Chapter 4 -The Spider That Would Be King
Legolas, Tavor, and Brethil exited yet another storeroom, covered with dust and grime. All they had to show for an afternoon spent scrounging through some of the cluttered spaces in the lower portions of the palace were a few scrapes and cuts, tangled braids, and one rather moth- eaten rug from Rhun that they thought would look nice in the tree house.
"We could send it to Lord Elrond," Brethil said, eyeing the tattered and rolled thing under Legolas' arm, as they trudged up the stairs, "but I don't think he would see the possibilities that it possesses as we do."
"No," Legolas agreed, with a sigh. "It is not a good birthday present for him. We will just have to keep looking."
As they moved up the hall discussing some of the other odd things they had found in the storerooms, they nearly ran into Aralith.
"You are in trouble, tithen gwador {little brother}," he said with a smirk, folding his arms across his chest.
Legolas glared up at him, bottom lip thrust out in a pout.
"I haven't done anything," he stated, hefting the carpet, which was rather heavy, "so I am not in trouble." All the same, he found himself thinking back over the rest of the day, trying to remember if he had done something that would call unwanted attention to himself.
Aralith snorted when he saw the dark brows knit in concentration.
"Tanglinna wants you in the throne room . . . Now."
"I haven't done anything, Aralith."
Aralith raised one brow, trying very hard to look like his father.
"Oh really? Then you had better go and tell Tanglinna that, since he is under the impression that you are in trouble."
Legolas frowned, thrusting the carpet into Tavor's arms. His friend staggered slightly beneath the weight.
"I will meet you at Car an Neled later. Hopefully, 'it' will be there," he said cryptically, with a glance at Aralith. Then he turned on his heel and strode down the hallway, back straight, head held high.
The three watched him go.
"What 'it' is he talking about?" Brethil asked, tugging on his braid as he pulled small cobwebs from it.
Tavor's head swung toward him.
"It, Brethil. It," he said pointedly. "Come on. Excuse us, Prince Aralith."
Thranduil's middle son watched as they made their way up the stone hall, Tavor whispering at Brethil, who suddenly gasped, "Oh! That it!"
" 'It' is not in the tree house," Aralith called after a few seconds, moving to join them.
Tavor glanced over at him. He bit his lip wondering if he should comment on this statement or remain in ignorant bliss. He needn't have worried.
"Oh? Then where is 'it'?" Brethil asked. "I didn't think it would go back to the tree house. It was very unhappy there, regardless of what you and Legolas may have thought. Where is it, Prince Aralith? Is that why you came to get Legolas? Did it frighten you again? That is rather an odd thing really. A Prince of Mirkwood afraid of spiders. That must be rather awkward for you. I think that -"
"Shut up, Brethil," Tavor hissed with a worried glance at the Prince of Mirkwood who was afraid of spiders.
"What?" Brethil asked, with an annoyed glance at his friend. "I was merely saying that I think it must embarrass him -"
Tavor shoved the carpet at the other young Elf, who woofed in surprise and stumbled as he nearly dropped the rug on the floor.
"I am sorry, Prince Aralith," Tavor said with a quick bow of his head. "He truly does not realize what he is saying at times." He grabbed Brethil's arm and pulled him down the hall at a much accelerated pace.
Aralith growled at them. It was highly embarrassing to be afraid of spiders, but he truly couldn't help it. He wished that it were anything but spiders that made him quake with fear. A Prince of Mirkwood, son of Thranduil and grandson of Oropher, afraid of spiders. Awkward indeed.
~Well, ~ he thought, trying to comfort himself, ~at least I am not in trouble. ~
In the throne room, Thranduil's youngest son was in trouble. He stood looking wide-eyed at the floor, knowing that he was not going to be able to explain this away.
Tanglinna stood by the doorway, arms folded over his chest, his face set in stern lines as the King circled around his son, staring down at the bent head.
"Little Greenleaf, it would seem something is amiss here in my throne room. Can you tell me what that something is?"
The young Elf grimaced slightly, wrinkling his nose. Then he looked up, his eyes traveling to his father's carved throne. It was rather strange looking, just now as it was covered in sticky threads that glinted like strings of diamonds. Perched on top of it was Bastryn, glaring defiantly back at the Elves. When the blue eyes of "Little Greenleaf" came to rest on him, he hissed angrily.
"Wicked! Wicked, Greenie!"
Legolas groaned, and his brows furrowed.
"Adar, I - "
"I thought you said you had taken care of that spider," Thranduil said quietly, the blue eyes hard as he stood so tall, straight, and kingly at his son's side.
"I . . . I thought I had," Legolas answered, his shoulders slumping, one foot tracing a pattern on the stone floor.
"Why didn't you just kill it, Prince Legolas?" Tanglinna asked from his position by the door.
The Prince frowned.
"I. . . I don't know, but . . .but I will get it out of here."
Thranduil raised one eyebrow skeptically.
"What will you do with it this time?"
"I . . . don't know," the young Elf continued, straightening and lifting his chin, a pout on his lips. "I will figure something out."
"Figure something out," Tanglinna said with a snort. "This should be interesting. What have you "figured out" to send to Lord Elrond? His birthday is fast approaching, you know."
Thranduil turned to the Master Archer with a frown on his lips. Tanglinna shrugged slightly, and looked at the ceiling.
"Well it is," he said under his breath. "If he doesn't think of something soon then you, your Majesty, will have to explain why it was late, and I don't think you would enjoy that."
"I will think of something, Adar," Legolas said, resisting the urge to stick his tongue out at Tanglinna. "It is rather hard to find something . . . suitable." He grinned, hoping that had sounded very grown up.
Thranduil merely raised one corner of his mouth in a wry smile.
Legolas smiled crookedly, not sure if the smile was meant for him or Tanglinna.
"I will go fetch some bread from the kitchens. That should do it. He likes bread." He turned smartly on one heel, but a strong hand clamped onto his shoulder.
"Nay, Little Greenleaf, Tanglinna will fetch the bread. You will stay here."
The Master Archer raised his silvery brows. Fetching bread for a spider was not exactly one of his regular duties. But he bowed to Thranduil who was pointedly staring at him, waiting to be obeyed. It didn't help that Legolas was wearing a rather smug expression on his fair young face. He sneered slightly and turned away, muttering under his breath.
