Chapter Five
A lone elf strolled thoughtfully along a secluded lane, his feet rustling the autumn leaves that decorated the seldom-used pathway. He had stumbled upon the lane several years ago and it had become a retreat of his for none now walked its path but he. He often pondered it; wondering why it was rarely used and who had walked upon it before he.
Today, Legolas meandered wishing for a moment alone from society. He needed solitude, a time to think and dream. The day was lovely and he felt peace in his heart for the sunshine was beautiful and the song of the birds was comforting. The air was crisp and it gave him a feeling of liveliness.
With a contented sigh upon his lips and a song in his heart, Legolas lowered himself onto a lonely stone bench weathered and covered in ancient looking leaves. His gaze fell upon something peeking through the leaves and he felt something waver in his chest. His puissant hand gently pushed aside the leaves and revealed elvish writing engraved within the bench.
"Uireb Meleth" The script read. "Eternal Love" This puzzled him greatly and he sat for quite some time trying to understand what the one word meant. He thought of who might have engraved such a word upon the bench.
He began to daydream of two lovers who used to walk this lane thousands of years ago, and this was their bench where they sat and their hearts united in eternal love. Eternal. What an interesting word, Legolas was greatly amused by it.
He remained on the bench, lost in dreams, for some time. It wasn't until he spotted a figure coming down the lane that he stood from the bench to gaze down the path at the young lady strolling towards him.
An expression of determination was upon her face and Legolas immediately recognized her. His heart skipped a beat as realization dawned upon him. Leannan was ready to confront him. Her lush lips twitched at the corners and Legolas almost thought he had caught a smirk. Silky and beaded skirts flowed along the lane behind her as she came nearer and her hair was decorated with white flowers from the mountainside. She looked breathtakingly lovely, except for the obstinate look painted upon her so lovely face.
Legolas slowly breathed in deeply as their eyes met and she stood below him, her chin held high and her eyes flaring.
"How did you find me, pen tithen?" He asked in that quiet, regal voice of his. At the sound of his voice, Leannan's gaze flashed to an innocent look of enchantment.
She quickly turned away and took note of the ancient looking bench. He knew she caught the "Uireb Meleth" engravement.
"I am not the only one that explores this city." Came her only reply.
Legolas gave her an amused look and wondered at her vague reply. He settled on the notion that she had followed him here in the past.
" It has been awhile." He said, watching her intently.
His heart was leaping within him at her closeness. So many times he had dreamed of being this close to her again, of hearing her voice, and now she stood within inches of him! He felt such remorse that a wall separated their hearts. A wall that would never crumble, a wall that brought his heart so much sadness. Did she hurt as much as he?
"Yes, it has."
Legolas was at loss of words. What was he supposed to say to her? He decided it was best to let her lead the conversation, she was the one that had initiated anyhow.
She was watching him, sweetly. She had been on fire while she tramped down the lane, but it had died as soon as they greeted each other. He was sure she had had every word planned out to say to him, but she just stood there totally oblivious.
"I…I don't know what to say, Legolas." She stammered, and then she sucked in a quick breath and her eyes lit up with ire towards him. She wasn't going to let him do this to her. Allow him to get her all tongued tied like a silly girl! " Why did you do this to me? Why did you come here?" She questioned him, furily.
"I did nothing to you!" Legolas scoffed. "How was I to know we'd both be summoned to the council!"
Leannan was taken back by his fiery expression. She regretted accusing him like she had; it had definitely irked him. Oh dear, she was going about this wrong! But he was just so calm about everything! It made her feel inferior.
"Legolas…please."
His lips were drawn into a perturbed frown.
" Please…" She begged. "Let us not be angry with each other."
His face softened at the pleading in her breathtaking grey orbs. His anger had upset her. She looked so innocent; so different than when she was being her hotheaded self. He had not realized the effect he had on her.
She sat down on the bench and rested her head in her hands. " What are we going to do?" Came her muffled question, filled with anxiety.
