Whoa. A whole MONTH to update! Holy crap, I am soooooo sorry you guys.
But things just got sooo hectic and I knew from the beginning that this was
going to be a long chapter, but I kinda took my time writing it.
To everyone who reviewed, you people are hella awesome! I had a lot of fun writing this 16 PAGE chapter! 16 pages..cool, huh? ^__^ Anyway, yeah, there are three, count 'em, THREE mental notes in this chapter and at the end...Kenzie winds up on top of Legolas. Hee, hee, interested yet? Read on!!!!
*A note on the French: I used a translator, I think it's right, if not, I apologize. :D
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~*Chapter 8: Perceptive elves, foreign languages, and swords.....oh my!*~
They walked in silence at first. Kenzie sighed, looking around the moon- lit gardens as they strolled down some path. The main reason she agreed to walk with Legolas was to take her mind off of the fight that she and her sisters were having. Well, so far, that plan had backfired in her face.
Kenzie tried to concentrate on something else, but everything that was said kept coming back. What if she wasn't cut out for this? Was she right in wanting to go with the Fellowship, not only to protect Frodo, but to also experience that which she read about over and over again? Was she being selfish because she wanted to take the journey and live the event?
Legolas looked over at the witch and his brow furrowed slightly. He could feel the great tension from her. The fight that she and her sisters had been having filled her with doubt.
"Are you all right?" he asked carefully.
Kenzie blinked quickly and turned toward him. She gazed at him for a moment before shaking her head, "I must be a boring companion."
Legolas smiled softly, "Not at all."
She offered him a weak smile and they continued forward. They soon reached a large, bent willow tree. Fall had been settling in Rivendell for some time and the dry, brown and red leaves on the ground crunched under their feet. The moon shone down brightly, illuminating everything and eliminating the need for lamps. The breeze blew softly, causing the long leaves of the willow tree to scrape the ground and dead leaves. Stone benches were situated here and there, offering rest for those that had traveled the gardens and were weary.
"If I may inquire," Legolas started, "why do you doubt your role in the Fellowship?"
Kenzie looked down at the ground in front of her, "Ever since I was 15, I've been obsessed with your world," she walked away from him and toward one of the benches.
"I would dream about this place. Rivendell, Lorien,......Mirkwood. All I ever wanted was to come here, to share the adventures, to defeat the evils.....to be apart of the Legend."
She sat down and looked at her hands, "My task is to protect Frodo and the rest of the Fellowship. But I fear that my heart wasn't in the right place when I stood and volunteered myself for this quest."
Kenzie licked her lips, "I guess I'm really afraid that when push comes to shove, I won't be able to protect you."
Legolas walked toward her.
"I mean, he's already attacked once and you had to save me then. It's my job to protect you, not the other way around." She finished.
The elf sat down next to her, "I don't mind protecting you." He stated.
She licked her lips again and then looked up at him. She took a deep breath and looked up at the moon.
"I know." She replied.
Legolas sighed and followed her gaze to the sky.
"You would not be a burden to us, Kenzie. If anything, you would offer a eye-opening experience." He stated.
Kenzie laughed softly and looked back at him, "And what is that suppose to mean?"
The elf looked at her incredulously, "One woman with four hobbits, two men, a dwarf, a wizard, and an elf and you ask why you wouldn't offer an experience?"
Kenzie laughed again, looking back up at the sky, "I see what you mean."
Legolas nodded, "I thought so."
The young witch looked back to the elven prince again. She sighed and shook her head. He turned his gaze to her and smirked. She pushed his shoulder lightly, causing them both to laugh.
~*~*~*~
"So, you can stop time?" Legolas asked as they walked down the hall.
Kenzie grimaced a little, "Not necessarily."
The elf looked at her, waiting for her to elaborate.
She laughed slightly, "Well, you see, I can stop things. Freeze them, if you will."
Legolas nodded his head, "I understand. I think."
Kenzie laughed and hurried in front of him, turning around and holding out her hands, signaling for him to stop. He took a deep breath and did so.
"Okay," Kenzie started, looking around everywhere for something that he could throw at her.
She frowned when she couldn't find anything. Her gaze turned back to Legolas. She looked him over carefully. Kenzie then smiled slowly.
Legolas was suddenly concerned, "What are you doing?" he asked.
"Throw your necklace at me." She stated.
The elf looked down at the object she spoke of. The delicate, silver chain carried on it a mithril ring. Legolas picked it up and gently fingered the piece of jewelry. Fine lines were etched in the band along with the leaf of Mirkwood, signifying the royal family. He looked back up at Kenzie skeptically.
She sighed and crossed her arms, "I promise I won't blow it up or anything."
Legolas licked his lips and reached back behind his hair and unhooked the chain. He brought the necklace in front of him and latched it once again. It laid in his palm, glittering in the moon light. He stared at it, memories rushing into his mind.
Suddenly, he threw it at Kenzie as quickly as he could. But his plan had not worked. Kenzie was prepared.
Her hands flew up and she jerked them quickly. The necklace, which had became a speeding projectile, stopped abruptly. Legolas' eyes widened.
Kenzie grinned, pleased with herself.
"See, I told you so." She replied.
The elf walked forward and gazed at the necklace.
"Amazing." He whispered.
Kenzie walked up beside him as he was studying it.
"How do I.....?" he trailed off.
"Oh, you can just pulled it out of the air." She replied.
Legolas reached forward, tentatively at first, and plucked the necklace from the air. Instinctively, he looked it over for any damage. Kenzie poked his side and he looked over at her.
"Don't trust me, Greenleaf?" she asked teasingly.
He smiled brightly and the two began to walk down the hall again toward her room.
"So, why is this ring so special?" she asked, peering at the object in his hand.
Legolas sighed and then began to place the necklace around his neck again. "Remind me to tell you some other time." He replied, motioning to her door.
Kenzie sighed, "How is it that you can get me back to my room faster than I can?"
Legolas shrugged, "I have my ways, I guess."
The young witch shook her head and leaned her back against her door.
There was a small silence.
"Thank you, Legolas. I needed that more than you know." Kenzie stated softly.
"Oh, I think I do know." The elf replied, looking at her.
She smiled softly and looked down at the floor. Legolas sighed, saddened that her doubts had returned.
He stepped forward and kissed her forehead. She looked up at him.
"Sleep well, Kenzie." He whispered.
And with that, he swept down the hallway.
"Good night, Legolas." She said, knowing that he would hear her.
She then turned and slipped into her room. Katlin and Kennedy were gone, thank God, and someone thankfully had turned down her bed and laid a nightgown out for her. Kenzie leaned against the door, running over what had just happened. And despite her fears and doubts, she bit her lower lip and smiled childishly. She dressed for bed quickly and snuggled underneath her covers, soon slipping into a peaceful slumber.
~*~*~*~
The sun glistened off of the bright stones of Rivendell as it rose. It crept into every nook and cranny it could, urging the world to wake.
Legolas stared out his window, watching the world slowly come alive. He had been awake for a few hours already, elves rarely need much sleep, and began to plan.
The next two months would be spent preparing for the Fellowship's perilous journey. And perilous it would be.
Legolas sighed, fiddling with the envelope in his hands. He had spent the early hours of the morning writing a lengthy letter to his father and mother. He wasn't so sure how his father would take the news, but he knew his mother would be beside herself with worry.
He smiled softly and laughed to himself.
The rising sun glittered off the ring that hung around his neck. Legolas took hold of it and fingered the band once again. It reminded him of home and how, deep in his heart, he truly wished to return there.
There would be much at stake during this journey. The reality of that began to sink into Legolas' stomach. Failure was not an option and he knew that quite clearly.
