Hi!
Be prepared for some revelations!! I hope you enjoy them...
Thanks to Mor and especially Sandra - you are a great editor, thank you for your help and comments!!
Speaking of comments - your reviews were great, as always (responses - oh, you know where). Please, please keep them coming!
Now on to the chapter.
Alinah
Rating: PG 13
Disclaimer: I wish - but that does not help. Still not mine...
Revelations
Aragorn´s hurried steps echoed on the tiled floor, their rapid succession rivalling his racing heartbeat. Behind him, he heard the door of the study open and Elrond´s voice floated down to him as his father continued his conversation with Glorfindel. The human´s mind was reeling. What he had set out to achieve would now happen even without his intervention, but he was not so sure that he really wanted it anymore. Too many unsolved questions and fears swirled through his mind in wild disarray, and what he really wanted now was some time alone with Legolas.
He knew he would have little time and he picked up his pace even more, almost running now, earning curious glances from the elves he met along the way. He cared little. Finally, he arrived back at Legolas´ room and entered without knocking. Calen looked up from the book he had been studying, disapproval clearly etched on his pale features, but his look softened immediately when he realized Aragorn´s distress.
"The lords have not heeded your request?" he asked, doubt shining through his words. His brow wrinkled and the ranger could almost sense the thoughts that troubled the elf´s mind. He had not been gone long enough to account for a denial, for the healer knew him too well to believe that he would back down easily. Aragorn hesitated, not wanting to lie but just as unwilling to admit to his eavesdropping. He settled for evasion. "My father will be here shortly, but I would like to spend a few moments with Legolas before he arrives. Would you be so kind to leave us?"
Calen put the book aside now, focusing his clear eyes fully on the ranger. Aragorn had to force himself not to squirm under the gaze and found himself wondering whether Lord Elrond taught all the healers he supervised to stare down their patients. It was either that or Calen had an innate gift for the art, but when his face broke into a soft smile Aragorn could feel a silent understanding passing between them. "Of course, Estel." The fair elf rose gracefully. On his way to the door he casually added: "I might want to give your father the latest report on the prince´s health. You know healers, they often need many words. Do not be alarmed if it takes the lords a few more minutes before they arrive."
Aragorn turned in surprise but found the door already softly closing behind the healer. The ranger enjoyed the warm wave of gratitude that washed over him and could not help smiling at the elven ability to astonish him, even though he had grown up among the eldar. Still shaking his head at Calen´s insight, he took the seat the elf had abandoned and immediately sobered when he looked down at Legolas.
Although the prince had not awakened in days, Aragorn could see that he was improving. His face had regained a little colour and Elrond had even been able to properly splint his broken leg the night before. The wounds that the healers had been forced to inflict before setting the shattered bones had closed sufficiently, and the splint greatly reduced the danger of further damage caused by sudden movements. The recovery had gone well so far, surprisingly well. It would take the bone a long while to mend properly, but the process made already had been beyond their expectations.
What would have brought the ranger joy under any other circumstances distressed him deeply now. Where did this almost unnaturally fast recovery have its roots? How ever badly he wanted his friend to be free of physical pain, it was the prince´s state of mind that caused the man worry. He had been dizzy from his own ailments the day that Legolas had spoken in the ancient tongue of Quenya. Still, the feeling that it had not been the Mirkwood prince uttering those words had been strong in him.
Gently, Aragorn reached out a hand and placed it on Legolas´ forehead. The man´s heart clenched. He had not yet dared to do this, to use his own unique abilities to determine as much as he could about his friend´s state. Telling himself that Elrond would know the right time, promising himself to listen to his instincts when he felt he was ready for the truth, the ranger had shied away from this confrontation. But not any longer. He wanted to put to work the gift that was his birthright, one of the few advantages he could see in a heritage that otherwise burdened him with responsibility and guilt.
Aragorn closed his eyes and allowed the energies within the still elf to flow into him. He felt the smooth skin, cool now and no longer dampened by sweat, but beneath it shadows of fear and doubt darkened the bright spirit. The ranger´s brow creased in concentration. He could sense fleeting thoughts race past him. The calm mask that unconsciousness had spread over Legolas had no effect here, and Aragorn could feel his friend´s panic rushing through his own being like a powerful river that threatened to pull him along. Without opening his eyes, the human reached out with his other hand, intending to place it on the elf´s racing heart.