"Nothing." His musical voice declared.
She lifted her head and met his eyes with a quizzical look.
"There's nothing we can do about our quandary. We both vowed never to see each other again and unfortunately fate has overruled our plans." He looked at her with pity. " This is not easy for me either, pen tithen. But we both have a duty to fulfill and we cannot let our past get in the way."
How wise and strong he was! Though his heart was breaking within him, he chose to bravely set it aside and focus on his duty to protect Frodo and destroy the ring. Leannan wished she could be so gallant as he.
She stood from the bench, casting Legolas a pained look and he inwardly winced
He was so superior; she could never be like him. It never could have been. They were never meant for each other. He was much too perfect and she could never be.
Stifling a shattered sob, Leannan fled down the lane. She could not bear to be near him any longer! How he had ever tolerated an inferior mortal like her, she did not understand. Her heart broke within her as she realized how utterly flawed she was compared to him. She did not even deserve his presence, yet she even dared to accuse him so disrespectfully!
Legolas opened his mouth to call out to her, but she was already too far down the path, her extravagant skirts whipping in the breeze as she ran away. Why did it have to be this way? Why did she always run from him?
With a distraught sigh, the elf lowered himself on the bench and rested his troubled head in his hands.
~~~~~~~~
Leannan stood before the full-length mirror and examined herself with a tilted head and thoughtful expression. She looked very beautiful in the white cotton dress embroidered with dainty blue flowers. The skirts fell freely around her ankles in uneven folds that were trimmed with blue beads. She lifted a straw hat decorated with white and blue flowers and gently laid it upon her golden brown locks that were loosely pinned up behind her neck. She tied the white sash under her chin and felt her insides flutter with excitement. This would be a delightful day! The sun was shining brightly and a gentle breeze blew the sheer curtains covering Leannan's ornate terrace. Today would be day full of merriment and laughter! There would be games, contests, and lots of delicious food! All inhabitants of Rivendell would be at the grand event upon the slopes of a nearby mountainside, decorated with large white tents. Leannan was very excited; it had been several years since she'd attended the autumn festival.
She moved about her room tidying up before leaving to join Glorfindel who waited below in the courtyard to escort her to the festival. She did not want to keep him waiting, so she quickly rushed from the room and descended down the side steps of the building. She ran into the courtyard and smiled warmly at Glorfindel who leaned against a nearby tree. She looked so divine running to him in her unfettered bare feet and billowing gown! He moved from the tree to meet her in the middle of the courtyard and offered his arm to her. Once she had slipped her slim arm into his, they began the charming stroll to the mountainside where the festivities were being held.
After some time, Leannan sighed contentedly. "It is such a lovely day! How my heart will ever bear to leave."
"Do not leave then."
Glorfindel glanced at her and then adjusted his keen eyes upon the path before them. She looked up at his profile and tilted her head. "But I must leave, Glorfindel, surely you understand that."
"Must you?" His brows knit together and Leannan felt very confused, why did he question so?
"Yes, I must. I pledged myself to Frodo, and I will not break my vow."
Leannan was sure she caught a sigh coming from the elf. "You are very devoted, I admire that."
His hand tightened on her arm and he stopped them upon a bridge. Leannan felt her stomach quiver and wondered why he was stopping.
His eyes searched hers. "The reason I ask you not to go, is because you have come to mean a lot to me and you have only just recently returned. I do not know what I would do without you."
Leannan was flattered, but very startled. She did not know how to reply. He was being so kind towards her and had always been nothing but. He was so compassionate and virtuous. He had a tenderness about him and such patience. But he reminded her so much of Legolas, his virility and honorability. He was so thoughtful and just in all his ways.