All of his life, Legolas had been brought up with that statement: Failure is not an option.
But he failed with Gollum.
No matter what his father or Gandalf had said, Legolas knew that they were disappointed. He could see it in their eyes......read it in their faces.
They had entrusted him with something very, very important and he had let it slip through his fingers.
Legolas could not falter on this quest. He had to remain focused. He had to bring back not only his pride, but glory to Mirkwood and to his people. They were counting on him and he swore to the Valar that he would not fail them again.
He sighed heavily.
Suddenly a light knock sounded on his door.
"Come in." Legolas stated, not even turning from the window.
The door opened and a maid slipped inside, "Lord Elrond bids me to tell you 'Quel Amrun' and asks what caused you to wake so early this morn?"
Legolas laughed slightly. He should have known that the Lord of the house would have known he was awake. Who wouldn't? The tension that Legolas was emanating was stronger than Kenzie's the night before.
The Prince turned from the window and walked toward the maid, "Please find a messenger to take this to my father as soon as possible. And tell Lord Elrond not to worry and I will speak with him at breakfast."
"Yes, your highness." the maid replied, taking the letter and bowing slightly. She then scurried out of the room.
Legolas sighed again and returned to his stance at the window as he began to come up with a way to get out of talking to Lord Elrond.
~*~*~*~
The sun took over the room, flooding it with its golden rays. It gave a yellowish glow to all it touched. It crept on to Kenzie's face as it slowly woke to Middle Earth.
The young woman stretched and yawned. Her arms dropped to her sides and her eyes fluttered open, gazing around at her surroundings.
Despite the earliness of the morning, she smiled. She soon pushed herself out of bed and walked to the bathroom. After washing her face thoroughly, Kenzie walked toward the closet. She ran her fingers across the many dresses delicately. Finally she found a simple silver dress that she could easily slip over her head.
Mental note number 4: To find a dress that requires no assistance to put on is a good thing. That way you can avoid elves like Legolas who cause the hair on the back of your neck to stand and your breathing to become restricted whenever he is near!
Kenzie took a deep breath as she walked over to her vanity. She sat down and gently ran her fingers through her hair.
Not that the feelings she got around Legolas were bad or anything, they just made her.........unfocused. And she needed to be focused on protecting the Fellowship; not falling in love with one of its members.
Besides, she was mortal and he was immortal. It would never work.
'Arwen and Aragorn will work,' a tiny voice argued.
'Yeah, but Arwen and Aragorn are an exception.' She countered.
'Maybe. But maybe you and Legolas are an exception as well.' The voice started.
'Even if we were,' Kenzie began, 'we still are from different worlds. At one point I would have to leave him.'
'Oh, stop making excuses and just see what happens.' The voice replied, exasperated.
Kenzie frowned. Her inner conscience sounded a lot like Grams, the grandmother that raise the three O'Neil's after their mother was killed.
'Probably because Grams is somehow getting involved!' Kenzie thought, hoping that if it was Grams, that she heard that one.
A light tap came to her door suddenly. Kenzie sighed and walked over to the door. Arwen smiled brightly at the witch when the door was opened.
"Quel amrun." She stated cheerfully, a bright smile on her fair face.
Kenzie returned the gesture, "Good morning."
"I was wondering if you would like to come...." the elf maiden started.
"To breakfast? Yes, I'm starving! Lead the way!" Kenzie finished, almost pushing Arwen down the hallway.
"I heard that you and Legolas were out together last night." Arwen ventured.
Kenzie looked over at her, "How do you know?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
Arwen shrugged, concealing a smile, "I have my ways."
Kenzie sighed.
Mental note number 5: Elves know EVERYTHING! Don't try to figure it out, just except the truth. They have some sixth sense of knowing everything that goes on.
Kenzie sighed, "Yea. I was fighting with my sisters about going with the Fellowship and he stopped by, wanting to know if I would walk with him."
"So you left you sisters and spent all night with the Prince?" Arwen asked.
Kenzie nodded her head, "I was glad that I did, too."
Arwen looked at her questioningly, "And why is that?"
The young witch looked at the elf in disbelief, "What are you getting at?"
Arwen laughed, "Nothing at all, mellon."
Kenzie glared at the elf maiden, not believing her.
Arwen sighed, "It just seems to me that you and Legolas are becoming close friends, that is all."
Kenzie turned away and nodded, "Well, you are right. We are becoming close......."
Arwen raised an eyebrow.
"Friends! Close friends!" Kenzie finished as they neared the breakfast hall, "Geez, elves read into things too much."
Arwen shrugged, "Humans do not read into things enough."
The two looked at each other as they entered the hall and laughed.
"Well, quel amrun, ladies." Gandalf stated with a smile as the women walked toward their seats.
"Good morning, Gandalf." they chimed, sitting in their seats quickly.
"Did we have fun last night?" Kennedy asked from across the table.
Kenzie looked over at her two sisters who were trying to glare at her menacingly, but failing miserably.
"Yes, I did have fun last night. Arguing with my sisters is always the highlight of my day." the youngest O'Neil replied as the maids began to place food on the grand table.
"Hmp." Katlin replied, placing a variety of fruits on her plate.
"Good morning," Aragorn stated as he entered the hall.
Arwen's face broke into a uncontrollable smile and Kenzie sensed her spirits lighten even more than before.
"Good morning, Aragorn." Kenzie said, following her sister by placing some fruit on her plate.
"Good morning, Lady Kenzie." Aragorn replied as he took a seat between her and Arwen.
"Lord Aragorn," Arwen stated, nodding her head.
Aragorn took her hand and gently kissed it, "Quel Amrun, Lady Arwen." he replied.
Kenzie looked over at her sisters with a smirk and they all smiled.
"Food! Pippin in here!" a voice suddenly cried from the hallway and all turned to see two hobbits rush into the room.
One was slightly taller than the other with curly brown hair and large brown eyes. The other was slightly thinner than the first as well as shorter, with equally curly blond-brownish hair and *brown* eyes.
They scurried up into seats beside Kenzie and dug into the food.
"Well, Shire folk sure don't waste time when it comes to food." Kenzie stated, slowly bringing a piece of apple to her mouth.
"No, ma'am, we don't. We hobbits, especially Pippin and I, highly enjoy food and like to get our fill." the taller one who sat next to Kenzie replied.
The young witch giggled. Merry Brandybuck and Pippin Took; the humor of the Fellowship. Sam and Frodo soon followed after them and the company sat around the table, enjoying the morning. Finally, Legolas joined them, sitting across from Kenzie and eating little. He looked in high spirits, but something was bugging him. Kenzie could tell by the way he acted.
Lord Elrond then entered the room, with Brian, and bid everyone a fond good morning and took his seat at the head of the table, Brian sitting next to Katlin.
"When did you get here?" she asked.
Brian smiled as he kissed her forehead, "I was here earlier this morning to talk with Lord Elrond." And as if on cue, the Lord of the house addressed the whole hall.
"I hope that you all are rested and feed well. I ask you to remain for just a little longer to discuss an important matter concerning the Fellowship." Elrond stated.
"Should we get Master Gimli and Lord Boromir, Lord Elrond?" Aragorn asked.
The Lord of the House thought about the Ranger's question for a moment then shook his head, "No, I believe that they would not mind. Besides, this discussion will mainly be about Lady Kenzie."
Kenzie was mid-drink when he said this and of course all eyes turned to her. Her eyes went wide and she sat her cup down, "Me, my Lord?" she asked.
"Yes, there is a certain matter that Gandalf and I have been discussing." he replied.