Instead, he instinctively grasped Legolas´ arm. Almost immediately, a warm reassurance spread over him. Aragorn sucked in a breath as he felt a mind that was alien to him brush him lightly, tentatively, as if afraid to frighten him with its presence. There was strength there, age, and pain. Very carefully, the human tried to move closer, but the unknown spirit withdrew from him, elusive as a wisp of smoke from a single candle. Sounds crept into his mind, breaking his concentration. He could hear Calen saying something fairly loudly, as if trying to warn him, and with an inner sigh of regret Aragorn broke the frail connection he had managed to establish.
He had only just recovered himself and let go of Legolas´ left arm when the door opened and Elrond stepped into the room, shadowed by Glorfindel and Calen, who wore a somewhat mischievous expression. Behind the healers, Elladan and Elrohir entered also, their nervousness carefully hidden beyond almost dispassionate expressions. Aragorn´s foster father, however, eyed him with a mixture of amusement and disapproval, and before the human could even begin to school his features into a look of innocence he realized that his hand still lingered on his friend´s forehead. The gesture was not to be misread and he sighed.
"I had to try, Ada", Aragorn explained, feeling color rise into his cheeks. "I did not mean to rush ahead of you, but I was so worried..." Elrond raised his hand to stop his son´s words and stepped closer. Aragorn was surprised when he felt a comforting hand on his shoulder. As gentle as the elven lord could be, he did not usually approve of anybody in Imladris preempting him. "I understand, my son. Will you share your findings before we conduct our own inquiries?" The human shook his head in frustration. "I am not sure what I found. He is afraid, and he is not alone. But we knew that much already!"
"Aye", Elrond agreed calmly, "but we did not know that whoever dwells inside the prince´s body would not attack a young ranger who rather foolishly gave in to his curiosity." There was no scorn in his words, just truthfulness. The elf Lord bent down and began to examine Legolas´leg carefully. He seemed pleased with what he saw. "No infection, the swelling has gone down, and the cuts are almost healed." He straightened. "A remarkable recovery. I say it is safe to wake the prince."
"Good." Glorfindel had remained well behind Elrond, but Aragorn had not failed to notice how the Balrog slayer had watched Legolas with keen eyes. He had paid little attention to what Elrond had been doing, his gaze fixed on Legolas´ unmoving face instead, and Aragorn was not surprised at all when the fair elf spoke again. "There is much turmoil beyond that façade of peacefulness. The young one has not yet realized that he is indeed safe now. It is well that his body has mended enough for us to show him."
Glorfindel moved closer and Aragorn stood without having been asked, making room for the elf. He joined his brothers and Calen at the other side of the bed and watched nervously as Glorfindel sat down without haste and tenderly took Legolas left arm, placing it into his lap. He turned it so that the scars could be seen. They no longer stood out, for the bruises had faded and allowed the white lines to almost blend with the fair skin. Upon looking closely, though, the ranger could tell that the scars were even lighter than his friend´s natural paleness. Glorfindel traced the scars lightly with his fingertips, a frown appearing on his smooth face.
"Maybe we should allow the prince a few more moments of rest", he murmured, more to himself than to the others that stood around the bed anxiously. "We should talk first to the one who has been quiet for so long. Too long." The ancient elf´s eyes closed slowly, and his grip on Legolas´ arm tightened ever so slightly. He remained silent for heartbeats that, to Aragorn, seemed an eternity. He felt his fear intensify, fear of what Glorfindel might discover. Unable to watch, the ranger focused on his surroundings. He could hear the twins´ breaths to either side of him. He could sense the light breeze drift in from the open window. Still, his fear grew until it seemed ready to devour him.
When Glorfindel finally spoke, his voice was utterly distant, and Aragorn was shocked to hear tears in it. "I see the Hidden City", he whispered, "in the glory that bathed it before its fall. Gondolin, pride and foolishness combined to a splendor that was never to return." Through the sadness shone a spark of longing. "Aye, even the fountains´ song is vivid within your soul, my friend, and the sun that rose above the plains many a time as you watched it from the walls or one of the turrets that rose high from the ground. As high as our hopes for peace and safety. Who are you, friend? Man na esse-tya?" What is your name?
Glorfindel´s eyelids lifted, and as if he were guiding them along by sheer power of will, so did Legolas´. Dark blue irises sparkled fiercely, baring an age that was well past the young prince´s reach. Where the room had been still before, it now grew breathless like a hot summer´s night awaiting the first thunderclap of an oncoming storm. "Man ne esse-tya?" What is your name ?Glorfindel asked again, but there was a still wonder in his voice, a slight tilt to his head that told Aragorn his tutor already knew, or guessed.