Glorfindel watched a series of emotions rushed across her sweet face and he waited patiently, enjoying the time to marvel her soft-heartedness and beauty. She was so devoted to those she followed and her entire essence was that of goodness and integrity. He knew she was very innocent and always reminded himself to deal with her with delicacy and care. He knew of her past with Legolas that had ended in disaster and did not chastise her for she had been naïve and young then. He only wanted to protect her from those who would take advantage of her virtue and innocence. He wanted preserve her beautiful and pure spirit.
"I am very flattered…" She finally said with a hint of stammering. "And I appreciate your feelings for me, but give me time, Glorfindel." She looked at him with pleading eyes.
"Of course." Glorfindel was quick to say. "Of course, sweetling. I just wanted you to be aware of my fondness."
She nodded and switched the topic to the day's festivities. "Will you be competing at today's archery contest?"
"Indeed."
She smiled reassuringly up at him. " I will be cheering for you."
He looked down and smiled back. "Thank you."
~~~~~~~~~
Leannan gently ran her fingers over the exquisite, pointed ears of the Elven baby in her arms. The baby looked up at her with wide blue eyes so full of innocence and curiosity, her long lashes fluttering over her soft skin. Leannan cooed and laughed as she cuddled the dear thing closely. What a beautiful creation!
"Precious, isn't she?" Came a musical voice from behind.
Leannan twisted in her chair to look behind her and her eyes rested on a radiant she-elf with flowing ebony hair. She was dressed in a pale green gown decorated intricately with embroidery and beads.
"Indeed." Came Leannan's quiet response as she shifted her eyes away from the beautiful elf and lowered her gaze to her lap.
The elf moved closer. "I am Aredhel." She smiled warmly at Leannan
"I am Leannan." Leannan smiled back, though a bit languid.
Aredhel chuckled. "Yes, I know."
"Oh."
Aredhel lowered herself into a chair next to Leannan and looked at the young woman with interest. "So, I hear you were schooled here in Rivendell several years ago?"
"Yes." Came Leannan's small reply. She was intimidated by the refined elf, but did well hiding it with her indifferent air.
" I am surprised that we did not meet each other while you were learning in Rivendell. My father is Erestor, chief counselor of Lord Elrond's household. He made sure that I was trained by the best of teachers."
Leannan smothered her grimace at the elf's obvious flaunting. This was rather amusing, if not annoying.
" Is it true that you dueled the man from Gondor? I was astonished when I heard! I am sorry that I did not come to supper that night!"
Leannan gave a modest smile. "Yes, I dueled Boromir of Gondor."
"You have been trained well in the arts, I assume, being that you won. I hear that knife tossing is your specialty. Is it true you were trained by the Prince of Mirkwood during his stay here in Rivendell?"
"Yes, I was trained by the Prince. Tell me, what is your favorite trade?" Leannan asked quickly, wishing to remove Legolas from the topic of conversation.
Aredhel tilted her head and said, "Oh, I would say archery. I cannot wait to watch today's competition! Will you be at the competition, Leannan?"
"Aye, wouldn't miss it for the world."
"Oh, so you enjoy archery then?" Asked Aredhel.
"Yes, though I am afraid I never had the chance to finish my training, so I am not very good at it." She gave a regretful laugh, etched with hidden bitterness as she remembered that the reason she never finished her training was because that had been the time that she and Legolas had departed from each other's presence.
"Perhaps I can help you sometime." Aredhel lifted her delicate hand to pat Leannan's rugged one that held tightly to the infant. The elf stood and bid Leannan farewell. "See you at the competition. Do sit next to me. I'll be looking for you. Namarië!"
After Aredhel had left, Leannan rocked the baby gently and her mind strayed to the beautiful elf that she had just met. Leannan could not decide if she liked Aredhel yet. She appeared kind enough, though she seemed to put on airs. And her keen interest in Leannan was quite confusing, especially since she was a noble of Elrond's court. Why such interest in a mere orphan?
~~~~~~~
Legolas strode the grounds of the festival; keenly watching the guests mingle. The boisterous sound of a group of elven children met his ears as they raced by with shouts from the boys and giggles from the girls. Hair ribbons danced in the wind and toy sticks poked up in the air. Legolas smiled when he noticed a boy holding a bent stick tied with string to resemble a bow. One young lad had the courage to come up to Legolas and the other children stopped to watch.
