," muttered Airëlus. "Everyone knows how powerful the Sun is."
"Stop gloating, and tell me why you are here, else I may just send you back to wherever you came from," said Legolas wearily, lowering one hand and rubbing his eyes. The lights had nearly faded from his vision, and the drums had almost stopped pounding in his head.
"Wait until you have eaten," replied the healer.
Legolas' eyes snapped up, and there was no humour in them. "This is far from funny, Airëlus. If you are doing this just to frustrate me, then you have succeeded. I have waited only a few days, and that may not seem like very long to you, but it is to me, so will you just-?"
"I am not keeping silent so that it will frustrate you," said Airëlus gently. "I am doing it because I care about you and your health."
The Prince narrowed his eyes, but nodded resentfully. "Right, I understand. So, have you not spoken to Ada yet?"
"No, he has shut himself away in his room," replied Airëlus. He bit down on his lip, and looked carefully at his brother. "Legolas, when Ada grabbed you last night, did he hurt you at all?"
"Of course not," replied Legolas. "I hurt him more than he hurt me."
"Not intentionally," said Airëlus quietly.
Legolas inclined his head, and looked down into the courtyard. The two brothers waited in silence, reflecting on the past, trying to block out the present, and hoping for the future. Airëlus drummed his fingers on Legolas' shoulder, where his hand rested protectively. A knock on the door drew his attention though, and he turned to see a servant coming through the room and onto the balcony with a tray of food.
"Prince Airëlus, Prince Legolas, I hope everything is to your satisfaction. I will come to collect the tray later," said the servant.
"Thank you," said Airëlus, nodding briefly. He glanced across at his brother, and gestured to the food, whilst the servant quietly took his leave.
"Don't worry, I am going to eat," said Legolas, picking up a grape, but making no move to put it in his mouth. Instead, he sat back in his chair, and sighed deeply.
"You must be the only Elf in existence who can eat a piece of food without putting it anywhere near your mouth," said Airëlus pointedly.
Legolas looked up at his brother and shook his head in annoyance. However, he ate the grape, knowing that mysteries would remain veiled until Airëlus was satisfied. The healer smiled, and pressed various pieces of fruit into Legolas' hand.
"Eat," he said, eyes sparkling. "The sooner you eat, the sooner we talk."
"I know, and it gets more irritating every time you say something like that," muttered Legolas.
Airëlus laughed and sat down opposite the golden haired Elf, watching as he slowly ate. A bird landed on the balcony, his beady eyes fixed on the food, and the two Elves smiled at the patter of his feet across the floor. He hopped up onto the edge of the table, and pecked tentatively at a piece of bread.
"I always wanted to be a bird when I was a child," said Legolas suddenly.
"A...bird? Fair enough. Might I enquire as to why?" asked Airëlus.
"Whenever Ada was angry with me, Calaen would always be standing in the corner, watching, and laughing silently," replied Legolas. "His eyes would be dancing with joy, for he was always so happy when he realised that he had got one over on me."
"So, why did you wish to be a bird?" pressed Airëlus, as his brother fell silent.
Legolas laughed darkly, and slowly ate another grape. "Because they are free to do whatever they want, go wherever they please. If ever they want to get away, all they need to do is spread their wings, and they will be free. Of course, I am not so naïve any more, and I know that troubles must be faced."
Airëlus smiled, and reached out to touch a hand to Legolas' shoulder. His movement however, startled the bird, and it took off from the table, and flew into a nearby tree, chirping indignantly. The two Elves made soft noises of amusement, but Legolas' eyes were somewhat bitter.
"You are right: they can do whatever they want," said Airëlus quietly. He reached out then, and took the remaining pieces of fruit from Legolas' hand, for the younger Elf was looking down at them in disdain. "Come, you have clearly had enough. I have made you wait for long enough, so now I will tell you."
Legolas breathed a sigh of deep relief, and leant forwards in his chair, eager to hear his brother's story. The bird had ventured back to the balcony, but this time was ignored by the Elves.
"When we were in the clearing all those years back, I died," Airëlus began. "It is important for you to know and understand that, alright? I died, and there was no life in me. When you buried me, I was still dead, in the Halls of Mandos."
"How-?"
"Just be quiet and listen," said Airëlus. "I am getting there. Now, do you understand that I died? My body remained in Middle Earth, but my soul went to the Halls of Mandos."