Later that day a much bitten Prince of Mirkwood rode over the stone bridge atop his shaggy pony, bearing a struggling baby spider in a sack. He rode with his back straight, head held high, eyes fixed ahead of him. He pointedly ignored the amused laughter and quiet conversations his passage invoked.
The next morning as he, Tavor, and Brethil were going to begin another search for the Perfect Birthday Present, he was summoned to the throne room once again. Tanglinna stood by the doorway and Thranduil turned to look at him from inside the room, his face looking very annoyed. Bastryn was perched once more on top of the throne, hissing and spitting.
"Oh no," Legolas breathed. "Adar! I . . . took him deep into the forest and I left him! I really did!"
"Not deeply enough it would seem," Tanglinna commented.
Thranduil shot an irritated look at him.
"Go fetch the bread, Tanglinna," he said, his eyes narrowing.
"Yes, your Majesty," the Master Archer murmured, bowing, though he looked at the prince with great irritation before leaving. He wondered how many days he would have to "Go fetch the bread, Tanglinna".
Several hours later the Prince of Mirkwood rode back across the bridge toward the palace, his slender fingers bitten and sore. He wasn't feeling very well, and he wondered if perhaps Bastryn was old enough to poison him slightly. Or perhaps it was merely the dreadful feeling that tomorrow morning he would be in the throne room once again, throwing bread at the spider.
As he trudged toward his room, feeling much too weary for someone his age, he heard Galion the butler speaking with Calphcyll one of his assistants.
"I tell you, the king will be very angry when he tastes this horrid stuff from Lebennin. I should just dump it into the stream and let the river carry it away."
"It can't be all that bad," Calphcyll said skeptically.
"Then come and taste it. You will be sorry that you didn't believe me. Ah! Prince Legolas!" Galion bowed toward him. "How did you fare today? Oh, dear! You poor thing! Look at your fingers! You had better go and see Nestadren about those bites. They can be quite nasty! Horrible things, spiders!"
Calphcyll bowed also, a slight amused smile on his lips, as Legolas swept past them, trying to look much more dignified than he felt. He decided to go and see Nestadren the Healer of Gladaran Thamas. The gentle Elf smiled as the prince showed him the abused fingers, and gave him some hot tea while he rubbed a salve on the bites, which were red and inflamed.
"You needn't worry, my Prince. You will be feeling better in the morning," he reassured in his low, pleasant voice. He smiled at Legolas as he stood and left the room for his bed. "I daresay," the Healer murmured quietly with a smile, "that I shall be seeing you again tomorrow."
"Legolas, this cannot continue," Thranduil said, his blue eyes filled with studied patience.
Tanglinna stood at the doorway, arms folded, a not so patient look on his face.
"Wicked, wicked Greenie!" Bastryn hissed from atop the throne. "My home! Mine!"
Legolas groaned, looking at his fingers, which were still slightly sore. He didn't relish the thought of more bites. He was certain that Tanglinna was keeping him longer at bow practice than he normally did, waiting until the fingers were very sore and stiff. The fingers of his left hand absently massaged the fingers that pulled the bowstring. If he had turned just then, he would have seen a grin of wicked glee on the Master Archer's lean face.
"I'll get rid of him, Adar," the young prince sighed, his hands dropping to his side.
"Haven't managed that too well yet, have you?" Tanglinna said wryly, the grin widening.
Both Thranduil and Legolas turned to look at him, identical looks of annoyance on their faces.
"I know," the archer sighed. "Fetch the bread, Tanglinna." He bowed to them, and turning said, "Oh yes. By the way Prince Legolas, I think it is time you tried a stronger bow." He grinned again, and left the room, whistling slightly.
Any other time Mirkwood's youngest prince would have been thrilled at the prospect, but he merely groaned, shoulders slumping, his fingers twitching already in anticipated pain.
Later that morning Legolas carried the sack with the spider into the tree house. He bit his lower lip, then reached into the sack and grabbed a handful of furry body. Bastryn hissed and shrieked, biting at the hands and fingers viciously. It was a great struggle, but at last the cage door was shut, the spider yanking furiously at the branch bars.
"Wicked Greenie! You are wicked!"
"Greenie" flopped exhausted back onto the rug Tavor and Brethil had brought up here a few days before, and squirmed slightly. Then he lay back with a sigh, hands behind his blonde head, aching fingers laced. He knew it was quite pointless to take the spider back into the woods as it had decided that the throne was now its home. It would always come back, no matter how far away he took it. He scowled at the spitting arachnid, trying not to think of the impending archery practice. He was muttering something about fingers and bowstrings when Tavor's head popped in the opening.
"Legolas? Oh no! Not again!" The young Elf pushed himself inside and stared at the caged spider. "He's back again! Not in the throne room?!"
"Yes," Legolas growled. "In the throne room. ON the throne. Next thing you know it will be wearing Adar's robe and crown."
"That would be rather silly as they are far too large for such a small spider," Brethil said quite seriously as he entered close on Tavor's heels.
After the two had seated themselves near their friend, Bastryn shrieking at them all, Legolas rolled onto his stomach, flexing his fingers.
"What am I going to do?!" He groaned, thumping the floor with the toes of his boots. "It won't stay in the woods any more, and I don't know what to do with it! I should never have brought it here in the first place. What a stupid thing to do! Bring a spider here for a pet! Why didn't the two of you try to stop me?!"
Tavor and Brethil glanced at one another. They had tried.
"Legolas," Tavor began in a placating tone.
But Brethil cut him off.
"We tried to tell you, Legolas. Don't you remember? Tavor told you that it was a foolish thing to try and tame a spider, and I said - "
"Shut up, Brethil," Legolas snarled. "I do remember, thank you very much."
"But you asked why we didn't try to stop you. I was merely telling you that we -"
"Shut up, Brethil!"
The young Elf looked at his two friends with wide eyes, as they had both shouted at him.
"Then you shouldn't have asked the question, Legolas, if you didn't want an answer," he said in a slightly hurt voice. He stood and moved to look at Bastryn, talking quietly to the spider in soothing tones.