"Legolas." The answer came without hesitation, but neither was it hasty. "Legolas Gondolinon." Legolas of Gondolin.The calm manner barely shrouded the strength that lay at the core of the voice, even though it had only uttered a few words. The elf on the bed regarded Glorfindel with a mixture of respect and wonder. "Cundu Glrofindel" Lord Glorfindel, he said with a slight nod of greeting, "huore-tya milyas laitale." Your bravery calls for praise.Glorfindel mirrored the gesture. His face was still again, devoid of tears, but Aragorn could see a single drop of sweat trickling down his temple. The hands that clasped the wounded elf´s arm shook, though it was barely recognizable to the human.
"Ar etya."And yours.Glorfindel´s voice betrayed no effort. "Finya-tya narcines lifear umbar ostommea." Your skill saved many souls from the doom of our city.The sadness that crossed both fair faces simultaneously spoke of the horrors they had seen so many human lifespans ago, but whereas Glorfindel´s expression turned to one of grief, anger began to flash from the dark blue eyes that shone in Legolas´ pale face. "Onnar lóna oia milyas enin!" Dark creatures forever stalk me!he hissed, "ýa, sercedur lanta fea-nya mi ungwe." Once, the servant of blood dragged my soul into darkness.The wounded elf calmed slightly as he raised his right arm, flexing the long fingers thoughtfully as if seeing them for the first time.
"Sí, nessa toron enya hiris umbar-e-rya ó enin." Now, my young brother [may] find his doom with me.There was regret but also unmistakable defiance in his tone now. A gust of wind suddenly rose, carrying dying leaves through the open window. Aragorn, who had been mesmerised by the exchange, glanced up sharply, fearing darkness would descend upon them again, but all he could see outside were clouds chasing each other across an autumn sky. A slight gasp drew his attention back to the bed, and he could see Legolas´ eyes changing again. The lighter shade of blue the ranger knew so well struggled to surface as if rising from a deep well, pushing away the excess of years that weighed on the elf still.
"Á laste enin!"Listen to me!Glorfindel had hardly raised his voice, but the authority of his command had its effect even on Aragorn at whom it had not been directed. The ranger could see the dark blue resurface in Legolas´ wide eyes, and he felt sorry. "Man halda mi rauco?" Who hides within your demon?The elf lord´s voice was heavy now, and the small beats of sweats that had continued to collect on his forehead fell freely. "Á qete enin!" Tell me!
Legolas expression alternated between one of confused fear and deep thought, two hues of blue swirling in his irises as if locked in a deadly dance, and for a heartbeat the light blue broke through and his gaze locked with Aragorn´s over Glorfindel´s shoulder. "Estel?" Legolas whispered, his voice his own once more, devoid of the sharp edge it had carried moments ago, and the ranger found his mouth opening to reply when he was suddenly pulled backwards by a pair a strong hands and Elrond stepped in front of him, effectively blocking any eye contact between the two friends.
"Á qete enin!" Tell me!Glrofindel demanded again, and when Legolas´ responded, he was older once more, and alien to Aragorn´s ears. "Amban úmea..." Evil mountain...It was barely more than a ragged gasp, "Caradhras..." There was pain clearly audible now, and Aragorn felt a sudden rage surge through him. He angrily shrugged off Elladan´s hands on his shoulders and pushed past his father, fully expecting to be pulled back once again, but nobody moved to stop him. He noticed that Glorfindel had released Legolas´ arm and leaned back in his chair, his face ashen and exhausted, but he did not care at the moment.
Legolas eyes were light once more, and with the darkness that calm had gone. The elf struggled to push himself up and Aragorn was by his side in a heartbeat, gathering into his arms lightly. He had to fight the urge to tighten his arms around his friend as if protecting him from a fall, for he knew that there was no need, no matter what his heart told him. "Dinen, dinen" Be still, be stillhe soothed urgently, "you are safe now, do not be afraid, you are safe..."
"Estel? Allasto, glaer um, allasto.." Don´t listen, the song is evil, don´t listen...He raised his hands as wanting to cover the ranger´s ears, but Aragorn caught them gently. "Listen", he said, inwardly wincing at the shivers that spread through the elf´s body, "listen, there is no sound here to frighten you. Lasto, Legolas, all is well. Trust in me and listen."
The elf stilled, but he remained so tense that Aragorn expected him to attempt to bolt at any second. Even so, his head tilted slightly as he tentatively took in what his senses told him. Aragorn made himself listen, too, taking in the gentle breaths of the other elves in the room, the rustling of the dry leaves that still lay across the blanket. The distant sounds of horses snorting, other elves talking. Footsteps in a hallway somewhere. Sounds of Imladris that held no danger. The human felt the relief that slowly eased Legolas´ tension and he let himself be embraced by it, too. He simply sat and relished the feeling.