"No, I do not understand," said Legolas slowly. "You did not die, because you are here now."
"Ye, I am indeed here with you," said Airëlus, "and I will stay with you for as long as possible. But you must believe that I died. I know it sounds strange, but please believe it."
Legolas shifted slightly in his chair, and watched as the bird hopped across the table. "I...I believe that you died. Looking back, I realise now that there is no way you could have been alive."
"I am glad you know that, else it would've made things a lot harder," said Airëlus. "Now, my soul went to the Halls of Mandos, and I was greeted by Námo. He brought word from Manwë that there was no permanent place for me in the Halls, because I had work to do in Middle Earth. Of course, I knew not of what he spoke."
"Although you...died, were you still able to feel anything?" asked Legolas uncertainly. "That sounds ridiculous. I mean that your body remained in the clearing for a time, and there was a fire there. Could you feel anything whilst in the Halls of...No, it doesn't matter."
"Yes, it does," said Airëlus. "Don't worry, I understand what you mean. No, I could feel nothing. I was dimly aware that something was happening, but that is all. Do you wish to ask anything else?"
"No, go on," said Legolas quietly.
Airëlus nodded, and looked down into the courtyard. "Námo said that I must stay in the Halls of Mandos until Manwë deemed your need dire. I was sent back for you, Legolas."
"What do you mean?" asked the Prince.
"I can think of no way you would've survived that punctured lung. No-one save maybe Lord Elrond would've been able to heal you, so that is where I had to help," explained Airëlus. "And let's say you had indeed been saved some other way, then you would not have wanted to carry on. Again, that is where I have had to help. It was hoped that my return would be enough to change your thoughts about passing on."
"It has," said Legolas softly. "So, you came back...for me?"
"Yes, and also for Ada. If you had died, then there would be nothing left for him," replied Airëlus. "Now that I am here, I can use my powers to help others when they are in need."
Legolas sighed, and went to lean against the balustrade. "Yes, your powers. What of them? They are something else that I have yet to understand."
"I was given a gift by the Valar," replied Airëlus, "and it is the art of healing without need of medicine or herbs. I was also given a horse, with a coat of gold. He has speed which can rival even the Chief of the Mearas'."
"So, if you were given those gifts, and if you were sent back to Middle Earth to do a job, then that would make you..." Legolas whirled around, amazement shining in his eyes. He stared at Airëlus for a moment, before dropping down to one knee, as a sign of respect.
Airëlus stepped forward, and gently rested a hand on his brother's cheek. "No, Legolas, this does not change who I am. There is no need for you to bow down to me. Rise."
"But you are a Servant of the Valar," said the Prince in a low voice. "You have been to Mandos and returned, you should be held in the highest possible respect, you-
"The only respect I want from you is that which you gave me before finding out about this," said Airëlus, putting both hands on Legolas' shoulders, and pulling him up.
The golden haired Elf turned away, and shook his head. "I cannot believe it; a Servant of the Valar. How can you say that you want no respect? You deserve it."
"Legolas, I am here so that your life can go back to the way it used to be," said Airëlus in exasperation. "I am still your brother; I am still the same as I always was. The only difference is that I have un-natural powers, and a faster horse than you do."
Legolas smiled briefly, and ran his fingers absent-mindedly over the balustrade. "Why now? If Manwë sent you back, why did he not do it sooner?"
"Because you did not need me then," replied Airëlus, "or so it was thought."
"That is where you are wrong. I needed you, and so did Ada. We were alone, and all we had left of you were memories," said Legolas. "We really did need you, Airëlus."
The healer sighed, and inclined his head. "I do not doubt that. And if I was given the chance to come back any sooner, then of course I would've taken it immediately. When you came out of Calaen's caves, you needed protection not just from physical wounds, but also emotional, and they can sometimes be more damaging. After I died, you were unhappy, but there was never any possibility of you trying to take your own life. It crossed your mind though, did it not?"
"Sometimes," said Legolas quietly.
"But you never tried to take action. Manwë and Námo would've known if anything was going to happen, and that is why I was not sent back sooner," went on Airëlus. "If I was not here when you were freed from captivity, would you still want to live?"
Legolas bit his lip, and shook his head. "No, I wouldn't."
"Hmm, so do you understand now?" asked Airëlus. When his brother nodded, he smiled. "Good. I take it you have more questions?"