"And that would be....?" Katlin trailed off.
"If you takes this journey, you will need to be watched after just as much as Frodo will be." Elrond stated.
Kenzie looked at him incredulously. What? Was she some one year old or something?
"For you safety as well as the Ring's, young one. If something happens to you, then we will have no chance against the demon." Gandalf stated to the look on her face.
"I will watch after her." Legolas piped up.
Everyone looked at him. The young elf betrayed no nervousness at speaking up or lack of confidence in his statement.
Elrond stared at the prince for a moment; seriously taking in his request. Then, after a few seconds, he nodded.
"Very well, Legolas." he stated.
Kenzie turned her gaze to Legolas and smiled warmly at him. Well, at least it wasn't the dwarf.
Kennedy saw this and nudged Katlin. The other sister caught the look and her eyes widened.
"Hold up!" Kennedy called.
The other members of the table, who were about to move on with the discussion, turned to the two sisters.
"I hope I didn't see what I thought I just saw." Katlin said to Kenzie.
"What are you talking about?" the youngest sister asked, confusion written on her face.
"Tu vraiment êtes tombés pour l'elf!'' Kennedy cried. ¤You really fell for the elf!¤
Kenzie rolled her eyes and shook her head, "Non, je n'ai pas. " ¤No I haven't¤
Aragorn looked over at Brian, "What are they doing?" he asked.
Brian sighed, "They're talking in French."
"And what is this....French?" Lord Elrond asked.
"It's a language from our world," The Whitelighter started, "the girls studied it in school and when they do not want anyone else to know what they are talking about, they erupt in French."
The others looked at him in confusion and then to the O'Neil sisters.
"Tu ne pouvez pas mentir à nous, Kenzie. Nous pouvons le lire dans vos yeux. " Katlin stated, crossing her arms and glaring at her younger sister. ¤You can't lie to us, Kenzie. We can see it in your eyes.¤
Kenzie sighed in frustration and stared at her hands in her lap.
"Tu savez que tu ne pouvez pas aller maintenant. " Kennedy said softly. ¤You know you can't go now.¤
Kenzie looked up, her eyes wide, "Pourquoi pas?!" ¤Why not?!¤
"Tu êtes avec émotion attachés. Tu présenteriez un danger à la camaraderie entière." Katlin told her simply. ¤You are emotionally attached. You would present a danger to the entire Fellowship.¤
"Je ne peux pas croire ceci." Kenzie whispered, shaking her head. ¤ I can't believe this.¤
Kennedy frowned at her, "Elle a raison, Kenzie." ¤ She's right, Kenzie.¤
"Je sais plus au sujet de ce monde que les tous les deux vous remontent! Je peux mieux les protéger et vous le savez!" Kenzie cried. ¤ I know more about this world than the both of you together! I am better able to protect them and you know it!¤
She couldn't believe it!! After all of this, they weren't going to let her go just because she MIGHT truly like Legolas.
Okay, she did like Legolas.
Really liked him.
So what? That didn't matter!!
Did it?
No, of course it didn't. This was just another one of their stupid attempts to talk Kenzie out of going with the Fellowship.
Yep, that was it.
"I am going," she stated, "and that is it. "
She had started in the Common language again, signaling that they would no longer discuss the matter; in that room anyway.
When the other sisters gave no hint of pushing the subject further, Lord Elrond cleared his throat.
"Maybe it would be wise to spend the rest of the afternoon taking rest, hmm?"
Kenzie had been glad that Elrond suggested, in a good manner, that they get the hell out of there. She had felt the same thing that he felt; the close tension in the room that the sisters had created. The young witch had pushed back her chair immediately and started toward her room, determined to get there before her sisters could stop her.
She was almost out of the door, however, when someone caught her hand. Kenzie whipped around, ready to deal out some serious cussing to her sisters, but found herself staring at Legolas instead.
"Walk with me?" he asked, but his voice held a tone that stated the fact that he wasn't asking, he was telling her she was going to go on a walk.
Kenzie sighed in defeat, "I suppose so..."
"Can we come to?" Pippin asked, reaching her other side and taking her free hand.
The young witch couldn't help but smile at him. All right, she was for sure about one thing. Hobbits were the CUTEST thing she had ever seen.
Well, maybe not as cute as a certain elf......
"Please, Lady Kenzie! Let us come!" Merry joined in.
Kenzie laughed as the two began to jump up and down, Pippin tugging on her arm, begging her to take them along.
She looked up to Legolas, who was smiling as well, and nodded.
"Very well little hobbits!" Kenzie cried over them, "You are welcome to join Prince Legolas and I on a walk around the gardens."
Pippin and Merry looked at each other with excitement and then started down the hallway, Pippin pulling Kenzie by the arm.
~*~*~*~
"So, why don't they want you to go?" Pippin asked innocently, still clinging to her hand as they walked down a path.
Kenzie sighed, hoping to avoid the subject. For a half an hour, she had been successful.
"Oh, they're just being over protective sisters." she answered.
"Maybe, but I believe that your sisters would have a legitimate reason, seeing the importance of someone traveling with the Fellowship." Legolas chimed in, watching her out of the corner of his eye.
The young witch bit her lower lip nervously.
"It is nothing embarrassing, is it Kenzie?" the elf questioned, looking over at her.
"What would make you ask a question like that?" she returned.
"You're blushing." Merry jumped in.
Kenzie sighed with frustration, "What is this, '20 Questions'?!"
"It must be embarrassing for you to make such a commotion over it," Legolas continued, trying not to smile.
The young hobbits snickered. Kenzie glared at the elven prince.
Mental note number 6: Find some way to curse Legolas! Damn him for being so perceptive! No, damn him for being so cute, because if he wasn't, then they wouldn't be having the very conversation they were having.
Kenzie looked down at the ground. She could feel her temper rising slightly and she didn't know if her anger was toward the elf, her sisters, or herself.
Legolas sensed the anger rising in her. And he knew that pushing the subject would anger her further. But the talk that he had with Lord Elrond earlier that morning returned to his head. "She needs to know how to fight, Legolas." he had said, eyeing the younger elf, hinting that he wanted Legolas to be her teacher.
The Prince nodded, "I will make sure that she is ready for battle before we depart from Imladris, Lord Elrond." he promised.
"They are just being stubborn." Kenzie's voice pulled him back to the present.
'Now would be a good time as any,' Legolas thought, taking a deep breath.
"Maybe they do not wish harm to come to you." he suggested.
"But that's not the point," she replied, shaking her head, "They know that I can take care of myself."
"Can you?" he broached, knowing immediately that he was crossing a thin line with her. Kenzie was very independent. He knew that from the moment he found her. She was one that did not wish to wait and be rescued; she would rescue herself.
Once he had uttered these words, she stopped and looked at him incredulously, the two hobbits stopping as well and looking back and forth from elf to witch.
'What is it with these men in Middle Earth who think I'm two years old!' she thought.
They were nearing the stables that lay just outside of the gardens. Even though Kenzie and the hobbits stopped, Legolas continued forward into the stables, not heeding the fact that he was alone.
"You don't think I can do this either?" she whispered, hurt almost leaking into her voice.
Legolas, the elf that had reassured her the other night that she was meant to be there, was basically questioning her abilities to take care of herself.
When she spoke her question, Legolas stopped. By the tone of her voice, she had taken what he said the wrong way. He cringed, realizing that he had started out wrong. If anything, he wanted to annoy her and push her to fighting and proving herself rather than hurting her.
Legolas turned back slightly, "I did not say that. Gandalf and Lord Elrond have only been discussing the possibility that you might not be able to fight."
He then turned his back to her and continued on to the stables.