He saw his father seating himself on the other side of the bed, gently taking Legolas´ face into his hands to deeply look into his eyes, but all fear had left Aragorn. He knew that his friend was himself again, shaken but himself, and he fought down the tears that threatened to fall. He would not to anything to upset his friend now. He would make sure that he was safe.
Elrohir stood back with his brother and watched his father anxiously. Even though Estel´s faith in Legolas´ return was obvious and joyful to behold, he reigned in his hope until he finally saw it confirmed in his father´s slowly relaxing face. He exchanged a grateful glance with Elladan, sharing his brother´s silent joy, but he did not fail to see that a frown remained on Elrond´s face.
The younger twin felt overwhelmed by what he had seen. By what he had heard. Distant images of the proud city of Gondolin floated through his mind. A city fallen into shadow so long ago and then swallowed by the sea. A city that Glorfindel had died protecting. A white refuge that had been home to an elf that had shared Legolas´ name and whose way had been lost to the fading paths of history.
Elrohir withdrew to the far corner of the room and left the others to fuss over the reawakened elf, a little smile touching his lips at the knowledge that Legolas would probably thank him for it later. The young prince loathed being crowded, even though he would certainly enjoy the closeness of his friends. Elrohir opened the window that faced the gates and leaned onto the sill, gazing out into the stormy morning.
Behind him, he could hear Legolas´ voice growing stronger, repeating over and over and with rising joy: "Ha gwann! Ha gwann!" It is gone! It is gone!The younger twin assumed his friend was speaking of the evil he had been forced to face alone, and his heart sank, for he could clearly feel that it was not gone. He looked down to the yard beneath him and winced inwardly at the barred gate, the absence of elves walking or riding through it. Their freedom had been severely impaired by this greedy demon, and Elrohir could sense an uneasy stirring in the world beyond, as if it groaned in anticipation of yet another attack.
He sighed and had prepared to turn back to finally greet Legolas when his sharp elven hearing picked up the sound of hoofbeats. They were very fast and stumbled at times, as if the animals were hurt or greatly fatigued. He swiftly leaned out of the window again in the hope of catching a glimpse of who was approaching, but the road leading to Imladris was empty. The sounds came from the woods beyond.
Elrohir turned and found the others looking at him as one, waiting for an explanation. They had heard it, too. "Horses", the younger twin said curtly, "horses approach, and their pace is not peaceful."
TBC
Now all I can say is - don´t consider yourselves safe. The time of mean cliffies is approaching again...
Review responses:
Gozilla: Thank you - I hope you liked this one, too.
Alexa: Oh yes - Mithrandir, where are you?? Well, he cannot be everywhere ;-) And if you missed angst around Legolas, give it some time...
White Wolf1: How far has he been pulled into the darkness? Hmm, that is a VERY good question...
Ertia: Thanks for the praise!! And Glorfindel KNOWS less than he GUESSES - he will continue to play an important role.
Tychen: Sorry that the awaited action was delayed a bit LOL Don´t worry though, they are giong to ride out and (try to??) face this evil. Legolas will need Aragorn at his side, no doubt about that...
Amy: You are very welcome! Well, now we know who´s there with Legolas, but believe me, that´s not the end of it (not even close...)
Someone Reading: Oh, thank you! Now I´m really flattered. I´m glad you like the way the characters interact ;-) As for work - I would love to use your excuse, but do you think it will work on the German Ministry for Education? I might try, but I´ve got my doubts LOL
Candidus-lupus-full Moon: I will keep going - until the (bitter/happy/sad??) end - I hope you will stay along for the ride
NightShadow131: For the moment Legolas is just fine - or, is he? Will he be? We´ll see about that ;-)
Estel Elven Enchantress: Thanks! And yes, you gave me an idea (thanks!!) and a mean one, too, but - well, it does not HAVE to be used in this story, does it? LOL
Cowgoddess22: Hi! Welcome and thanks for reviewing! I´m happy that you are enjoying the story. That name for the lake is so very fitting, believe me...And you will get more, not writing is just no option anymore.
Red Tigress: Thanks for the praise. And yes, I have seen Troy - of course Orlando was not as cool, I mean, he was PARIS!! But he did well, I think, and even though they twisted the story I really enjoyed the film (but then again, which woman would not?)
Thanks you all so much - your reviews brighten even the toughest working day!