"Yes, many," replied Legolas. "What of your body? The one we buried, I mean."
"This is it," smiled Airëlus, running a hand down his chest. "The body you buried is right in front of you. When my soul was restored, I found myself in the forest. I was a little disorientated at first, but my horse seemed to know the way to the palace."
Legolas laughed softly, his golden hair shimmering as he moved. "What about your age? Are you still older than me, or are you the same age as when you died?"
"I am neither young nor old," said Airëlus cryptically.
"That does not answer my question," pressed Legolas.
"Well, I am ageless. I do not rightly know how old I am, but it should not matter," said Airëlus. "You are still younger than I though, for that is the way it was before. If I had been re-born, then maybe it would be different."
Legolas nodded slowly. "Yes, I suppose so. You know, I still can't believe that this is really happening. I have everything that I ever wanted, and I am happy, despite being slightly confused and overwhelmed. But there is a shadow at the back of my mind, and it takes the form of Calaen. He will be here soon, and I cannot see how everything will run smoothly. He will do something."
"There will be no chance for him to do so," said Airëlus quietly. He sighed then, and put a hand on his brother's shoulder. "Nothing more will happen, Legolas. You have nothing more to fear."
The Prince smiled vaguely, and a thoughtful look crossed his face. "What is it like beyond Middle Earth? What are the Halls like?"
"They...are beautiful," sighed Airëlus, and his fair face was peaceful. "I have never seen anything like them, and it saddens me to know that the sight is slowly slipping from my mind. When I look back, I see radiance. But now I am on Middle Earth once more, and the images of those Halls are not granted to the living."
"Were they worth dying for?" asked Legolas quietly, secretly dreading the answer.
Airëlus snapped his eyes up, and shook his head. "Don't be stupid. Nothing could compensate for you and Ada, and I am surprised that you are not aware of that."
"I am, I just wanted to make sure," said Legolas, his eyes sparkling.
"Ah, alright then," said Airëlus. "Now, do you have any more questions? Is there anything else you would like to know?"
"Yes, how did everyone else react upon seeing you for the first time?" asked Legolas.
Airëlus laughed at that, as he cast his mind back. "Well, Lord Elrond stared at me silently, and it wasn't until five minutes later that he got over the shock and said something along the lines of: 'I am never drinking Dorwinion again'. Mithrandir was calm, as though he had known all along; Estel was unable to speak for a while, like his father; and the twins were scared out of their wits. I think that if the situation had been any different, Elrohir would've jumped straight into his brother's arms. Elladan would've dropped him in his shock."
Legolas smiled, and shook his head briefly. "Yes, I can imagine that happening," he said softly. "What about Ada?"
"He was clearly in a rush, for he pushed straight past me at first, but then realised that I was actually standing in the palace," replied Airëlus. "The re-union was...special. The meeting of a father and son after many years apart is unique; and must be kept secret between the two concerned. I suppose you could compare it to the meeting of two brothers after many years apart."
"And that is why there was no-one in the room when we were re-united," said Legolas.
"Exactly. It had to be special," replied Airëlus. "I knew it would be so in whatever way we met, but I wanted it to be private."
Legolas smiled, though he sighed deeply. "Yes, it was special, and never will I forget it. But there has been something playing on my mind. Will we be separated again? Will you be summoned back to the Halls of Mandos? I could not bear it if I lost you again."
Airëlus shook his head, and said gently but firmly, "No, I will never be parted from you, unless by some ill chance. We can re-build our lives, Legolas, and we can build them together. I suppose Ada will be there also, but we will be hard put to get rid of him. Still, we can try."
"No, he would not leave for anything," laughed Legolas. He stopped abruptly though, and his ocean blue eyes were sorrowful. "He would not leave me, but here I am, volunteering to walk straight into danger. Maybe I should not go on the Quest. I want to, but now you have returned, and I do not wish to see Ada hurting. I cannot risk causing even more pain if anything should happen to me."
"Do not change your thoughts or desires for anyone, no matter how much you love them," said Airëlus.
Legolas nodded slowly, and leant forwards to rest his arms on the marble balustrade. "You make a fair point, and I see the reasoning in it. I will go with Estel, for this is my path."
Whilst he was talking, the Prince had not noticed the door to the room opening, and he carried on, oblivious. Airëlus though, glanced in at the silent figure, who was cloaked and hooded, and smiled as he saw who it was. However he remained quiet, letting his brother go on.