Kenzie gaped at him. Even though he did not right out say that he didn't believe she could fight, his voice held a tinge of doubt.
"I'll have you know that I am very capable of taking care of myself." she stated to his back, her temper beginning to flare.
Despite himself, Legolas smiled. There was the independence; the urge to prove him wrong that he had been looking for. The elf disappeared into the stables for a brief moment.
"Really?" he called back.
Whether it was right or not, Legolas was going to turn this into a game.
Merry and Pippin had listened and watched the two with wonder and smiles on their faces. It was quite funny to see the Prince get under the Lady's skin. They backed away slowly toward a tree near them and settled down, ready to enjoy the fight that was brewing in the air.
Kenzie was counting to ten; forwards, backwards, and everything else, but she couldn't contain her rising anger.
'Okay, if I thought he was annoying the other night, I was wrong," Kenzie thought.
She clenched her teeth, hoping to calm herself.
Legolas reappeared from the stables, a pair of elvish knives in his hands.
"You never answered me," he started, keeping a nonchalant voice.
Kenzie pursed her lips, "Of course I know how to fight. I took lessons just incase there would be a time when our powers left." she replied.
Legolas examined the knives, feeling himself slip into a training mode, "You think like a warrior. That's good."
He told Elrond that he would make sure Kenzie was able to fight and he intended to do just that.
And on top of that, it was quite amusing to see the young woman annoyed.
"Really?" Kenzie asked, placing her hands on her hips.
The elf looked up at her, his lips curving into a smile, "But the question still remains," he twirled the knives, "can you fight like one?"
Then, without warning, he threw the knives at her.
Kenzie pulled her hands up quickly and jerked them, freezing the knives.
Legolas nodded his head, "Fast reflexes."
He pulled his own knives from his waist. Kenzie stared at him, taking slow, deep breaths. She grabbed the handles of the knives.
The elf walked forward and started circling her slowly. Kenzie followed suit.
"So, what was the purpose of this walk? To talk with me or attempt to kill me?" Kenzie asked.
Legolas smiled, "Possibly a little of both."
She stopped and glared at him, forgetting about not becoming angry with him. She twirled the knives in her hands, remembering her training with sais; short swords that were similar in weight to this knives, but slightly shorter in length.
'That's it,' she thought, 'I'm going to kick his ass.'
Pippin looked over at Merry, suddenly concerned for the elven prince.
"She looks pretty upset," he whispered.
"Yeah, which will make the fight better." Merry whispered back, leaning forward apprehensively.
Pippin bit his lip, "Maybe we should go get Strider." He suggested.
"Nah, Legolas is an elf. I'm sure he'll be fine." Merry replied, gazing intently at the witch and elf with a large grin on his face.
Kenzie attacked first, moving swiftly, bringing her right knife toward his side. Legolas was just as quick, however, and the sound of steel echoed through out the forest as their swords clashed.
"Do I sense anger from you, Ai'er?" Legolas asked, letting the new name roll from his tongue.
Where he got 'little one' from, he would never figure out. But if fit her somehow, so little one it would be.
"No," she started, "it's annoyance."
She twirled around, releasing her force against his knife and went to take another blow to his torso.
He deflected her again.
They went on this way for several minutes, dealing and deflecting blows quite easily. Once again, their knives were locked together. Legolas looked at her and smirked. He was not tired, yet he was slightly out of breath. She was a very well trained fighter and she was giving him a good workout.
Kenzie, on the other hand, had began to breath heavily, the exertion she was putting forth starting to take it's toll. Her loose hair began to cling in her face and she found it was becoming a nuisance.
Legolas pulled his knives down swiftly, the lock fading away with a *swish* of metal. Kenzie backed away, recognizing that he was allowing her to catch her breath. She put a good distance between them, as she was taught, so she could keep an eye on him.
For as long as Kenzie could remember, she carried a hair band on her wrist. Even when she had her hair already up, she wore one just in case. This time she was glad for the habit. She threw the knives into the ground, the handles sticking up in the air as she pulled her hair up into a tight braid.
When she was finished, she closed her eyes and took a couple deep breaths. In through the nose, out through the mouth; best way to slow your breathing. Her eyes then snapped open and stared at Legolas.
"Ready?" he asked, arching an eyebrow.
Kenzie grabbed her knives, "Bring it on," she stated.
She then smirked, realizing that, some where along the way, she had stopped being angry and started having fun.
"Quel." He replied in elvish, smiling as he did so. ¤Good.¤
At the beginning of this round, Legolas struck first. He lashed out at her very quickly, but Kenzie had had practice with quick demons before and she turned easily, missing his blow. Legolas' blade sliced through the empty air and Kenzie took her chance, turning back around and knocking the knife free from his grasp.
The elf seemed very surprise and the witch wasted no time in disposing of his other blade. But Legolas was not one to quit so easily. There was no way he was getting his knives back, he knew that for sure. The key now was to get hers out of her hands; even the playing field. He went to kick her hard in the chest, already anticipating the move she would take. And he had been right. Kenzie's eyes widened and she brought her knives up in a flat x, giving the blades the chance to take the force of his blow. But what happened next surprised her even more than his daring kick.
Legolas' foot did not impact with her knives, but came up underneath them, pulling them quickly and easily from her hands. They fell on the ground, hitting his. Not missing a second, Legolas took her surprised state and swept his foot under hers, taking her down. Kenzie hit the ground hard and groaned at the impact the solid earth had with her back. But she couldn't lose focus like she had done with the demon.
She place her palms on the ground by her head, swung her legs up to her chest and kicked up onto her feet.
Legolas obviously was ready for this action and lashed out another kick. But Kenzie had anticipated that as well and swiftly did several back-hand springs to put distance between them. When she landed on her feet and looked at him, he looked thoroughly impressed.
"Very good, Ai'er." He stated.
"Thanks," she replied with a smile as he walked toward her.
Legolas reached out to shake her hand; a good way to call a truce, if that was what he had planned. When she grasped his hand, he pulled slightly to scare her a little. Kenzie took the bait and tired to back away, but found herself staring up at the blue sky.
How Legolas got his foot back there to trip her was beyond her. She let out a breath, sending the wisps of hair in her face flying up and over her head.
He looked down at her and smiled, "Never let your guard down." He stated simply, holding out his hand to her.
Kenzie smirked and grabbed his hand, pulling him down and turning her body at the same time. When all was said and done, she sat on top of him, a wide grin on her face.
"You were saying?" she asked.
Merry and Pippin cheered at this action, obviously routing for Kenzie the entire time.
"Do you yield?" Kenzie asked.
Legolas laughed, "I guess I have no choice."
Her small frame might have not held him down in a real battle, but he decided that she had proven herself worthy.
She still was smiling as she gracefully lifted herself off of him and held her hand out to him, "Smart decision."
The elf used her stance to pull himself up and found himself standing only inches from her. Kenzie swallowed hard, feeling her breathing quicken as it always seemed to do. Suddenly, Pippin and Merry tackled Kenzie, jumping up and down, giving their praises to her for beating an elf.
"We should go back now so we can tell Frodo and Sam!" Pippin stated excitedly.
"And Strider! I think he would like to hear the story." Merry chimed in.
At this, Legolas rolled his eyes, already anticipating the teasing he would get from Aragorn.
Kenzie giggled, "You're never going to live this down." She stated as they started back toward the halls of Rivendell.
Legolas shrugged with a smile, "I would not want to lose to anyone else than you, Ai'er."
Kenzie lowered her head.
'Damnit! He made me blush again!'
____________________________________________________________________________
Chapter 9: Farwell to Sisters and the beginning of the journey.