Be prepared for some revelations!! I hope you enjoy them...
Thanks to Mor and especially Sandra - you are a great editor, thank you for your help and comments!!
Speaking of comments - your reviews were great, as always (responses - oh, you know where). Please, please keep them coming!
Now on to the chapter.
Alinah
Rating: PG 13
Disclaimer: I wish - but that does not help. Still not mine...
Revelations
Aragorn´s hurried steps echoed on the tiled floor, their rapid succession rivalling his racing heartbeat. Behind him, he heard the door of the study open and Elrond´s voice floated down to him as his father continued his conversation with Glorfindel. The human´s mind was reeling. What he had set out to achieve would now happen even without his intervention, but he was not so sure that he really wanted it anymore. Too many unsolved questions and fears swirled through his mind in wild disarray, and what he really wanted now was some time alone with Legolas.
He knew he would have little time and he picked up his pace even more, almost running now, earning curious glances from the elves he met along the way. He cared little. Finally, he arrived back at Legolas´ room and entered without knocking. Calen looked up from the book he had been studying, disapproval clearly etched on his pale features, but his look softened immediately when he realized Aragorn´s distress.
"The lords have not heeded your request?" he asked, doubt shining through his words. His brow wrinkled and the ranger could almost sense the thoughts that troubled the elf´s mind. He had not been gone long enough to account for a denial, for the healer knew him too well to believe that he would back down easily. Aragorn hesitated, not wanting to lie but just as unwilling to admit to his eavesdropping. He settled for evasion. "My father will be here shortly, but I would like to spend a few moments with Legolas before he arrives. Would you be so kind to leave us?"
Calen put the book aside now, focusing his clear eyes fully on the ranger. Aragorn had to force himself not to squirm under the gaze and found himself wondering whether Lord Elrond taught all the healers he supervised to stare down their patients. It was either that or Calen had an innate gift for the art, but when his face broke into a soft smile Aragorn could feel a silent understanding passing between them. "Of course, Estel." The fair elf rose gracefully. On his way to the door he casually added: "I might want to give your father the latest report on the prince´s health. You know healers, they often need many words. Do not be alarmed if it takes the lords a few more minutes before they arrive."
Aragorn turned in surprise but found the door already softly closing behind the healer. The ranger enjoyed the warm wave of gratitude that washed over him and could not help smiling at the elven ability to astonish him, even though he had grown up among the eldar. Still shaking his head at Calen´s insight, he took the seat the elf had abandoned and immediately sobered when he looked down at Legolas.
Although the prince had not awakened in days, Aragorn could see that he was improving. His face had regained a little colour and Elrond had even been able to properly splint his broken leg the night before. The wounds that the healers had been forced to inflict before setting the shattered bones had closed sufficiently, and the splint greatly reduced the danger of further damage caused by sudden movements. The recovery had gone well so far, surprisingly well. It would take the bone a long while to mend properly, but the process made already had been beyond their expectations.
What would have brought the ranger joy under any other circumstances distressed him deeply now. Where did this almost unnaturally fast recovery have its roots? How ever badly he wanted his friend to be free of physical pain, it was the prince´s state of mind that caused the man worry. He had been dizzy from his own ailments the day that Legolas had spoken in the ancient tongue of Quenya. Still, the feeling that it had not been the Mirkwood prince uttering those words had been strong in him.
Gently, Aragorn reached out a hand and placed it on Legolas´ forehead. The man´s heart clenched. He had not yet dared to do this, to use his own unique abilities to determine as much as he could about his friend´s state. Telling himself that Elrond would know the right time, promising himself to listen to his instincts when he felt he was ready for the truth, the ranger had shied away from this confrontation. But not any longer. He wanted to put to work the gift that was his birthright, one of the few advantages he could see in a heritage that otherwise burdened him with responsibility and guilt.
Aragorn closed his eyes and allowed the energies within the still elf to flow into him. He felt the smooth skin, cool now and no longer dampened by sweat, but beneath it shadows of fear and doubt darkened the bright spirit. The ranger´s brow creased in concentration. He could sense fleeting thoughts race past him. The calm mask that unconsciousness had spread over Legolas had no effect here, and Aragorn could feel his friend´s panic rushing through his own being like a powerful river that threatened to pull him along. Without opening his eyes, the human reached out with his other hand, intending to place it on the elf´s racing heart.