"Of course I understand why Ada wants to keep me here, but I only hope he will eventually understand that this is something I must do," continued Legolas. "Hurting him is the very last thing I want to do, and I hope he knows that soon. I do not want our parting to be bitter."
"He already knows that you do not mean to hurt him, and the parting will be far from bitter," said a soft voice from behind the brothers. "He has been outside, gathering his thoughts, and has only just realised how much he over-reacted."
Legolas whirled around, and his face paled when he saw who stood there. "Ada, I did not know you were listening."
"No matter," said Thranduil, pulling off his grey Elven-cloak. "I should not have reacted in the way I did upon finding out that you want to remain part of the Company. Go with them, ion-nin, for you go with my blessing."
"Hannon le," said the Prince quietly.
Thranduil smiled, and put one arm around Legolas' shoulders, and the other around Airëlus'. "I am fortunate to have sons like you, and I know that we can get through whatever is thrown in front of us."
The re-united family stood like that awhile, none of them wanting to move, for fear of destroying the peaceful bond. But suddenly something caught Legolas' eye, and as he stared through the trees and out past the borders of Rivendell, he realised with a jolt of fear what it was, and he leant instinctively towards his father.
"Are you alright?" asked Thranduil softly.
The younger Elf just swallowed nervously, and bit down on his lip. Airëlus followed his gaze, and his face darkened as he looked down upon that which had sparked fear in his brother. Thranduil also watched, and he instinctively tightened his hold around his sons, especially Legolas, as he said: "The patrols have returned. Calaen is here. It is time..."
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Námo: This is the true name of the Vala more commonly known as Mandos, a name taken from the Hall of his dwelling. (The Encyclopaedia of Arda is so useful!)
tHeBlOnDeInEveRkNew: Whew. That was slightly awkward to spell! Anyway, I like Airëlus too. I think he's quite ace!
Midnight Princess: Hee hee, you sounded like Legolas in ROTK, when he says: 'Have you learnt nothing of the stubbornness of Dwarves?'
Legolas-gurl888: Yeah, I didn't think you had posted your story yet. Ah well, I'm sitting at home, twiddling my thumbs, waiting patiently...LOL
Halimanya: Thanks so much for leaving such a nice review! I'm so sorry I haven't had time to review your story, but I only just have time to write my own, what with nasty exams and all! I will catch up though!
That was quite possibly the longest chapter I have ever had to type. Anyway, Calaen is back! Yay, go him! Sorry, it's not good to like him! Anyway, sorry to leave you on a cliff-hanger like that, but the next chapter will be up on Thursday! Luv Misto x-x
"What? Oh, they spoke yesterday, a while after the meeting. From what I saw, heard and have been told, the talk did not go well," replied Airëlus. "Both got angry, and your father now has one less table, thanks to my father and his temper."
Elladan smiled vaguely at that. "So, Thranduil won the fight, did he?"
"No, Legolas did," said Airëlus, feeling a flicker of amusement at the surprised expressions on the twins' faces. "Our father gave up, and is allowing Legolas to go with Estel, though it is against his better judgement. He is not happy at all, and has spoken to no-one since I saw him last night."
"Hmm, I can imagine he must want to be left alone," said Elrohir. "Are you going to see Legolas now? We'll leave you alone. By the way, have you seen Aradan on your travels?"
"Yes, he is sitting in a tree in one of the gardens," replied Airëlus.
Elladan arched an eyebrow. "Whatever is he sitting in a tree for?"
Airëlus narrowed his eyes, his face darkening slightly. "He has caught sight of the patrols returning, and has been watching their progress. Calaen should be here in the next half hour."
............................................................................................................
Legolas looked up as his bedroom door was opened. "Ada? Oh, Airëlus, it is you. How is he? Have you spoken to him? Is he still angry?"
"I do not know how he is; I have not spoken with him; and sadly, he probably will still be slightly angry," replied Airëlus. "But do not worry; he will come round to the idea eventually."
The Prince made an unconvincing noise of agreement. "Hmm. Airëlus, I have waited long enough. Will you now tell me your story now? You must admit that I have been patient."
"Ye-es," said Airëlus, a sceptical look crossing his fair face. "I will reveal everything soon enough. We can go out onto the balcony and talk. Do you want some breakfast? I can have some sent up here for you."