In other words, they're finally leaving Rivendell!!!!!! Yay!!!
To everyone who reviewed, you people are hella awesome! I had a lot of fun writing this 16 PAGE chapter! 16 pages..cool, huh? ^__^ Anyway, yeah, there are three, count 'em, THREE mental notes in this chapter and at the end...Kenzie winds up on top of Legolas. Hee, hee, interested yet? Read on!!!!
*A note on the French: I used a translator, I think it's right, if not, I apologize. :D
____________________________________________________________________________ __
~*Chapter 8: Perceptive elves, foreign languages, and swords.....oh my!*~
They walked in silence at first. Kenzie sighed, looking around the moon- lit gardens as they strolled down some path. The main reason she agreed to walk with Legolas was to take her mind off of the fight that she and her sisters were having. Well, so far, that plan had backfired in her face.
Kenzie tried to concentrate on something else, but everything that was said kept coming back. What if she wasn't cut out for this? Was she right in wanting to go with the Fellowship, not only to protect Frodo, but to also experience that which she read about over and over again? Was she being selfish because she wanted to take the journey and live the event?
Legolas looked over at the witch and his brow furrowed slightly. He could feel the great tension from her. The fight that she and her sisters had been having filled her with doubt.
"Are you all right?" he asked carefully.
Kenzie blinked quickly and turned toward him. She gazed at him for a moment before shaking her head, "I must be a boring companion."
Legolas smiled softly, "Not at all."
She offered him a weak smile and they continued forward. They soon reached a large, bent willow tree. Fall had been settling in Rivendell for some time and the dry, brown and red leaves on the ground crunched under their feet. The moon shone down brightly, illuminating everything and eliminating the need for lamps. The breeze blew softly, causing the long leaves of the willow tree to scrape the ground and dead leaves. Stone benches were situated here and there, offering rest for those that had traveled the gardens and were weary.
"If I may inquire," Legolas started, "why do you doubt your role in the Fellowship?"
Kenzie looked down at the ground in front of her, "Ever since I was 15, I've been obsessed with your world," she walked away from him and toward one of the benches.
"I would dream about this place. Rivendell, Lorien,......Mirkwood. All I ever wanted was to come here, to share the adventures, to defeat the evils.....to be apart of the Legend."
She sat down and looked at her hands, "My task is to protect Frodo and the rest of the Fellowship. But I fear that my heart wasn't in the right place when I stood and volunteered myself for this quest."
Kenzie licked her lips, "I guess I'm really afraid that when push comes to shove, I won't be able to protect you."
Legolas walked toward her.
"I mean, he's already attacked once and you had to save me then. It's my job to protect you, not the other way around." She finished.
The elf sat down next to her, "I don't mind protecting you." He stated.
She licked her lips again and then looked up at him. She took a deep breath and looked up at the moon.
"I know." She replied.
Legolas sighed and followed her gaze to the sky.
"You would not be a burden to us, Kenzie. If anything, you would offer a eye-opening experience." He stated.
Kenzie laughed softly and looked back at him, "And what is that suppose to mean?"
The elf looked at her incredulously, "One woman with four hobbits, two men, a dwarf, a wizard, and an elf and you ask why you wouldn't offer an experience?"
Kenzie laughed again, looking back up at the sky, "I see what you mean."
Legolas nodded, "I thought so."
The young witch looked back to the elven prince again. She sighed and shook her head. He turned his gaze to her and smirked. She pushed his shoulder lightly, causing them both to laugh.
~*~*~*~
"So, you can stop time?" Legolas asked as they walked down the hall.
Kenzie grimaced a little, "Not necessarily."
The elf looked at her, waiting for her to elaborate.
She laughed slightly, "Well, you see, I can stop things. Freeze them, if you will."
Legolas nodded his head, "I understand. I think."
Kenzie laughed and hurried in front of him, turning around and holding out her hands, signaling for him to stop. He took a deep breath and did so.
"Okay," Kenzie started, looking around everywhere for something that he could throw at her.
She frowned when she couldn't find anything. Her gaze turned back to Legolas. She looked him over carefully. Kenzie then smiled slowly.
Legolas was suddenly concerned, "What are you doing?" he asked.
"Throw your necklace at me." She stated.
The elf looked down at the object she spoke of. The delicate, silver chain carried on it a mithril ring. Legolas picked it up and gently fingered the piece of jewelry. Fine lines were etched in the band along with the leaf of Mirkwood, signifying the royal family. He looked back up at Kenzie skeptically.
She sighed and crossed her arms, "I promise I won't blow it up or anything."
Legolas licked his lips and reached back behind his hair and unhooked the chain. He brought the necklace in front of him and latched it once again. It laid in his palm, glittering in the moon light. He stared at it, memories rushing into his mind.
Suddenly, he threw it at Kenzie as quickly as he could. But his plan had not worked. Kenzie was prepared.
Her hands flew up and she jerked them quickly. The necklace, which had became a speeding projectile, stopped abruptly. Legolas' eyes widened.
Kenzie grinned, pleased with herself.
"See, I told you so." She replied.
The elf walked forward and gazed at the necklace.
"Amazing." He whispered.
Kenzie walked up beside him as he was studying it.
"How do I.....?" he trailed off.
"Oh, you can just pulled it out of the air." She replied.
Legolas reached forward, tentatively at first, and plucked the necklace from the air. Instinctively, he looked it over for any damage. Kenzie poked his side and he looked over at her.
"Don't trust me, Greenleaf?" she asked teasingly.
He smiled brightly and the two began to walk down the hall again toward her room.
"So, why is this ring so special?" she asked, peering at the object in his hand.
Legolas sighed and then began to place the necklace around his neck again. "Remind me to tell you some other time." He replied, motioning to her door.
Kenzie sighed, "How is it that you can get me back to my room faster than I can?"
Legolas shrugged, "I have my ways, I guess."
The young witch shook her head and leaned her back against her door.
There was a small silence.
"Thank you, Legolas. I needed that more than you know." Kenzie stated softly.
"Oh, I think I do know." The elf replied, looking at her.
She smiled softly and looked down at the floor. Legolas sighed, saddened that her doubts had returned.
He stepped forward and kissed her forehead. She looked up at him.
"Sleep well, Kenzie." He whispered.
And with that, he swept down the hallway.
"Good night, Legolas." She said, knowing that he would hear her.
She then turned and slipped into her room. Katlin and Kennedy were gone, thank God, and someone thankfully had turned down her bed and laid a nightgown out for her. Kenzie leaned against the door, running over what had just happened. And despite her fears and doubts, she bit her lower lip and smiled childishly. She dressed for bed quickly and snuggled underneath her covers, soon slipping into a peaceful slumber.
~*~*~*~
The sun glistened off of the bright stones of Rivendell as it rose. It crept into every nook and cranny it could, urging the world to wake.
Legolas stared out his window, watching the world slowly come alive. He had been awake for a few hours already, elves rarely need much sleep, and began to plan.
The next two months would be spent preparing for the Fellowship's perilous journey. And perilous it would be.
Legolas sighed, fiddling with the envelope in his hands. He had spent the early hours of the morning writing a lengthy letter to his father and mother. He wasn't so sure how his father would take the news, but he knew his mother would be beside herself with worry.
He smiled softly and laughed to himself.
The rising sun glittered off the ring that hung around his neck. Legolas took hold of it and fingered the band once again. It reminded him of home and how, deep in his heart, he truly wished to return there.
There would be much at stake during this journey. The reality of that began to sink into Legolas' stomach. Failure was not an option and he knew that quite clearly.