"I am sorry, Brethil," Legolas said in a quiet voice. "I didn't mean to yell, only I do wish I could forget all this. It is becoming very tiresome. . . and painful." He looked at his red fingers. "It would be nice if Bastryn could forget. Did you hear me, Bastryn?" he called, looking sharply at the little spider. "I wish you could forget where the palace is." He looked back at his fingers. "You are a stupid, wicked spider."
"Wicked Greenie," the "stupid, wicked spider" creaked, snapping at Brethil.
"Well, I doubt any of those things will ever happen," Tavor said laying a hand on Legolas' shoulder in sympathy. "We shouldn't have brought it here in the first place." He shook his head and sighed. "You still don't know what you should send Lord Elrond for his birthday either. Time is running short . . . Legolas, why do you look like that?" Tavor frowned, a sudden stab of unease lancing through his stomach.
Mirkwood's prince had overly bright eyes and the "I have a brilliant idea that will get us in trouble" look on his face.
"Come on!" He jumped to his feet and disappeared through the formal entrance.
"Where are we going?" Brethil asked, following after him with a questioning glance at Tavor.
"I don't think I want to know," Tavor sighed, wondering what amount of trouble they would be in before this escapade was over.
Legolas was running for the stables, his fair young face bright with anticipation and the joy of adventure.
"Legolas," Brethil called after him, "where are we going? We have archery practice soon."
Legolas halted and waited for them to join him.
"We are going to have to miss it. I know," he said, seeing the fearful looks on their faces, "but this is more important."
"Where are we going?" Tavor asked, dreading the answer.
Legolas smiled widely.
"Morn Nen, of course."
Many thanks to al my beta. She told me the "Take comma out" beat the "put comma in" by 3 in this round. My poor commas! Also al - the slave was rather heavy so I used salve instead. ROFL Thank you so much! LOL :D
Also, Katharine the Great will soon be posting a story called The Jade King. It is about King Thranduil, who demanded a story of his own. The Tricksy Trio and Tanglinna will be in it as I have loaned them to her. Check it out when it comes up! It promises to be wonderful!
And - Yes! I am working on "Once Upon a Time in Hollin"! I really, truly am! Even though certain of you seem to think that all I have written is responses to my reviewers for that story. (Looks at al and Irena) I have written one page thus far and am about to get serious on it. . . I really am! Gimli is being very stubborn, though I know what he saw! What can I say! It is coming shortly! Really, really!
Response to Reviewers
Bronwyn - Ah! Yes, Poor Elrond when the gifts arrive! He will enjoy it all so much until....(wicked grin) It will be amusing to see what happens in Rivendell on THAT day!
anna - Thank you so much for your wonderful compliments. I am glad you like Bastryn! His role in this little tale is far from over. ;) It seems he won't stay put!
None - I did not know that someone could die laughing, and I definitely don't want to be a killer, so I will be VERY careful from now on! Thank you for the warning!! :)
Skye - More than one winner!! I have to admit that I laughed when I read this. You people are getting too smart for me! :) Do I think Arwen would kiss the spider if he wore the sparkly, beautiful robe? Hmm. I don't know. Perhaps we will find out! Elrohir and Legolas could have great fun together with the spiders! Would Legolas really send poor Bastryn all the way to Rivendell?? We shall see! G
gershwin - I like the name Glorfindel the "Orc-hugging elf-lord" (TM, C- right Gershwin, 2002) G I loved the story about your relatives and the "treasures" they sent your way! LOL Celebrian is very wise, but so is her husband. He was joking when he said that. He knows that Thranduil doesn't like to give up anything and was poking fun at the other great Elf. "The miruvor of Mirkwood (TM, C-right gershwin 2002)?? Sounds good to me!! G
JastaElf - First, I apologize for cringing whenever you post! But really, here are a few words about your story: The H word and yes it has four letters and ends with a K!; Chapter 3!; Khamul the foster father!!; baby Orcs!....Should I go on, because I could you know! Do you see why I cringe?? (cringes) You know I love your story, but YES, I cringe! And it isn't over yet!!!!!!!!! I am glad that mine make you flop and squirm (c. JastaElf). I hope you saw that Legolas flopped and squirmed in this chapter just to honor you!
annakas - I am glad you liked the betting! I suspect you are right: they will be very surprised! Among other things!! G
shirebound - I am so glad you liked my inclusion of Celebrian. I was writing that last chapter when it suddenly hit me that it came early enough in the timeline that she was still in Middle Earth. I was thrilled to have a chance to write her!
Lakergurl13 - Erestor is Elrond's chief counsellor and Rivendell resident. Yet another overlooked Elf! Be careful when reading at school. You should be serious within those hallowed halls! G I am sure Elrohir would love to give you a carved spider! So Charlie, you don't think Orcs get drunk?? Just you wait!!! wicked grin
Jaid Skywalker - I am glad you like this romp of mine. But I see you don't like the eight-legged beasties! Too bad!! They are rather cool, though I am not sure I have reached the point where I want a Tarantula for a pet either! :)
amlugwen - I am glad you found no mistakes in my story! G The timeline thing bothered me a bit at first, but I think I am vague enough in any reference that it doesn't matter too much. Thank you anyway!! ;)
Amancirith Carangarien - Ah! So you thought Bastryn was cute! Heehee! Love it when someone finds my li'l spiders cute! ;) Another vote to send him to Elrond! G Sometimes I think you guys read my mind! I don't know if I should laugh or pout! :)
Pasta-Head - Why would he send this precious little beast that bites him all the time and won't stay off Ada's throne? LOL
Anonymous - I am glad you liked my Orc stories, but I now seem to prefer humor to angst myself - at least in the writing department. Though I do have another Orc story mapped out already. G I am glad you like Elrohir. I think he is pretty cool myself. He does like spiders after all! :) As to the poetry - throwing paper about, and contemplating rhyming words - well. . . . yes, I am quite guilty. It took me a good ten minutes just to write Elladan's little spurt, saying rhyming words over and over until they were what you read. Yikes! I just can't do poetry! Oh, well! :)Who said that all Elves were gifted at poetry??!! Haha Glad that it sounded realistic, o poem writer!
shimmerangel1488 - I have written a few other humorous ones, and there will be more! Plot bunnies abound in my house!