Instead, he instinctively grasped Legolas´ arm. Almost immediately, a warm reassurance spread over him. Aragorn sucked in a breath as he felt a mind that was alien to him brush him lightly, tentatively, as if afraid to frighten him with its presence. There was strength there, age, and pain. Very carefully, the human tried to move closer, but the unknown spirit withdrew from him, elusive as a wisp of smoke from a single candle. Sounds crept into his mind, breaking his concentration. He could hear Calen saying something fairly loudly, as if trying to warn him, and with an inner sigh of regret Aragorn broke the frail connection he had managed to establish.
He had only just recovered himself and let go of Legolas´ left arm when the door opened and Elrond stepped into the room, shadowed by Glorfindel and Calen, who wore a somewhat mischievous expression. Behind the healers, Elladan and Elrohir entered also, their nervousness carefully hidden beyond almost dispassionate expressions. Aragorn´s foster father, however, eyed him with a mixture of amusement and disapproval, and before the human could even begin to school his features into a look of innocence he realized that his hand still lingered on his friend´s forehead. The gesture was not to be misread and he sighed.
"I had to try, Ada", Aragorn explained, feeling color rise into his cheeks. "I did not mean to rush ahead of you, but I was so worried..." Elrond raised his hand to stop his son´s words and stepped closer. Aragorn was surprised when he felt a comforting hand on his shoulder. As gentle as the elven lord could be, he did not usually approve of anybody in Imladris preempting him. "I understand, my son. Will you share your findings before we conduct our own inquiries?" The human shook his head in frustration. "I am not sure what I found. He is afraid, and he is not alone. But we knew that much already!"
"Aye", Elrond agreed calmly, "but we did not know that whoever dwells inside the prince´s body would not attack a young ranger who rather foolishly gave in to his curiosity." There was no scorn in his words, just truthfulness. The elf Lord bent down and began to examine Legolas´leg carefully. He seemed pleased with what he saw. "No infection, the swelling has gone down, and the cuts are almost healed." He straightened. "A remarkable recovery. I say it is safe to wake the prince."
"Good." Glorfindel had remained well behind Elrond, but Aragorn had not failed to notice how the Balrog slayer had watched Legolas with keen eyes. He had paid little attention to what Elrond had been doing, his gaze fixed on Legolas´ unmoving face instead, and Aragorn was not surprised at all when the fair elf spoke again. "There is much turmoil beyond that façade of peacefulness. The young one has not yet realized that he is indeed safe now. It is well that his body has mended enough for us to show him."
Glorfindel moved closer and Aragorn stood without having been asked, making room for the elf. He joined his brothers and Calen at the other side of the bed and watched nervously as Glorfindel sat down without haste and tenderly took Legolas left arm, placing it into his lap. He turned it so that the scars could be seen. They no longer stood out, for the bruises had faded and allowed the white lines to almost blend with the fair skin. Upon looking closely, though, the ranger could tell that the scars were even lighter than his friend´s natural paleness. Glorfindel traced the scars lightly with his fingertips, a frown appearing on his smooth face.
"Maybe we should allow the prince a few more moments of rest", he murmured, more to himself than to the others that stood around the bed anxiously. "We should talk first to the one who has been quiet for so long. Too long." The ancient elf´s eyes closed slowly, and his grip on Legolas´ arm tightened ever so slightly. He remained silent for heartbeats that, to Aragorn, seemed an eternity. He felt his fear intensify, fear of what Glorfindel might discover. Unable to watch, the ranger focused on his surroundings. He could hear the twins´ breaths to either side of him. He could sense the light breeze drift in from the open window. Still, his fear grew until it seemed ready to devour him.
When Glorfindel finally spoke, his voice was utterly distant, and Aragorn was shocked to hear tears in it. "I see the Hidden City", he whispered, "in the glory that bathed it before its fall. Gondolin, pride and foolishness combined to a splendor that was never to return." Through the sadness shone a spark of longing. "Aye, even the fountains´ song is vivid within your soul, my friend, and the sun that rose above the plains many a time as you watched it from the walls or one of the turrets that rose high from the ground. As high as our hopes for peace and safety. Who are you, friend? Man na esse-tya?" What is your name?
Glorfindel´s eyelids lifted, and as if he were guiding them along by sheer power of will, so did Legolas´. Dark blue irises sparkled fiercely, baring an age that was well past the young prince´s reach. Where the room had been still before, it now grew breathless like a hot summer´s night awaiting the first thunderclap of an oncoming storm. "Man ne esse-tya?" What is your name ?Glorfindel asked again, but there was a still wonder in his voice, a slight tilt to his head that told Aragorn his tutor already knew, or guessed.