All of his life, Legolas had been brought up with that statement: Failure is not an option.
But he failed with Gollum.
No matter what his father or Gandalf had said, Legolas knew that they were disappointed. He could see it in their eyes......read it in their faces.
They had entrusted him with something very, very important and he had let it slip through his fingers.
Legolas could not falter on this quest. He had to remain focused. He had to bring back not only his pride, but glory to Mirkwood and to his people. They were counting on him and he swore to the Valar that he would not fail them again.
He sighed heavily.
Suddenly a light knock sounded on his door.
"Come in." Legolas stated, not even turning from the window.
The door opened and a maid slipped inside, "Lord Elrond bids me to tell you 'Quel Amrun' and asks what caused you to wake so early this morn?"
Legolas laughed slightly. He should have known that the Lord of the house would have known he was awake. Who wouldn't? The tension that Legolas was emanating was stronger than Kenzie's the night before.
The Prince turned from the window and walked toward the maid, "Please find a messenger to take this to my father as soon as possible. And tell Lord Elrond not to worry and I will speak with him at breakfast."
"Yes, your highness." the maid replied, taking the letter and bowing slightly. She then scurried out of the room.
Legolas sighed again and returned to his stance at the window as he began to come up with a way to get out of talking to Lord Elrond.
~*~*~*~
The sun took over the room, flooding it with its golden rays. It gave a yellowish glow to all it touched. It crept on to Kenzie's face as it slowly woke to Middle Earth.
The young woman stretched and yawned. Her arms dropped to her sides and her eyes fluttered open, gazing around at her surroundings.
Despite the earliness of the morning, she smiled. She soon pushed herself out of bed and walked to the bathroom. After washing her face thoroughly, Kenzie walked toward the closet. She ran her fingers across the many dresses delicately. Finally she found a simple silver dress that she could easily slip over her head.
Mental note number 4: To find a dress that requires no assistance to put on is a good thing. That way you can avoid elves like Legolas who cause the hair on the back of your neck to stand and your breathing to become restricted whenever he is near!
Kenzie took a deep breath as she walked over to her vanity. She sat down and gently ran her fingers through her hair.
Not that the feelings she got around Legolas were bad or anything, they just made her.........unfocused. And she needed to be focused on protecting the Fellowship; not falling in love with one of its members.
Besides, she was mortal and he was immortal. It would never work.
'Arwen and Aragorn will work,' a tiny voice argued.
'Yeah, but Arwen and Aragorn are an exception.' She countered.
'Maybe. But maybe you and Legolas are an exception as well.' The voice started.
'Even if we were,' Kenzie began, 'we still are from different worlds. At one point I would have to leave him.'
'Oh, stop making excuses and just see what happens.' The voice replied, exasperated.
Kenzie frowned. Her inner conscience sounded a lot like Grams, the grandmother that raise the three O'Neil's after their mother was killed.
'Probably because Grams is somehow getting involved!' Kenzie thought, hoping that if it was Grams, that she heard that one.
A light tap came to her door suddenly. Kenzie sighed and walked over to the door. Arwen smiled brightly at the witch when the door was opened.
"Quel amrun." She stated cheerfully, a bright smile on her fair face.
Kenzie returned the gesture, "Good morning."
"I was wondering if you would like to come...." the elf maiden started.
"To breakfast? Yes, I'm starving! Lead the way!" Kenzie finished, almost pushing Arwen down the hallway.
"I heard that you and Legolas were out together last night." Arwen ventured.
Kenzie looked over at her, "How do you know?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
Arwen shrugged, concealing a smile, "I have my ways."
Kenzie sighed.
Mental note number 5: Elves know EVERYTHING! Don't try to figure it out, just except the truth. They have some sixth sense of knowing everything that goes on.
Kenzie sighed, "Yea. I was fighting with my sisters about going with the Fellowship and he stopped by, wanting to know if I would walk with him."
"So you left you sisters and spent all night with the Prince?" Arwen asked.
Kenzie nodded her head, "I was glad that I did, too."
Arwen looked at her questioningly, "And why is that?"
The young witch looked at the elf in disbelief, "What are you getting at?"
Arwen laughed, "Nothing at all, mellon."
Kenzie glared at the elf maiden, not believing her.
Arwen sighed, "It just seems to me that you and Legolas are becoming close friends, that is all."
Kenzie turned away and nodded, "Well, you are right. We are becoming close......."
Arwen raised an eyebrow.
"Friends! Close friends!" Kenzie finished as they neared the breakfast hall, "Geez, elves read into things too much."
Arwen shrugged, "Humans do not read into things enough."
The two looked at each other as they entered the hall and laughed.
"Well, quel amrun, ladies." Gandalf stated with a smile as the women walked toward their seats.
"Good morning, Gandalf." they chimed, sitting in their seats quickly.
"Did we have fun last night?" Kennedy asked from across the table.
Kenzie looked over at her two sisters who were trying to glare at her menacingly, but failing miserably.
"Yes, I did have fun last night. Arguing with my sisters is always the highlight of my day." the youngest O'Neil replied as the maids began to place food on the grand table.
"Hmp." Katlin replied, placing a variety of fruits on her plate.
"Good morning," Aragorn stated as he entered the hall.
Arwen's face broke into a uncontrollable smile and Kenzie sensed her spirits lighten even more than before.
"Good morning, Aragorn." Kenzie said, following her sister by placing some fruit on her plate.
"Good morning, Lady Kenzie." Aragorn replied as he took a seat between her and Arwen.
"Lord Aragorn," Arwen stated, nodding her head.
Aragorn took her hand and gently kissed it, "Quel Amrun, Lady Arwen." he replied.
Kenzie looked over at her sisters with a smirk and they all smiled.
"Food! Pippin in here!" a voice suddenly cried from the hallway and all turned to see two hobbits rush into the room.
One was slightly taller than the other with curly brown hair and large brown eyes. The other was slightly thinner than the first as well as shorter, with equally curly blond-brownish hair and *brown* eyes.
They scurried up into seats beside Kenzie and dug into the food.
"Well, Shire folk sure don't waste time when it comes to food." Kenzie stated, slowly bringing a piece of apple to her mouth.
"No, ma'am, we don't. We hobbits, especially Pippin and I, highly enjoy food and like to get our fill." the taller one who sat next to Kenzie replied.
The young witch giggled. Merry Brandybuck and Pippin Took; the humor of the Fellowship. Sam and Frodo soon followed after them and the company sat around the table, enjoying the morning. Finally, Legolas joined them, sitting across from Kenzie and eating little. He looked in high spirits, but something was bugging him. Kenzie could tell by the way he acted.
Lord Elrond then entered the room, with Brian, and bid everyone a fond good morning and took his seat at the head of the table, Brian sitting next to Katlin.
"When did you get here?" she asked.
Brian smiled as he kissed her forehead, "I was here earlier this morning to talk with Lord Elrond." And as if on cue, the Lord of the house addressed the whole hall.
"I hope that you all are rested and feed well. I ask you to remain for just a little longer to discuss an important matter concerning the Fellowship." Elrond stated.
"Should we get Master Gimli and Lord Boromir, Lord Elrond?" Aragorn asked.
The Lord of the House thought about the Ranger's question for a moment then shook his head, "No, I believe that they would not mind. Besides, this discussion will mainly be about Lady Kenzie."
Kenzie was mid-drink when he said this and of course all eyes turned to her. Her eyes went wide and she sat her cup down, "Me, my Lord?" she asked.
"Yes, there is a certain matter that Gandalf and I have been discussing." he replied.
"And that would be....?" Katlin trailed off.