Katharine the Great - You are just too nice to me, nin melaglar! I agree with you about Elrond and Thranduil being a lot alike. But saying that Elrond isn't such a pain. . . I guess His Majesty King Thranduil was NOT standing at your shoulder while you typed that! Pepsi scrambles your brain, does it? I will remember that! Glad you liked the carved spiders, poem, commentary, and the drunken Orcs! Thanks for saying I ROCK, but saying I TREE is cool too! Very Elvish of you! :)
weirdo - YIPEEEE! I like that word right much!! :)
trinity - Perhaps the spider does like the wine! Wouldn't that be interesting??!!
Kohaku-chan - I am glad you and your sister are laughing at my stories! A spider in a crown of flowers and sparkly things! Are you a mind reader, nin mellon?? :0 - gasp of surprise!
PuterPatty - I am glad to know you love the twins almost as much as Legolas! The whole competition issue is very like my own, only mine is Legolas and Glorfindel! Very close call at times I must say!! If all those gorgeous male Elves were around you all the time, you would never get around to writing your story . . .or reading anyone elses. I know quite well what you would do to them!!! ;)
None - Hi! Don't die. I will tell you. . . all in good time!
The Sadistic Cow - Poor Elrond indeed! His birthday is going to be un . . . forgettable in some senses and . . . well. . . other things too! You liked the drunken Orcs do you??!! Just you wait!
IRENA - did you find your name more easily, nin mellon?? Oh, my! So many reviewer responses! (smiles like a PROM QUEEN) I am sooo happy!! Where's my crown??!! ;) An apology from Thranduil would not be something that they would expect. He doesn't admit to being wrong easily. I am glad these silly things bring you cheer! That cheers me after reading yours! :( But that is what they are for, as your are for . . .other things: things that you do so well!! The Prom Queen thanks you for that!
Anya - Ring of Sarcasm - I can't really see them doing that either, but it was fun. LOL Lots of "Little Greenleaf" to come!
littlesaiyangirl - Thanks! Cute pretty much is the word I use for it myself! :)
Karina - I see you felt a tad sorry for Poor Tavor. He does seem to get the rough end of the deal in that one chapter. Who wants to be bitten on the face??!! Tanglinna is along for the ride! Can't drive without him! So you also want the spider to travel west! LOL Arwen is kissy, she is a young girl and I have a young daughter, and well, she has reached that kissy-oh-the-cute-boys age! Celebrian was fun to write, I was glad for the opportunity. Elrohir can always hope, can't he??!! Who knows? Maybe he will get his wish. Or not.
Nadra - So you have my spider and my elf. . . how am I going to go on??!! Perhaps it is your fault that I haven't finished that Hollin chapter yet!! But on to my mistake. In my book Glorfindel of Gondolin and Glorfindel of Rivendell are one and the same. In The History of Middle Earth Volume XII: The Peoples of Middle Earth in the section entitled Last Writings, Christopher Tolkien tells us that it is most probable that they were one and the same. If you want a longer more detailed explanation I will be glad to give it to you, but certain some ones (looks at al and Irena) think that my responses are very long! Let me know and I will give you my discertation on Glorfindel. I love to talk about him. And NO! You may not come after him!!!!
Nancing Elf - You still think the Dorwinion with a little something extra?? Dang! :) I am glad you like my Elladan and Elrohir, and their momma! She is a cool character. I hope you are feeling better, nin mellon, and can write something for those of us who adore you!
al - Why were you shooting at me?? I know you beta'd that last chapter. . . didn't I say that? I will have to look, I don't remember! Probably because my responses are too long! Thank you, Legolas, for not shooting at me! Unlike al, you hit what you aim at! Strawberry scented shampoo in a large claw-footed tub. . . I thought that was what YOU SAW in the other story!!!! ;)
Seaweed - I am sorry that Gimli is not in this! Perhaps there should be some young Gimli stories written by his number one fan - meaning YOU! Plot bunny, Seaweed! Young Gimli! No one does him better, or likes him better! I will be watching for some stories now!
WatcherChild - Arwen does like to kiss. You want to see Elrond going nuts over the baby spider?? LOL! Who knows!!
calenedhel - That betting shop idea sounds great. It would be much fun!! :) We will see Elrond doing his - er - thing. Or NOT his thing. Will a flowery crown go with your Elf ears??!! Are you kidding??!! Of course! Didn't you read In the Hall?? Of course you did! Then you know that floral crowns are too cool on Elves! LOVE IT!! LOL You will wow them! Yes, Thran and El do have elven sons and the woes that go with them make life very interesting! I will sign this since you signed yours, Always, TreeHugger!
Katie Hayes -Thank you so much! This is not mushy or gore driven. Nope, just lighthearted high jinks! I am glad I can amuse you!
Mercredi - First about the spider bites. I am figuring that they aren't very poisonous, if at all, when they are little like Bastryn. The adults have noticed the bites, but they are well used to the things the Tricksy Trio gets into! Sometimes it is better to ignore. Don't you think? And, no! They do not think very far ahead, do they!! These stories wouldn't be very fun if they did, though Legolas thinks he has things planned out very well in this one, or he will, but of course he won't! Ahem . . . I will shut up now. ;)
Jessica - I am glad you are enjoying this, and it means a lot that you still take the time to review, even though I know you are very busy, nin mellon! Thank you for the plot bunny, too! :) Gwibess?? Well, I don't think I am done with her yet. I haven't decided, but I will let you know!
Earendil - I am glad that you are enjoying this! That makes me happy!
Sake - Ah, you remember the Black Squirrels! They will actually be showing up in a story by Katharine the Great. I loaned them to her, along with Tanglinna and the Tricksy Trio for The Jade King. But the story of the birthday squirrels story will be coming along at some point. BTW - I love your description of the squirrels! I can just see that! ROFL
Artanis - Your poor sis! Lots of people are afraid of the eight legged beasties! LOL I am not any more, so she can overcome it to - with much work and writing several stories about spiders! :) You don't think Elrond would like Bastryn??
sophara - I will! I will! :)
Legolas, Tavor, and Brethil exited yet another storeroom, covered with dust and grime. All they had to show for an afternoon spent scrounging through some of the cluttered spaces in the lower portions of the palace were a few scrapes and cuts, tangled braids, and one rather moth- eaten rug from Rhun that they thought would look nice in the tree house.