"I am not hungry, but I suppose you are going to order food anyway?" asked Legolas.
"What do you want? How about a bit of fruit or maybe some soup? It will take a while for your body to get used to the intake of food, but if you go slowly, then everything will get back to normal soon enough," said Airëlus, going across to the door. He opened it and spoke quietly to someone outside. When he turned back, Legolas was out of bed and pulling on a silky blue dressing-gown over his white tunic.
"Don't look so worried, I am well enough to get out of bed," said the golden haired Elf.
Airëlus arched an eyebrow, but said nothing. He folded his arms across his chest, and watched as his brother pulled back the curtains. Sunlight streamed through the window, causing Legolas to hiss, as his eyes were dazzled by the brightness that had been absent from his life for the past two weeks.
"Alright?" asked Airëlus calmly.
Legolas blinked, and rested his hand on the wall. "Fine, thank you all the same for your concern."
"That is quite alright," replied Airëlus. "You know, it will hurt a lot more once you step outside. You have been kept away from the sun for so long, and the one time you were actually under it, you were unconscious. Your eyes and head will hurt a lot, Legolas. I'm just warning you. By the way, you might fall into darkness for a moment, so it will be better if you let me help you. I will only be acting as a support."
The Prince turned again, and glared at his brother. "I will be just fine, I can assure you."
With that, Legolas pushed open the door and stepped out onto the balcony. His head suddenly exploded in pain, and bright lights flashed in front of his eyes. Suddenly, he felt someone grabbing him, and holding him up.
"I warned you," said Airëlus, shaking his head slightly as he pushed his brother gently down in a chair.
Legolas winced, and rested his head in his hands. "Ai Elbereth, it hurts, I admit. It is times like this when I despise the fact that you are older and more intelligent than I am."
"It is common sense," muttered Airëlus. "Everyone knows how powerful the Sun is."
"Stop gloating, and tell me why you are here, else I may just send you back to wherever you came from," said Legolas wearily, lowering one hand and rubbing his eyes. The lights had nearly faded from his vision, and the drums had almost stopped pounding in his head.
"Wait until you have eaten," replied the healer.
Legolas' eyes snapped up, and there was no humour in them. "This is far from funny, Airëlus. If you are doing this just to frustrate me, then you have succeeded. I have waited only a few days, and that may not seem like very long to you, but it is to me, so will you just-?"
"I am not keeping silent so that it will frustrate you," said Airëlus gently. "I am doing it because I care about you and your health."
The Prince narrowed his eyes, but nodded resentfully. "Right, I understand. So, have you not spoken to Ada yet?"
"No, he has shut himself away in his room," replied Airëlus. He bit down on his lip, and looked carefully at his brother. "Legolas, when Ada grabbed you last night, did he hurt you at all?"
"Of course not," replied Legolas. "I hurt him more than he hurt me."
"Not intentionally," said Airëlus quietly.
Legolas inclined his head, and looked down into the courtyard. The two brothers waited in silence, reflecting on the past, trying to block out the present, and hoping for the future. Airëlus drummed his fingers on Legolas' shoulder, where his hand rested protectively. A knock on the door drew his attention though, and he turned to see a servant coming through the room and onto the balcony with a tray of food.
"Prince Airëlus, Prince Legolas, I hope everything is to your satisfaction. I will come to collect the tray later," said the servant.
"Thank you," said Airëlus, nodding briefly. He glanced across at his brother, and gestured to the food, whilst the servant quietly took his leave.
"Don't worry, I am going to eat," said Legolas, picking up a grape, but making no move to put it in his mouth. Instead, he sat back in his chair, and sighed deeply.
"You must be the only Elf in existence who can eat a piece of food without putting it anywhere near your mouth," said Airëlus pointedly.
Legolas looked up at his brother and shook his head in annoyance. However, he ate the grape, knowing that mysteries would remain veiled until Airëlus was satisfied. The healer smiled, and pressed various pieces of fruit into Legolas' hand.
"Eat," he said, eyes sparkling. "The sooner you eat, the sooner we talk."
"I know, and it gets more irritating every time you say something like that," muttered Legolas.
Airëlus laughed and sat down opposite the golden haired Elf, watching as he slowly ate. A bird landed on the balcony, his beady eyes fixed on the food, and the two Elves smiled at the patter of his feet across the floor. He hopped up onto the edge of the table, and pecked tentatively at a piece of bread.