"If you takes this journey, you will need to be watched after just as much as Frodo will be." Elrond stated.
Kenzie looked at him incredulously. What? Was she some one year old or something?
"For you safety as well as the Ring's, young one. If something happens to you, then we will have no chance against the demon." Gandalf stated to the look on her face.
"I will watch after her." Legolas piped up.
Everyone looked at him. The young elf betrayed no nervousness at speaking up or lack of confidence in his statement.
Elrond stared at the prince for a moment; seriously taking in his request. Then, after a few seconds, he nodded.
"Very well, Legolas." he stated.
Kenzie turned her gaze to Legolas and smiled warmly at him. Well, at least it wasn't the dwarf.
Kennedy saw this and nudged Katlin. The other sister caught the look and her eyes widened.
"Hold up!" Kennedy called.
The other members of the table, who were about to move on with the discussion, turned to the two sisters.
"I hope I didn't see what I thought I just saw." Katlin said to Kenzie.
"What are you talking about?" the youngest sister asked, confusion written on her face.
"Tu vraiment êtes tombés pour l'elf!'' Kennedy cried. ¤You really fell for the elf!¤
Kenzie rolled her eyes and shook her head, "Non, je n'ai pas. " ¤No I haven't¤
Aragorn looked over at Brian, "What are they doing?" he asked.
Brian sighed, "They're talking in French."
"And what is this....French?" Lord Elrond asked.
"It's a language from our world," The Whitelighter started, "the girls studied it in school and when they do not want anyone else to know what they are talking about, they erupt in French."
The others looked at him in confusion and then to the O'Neil sisters.
"Tu ne pouvez pas mentir à nous, Kenzie. Nous pouvons le lire dans vos yeux. " Katlin stated, crossing her arms and glaring at her younger sister. ¤You can't lie to us, Kenzie. We can see it in your eyes.¤
Kenzie sighed in frustration and stared at her hands in her lap.
"Tu savez que tu ne pouvez pas aller maintenant. " Kennedy said softly. ¤You know you can't go now.¤
Kenzie looked up, her eyes wide, "Pourquoi pas?!" ¤Why not?!¤
"Tu êtes avec émotion attachés. Tu présenteriez un danger à la camaraderie entière." Katlin told her simply. ¤You are emotionally attached. You would present a danger to the entire Fellowship.¤
"Je ne peux pas croire ceci." Kenzie whispered, shaking her head. ¤ I can't believe this.¤
Kennedy frowned at her, "Elle a raison, Kenzie." ¤ She's right, Kenzie.¤
"Je sais plus au sujet de ce monde que les tous les deux vous remontent! Je peux mieux les protéger et vous le savez!" Kenzie cried. ¤ I know more about this world than the both of you together! I am better able to protect them and you know it!¤
She couldn't believe it!! After all of this, they weren't going to let her go just because she MIGHT truly like Legolas.
Okay, she did like Legolas.
Really liked him.
So what? That didn't matter!!
Did it?
No, of course it didn't. This was just another one of their stupid attempts to talk Kenzie out of going with the Fellowship.
Yep, that was it.
"I am going," she stated, "and that is it. "
She had started in the Common language again, signaling that they would no longer discuss the matter; in that room anyway.
When the other sisters gave no hint of pushing the subject further, Lord Elrond cleared his throat.
"Maybe it would be wise to spend the rest of the afternoon taking rest, hmm?"
Kenzie had been glad that Elrond suggested, in a good manner, that they get the hell out of there. She had felt the same thing that he felt; the close tension in the room that the sisters had created. The young witch had pushed back her chair immediately and started toward her room, determined to get there before her sisters could stop her.
She was almost out of the door, however, when someone caught her hand. Kenzie whipped around, ready to deal out some serious cussing to her sisters, but found herself staring at Legolas instead.
"Walk with me?" he asked, but his voice held a tone that stated the fact that he wasn't asking, he was telling her she was going to go on a walk.
Kenzie sighed in defeat, "I suppose so..."
"Can we come to?" Pippin asked, reaching her other side and taking her free hand.
The young witch couldn't help but smile at him. All right, she was for sure about one thing. Hobbits were the CUTEST thing she had ever seen.
Well, maybe not as cute as a certain elf......
"Please, Lady Kenzie! Let us come!" Merry joined in.
Kenzie laughed as the two began to jump up and down, Pippin tugging on her arm, begging her to take them along.
She looked up to Legolas, who was smiling as well, and nodded.
"Very well little hobbits!" Kenzie cried over them, "You are welcome to join Prince Legolas and I on a walk around the gardens."
Pippin and Merry looked at each other with excitement and then started down the hallway, Pippin pulling Kenzie by the arm.
~*~*~*~
"So, why don't they want you to go?" Pippin asked innocently, still clinging to her hand as they walked down a path.
Kenzie sighed, hoping to avoid the subject. For a half an hour, she had been successful.
"Oh, they're just being over protective sisters." she answered.
"Maybe, but I believe that your sisters would have a legitimate reason, seeing the importance of someone traveling with the Fellowship." Legolas chimed in, watching her out of the corner of his eye.
The young witch bit her lower lip nervously.
"It is nothing embarrassing, is it Kenzie?" the elf questioned, looking over at her.
"What would make you ask a question like that?" she returned.
"You're blushing." Merry jumped in.
Kenzie sighed with frustration, "What is this, '20 Questions'?!"
"It must be embarrassing for you to make such a commotion over it," Legolas continued, trying not to smile.
The young hobbits snickered. Kenzie glared at the elven prince.
Mental note number 6: Find some way to curse Legolas! Damn him for being so perceptive! No, damn him for being so cute, because if he wasn't, then they wouldn't be having the very conversation they were having.
Kenzie looked down at the ground. She could feel her temper rising slightly and she didn't know if her anger was toward the elf, her sisters, or herself.
Legolas sensed the anger rising in her. And he knew that pushing the subject would anger her further. But the talk that he had with Lord Elrond earlier that morning returned to his head. "She needs to know how to fight, Legolas." he had said, eyeing the younger elf, hinting that he wanted Legolas to be her teacher.
The Prince nodded, "I will make sure that she is ready for battle before we depart from Imladris, Lord Elrond." he promised.
"They are just being stubborn." Kenzie's voice pulled him back to the present.
'Now would be a good time as any,' Legolas thought, taking a deep breath.
"Maybe they do not wish harm to come to you." he suggested.
"But that's not the point," she replied, shaking her head, "They know that I can take care of myself."
"Can you?" he broached, knowing immediately that he was crossing a thin line with her. Kenzie was very independent. He knew that from the moment he found her. She was one that did not wish to wait and be rescued; she would rescue herself.
Once he had uttered these words, she stopped and looked at him incredulously, the two hobbits stopping as well and looking back and forth from elf to witch.
'What is it with these men in Middle Earth who think I'm two years old!' she thought.
They were nearing the stables that lay just outside of the gardens. Even though Kenzie and the hobbits stopped, Legolas continued forward into the stables, not heeding the fact that he was alone.
"You don't think I can do this either?" she whispered, hurt almost leaking into her voice.
Legolas, the elf that had reassured her the other night that she was meant to be there, was basically questioning her abilities to take care of herself.
When she spoke her question, Legolas stopped. By the tone of her voice, she had taken what he said the wrong way. He cringed, realizing that he had started out wrong. If anything, he wanted to annoy her and push her to fighting and proving herself rather than hurting her.
Legolas turned back slightly, "I did not say that. Gandalf and Lord Elrond have only been discussing the possibility that you might not be able to fight."
He then turned his back to her and continued on to the stables.