"We could send it to Lord Elrond," Brethil said, eyeing the tattered and rolled thing under Legolas' arm, as they trudged up the stairs, "but I don't think he would see the possibilities that it possesses as we do."
"No," Legolas agreed, with a sigh. "It is not a good birthday present for him. We will just have to keep looking."
As they moved up the hall discussing some of the other odd things they had found in the storerooms, they nearly ran into Aralith.
"You are in trouble, tithen gwador {little brother}," he said with a smirk, folding his arms across his chest.
Legolas glared up at him, bottom lip thrust out in a pout.
"I haven't done anything," he stated, hefting the carpet, which was rather heavy, "so I am not in trouble." All the same, he found himself thinking back over the rest of the day, trying to remember if he had done something that would call unwanted attention to himself.
Aralith snorted when he saw the dark brows knit in concentration.
"Tanglinna wants you in the throne room . . . Now."
"I haven't done anything, Aralith."
Aralith raised one brow, trying very hard to look like his father.
"Oh really? Then you had better go and tell Tanglinna that, since he is under the impression that you are in trouble."
Legolas frowned, thrusting the carpet into Tavor's arms. His friend staggered slightly beneath the weight.
"I will meet you at Car an Neled later. Hopefully, 'it' will be there," he said cryptically, with a glance at Aralith. Then he turned on his heel and strode down the hallway, back straight, head held high.
The three watched him go.
"What 'it' is he talking about?" Brethil asked, tugging on his braid as he pulled small cobwebs from it.
Tavor's head swung toward him.
"It, Brethil. It," he said pointedly. "Come on. Excuse us, Prince Aralith."
Thranduil's middle son watched as they made their way up the stone hall, Tavor whispering at Brethil, who suddenly gasped, "Oh! That it!"
" 'It' is not in the tree house," Aralith called after a few seconds, moving to join them.
Tavor glanced over at him. He bit his lip wondering if he should comment on this statement or remain in ignorant bliss. He needn't have worried.
"Oh? Then where is 'it'?" Brethil asked. "I didn't think it would go back to the tree house. It was very unhappy there, regardless of what you and Legolas may have thought. Where is it, Prince Aralith? Is that why you came to get Legolas? Did it frighten you again? That is rather an odd thing really. A Prince of Mirkwood afraid of spiders. That must be rather awkward for you. I think that -"
"Shut up, Brethil," Tavor hissed with a worried glance at the Prince of Mirkwood who was afraid of spiders.
"What?" Brethil asked, with an annoyed glance at his friend. "I was merely saying that I think it must embarrass him -"
Tavor shoved the carpet at the other young Elf, who woofed in surprise and stumbled as he nearly dropped the rug on the floor.
"I am sorry, Prince Aralith," Tavor said with a quick bow of his head. "He truly does not realize what he is saying at times." He grabbed Brethil's arm and pulled him down the hall at a much accelerated pace.
Aralith growled at them. It was highly embarrassing to be afraid of spiders, but he truly couldn't help it. He wished that it were anything but spiders that made him quake with fear. A Prince of Mirkwood, son of Thranduil and grandson of Oropher, afraid of spiders. Awkward indeed.
~Well, ~ he thought, trying to comfort himself, ~at least I am not in trouble. ~
In the throne room, Thranduil's youngest son was in trouble. He stood looking wide-eyed at the floor, knowing that he was not going to be able to explain this away.
Tanglinna stood by the doorway, arms folded over his chest, his face set in stern lines as the King circled around his son, staring down at the bent head.
"Little Greenleaf, it would seem something is amiss here in my throne room. Can you tell me what that something is?"
The young Elf grimaced slightly, wrinkling his nose. Then he looked up, his eyes traveling to his father's carved throne. It was rather strange looking, just now as it was covered in sticky threads that glinted like strings of diamonds. Perched on top of it was Bastryn, glaring defiantly back at the Elves. When the blue eyes of "Little Greenleaf" came to rest on him, he hissed angrily.
"Wicked! Wicked, Greenie!"
Legolas groaned, and his brows furrowed.
"Adar, I - "
"I thought you said you had taken care of that spider," Thranduil said quietly, the blue eyes hard as he stood so tall, straight, and kingly at his son's side.
"I . . . I thought I had," Legolas answered, his shoulders slumping, one foot tracing a pattern on the stone floor.
"Why didn't you just kill it, Prince Legolas?" Tanglinna asked from his position by the door.
The Prince frowned.
"I. . . I don't know, but . . .but I will get it out of here."
Thranduil raised one eyebrow skeptically.
"What will you do with it this time?"
"I . . . don't know," the young Elf continued, straightening and lifting his chin, a pout on his lips. "I will figure something out."
"Figure something out," Tanglinna said with a snort. "This should be interesting. What have you "figured out" to send to Lord Elrond? His birthday is fast approaching, you know."
Thranduil turned to the Master Archer with a frown on his lips. Tanglinna shrugged slightly, and looked at the ceiling.
"Well it is," he said under his breath. "If he doesn't think of something soon then you, your Majesty, will have to explain why it was late, and I don't think you would enjoy that."
"I will think of something, Adar," Legolas said, resisting the urge to stick his tongue out at Tanglinna. "It is rather hard to find something . . . suitable." He grinned, hoping that had sounded very grown up.
Thranduil merely raised one corner of his mouth in a wry smile.
Legolas smiled crookedly, not sure if the smile was meant for him or Tanglinna.
"I will go fetch some bread from the kitchens. That should do it. He likes bread." He turned smartly on one heel, but a strong hand clamped onto his shoulder.
"Nay, Little Greenleaf, Tanglinna will fetch the bread. You will stay here."
The Master Archer raised his silvery brows. Fetching bread for a spider was not exactly one of his regular duties. But he bowed to Thranduil who was pointedly staring at him, waiting to be obeyed. It didn't help that Legolas was wearing a rather smug expression on his fair young face. He sneered slightly and turned away, muttering under his breath.