"Hello there, sir."
"Suilad, son. Are you having fun today?"
"Very much, sir." The elf boy shifted his feet a bit nervously and looked up at Legolas with such respect that it caused the older elf to chuckle softly.
The boy finally built the courage up to say excitedly; "You are my favorite archer! I will be rooting for you at today's competition!"
The boy looked about to run away now to join his friends and Legolas quickly said, "Thank you, lad! What is your name?"
"Rylad, sir."
"Well, Rylad, I will shoot an arrow especially in your name!" Legolas announced to the young boy, who's face lit up.
"Why thank you, sir!" He grinned broadly and skipped back a step before repeating himself, "Thank you!" He scrambled off to join his friends who slapped him on the back and shouted wisecracks to the "brave" lad who had the guts to confront the Prince of Mirkwood. When they were out of earshot, Legolas let out a laugh and shook his head in amusement. Children were so charming.
He moved away and walked past a tent where he caught sight of Leannan cooing softly to a tiny infant in her arms. He did not stop to talk, but felt an odd warm feeling in his chest at seeing her with the baby. She looked so perfect with the baby in her loving arms. It should have been his child. Legolas grew angry for allowing himself to even think such a thought. In a huff and obviously miffed, he shoved open the drapes of an enclosed tent and stepped in to find several elves washing dishes. So he'd stepped into the dishwashing tent. Ha. Large tables filled the room; some stuffed with despicable dishes, others with large buckets of water and soap. A lone dog was creeping up under the tables to lick the dirty dishes and a small toddler, whom Legolas assumed was the child of one of the ladies washing, sat on the floor playing with silverware in the dirt.
He felt bad stepping in without helping at least, so he whispered something into the ear of a young elf, causing her to giggle softly, and he was invited to join in on the task.
An hour or so later, Legolas emerged from the tent with the sound of many charmed ladies, young and old alike, shouting "Navaer!"
He couldn't help chuckling at himself for being so flippant today and he felt good for making so many friends.
He moved along the grounds again, observing the crowds. He wasn't much of a prattler, so he spent much of the day just watching and listening to others talk. He was glad though and enjoyed it very much. So few people realized the beauty of silence. There was so much you could learn from people if you just quieted down and listened to them! Folk are always too busy waiting for the chance to say what they desire. Legolas had learned and grown from heeding his elders and listening to people in need.
He spotted Glorfindel coming towards him with a welcoming smile upon his face. "Hello there, Legolas. Enjoying the festivities?" He asked coming up to Legolas side with a glass of drink in his hand. His smile turned lazy as he was surrounded by Legolas' solitude and he began to watch the crowds as well. The two exchanged pleasant conversation as they both stood looking on. They both chuckled when children ran loudly by and both rolled their eyes at each other when a group of young elf ladies strolled past them, eyeing them with sweet little smirks. They discussed the upcoming archery contest and exchanged tips.
"It's good that the fellowship has a chance to have some fun before they embark." Commented Glorfindel.
Legolas nodded, his gaze trailing off towards where Leannan and Arwen gathered with a group of young girls about their feet. It looked as if they were telling a story.
Glorfindel fell silent. It was then that the loud sound of the bell erupted through the clamorous crowds, sounding the archery competition.
"We should get over there." Glorfindel set his glass on a nearby table and he and Legolas quickly strode towards the grounds where the contest was being held.
"Oh, Leannan! Do sit here with me!" Called Aredhel from her spot on raised platform with several chairs. Leannan silently scolded herself for forgetting about her promise to sit with Aredhel. She jogged over to her and returned the kind smile of Aredhel. " Did I tell you that you look lovely today?" Questioned the elf.
Leannan laughed, slightly embarrassed by the compliment. "Why, no, but thank you."
