Chapter 5
Together they rode through the grass lands of Rohan. They stayed close to the River Entwash and swooped round to arrive at the wooden gates of Edoras by sundown. On their journey they talked about many things. Legolas spoke of his home at Mirkwood with great joy.
"This quest has led me far from home. I miss the forest. The trees, the birds and beasts that dwell there. I miss the great buildings built around nature, the culture and history of my people. But most of all I miss the quiet of the woodland. The peace that resides in the forest."
"But once the quest is over, if we should defeat the shadow, you can return there and spend all your long years in the forest." said Raeya.
"Yes I could return, but alas I can not stay in the forest forever. Our people are sailing west. We are leaving Middle Earth. And I must go with them." Legolas looked cheerless.
"Why must you leave with them? Your yearning for the sea has not yet taken hold of you. You yearn for the forest more, I can see that. Why not stay until you are ready to go to the west?"
"My father would never stand for it. He wishes me to go to the west with him, and so I shall." He looked up. "Would you go to the west to the undying lands?"
Raeya looked down, "No, never. I shall never yearn for the sea. My home will always be here in Middle Earth until the time comes when I must die, and then I shall join the rest of my kin." She looked at Legolas. "You are very honourable to obey your father's wishes, but if you go to the west you will find no peace there. I have seen it."
Legolas looked shocked, Raeya continued, "Legolas, you must forge your own destiny, so I will say no more, but heed this. The forests of the undying lands shall only make you yearn for that which you have lost."
"But what does that mean?" said a startled Legolas.
"I pray you do not ask me anymore questions," said Raeya, "I have already said too much."
The two riders swept into Edoras with relief. Their flight was over, yet the battle was just about to begin. They walked to the palace of Edoras where the fellowship would be waiting. Legolas lead the way into the great hall. He was greeted warmly by both Aragorn and Gimli.
"My friends," he began, "I found her. The one known as the Elder."
He beckoned Raeya forward, who walked over to the curious group of an elf, a man and a dwarf. She bowed her head.
"This is the Elder!" cried Gimli. "An Elf!" he cursed in dwarfish.
"I am a mountain elf master dwarf, and have worked along side your kind for many centuries. If it weren't for the skill of you kin, then my kind may have never settled in the White Mountains. I am indebted to your race. Thank you." Raeya spoke the last words in dwarfish, Legolas smiled. Gimli looked surprised.
"An elf that is gracious to the dwarfs! I never thought I'd see the day! You shall be my companion she-elf. You will always be welcome among my kind." Gimli held out his hand and Raeya shook it.
"Aragorn where is Gandalf?" asked Legolas.
"With Theoden, I shall inform him of your arrival."
Aragorn left, and returned moments later with Gandalf who said. "Ah the Elder."
"I am Raeya; I heard that you needed my services."
"Yes indeed, come we have much to discuss." And with that she and Gandalf walked away speaking in hushed voices. Legolas watched them talking fascinated by Raeya. Aragorn spoke,
"Did you have any trouble finding her?"
"No. There was some difficulty with some orc's but it was dealt with swiftly." Aragorn watched Legolas carefully and said,
"You are struck my friend."
"No, I am not wounded." Replied Legolas. Aragorn smiled and followed Legolas' gaze to Raeya.
"I did not mean with a weapon." The two friends exchange glances, and Aragorn walked towards the palace door.
"Aragorn you are leaving." asked Legolas.
"I am going to Gondor my friend, my people need me." Legolas nodded "I understand." and watched as Aragorn walked out of the door.