Later that day a much bitten Prince of Mirkwood rode over the stone bridge atop his shaggy pony, bearing a struggling baby spider in a sack. He rode with his back straight, head held high, eyes fixed ahead of him. He pointedly ignored the amused laughter and quiet conversations his passage invoked.
The next morning as he, Tavor, and Brethil were going to begin another search for the Perfect Birthday Present, he was summoned to the throne room once again. Tanglinna stood by the doorway and Thranduil turned to look at him from inside the room, his face looking very annoyed. Bastryn was perched once more on top of the throne, hissing and spitting.
"Oh no," Legolas breathed. "Adar! I . . . took him deep into the forest and I left him! I really did!"
"Not deeply enough it would seem," Tanglinna commented.
Thranduil shot an irritated look at him.
"Go fetch the bread, Tanglinna," he said, his eyes narrowing.
"Yes, your Majesty," the Master Archer murmured, bowing, though he looked at the prince with great irritation before leaving. He wondered how many days he would have to "Go fetch the bread, Tanglinna".
Several hours later the Prince of Mirkwood rode back across the bridge toward the palace, his slender fingers bitten and sore. He wasn't feeling very well, and he wondered if perhaps Bastryn was old enough to poison him slightly. Or perhaps it was merely the dreadful feeling that tomorrow morning he would be in the throne room once again, throwing bread at the spider.
As he trudged toward his room, feeling much too weary for someone his age, he heard Galion the butler speaking with Calphcyll one of his assistants.
"I tell you, the king will be very angry when he tastes this horrid stuff from Lebennin. I should just dump it into the stream and let the river carry it away."
"It can't be all that bad," Calphcyll said skeptically.
"Then come and taste it. You will be sorry that you didn't believe me. Ah! Prince Legolas!" Galion bowed toward him. "How did you fare today? Oh, dear! You poor thing! Look at your fingers! You had better go and see Nestadren about those bites. They can be quite nasty! Horrible things, spiders!"
Calphcyll bowed also, a slight amused smile on his lips, as Legolas swept past them, trying to look much more dignified than he felt. He decided to go and see Nestadren the Healer of Gladaran Thamas. The gentle Elf smiled as the prince showed him the abused fingers, and gave him some hot tea while he rubbed a salve on the bites, which were red and inflamed.
"You needn't worry, my Prince. You will be feeling better in the morning," he reassured in his low, pleasant voice. He smiled at Legolas as he stood and left the room for his bed. "I daresay," the Healer murmured quietly with a smile, "that I shall be seeing you again tomorrow."
"Legolas, this cannot continue," Thranduil said, his blue eyes filled with studied patience.
Tanglinna stood at the doorway, arms folded, a not so patient look on his face.
"Wicked, wicked Greenie!" Bastryn hissed from atop the throne. "My home! Mine!"
Legolas groaned, looking at his fingers, which were still slightly sore. He didn't relish the thought of more bites. He was certain that Tanglinna was keeping him longer at bow practice than he normally did, waiting until the fingers were very sore and stiff. The fingers of his left hand absently massaged the fingers that pulled the bowstring. If he had turned just then, he would have seen a grin of wicked glee on the Master Archer's lean face.
"I'll get rid of him, Adar," the young prince sighed, his hands dropping to his side.
"Haven't managed that too well yet, have you?" Tanglinna said wryly, the grin widening.
Both Thranduil and Legolas turned to look at him, identical looks of annoyance on their faces.
"I know," the archer sighed. "Fetch the bread, Tanglinna." He bowed to them, and turning said, "Oh yes. By the way Prince Legolas, I think it is time you tried a stronger bow." He grinned again, and left the room, whistling slightly.
Any other time Mirkwood's youngest prince would have been thrilled at the prospect, but he merely groaned, shoulders slumping, his fingers twitching already in anticipated pain.
Later that morning Legolas carried the sack with the spider into the tree house. He bit his lower lip, then reached into the sack and grabbed a handful of furry body. Bastryn hissed and shrieked, biting at the hands and fingers viciously. It was a great struggle, but at last the cage door was shut, the spider yanking furiously at the branch bars.
"Wicked Greenie! You are wicked!"
"Greenie" flopped exhausted back onto the rug Tavor and Brethil had brought up here a few days before, and squirmed slightly. Then he lay back with a sigh, hands behind his blonde head, aching fingers laced. He knew it was quite pointless to take the spider back into the woods as it had decided that the throne was now its home. It would always come back, no matter how far away he took it. He scowled at the spitting arachnid, trying not to think of the impending archery practice. He was muttering something about fingers and bowstrings when Tavor's head popped in the opening.
"Legolas? Oh no! Not again!" The young Elf pushed himself inside and stared at the caged spider. "He's back again! Not in the throne room?!"
"Yes," Legolas growled. "In the throne room. ON the throne. Next thing you know it will be wearing Adar's robe and crown."
"That would be rather silly as they are far too large for such a small spider," Brethil said quite seriously as he entered close on Tavor's heels.
After the two had seated themselves near their friend, Bastryn shrieking at them all, Legolas rolled onto his stomach, flexing his fingers.
"What am I going to do?!" He groaned, thumping the floor with the toes of his boots. "It won't stay in the woods any more, and I don't know what to do with it! I should never have brought it here in the first place. What a stupid thing to do! Bring a spider here for a pet! Why didn't the two of you try to stop me?!"
Tavor and Brethil glanced at one another. They had tried.
"Legolas," Tavor began in a placating tone.
But Brethil cut him off.
"We tried to tell you, Legolas. Don't you remember? Tavor told you that it was a foolish thing to try and tame a spider, and I said - "
"Shut up, Brethil," Legolas snarled. "I do remember, thank you very much."
"But you asked why we didn't try to stop you. I was merely telling you that we -"
"Shut up, Brethil!"
The young Elf looked at his two friends with wide eyes, as they had both shouted at him.
"Then you shouldn't have asked the question, Legolas, if you didn't want an answer," he said in a slightly hurt voice. He stood and moved to look at Bastryn, talking quietly to the spider in soothing tones.