"I always wanted to be a bird when I was a child," said Legolas suddenly.
"A...bird? Fair enough. Might I enquire as to why?" asked Airëlus.
"Whenever Ada was angry with me, Calaen would always be standing in the corner, watching, and laughing silently," replied Legolas. "His eyes would be dancing with joy, for he was always so happy when he realised that he had got one over on me."
"So, why did you wish to be a bird?" pressed Airëlus, as his brother fell silent.
Legolas laughed darkly, and slowly ate another grape. "Because they are free to do whatever they want, go wherever they please. If ever they want to get away, all they need to do is spread their wings, and they will be free. Of course, I am not so naïve any more, and I know that troubles must be faced."
Airëlus smiled, and reached out to touch a hand to Legolas' shoulder. His movement however, startled the bird, and it took off from the table, and flew into a nearby tree, chirping indignantly. The two Elves made soft noises of amusement, but Legolas' eyes were somewhat bitter.
"You are right: they can do whatever they want," said Airëlus quietly. He reached out then, and took the remaining pieces of fruit from Legolas' hand, for the younger Elf was looking down at them in disdain. "Come, you have clearly had enough. I have made you wait for long enough, so now I will tell you."
Legolas breathed a sigh of deep relief, and leant forwards in his chair, eager to hear his brother's story. The bird had ventured back to the balcony, but this time was ignored by the Elves.
"When we were in the clearing all those years back, I died," Airëlus began. "It is important for you to know and understand that, alright? I died, and there was no life in me. When you buried me, I was still dead, in the Halls of Mandos."
"How-?"
"Just be quiet and listen," said Airëlus. "I am getting there. Now, do you understand that I died? My body remained in Middle Earth, but my soul went to the Halls of Mandos."
"No, I do not understand," said Legolas slowly. "You did not die, because you are here now."
"Ye, I am indeed here with you," said Airëlus, "and I will stay with you for as long as possible. But you must believe that I died. I know it sounds strange, but please believe it."
Legolas shifted slightly in his chair, and watched as the bird hopped across the table. "I...I believe that you died. Looking back, I realise now that there is no way you could have been alive."
"I am glad you know that, else it would've made things a lot harder," said Airëlus. "Now, my soul went to the Halls of Mandos, and I was greeted by Námo. He brought word from Manwë that there was no permanent place for me in the Halls, because I had work to do in Middle Earth. Of course, I knew not of what he spoke."
"Although you...died, were you still able to feel anything?" asked Legolas uncertainly. "That sounds ridiculous. I mean that your body remained in the clearing for a time, and there was a fire there. Could you feel anything whilst in the Halls of...No, it doesn't matter."
"Yes, it does," said Airëlus. "Don't worry, I understand what you mean. No, I could feel nothing. I was dimly aware that something was happening, but that is all. Do you wish to ask anything else?"
"No, go on," said Legolas quietly.
Airëlus nodded, and looked down into the courtyard. "Námo said that I must stay in the Halls of Mandos until Manwë deemed your need dire. I was sent back for you, Legolas."
"What do you mean?" asked the Prince.
"I can think of no way you would've survived that punctured lung. No-one save maybe Lord Elrond would've been able to heal you, so that is where I had to help," explained Airëlus. "And let's say you had indeed been saved some other way, then you would not have wanted to carry on. Again, that is where I have had to help. It was hoped that my return would be enough to change your thoughts about passing on."
"It has," said Legolas softly. "So, you came back...for me?"
"Yes, and also for Ada. If you had died, then there would be nothing left for him," replied Airëlus. "Now that I am here, I can use my powers to help others when they are in need."
Legolas sighed, and went to lean against the balustrade. "Yes, your powers. What of them? They are something else that I have yet to understand."
"I was given a gift by the Valar," replied Airëlus, "and it is the art of healing without need of medicine or herbs. I was also given a horse, with a coat of gold. He has speed which can rival even the Chief of the Mearas'."
"So, if you were given those gifts, and if you were sent back to Middle Earth to do a job, then that would make you..." Legolas whirled around, amazement shining in his eyes. He stared at Airëlus for a moment, before dropping down to one knee, as a sign of respect.
Airëlus stepped forward, and gently rested a hand on his brother's cheek. "No, Legolas, this does not change who I am. There is no need for you to bow down to me. Rise."