"Legolas." The answer came without hesitation, but neither was it hasty. "Legolas Gondolinon." Legolas of Gondolin.The calm manner barely shrouded the strength that lay at the core of the voice, even though it had only uttered a few words. The elf on the bed regarded Glorfindel with a mixture of respect and wonder. "Cundu Glrofindel" Lord Glorfindel, he said with a slight nod of greeting, "huore-tya milyas laitale." Your bravery calls for praise.Glorfindel mirrored the gesture. His face was still again, devoid of tears, but Aragorn could see a single drop of sweat trickling down his temple. The hands that clasped the wounded elf´s arm shook, though it was barely recognizable to the human.
"Ar etya."And yours.Glorfindel´s voice betrayed no effort. "Finya-tya narcines lifear umbar ostommea." Your skill saved many souls from the doom of our city.The sadness that crossed both fair faces simultaneously spoke of the horrors they had seen so many human lifespans ago, but whereas Glorfindel´s expression turned to one of grief, anger began to flash from the dark blue eyes that shone in Legolas´ pale face. "Onnar lóna oia milyas enin!" Dark creatures forever stalk me!he hissed, "ýa, sercedur lanta fea-nya mi ungwe." Once, the servant of blood dragged my soul into darkness.The wounded elf calmed slightly as he raised his right arm, flexing the long fingers thoughtfully as if seeing them for the first time.
"Sí, nessa toron enya hiris umbar-e-rya ó enin." Now, my young brother [may] find his doom with me.There was regret but also unmistakable defiance in his tone now. A gust of wind suddenly rose, carrying dying leaves through the open window. Aragorn, who had been mesmerised by the exchange, glanced up sharply, fearing darkness would descend upon them again, but all he could see outside were clouds chasing each other across an autumn sky. A slight gasp drew his attention back to the bed, and he could see Legolas´ eyes changing again. The lighter shade of blue the ranger knew so well struggled to surface as if rising from a deep well, pushing away the excess of years that weighed on the elf still.
"Á laste enin!"Listen to me!Glorfindel had hardly raised his voice, but the authority of his command had its effect even on Aragorn at whom it had not been directed. The ranger could see the dark blue resurface in Legolas´ wide eyes, and he felt sorry. "Man halda mi rauco?" Who hides within your demon?The elf lord´s voice was heavy now, and the small beats of sweats that had continued to collect on his forehead fell freely. "Á qete enin!" Tell me!
Legolas expression alternated between one of confused fear and deep thought, two hues of blue swirling in his irises as if locked in a deadly dance, and for a heartbeat the light blue broke through and his gaze locked with Aragorn´s over Glorfindel´s shoulder. "Estel?" Legolas whispered, his voice his own once more, devoid of the sharp edge it had carried moments ago, and the ranger found his mouth opening to reply when he was suddenly pulled backwards by a pair a strong hands and Elrond stepped in front of him, effectively blocking any eye contact between the two friends.
"Á qete enin!" Tell me!Glrofindel demanded again, and when Legolas´ responded, he was older once more, and alien to Aragorn´s ears. "Amban úmea..." Evil mountain...It was barely more than a ragged gasp, "Caradhras..." There was pain clearly audible now, and Aragorn felt a sudden rage surge through him. He angrily shrugged off Elladan´s hands on his shoulders and pushed past his father, fully expecting to be pulled back once again, but nobody moved to stop him. He noticed that Glorfindel had released Legolas´ arm and leaned back in his chair, his face ashen and exhausted, but he did not care at the moment.
Legolas eyes were light once more, and with the darkness that calm had gone. The elf struggled to push himself up and Aragorn was by his side in a heartbeat, gathering into his arms lightly. He had to fight the urge to tighten his arms around his friend as if protecting him from a fall, for he knew that there was no need, no matter what his heart told him. "Dinen, dinen" Be still, be stillhe soothed urgently, "you are safe now, do not be afraid, you are safe..."
"Estel? Allasto, glaer um, allasto.." Don´t listen, the song is evil, don´t listen...He raised his hands as wanting to cover the ranger´s ears, but Aragorn caught them gently. "Listen", he said, inwardly wincing at the shivers that spread through the elf´s body, "listen, there is no sound here to frighten you. Lasto, Legolas, all is well. Trust in me and listen."
The elf stilled, but he remained so tense that Aragorn expected him to attempt to bolt at any second. Even so, his head tilted slightly as he tentatively took in what his senses told him. Aragorn made himself listen, too, taking in the gentle breaths of the other elves in the room, the rustling of the dry leaves that still lay across the blanket. The distant sounds of horses snorting, other elves talking. Footsteps in a hallway somewhere. Sounds of Imladris that held no danger. The human felt the relief that slowly eased Legolas´ tension and he let himself be embraced by it, too. He simply sat and relished the feeling.