"I am sorry, Brethil," Legolas said in a quiet voice. "I didn't mean to yell, only I do wish I could forget all this. It is becoming very tiresome. . . and painful." He looked at his red fingers. "It would be nice if Bastryn could forget. Did you hear me, Bastryn?" he called, looking sharply at the little spider. "I wish you could forget where the palace is." He looked back at his fingers. "You are a stupid, wicked spider."
"Wicked Greenie," the "stupid, wicked spider" creaked, snapping at Brethil.
"Well, I doubt any of those things will ever happen," Tavor said laying a hand on Legolas' shoulder in sympathy. "We shouldn't have brought it here in the first place." He shook his head and sighed. "You still don't know what you should send Lord Elrond for his birthday either. Time is running short . . . Legolas, why do you look like that?" Tavor frowned, a sudden stab of unease lancing through his stomach.
Mirkwood's prince had overly bright eyes and the "I have a brilliant idea that will get us in trouble" look on his face.
"Come on!" He jumped to his feet and disappeared through the formal entrance.
"Where are we going?" Brethil asked, following after him with a questioning glance at Tavor.
"I don't think I want to know," Tavor sighed, wondering what amount of trouble they would be in before this escapade was over.
Legolas was running for the stables, his fair young face bright with anticipation and the joy of adventure.
"Legolas," Brethil called after him, "where are we going? We have archery practice soon."
Legolas halted and waited for them to join him.
"We are going to have to miss it. I know," he said, seeing the fearful looks on their faces, "but this is more important."
"Where are we going?" Tavor asked, dreading the answer.
Legolas smiled widely.
"Morn Nen, of course."
Many thanks to al my beta. She told me the "Take comma out" beat the "put comma in" by 3 in this round. My poor commas! Also al - the slave was rather heavy so I used salve instead. ROFL Thank you so much! LOL :D
Also, Katharine the Great will soon be posting a story called The Jade King. It is about King Thranduil, who demanded a story of his own. The Tricksy Trio and Tanglinna will be in it as I have loaned them to her. Check it out when it comes up! It promises to be wonderful!
And - Yes! I am working on "Once Upon a Time in Hollin"! I really, truly am! Even though certain of you seem to think that all I have written is responses to my reviewers for that story. (Looks at al and Irena) I have written one page thus far and am about to get serious on it. . . I really am! Gimli is being very stubborn, though I know what he saw! What can I say! It is coming shortly! Really, really!
Response to Reviewers
Bronwyn - Ah! Yes, Poor Elrond when the gifts arrive! He will enjoy it all so much until....(wicked grin) It will be amusing to see what happens in Rivendell on THAT day!
anna - Thank you so much for your wonderful compliments. I am glad you like Bastryn! His role in this little tale is far from over. ;) It seems he won't stay put!
None - I did not know that someone could die laughing, and I definitely don't want to be a killer, so I will be VERY careful from now on! Thank you for the warning!! :)
Skye - More than one winner!! I have to admit that I laughed when I read this. You people are getting too smart for me! :) Do I think Arwen would kiss the spider if he wore the sparkly, beautiful robe? Hmm. I don't know. Perhaps we will find out! Elrohir and Legolas could have great fun together with the spiders! Would Legolas really send poor Bastryn all the way to Rivendell?? We shall see! G
gershwin - I like the name Glorfindel the "Orc-hugging elf-lord" (TM, C- right Gershwin, 2002) G I loved the story about your relatives and the "treasures" they sent your way! LOL Celebrian is very wise, but so is her husband. He was joking when he said that. He knows that Thranduil doesn't like to give up anything and was poking fun at the other great Elf. "The miruvor of Mirkwood (TM, C-right gershwin 2002)?? Sounds good to me!! G
JastaElf - First, I apologize for cringing whenever you post! But really, here are a few words about your story: The H word and yes it has four letters and ends with a K!; Chapter 3!; Khamul the foster father!!; baby Orcs!....Should I go on, because I could you know! Do you see why I cringe?? (cringes) You know I love your story, but YES, I cringe! And it isn't over yet!!!!!!!!! I am glad that mine make you flop and squirm (c. JastaElf). I hope you saw that Legolas flopped and squirmed in this chapter just to honor you!
annakas - I am glad you liked the betting! I suspect you are right: they will be very surprised! Among other things!! G
shirebound - I am so glad you liked my inclusion of Celebrian. I was writing that last chapter when it suddenly hit me that it came early enough in the timeline that she was still in Middle Earth. I was thrilled to have a chance to write her!
Lakergurl13 - Erestor is Elrond's chief counsellor and Rivendell resident. Yet another overlooked Elf! Be careful when reading at school. You should be serious within those hallowed halls! G I am sure Elrohir would love to give you a carved spider! So Charlie, you don't think Orcs get drunk?? Just you wait!!! wicked grin
Jaid Skywalker - I am glad you like this romp of mine. But I see you don't like the eight-legged beasties! Too bad!! They are rather cool, though I am not sure I have reached the point where I want a Tarantula for a pet either! :)
amlugwen - I am glad you found no mistakes in my story! G The timeline thing bothered me a bit at first, but I think I am vague enough in any reference that it doesn't matter too much. Thank you anyway!! ;)
Amancirith Carangarien - Ah! So you thought Bastryn was cute! Heehee! Love it when someone finds my li'l spiders cute! ;) Another vote to send him to Elrond! G Sometimes I think you guys read my mind! I don't know if I should laugh or pout! :)
Pasta-Head - Why would he send this precious little beast that bites him all the time and won't stay off Ada's throne? LOL
Anonymous - I am glad you liked my Orc stories, but I now seem to prefer humor to angst myself - at least in the writing department. Though I do have another Orc story mapped out already. G I am glad you like Elrohir. I think he is pretty cool myself. He does like spiders after all! :) As to the poetry - throwing paper about, and contemplating rhyming words - well. . . . yes, I am quite guilty. It took me a good ten minutes just to write Elladan's little spurt, saying rhyming words over and over until they were what you read. Yikes! I just can't do poetry! Oh, well! :)Who said that all Elves were gifted at poetry??!! Haha Glad that it sounded realistic, o poem writer!
shimmerangel1488 - I have written a few other humorous ones, and there will be more! Plot bunnies abound in my house!