Aredhel smiled again with a nod of acknowledgement and motioned for Leannan to sit next to her in a white wicker lawn chair. " I brought some blankets for us since it's getting somewhat chilly." She handed Leannan a soft afghan and Leannan spread it over her legs and tucked it around her waist. It was getting rather nippy. It was sweet of Aredhel to think of Leannan like that.
It was exciting, watching the archery contest with a new friend. Even if Aredhel could be a bit boastful at times, she was rather sweet and kind and Leannan so far had enjoyed her company. Later in the day, Aredhel had come back to ask Leannan to have tea with her. The two had shared a warm cup of raspberry tea and chatted pleasantly. Leannan had enjoyed it fair enough.
Two elves stepped forward to blow their trumpets and the archers, walking tall and proud, filed onto the large field serving as the competition's grounds. In the distance, quite far away that Leannan could only make out their form, sat a target for each of the contestants.
Leannan searched the contestants for Legolas and caught sight of him on near the end of the left of the line of archers. He was readying his bow and arrows. Leannan watched him glance up out of the corner of his eye to search the crowds and survey his surroundings. She then moved her gaze away to the right of the line and found Glorfindel, also preparing himself for the contest. He caught her gaze and gave her a wave and a smile. She returned both before casting her eyes upon Legolas once more. He'd caught the exchange between the two.
Leannan sighed.
"Something a matter?" Leannan glanced at Aredhel to find her looking just a little concerned.
"Oh no, thank you for asking. 'Twas just a simple sigh." Leannan quickly assured.
Aredhel turned back to gaze out at the regal competitors. "Doesn't Legolas of Mirkwood look dashing?" The elegant elf gave sigh and stared off in the distance. Leannan was entirely caught off guard! The woman stared at the elf, completely dumbstruck. Leannan began to stammer, totally unsure of what to reply.
"I…. I suppose he does." She finally said after many moments of lips moving but no words flowing.
Before the discussion could continue any further the trumpets sounded again and an elf dressed in royal uniform stepped up on to a platform.
"Ready on the firing line!" Came the resounding voice booming into the crowd, who roared wildly.
Leannan watched the contestants pick up their bows and step up to the line.
"Knock arrows!" Blared the announcer.
Each elf drew their arrows.
"Aim!"
They fixed their keen and astute eyes upon the targets.
The portly announcer slipped his thumbs into his thick brown belt and grinned at the crowd who pounded their feet on the raised platforms and bleachers they sat upon. The archery contest was the highlight of the season, the looked forward event of the year! And each onlooker was filled with stimulation!
"FIRE at will!!!!"
The crowds jumped to their feet and screamed at the top of their lungs, causing the contestants to become uneasy with their bows. One of the contestants, a young lively elf, actually turned to the crowd and shouted for them to stop their ado. But nothing was going to halt the excitement of the crowd on this autumn afternoon!
Leannan's heart jolted as Legolas finally let an arrow go that hit an excellent bull's eye. The rest of the contestants followed lead and the competition was underway. The announcer was barking out commands after each round and sending losers off the field. Slowly, the contestants thinned down as more and more contestants missed and were called out of the competition. Both Glorfindel and Legolas were still doing excellent and Leannan was glad for both. She cheered enthusiastically, sometimes hopping to her feet like the other excited audience and "awwwing!" when one of the archers got called off the field.
Aredhel was a bit more subdued, causing Leannan so sometimes feel like a silly girl, and stayed in her seat, clapping stately and occasionally calling out a cheer. Leannan lowered herself into her seat after a tirade of rooting, sheepishly glancing at the noble elf.
Eventually, the archers reduced to four competitors, consisting of the one young elf that had hollered at the crowd, an elder elf dressed richly in velvet pants and an embroidered tunic, Glorfindel who looked as if he had no care in the world, and Legolas who looked very resolute.