"But you are a Servant of the Valar," said the Prince in a low voice. "You have been to Mandos and returned, you should be held in the highest possible respect, you-
"The only respect I want from you is that which you gave me before finding out about this," said Airëlus, putting both hands on Legolas' shoulders, and pulling him up.
The golden haired Elf turned away, and shook his head. "I cannot believe it; a Servant of the Valar. How can you say that you want no respect? You deserve it."
"Legolas, I am here so that your life can go back to the way it used to be," said Airëlus in exasperation. "I am still your brother; I am still the same as I always was. The only difference is that I have un-natural powers, and a faster horse than you do."
Legolas smiled briefly, and ran his fingers absent-mindedly over the balustrade. "Why now? If Manwë sent you back, why did he not do it sooner?"
"Because you did not need me then," replied Airëlus, "or so it was thought."
"That is where you are wrong. I needed you, and so did Ada. We were alone, and all we had left of you were memories," said Legolas. "We really did need you, Airëlus."
The healer sighed, and inclined his head. "I do not doubt that. And if I was given the chance to come back any sooner, then of course I would've taken it immediately. When you came out of Calaen's caves, you needed protection not just from physical wounds, but also emotional, and they can sometimes be more damaging. After I died, you were unhappy, but there was never any possibility of you trying to take your own life. It crossed your mind though, did it not?"
"Sometimes," said Legolas quietly.
"But you never tried to take action. Manwë and Námo would've known if anything was going to happen, and that is why I was not sent back sooner," went on Airëlus. "If I was not here when you were freed from captivity, would you still want to live?"
Legolas bit his lip, and shook his head. "No, I wouldn't."
"Hmm, so do you understand now?" asked Airëlus. When his brother nodded, he smiled. "Good. I take it you have more questions?"
"Yes, many," replied Legolas. "What of your body? The one we buried, I mean."
"This is it," smiled Airëlus, running a hand down his chest. "The body you buried is right in front of you. When my soul was restored, I found myself in the forest. I was a little disorientated at first, but my horse seemed to know the way to the palace."
Legolas laughed softly, his golden hair shimmering as he moved. "What about your age? Are you still older than me, or are you the same age as when you died?"
"I am neither young nor old," said Airëlus cryptically.
"That does not answer my question," pressed Legolas.
"Well, I am ageless. I do not rightly know how old I am, but it should not matter," said Airëlus. "You are still younger than I though, for that is the way it was before. If I had been re-born, then maybe it would be different."
Legolas nodded slowly. "Yes, I suppose so. You know, I still can't believe that this is really happening. I have everything that I ever wanted, and I am happy, despite being slightly confused and overwhelmed. But there is a shadow at the back of my mind, and it takes the form of Calaen. He will be here soon, and I cannot see how everything will run smoothly. He will do something."
"There will be no chance for him to do so," said Airëlus quietly. He sighed then, and put a hand on his brother's shoulder. "Nothing more will happen, Legolas. You have nothing more to fear."
The Prince smiled vaguely, and a thoughtful look crossed his face. "What is it like beyond Middle Earth? What are the Halls like?"
"They...are beautiful," sighed Airëlus, and his fair face was peaceful. "I have never seen anything like them, and it saddens me to know that the sight is slowly slipping from my mind. When I look back, I see radiance. But now I am on Middle Earth once more, and the images of those Halls are not granted to the living."
"Were they worth dying for?" asked Legolas quietly, secretly dreading the answer.
Airëlus snapped his eyes up, and shook his head. "Don't be stupid. Nothing could compensate for you and Ada, and I am surprised that you are not aware of that."
"I am, I just wanted to make sure," said Legolas, his eyes sparkling.
"Ah, alright then," said Airëlus. "Now, do you have any more questions? Is there anything else you would like to know?"
"Yes, how did everyone else react upon seeing you for the first time?" asked Legolas.
Airëlus laughed at that, as he cast his mind back. "Well, Lord Elrond stared at me silently, and it wasn't until five minutes later that he got over the shock and said something along the lines of: 'I am never drinking Dorwinion again'. Mithrandir was calm, as though he had known all along; Estel was unable to speak for a while, like his father; and the twins were scared out of their wits. I think that if the situation had been any different, Elrohir would've jumped straight into his brother's arms. Elladan would've dropped him in his shock."
Legolas smiled, and shook his head briefly. "Yes, I can imagine that happening," he said softly. "What about Ada?"