He saw his father seating himself on the other side of the bed, gently taking Legolas´ face into his hands to deeply look into his eyes, but all fear had left Aragorn. He knew that his friend was himself again, shaken but himself, and he fought down the tears that threatened to fall. He would not to anything to upset his friend now. He would make sure that he was safe.
Elrohir stood back with his brother and watched his father anxiously. Even though Estel´s faith in Legolas´ return was obvious and joyful to behold, he reigned in his hope until he finally saw it confirmed in his father´s slowly relaxing face. He exchanged a grateful glance with Elladan, sharing his brother´s silent joy, but he did not fail to see that a frown remained on Elrond´s face.
The younger twin felt overwhelmed by what he had seen. By what he had heard. Distant images of the proud city of Gondolin floated through his mind. A city fallen into shadow so long ago and then swallowed by the sea. A city that Glorfindel had died protecting. A white refuge that had been home to an elf that had shared Legolas´ name and whose way had been lost to the fading paths of history.
Elrohir withdrew to the far corner of the room and left the others to fuss over the reawakened elf, a little smile touching his lips at the knowledge that Legolas would probably thank him for it later. The young prince loathed being crowded, even though he would certainly enjoy the closeness of his friends. Elrohir opened the window that faced the gates and leaned onto the sill, gazing out into the stormy morning.
Behind him, he could hear Legolas´ voice growing stronger, repeating over and over and with rising joy: "Ha gwann! Ha gwann!" It is gone! It is gone!The younger twin assumed his friend was speaking of the evil he had been forced to face alone, and his heart sank, for he could clearly feel that it was not gone. He looked down to the yard beneath him and winced inwardly at the barred gate, the absence of elves walking or riding through it. Their freedom had been severely impaired by this greedy demon, and Elrohir could sense an uneasy stirring in the world beyond, as if it groaned in anticipation of yet another attack.
He sighed and had prepared to turn back to finally greet Legolas when his sharp elven hearing picked up the sound of hoofbeats. They were very fast and stumbled at times, as if the animals were hurt or greatly fatigued. He swiftly leaned out of the window again in the hope of catching a glimpse of who was approaching, but the road leading to Imladris was empty. The sounds came from the woods beyond.
Elrohir turned and found the others looking at him as one, waiting for an explanation. They had heard it, too. "Horses", the younger twin said curtly, "horses approach, and their pace is not peaceful."
TBC
Now all I can say is - don´t consider yourselves safe. The time of mean cliffies is approaching again...
Review responses:
Gozilla: Thank you - I hope you liked this one, too.
Alexa: Oh yes - Mithrandir, where are you?? Well, he cannot be everywhere ;-) And if you missed angst around Legolas, give it some time...
White Wolf1: How far has he been pulled into the darkness? Hmm, that is a VERY good question...
Ertia: Thanks for the praise!! And Glorfindel KNOWS less than he GUESSES - he will continue to play an important role.
Tychen: Sorry that the awaited action was delayed a bit LOL Don´t worry though, they are giong to ride out and (try to??) face this evil. Legolas will need Aragorn at his side, no doubt about that...
Amy: You are very welcome! Well, now we know who´s there with Legolas, but believe me, that´s not the end of it (not even close...)
Someone Reading: Oh, thank you! Now I´m really flattered. I´m glad you like the way the characters interact ;-) As for work - I would love to use your excuse, but do you think it will work on the German Ministry for Education? I might try, but I´ve got my doubts LOL
Candidus-lupus-full Moon: I will keep going - until the (bitter/happy/sad??) end - I hope you will stay along for the ride
NightShadow131: For the moment Legolas is just fine - or, is he? Will he be? We´ll see about that ;-)
Estel Elven Enchantress: Thanks! And yes, you gave me an idea (thanks!!) and a mean one, too, but - well, it does not HAVE to be used in this story, does it? LOL
Cowgoddess22: Hi! Welcome and thanks for reviewing! I´m happy that you are enjoying the story. That name for the lake is so very fitting, believe me...And you will get more, not writing is just no option anymore.
Red Tigress: Thanks for the praise. And yes, I have seen Troy - of course Orlando was not as cool, I mean, he was PARIS!! But he did well, I think, and even though they twisted the story I really enjoyed the film (but then again, which woman would not?)
Thanks you all so much - your reviews brighten even the toughest working day!