The announcer called for the next round to begin. "Ready on the firing line! Knock arrows! Fire at will!" He barked and the four remaining contestants focused on their targets. Neither was going to rush, so each contestant was taking his time. Legolas, who always seemed to have a confidence, or was it impatience? Took the first shot. Another bull's eye. To be sure, Legolas had rarely missed the bull's eye. The elder took the next shot, hitting a three. The crowd bursted into a fit of boo's. Leannan felt a twinge of regret for older elf, who respectfully waited until the round ended and he was called off the field.
So they were down to three. It was getting close. Leannan watched in anticipation as the next round took way and the announcer began his commands. But, just before the announcer barked his "Fire at will!!", Legolas hopped up onto the platform. He whispered some words into the announcer's ear and then, after receiving a nod from the announcer, he turned to the crowd.
"I dedicate the first arrow of this round to a young friend of mine, Rylad of Rivendell!" He cried to the crowd, who burst into applause. Rylad turned red in his front row seat. His friends slapped him on the back and grabbed his hand to raise it into the air, causing more cheering from the crowd and a warm smile from Legolas. Legolas smiled directly at Rylad, who beamed up at him with such respect and devotion.
Leannan felt her heart twitch. How sweet of Legolas to fire an arrow in the name of the young boy! How special the little elf must feel, this would be a memory treasured.
The round started and Glorfindel shot first, hitting a seven. Not a bull's eye, but still a good shot. He was still safe, Leannan assured herself. Next the younger elf let go of an arrow that hit a direct bull's eye. This elf was good. Leannan leaned over to Aredhel to ask who the unknown elf was.
"Oh, that's Nildur son of Rowan, one of Lord Elrond's advisers. My father is good friends with their family." Commented Aredhel.
"He's a very good archer."
"Indeed. Handsome too."
Leannan raised her eyebrows and didn't comment, because Legolas had just fired an arrow. The crowd had been waiting in anticipation for the prince to shoot and they all jumped to their feet when he gently let go and the arrow soared to a perfect bull's eye! Roaring sounded from all stadiums. Rylad jumped down from his bench to run out to Legolas on the grounds. The young lad jumped into the prince's arms and Legolas lifted him onto his shoulders. Rylad raised both arms into the air. It was touching sight.
Leannan glanced over at Aredhel. Her head was tilted and she was watching the scene with a tender expression on her face. She turned to look at Leannan and they smiled at each other.
"That Legolas is so good-hearted." She told Leannan with a dreamy sigh and rested her chin in her hand as she watched.
Leannan couldn't help twisting her nose unpleasantly. This was ridiculous. Leannan resisted the urge to openly roll her eyes at Aredhel's pathetic behavior. Surely, the only object her gaze had been on was the silly prince, not Rylad or the competitors. Leannan wanted to slap herself for her rude thoughts, but instead hid her exasperation behind a fake smile and turned back to the competition.
Two more rounds passed and the three contestants were still shooting excellently, even when the targets were moved back to point where it seemed impossible to Leannan to hit the target, much less a bulls eye.
An intermission was called so that the three remaining competitors could rest and the crowd could get drinks and such. Leannan left her seat to stretch her legs a bit. The air was shivery and brittle as she jogged over to a table handing out refreshments and Leannan folded her arms tightly around her waist to keep warm. She searched the crowd for any sign of Glorfindel or Legolas and caught sight of them sitting on a bench near the archery field. Legolas was slipping a heavy cloak over his head and Glorfindel was drinking a cup of hot chocolate, they seemed to be chatting pleasantly with Nildur.
She turned her gaze away and gladly accepted the two cups of hot chocolate from the elf behind the table. She moved away back towards where Aredhel sat waiting. But when she neared the platform, Leannan noticed that Aredhel wasn't in her seat. Odd. Why had she run off? Leannan searched the crowds for her newfound friend, but caught no sight of her. Instead of rushing off to find her, for Leannan did not wish to miss the next round, Leannan lowered herself back into a chair and restored her blankets and sipped her hot chocolate while she waited.