Kenzie gaped at him. Even though he did not right out say that he didn't believe she could fight, his voice held a tinge of doubt.
"I'll have you know that I am very capable of taking care of myself." she stated to his back, her temper beginning to flare.
Despite himself, Legolas smiled. There was the independence; the urge to prove him wrong that he had been looking for. The elf disappeared into the stables for a brief moment.
"Really?" he called back.
Whether it was right or not, Legolas was going to turn this into a game.
Merry and Pippin had listened and watched the two with wonder and smiles on their faces. It was quite funny to see the Prince get under the Lady's skin. They backed away slowly toward a tree near them and settled down, ready to enjoy the fight that was brewing in the air.
Kenzie was counting to ten; forwards, backwards, and everything else, but she couldn't contain her rising anger.
'Okay, if I thought he was annoying the other night, I was wrong," Kenzie thought.
She clenched her teeth, hoping to calm herself.
Legolas reappeared from the stables, a pair of elvish knives in his hands.
"You never answered me," he started, keeping a nonchalant voice.
Kenzie pursed her lips, "Of course I know how to fight. I took lessons just incase there would be a time when our powers left." she replied.
Legolas examined the knives, feeling himself slip into a training mode, "You think like a warrior. That's good."
He told Elrond that he would make sure Kenzie was able to fight and he intended to do just that.
And on top of that, it was quite amusing to see the young woman annoyed.
"Really?" Kenzie asked, placing her hands on her hips.
The elf looked up at her, his lips curving into a smile, "But the question still remains," he twirled the knives, "can you fight like one?"
Then, without warning, he threw the knives at her.
Kenzie pulled her hands up quickly and jerked them, freezing the knives.
Legolas nodded his head, "Fast reflexes."
He pulled his own knives from his waist. Kenzie stared at him, taking slow, deep breaths. She grabbed the handles of the knives.
The elf walked forward and started circling her slowly. Kenzie followed suit.
"So, what was the purpose of this walk? To talk with me or attempt to kill me?" Kenzie asked.
Legolas smiled, "Possibly a little of both."
She stopped and glared at him, forgetting about not becoming angry with him. She twirled the knives in her hands, remembering her training with sais; short swords that were similar in weight to this knives, but slightly shorter in length.
'That's it,' she thought, 'I'm going to kick his ass.'
Pippin looked over at Merry, suddenly concerned for the elven prince.
"She looks pretty upset," he whispered.
"Yeah, which will make the fight better." Merry whispered back, leaning forward apprehensively.
Pippin bit his lip, "Maybe we should go get Strider." He suggested.
"Nah, Legolas is an elf. I'm sure he'll be fine." Merry replied, gazing intently at the witch and elf with a large grin on his face.
Kenzie attacked first, moving swiftly, bringing her right knife toward his side. Legolas was just as quick, however, and the sound of steel echoed through out the forest as their swords clashed.
"Do I sense anger from you, Ai'er?" Legolas asked, letting the new name roll from his tongue.
Where he got 'little one' from, he would never figure out. But if fit her somehow, so little one it would be.
"No," she started, "it's annoyance."
She twirled around, releasing her force against his knife and went to take another blow to his torso.
He deflected her again.
They went on this way for several minutes, dealing and deflecting blows quite easily. Once again, their knives were locked together. Legolas looked at her and smirked. He was not tired, yet he was slightly out of breath. She was a very well trained fighter and she was giving him a good workout.
Kenzie, on the other hand, had began to breath heavily, the exertion she was putting forth starting to take it's toll. Her loose hair began to cling in her face and she found it was becoming a nuisance.
Legolas pulled his knives down swiftly, the lock fading away with a *swish* of metal. Kenzie backed away, recognizing that he was allowing her to catch her breath. She put a good distance between them, as she was taught, so she could keep an eye on him.
For as long as Kenzie could remember, she carried a hair band on her wrist. Even when she had her hair already up, she wore one just in case. This time she was glad for the habit. She threw the knives into the ground, the handles sticking up in the air as she pulled her hair up into a tight braid.
When she was finished, she closed her eyes and took a couple deep breaths. In through the nose, out through the mouth; best way to slow your breathing. Her eyes then snapped open and stared at Legolas.
"Ready?" he asked, arching an eyebrow.
Kenzie grabbed her knives, "Bring it on," she stated.
She then smirked, realizing that, some where along the way, she had stopped being angry and started having fun.
"Quel." He replied in elvish, smiling as he did so. ¤Good.¤
At the beginning of this round, Legolas struck first. He lashed out at her very quickly, but Kenzie had had practice with quick demons before and she turned easily, missing his blow. Legolas' blade sliced through the empty air and Kenzie took her chance, turning back around and knocking the knife free from his grasp.
The elf seemed very surprise and the witch wasted no time in disposing of his other blade. But Legolas was not one to quit so easily. There was no way he was getting his knives back, he knew that for sure. The key now was to get hers out of her hands; even the playing field. He went to kick her hard in the chest, already anticipating the move she would take. And he had been right. Kenzie's eyes widened and she brought her knives up in a flat x, giving the blades the chance to take the force of his blow. But what happened next surprised her even more than his daring kick.
Legolas' foot did not impact with her knives, but came up underneath them, pulling them quickly and easily from her hands. They fell on the ground, hitting his. Not missing a second, Legolas took her surprised state and swept his foot under hers, taking her down. Kenzie hit the ground hard and groaned at the impact the solid earth had with her back. But she couldn't lose focus like she had done with the demon.
She place her palms on the ground by her head, swung her legs up to her chest and kicked up onto her feet.
Legolas obviously was ready for this action and lashed out another kick. But Kenzie had anticipated that as well and swiftly did several back-hand springs to put distance between them. When she landed on her feet and looked at him, he looked thoroughly impressed.
"Very good, Ai'er." He stated.
"Thanks," she replied with a smile as he walked toward her.
Legolas reached out to shake her hand; a good way to call a truce, if that was what he had planned. When she grasped his hand, he pulled slightly to scare her a little. Kenzie took the bait and tired to back away, but found herself staring up at the blue sky.
How Legolas got his foot back there to trip her was beyond her. She let out a breath, sending the wisps of hair in her face flying up and over her head.
He looked down at her and smiled, "Never let your guard down." He stated simply, holding out his hand to her.
Kenzie smirked and grabbed his hand, pulling him down and turning her body at the same time. When all was said and done, she sat on top of him, a wide grin on her face.
"You were saying?" she asked.
Merry and Pippin cheered at this action, obviously routing for Kenzie the entire time.
"Do you yield?" Kenzie asked.
Legolas laughed, "I guess I have no choice."
Her small frame might have not held him down in a real battle, but he decided that she had proven herself worthy.
She still was smiling as she gracefully lifted herself off of him and held her hand out to him, "Smart decision."
The elf used her stance to pull himself up and found himself standing only inches from her. Kenzie swallowed hard, feeling her breathing quicken as it always seemed to do. Suddenly, Pippin and Merry tackled Kenzie, jumping up and down, giving their praises to her for beating an elf.
"We should go back now so we can tell Frodo and Sam!" Pippin stated excitedly.
"And Strider! I think he would like to hear the story." Merry chimed in.
At this, Legolas rolled his eyes, already anticipating the teasing he would get from Aragorn.
Kenzie giggled, "You're never going to live this down." She stated as they started back toward the halls of Rivendell.
Legolas shrugged with a smile, "I would not want to lose to anyone else than you, Ai'er."
Kenzie lowered her head.
'Damnit! He made me blush again!'
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Chapter 9: Farwell to Sisters and the beginning of the journey.
In other words, they're finally leaving Rivendell!!!!!! Yay!!!