Seen and Unforeseen: Before The Last Alliance

by Arwen637

A respected Noble organizes a troop to study Sauron's armies and start the last alliance. Legolas is ordered to lead the troop, with his love at his side, and finally ends up in battle. Note: Has sweet stuff. Takes place prior to the Last Alliance.

2. Concerns

Chapter 2

Author: Tithenwen (Tith)

Araréiel walked quickly after Legolas. His legs were longer than hers and she finally had to sprint to catch up with him. She had never seen him in such a hurry. Araréiel's cheeks were flushed when she reached him. "Legolas!" she said. He continued to walk, paying no attention to her.

"Please wait!" Araréiel called, a little louder. Legolas paused, briefly glancing over his shoulder.

"I have no time, Araréiel. If you must talk, hurry and walk next to me."

Araréiel kept her pace with that of her friend. "What is it, Legolas? What is wrong? For days my father has whispered rumors to the elders, but none have spoken their thoughts to me. Where are you going so quickly? Why does smoke billow in the distance?"

Legolas raised his eyebrows. "It is not for you to worry, my Lady. I do not doubt your father will talk to you when he sees fit."

Araréiel frowned. "I do not care what my father sees fit. I am asking you, Legolas!" She did not appreciate being talked to as if she were a child. Long had she lived on the earth, and though her days were far less than some, she was wise and felt no need to be sheltered.

Legolas stopped and turned to Araréiel. His eyes were distraught, but he spoke to her kindly. "Araréiel, I am sorry. I meant you no offense." He placed a hand on Araréiel's shoulder. For a brief moment, joy fluttered in her heart.. "There have been talks of an uprising," Legolas continued. "The elders fear that evil is growing in Sauron's land. I know nothing more than that. I am on my way to a meeting, but I do not think your father would approve of your attendance."

"But -" Araréiel began to speak.

"No, Araréiel. Stay here, and your father will talk with you later." Legolas nodded his head at Araréiel, then turned and hurried off into the distance.

Araréiel didn't know whether to be afraid or angry. She had it on her mind to follow Legolas and listen to the elders' council. Why had Legolas spoken to her so? Why had he told her so little? Had her father told Legolas to keep her away? She didn't understand - usually Legolas and her father were open and trusting with her. Her father had no right to hide such important matters from her now. She began to wish that she had listened to her father's frequent worries to the older Elves. Perhaps she would have learned something useful.

Araréiel sighed unhappily. She could not decide whether to sneak after Legolas or to be patient and hear her father's words later. A frown creased her fair face. What was she to do?