~~~~~~
A hooded figured hid behind a tent and waited for a group of elves to pass before sneaking out and making his way towards a smaller pergola that held the archery supplies. Richly sandaled feet moved beneath swishing velvet, navy robes of the figure moving inside the dim tent filled with the arrows and bows used for the contests.
A couple minutes later, a snicker sounded as the person exited through the flap of the tent and made their way towards the pavilion where the competition was resuming.
~~~~~~~
Legolas accepted his bow and quiver with a nod to the attendant and turned to Glorfindel. "I am sorry that it has come to this, my friend. If we could end this now, claiming us both equal winners, I would do so."
"Feel no guilt, Legolas. We will each do our best and not allow it to affect our friendship." Glorfindel assured the other elf, who stood with his supplies in hand and looking quite solemn. Both had such respect for each other and neither wanted to best the other for fear of ill feelings.
Legolas stepped towards the line marking his position and strapped the newly stocked quiver onto his back. He no longer felt the chill from the autumn air after putting on a heavy tunic made of soft wool. A cup of hot chocolate had also helped to warm his body and give him motivation for the next and last round of the archery competition of the Rivendell autumn festival.
He watched the portly announcer step up onto his platform and make his speech for the last round. Legolas fixed his gaze upon his target and prepared himself. He felt no hostility towards Glorfindel and was intent on merely doing his best and not worrying over defeating the other elf.
Knock arrows! The words resounded in Legolas' ears and he sucked in a breath as he obeyed and pulled the arrow from his quiver.
His deep eyes rested upon his target as the announcer shouted the word "AIM!" sending a wave of thrill through Legolas' body as his time drew near.
Finally, the anticipated command split the air, sending the crowd in peals of screams and cheers. Legolas shut out every sound that echoed about him. His breaths were deep and steady. His insides trembled with excitement, but he was still on the outside, a total show of complete calm. Glorfindel had already let his arrow go and it hit an exact bull's-eye. Legolas had to break the arrow. His target was so clear to his perfect eyes. He meditated upon it until he felt the readiness pounding through his veins.
Legolas lowered his bow quickly and took a step forward in anticipation. The arrow soared perfectly in the air. It was going to hit exactly. The sounds of the riotous crowd hammered in Legolas' ears and time almost seemed to stand still. Everything went silent suddenly and Legolas felt his heart stop. The arrow had been on perfect course, but it suddenly swung off to the right and missed Glorfindel's arrow, striking a seven. Silence. It could not be! What went wrong?! This was utterly wrong! A seven! How could have the Prince of Mirkwood hit a seven?
In his heart, Legolas immediately knew something had gone severely wrong. He had aimed perfectly, the bull's-eye was guaranteed. What caused the arrow to swerve to the right? There was no breeze. This was preposterous!
Legolas grit his teeth and moved past the line to jog out to the target and inspect everything in sight, but the royal announcer held him back, his look stern. "I'm sorry, son." He said gravely and nodded his head to in the opposite direction. Legolas, swallowing his anger at this injustice. They weren't even going to allow him the favor of finding out the reason of his uncanny bypass! Legolas gave the announcer a cool look and shouldered past him without a word, but the other elf said something under his breath that stopped Legolas in his tracks, "It was a loose feather. I've seen this trick before."
Stormy eyes met the grave ones of the announcer. Legolas gave the announcer a nod, showing his acceptance of his defeat, and moved away, leaving the announcer standing with deep respect for the prince.
With long strides, he walked over to Glorfindel to shake hands and offer his congratulation.
"Something went wrong, my friend." Glorfindel leaned close and whispered to Legolas, who merely nodded solemnly. "It was a perfect shot, guaranteed. Something was not right. I feel it."
Legolas reached out and rested a hand on his friend's shoulder. "That is enough, Glorfindel. Take this victory"
"But Legolas, I will not take what's rightly yours."
"I want you to have this triumph. I'm giving it to you."