Katharine the Great - You are just too nice to me, nin melaglar! I agree with you about Elrond and Thranduil being a lot alike. But saying that Elrond isn't such a pain. . . I guess His Majesty King Thranduil was NOT standing at your shoulder while you typed that! Pepsi scrambles your brain, does it? I will remember that! Glad you liked the carved spiders, poem, commentary, and the drunken Orcs! Thanks for saying I ROCK, but saying I TREE is cool too! Very Elvish of you! :)
weirdo - YIPEEEE! I like that word right much!! :)
trinity - Perhaps the spider does like the wine! Wouldn't that be interesting??!!
Kohaku-chan - I am glad you and your sister are laughing at my stories! A spider in a crown of flowers and sparkly things! Are you a mind reader, nin mellon?? :0 - gasp of surprise!
PuterPatty - I am glad to know you love the twins almost as much as Legolas! The whole competition issue is very like my own, only mine is Legolas and Glorfindel! Very close call at times I must say!! If all those gorgeous male Elves were around you all the time, you would never get around to writing your story . . .or reading anyone elses. I know quite well what you would do to them!!! ;)
None - Hi! Don't die. I will tell you. . . all in good time!
The Sadistic Cow - Poor Elrond indeed! His birthday is going to be un . . . forgettable in some senses and . . . well. . . other things too! You liked the drunken Orcs do you??!! Just you wait!
IRENA - did you find your name more easily, nin mellon?? Oh, my! So many reviewer responses! (smiles like a PROM QUEEN) I am sooo happy!! Where's my crown??!! ;) An apology from Thranduil would not be something that they would expect. He doesn't admit to being wrong easily. I am glad these silly things bring you cheer! That cheers me after reading yours! :( But that is what they are for, as your are for . . .other things: things that you do so well!! The Prom Queen thanks you for that!
Anya - Ring of Sarcasm - I can't really see them doing that either, but it was fun. LOL Lots of "Little Greenleaf" to come!
littlesaiyangirl - Thanks! Cute pretty much is the word I use for it myself! :)
Karina - I see you felt a tad sorry for Poor Tavor. He does seem to get the rough end of the deal in that one chapter. Who wants to be bitten on the face??!! Tanglinna is along for the ride! Can't drive without him! So you also want the spider to travel west! LOL Arwen is kissy, she is a young girl and I have a young daughter, and well, she has reached that kissy-oh-the-cute-boys age! Celebrian was fun to write, I was glad for the opportunity. Elrohir can always hope, can't he??!! Who knows? Maybe he will get his wish. Or not.
Nadra - So you have my spider and my elf. . . how am I going to go on??!! Perhaps it is your fault that I haven't finished that Hollin chapter yet!! But on to my mistake. In my book Glorfindel of Gondolin and Glorfindel of Rivendell are one and the same. In The History of Middle Earth Volume XII: The Peoples of Middle Earth in the section entitled Last Writings, Christopher Tolkien tells us that it is most probable that they were one and the same. If you want a longer more detailed explanation I will be glad to give it to you, but certain some ones (looks at al and Irena) think that my responses are very long! Let me know and I will give you my discertation on Glorfindel. I love to talk about him. And NO! You may not come after him!!!!
Nancing Elf - You still think the Dorwinion with a little something extra?? Dang! :) I am glad you like my Elladan and Elrohir, and their momma! She is a cool character. I hope you are feeling better, nin mellon, and can write something for those of us who adore you!
al - Why were you shooting at me?? I know you beta'd that last chapter. . . didn't I say that? I will have to look, I don't remember! Probably because my responses are too long! Thank you, Legolas, for not shooting at me! Unlike al, you hit what you aim at! Strawberry scented shampoo in a large claw-footed tub. . . I thought that was what YOU SAW in the other story!!!! ;)
Seaweed - I am sorry that Gimli is not in this! Perhaps there should be some young Gimli stories written by his number one fan - meaning YOU! Plot bunny, Seaweed! Young Gimli! No one does him better, or likes him better! I will be watching for some stories now!
WatcherChild - Arwen does like to kiss. You want to see Elrond going nuts over the baby spider?? LOL! Who knows!!
calenedhel - That betting shop idea sounds great. It would be much fun!! :) We will see Elrond doing his - er - thing. Or NOT his thing. Will a flowery crown go with your Elf ears??!! Are you kidding??!! Of course! Didn't you read In the Hall?? Of course you did! Then you know that floral crowns are too cool on Elves! LOVE IT!! LOL You will wow them! Yes, Thran and El do have elven sons and the woes that go with them make life very interesting! I will sign this since you signed yours, Always, TreeHugger!
Katie Hayes -Thank you so much! This is not mushy or gore driven. Nope, just lighthearted high jinks! I am glad I can amuse you!
Mercredi - First about the spider bites. I am figuring that they aren't very poisonous, if at all, when they are little like Bastryn. The adults have noticed the bites, but they are well used to the things the Tricksy Trio gets into! Sometimes it is better to ignore. Don't you think? And, no! They do not think very far ahead, do they!! These stories wouldn't be very fun if they did, though Legolas thinks he has things planned out very well in this one, or he will, but of course he won't! Ahem . . . I will shut up now. ;)
Jessica - I am glad you are enjoying this, and it means a lot that you still take the time to review, even though I know you are very busy, nin mellon! Thank you for the plot bunny, too! :) Gwibess?? Well, I don't think I am done with her yet. I haven't decided, but I will let you know!
Earendil - I am glad that you are enjoying this! That makes me happy!
Sake - Ah, you remember the Black Squirrels! They will actually be showing up in a story by Katharine the Great. I loaned them to her, along with Tanglinna and the Tricksy Trio for The Jade King. But the story of the birthday squirrels story will be coming along at some point. BTW - I love your description of the squirrels! I can just see that! ROFL
Artanis - Your poor sis! Lots of people are afraid of the eight legged beasties! LOL I am not any more, so she can overcome it to - with much work and writing several stories about spiders! :) You don't think Elrond would like Bastryn??
sophara - I will! I will! :)