"He was clearly in a rush, for he pushed straight past me at first, but then realised that I was actually standing in the palace," replied Airëlus. "The re-union was...special. The meeting of a father and son after many years apart is unique; and must be kept secret between the two concerned. I suppose you could compare it to the meeting of two brothers after many years apart."
"And that is why there was no-one in the room when we were re-united," said Legolas.
"Exactly. It had to be special," replied Airëlus. "I knew it would be so in whatever way we met, but I wanted it to be private."
Legolas smiled, though he sighed deeply. "Yes, it was special, and never will I forget it. But there has been something playing on my mind. Will we be separated again? Will you be summoned back to the Halls of Mandos? I could not bear it if I lost you again."
Airëlus shook his head, and said gently but firmly, "No, I will never be parted from you, unless by some ill chance. We can re-build our lives, Legolas, and we can build them together. I suppose Ada will be there also, but we will be hard put to get rid of him. Still, we can try."
"No, he would not leave for anything," laughed Legolas. He stopped abruptly though, and his ocean blue eyes were sorrowful. "He would not leave me, but here I am, volunteering to walk straight into danger. Maybe I should not go on the Quest. I want to, but now you have returned, and I do not wish to see Ada hurting. I cannot risk causing even more pain if anything should happen to me."
"Do not change your thoughts or desires for anyone, no matter how much you love them," said Airëlus.
Legolas nodded slowly, and leant forwards to rest his arms on the marble balustrade. "You make a fair point, and I see the reasoning in it. I will go with Estel, for this is my path."
Whilst he was talking, the Prince had not noticed the door to the room opening, and he carried on, oblivious. Airëlus though, glanced in at the silent figure, who was cloaked and hooded, and smiled as he saw who it was. However he remained quiet, letting his brother go on.
"Of course I understand why Ada wants to keep me here, but I only hope he will eventually understand that this is something I must do," continued Legolas. "Hurting him is the very last thing I want to do, and I hope he knows that soon. I do not want our parting to be bitter."
"He already knows that you do not mean to hurt him, and the parting will be far from bitter," said a soft voice from behind the brothers. "He has been outside, gathering his thoughts, and has only just realised how much he over-reacted."
Legolas whirled around, and his face paled when he saw who stood there. "Ada, I did not know you were listening."
"No matter," said Thranduil, pulling off his grey Elven-cloak. "I should not have reacted in the way I did upon finding out that you want to remain part of the Company. Go with them, ion-nin, for you go with my blessing."
"Hannon le," said the Prince quietly.
Thranduil smiled, and put one arm around Legolas' shoulders, and the other around Airëlus'. "I am fortunate to have sons like you, and I know that we can get through whatever is thrown in front of us."
The re-united family stood like that awhile, none of them wanting to move, for fear of destroying the peaceful bond. But suddenly something caught Legolas' eye, and as he stared through the trees and out past the borders of Rivendell, he realised with a jolt of fear what it was, and he leant instinctively towards his father.
"Are you alright?" asked Thranduil softly.
The younger Elf just swallowed nervously, and bit down on his lip. Airëlus followed his gaze, and his face darkened as he looked down upon that which had sparked fear in his brother. Thranduil also watched, and he instinctively tightened his hold around his sons, especially Legolas, as he said: "The patrols have returned. Calaen is here. It is time..."
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Námo: This is the true name of the Vala more commonly known as Mandos, a name taken from the Hall of his dwelling. (The Encyclopaedia of Arda is so useful!)
tHeBlOnDeInEveRkNew: Whew. That was slightly awkward to spell! Anyway, I like Airëlus too. I think he's quite ace!
Midnight Princess: Hee hee, you sounded like Legolas in ROTK, when he says: 'Have you learnt nothing of the stubbornness of Dwarves?'
Legolas-gurl888: Yeah, I didn't think you had posted your story yet. Ah well, I'm sitting at home, twiddling my thumbs, waiting patiently...LOL
Halimanya: Thanks so much for leaving such a nice review! I'm so sorry I haven't had time to review your story, but I only just have time to write my own, what with nasty exams and all! I will catch up though!
That was quite possibly the longest chapter I have ever had to type. Anyway, Calaen is back! Yay, go him! Sorry, it's not good to like him! Anyway, sorry to leave you on a cliff-hanger like that, but the next chapter will be up on Thursday! Luv Misto x-x