Glorfindel gazed at Legolas with an expression of gratitude, but shook his head. "This victory belongs to you, Legolas. You have been unjustly treated."
Legolas grasped Glorfindel's arm tightly. "Take it my friend."
Glorfindel lowered his gaze and nodded. "Thank you." He said with genuine admiration and respect. Though, when the crowds began to swallow him up with their shouts and cheers claiming his victory, the elf couldn't help feeling a bitter guilt that pierced his heart and tore at his spirit. A serious expression overtook Glorfindel's fair features as he realized what he was doing. Not only was he taking the prince's rightful victory, but his beloved as well.
~~~~
So the competition was over, and Glorfindel had won. Leannan was truly happy for him, but couldn't help feeling regret for Legolas.
She looked into the distance and saw him. He seemed to be taking it well, though.
Aredhel had never returned. Awhile back, Leannan had caught sight of her sitting with an older man in navy blue robes, which Leannan had been told was Rowan, one of Lord Elrond's advisors. He must be very disappointed with his son's loss in the today's competition. It was kind of Aredhel to sit and comfort him. Today had been Nildur's first competition and Rowan must have had high hopes for his eldest son.
Leannan smiled obliviously. Today had been such a pleasant day. A day to be remembered and one Leannan knew would warm her heart when she set on into unknown lands where all seemed dark and dreary.
*********
The forest was alive with the chorus of insects and the night was warm and thick, causing beads of perspiration to form on Glorfindel's temple and his skin to feel moist as he lay upon a smooth rock and watched the reflection of the moon ripple in the purple waters of the pool. There was no breeze this evening; the air was still and soothing. Legolas was lifting himself from the depths of the small pool and positioning himself on a large boulder with his feet hanging into the tepid waters. Both the elves were silent as they sat in the shadows with the purple shimmer of the waters undulating upon their mystical faces as they relaxed in solemn silence of the wood. They did not speak for a long time, but their thoughts dwelled upon the same person and somehow, both felt it as well. Their eyes met many times and looks of respect were passed between the friends. Finally, Glorfindel spoke softly, his eyes intent upon the dark pool, "She has a very strong spirit." He commented into the silence and Legolas nodded soberly. Glorfindel had no intention of pulling up past hurt into the heart of the prince, for he was very much aware of Legolas' history with the young woman who traveled with the ranger, but he felt a deep want to mention her, because he knew both their hearts lingered on the girl. "But she deserves more; she should not go on this journey."
Legolas' head snapped up and his shadowy eyes glared into Glorfindel's thoughtful ones. They were questioning the other elf. Were there feelings behind that comment? Legolas felt his heart racing as he tried to make out what Glorfindel was alluding to, as he sensed it in his tone and look and instantly became alert. "And what would she accomplish here, my friend?" He questioned coolly.
Glorfindel dipped his hand into the pool. "Do not become so upset, friend, I am sorry if I have angered you."
Legolas' jaw flexed as he stared almost callously at the other elf. "Let us remember that Leannan's spirit will not allow her to be idle, her heart contains many convictions and passions that will not rest. Her fire would die if she was to be apart from ministering to this world and that is exactly what this mission is." Legolas felt himself speaking with conviction he didn't know he possessed as he reminded Glorfindel of the character of the young woman both their hearts desired. His heart was alive with fervor. He did not feel anger towards Glorfindel anymore, no; he understood the elf's desire to keep Leannan from harm. Glorfindel had yet to understand the spirit of Leannan.
Glorfindel listened and watched his companion with much awe. The elf had transformed into a person of much insight and Glorfindel was quite besieged with esteem. He could not help the remorse he felt for his impetuous words and made known to Legolas his regret.
"Do not trouble yourself, friend, I understand." Legolas reassured the other elf and they grasped hands in renewed amity. And peace once again enveloped the venue where the two elves rested and they talked of other things more pleasant as the night grew on and the music of the forest continued its symphony.